Every Monday morning in the south of France can be an enchanting experience steeped in history and tradition if you stroll the Cours Saleya in Nice. The vibrant colors of antique treasures and unique knick-knacks sparkle under the Mediterranean light, displayed by enthusiastic vendors at the bustling brocante.

Locals and tourists alike weave through the maze of stalls, uncovering hidden gems like vintage jewelry, classic French porcelain, and quaint Provençal linens. The lively chatter of bargaining mixes with the melodies of street musicians, creating a harmonious backdrop to this cultural feast for the senses.

I’m going to share with you a couple of landmarks and a few suggestions in case you’re planning a trip to the area and then just let you stroll at your leisure, free of the July crowds, to see what catches your eye.

As you walk along the stalls topped with striped canopies you’ll see the magnificent Chapelle de Misércorde, built in the 1740’s. Notice the monks cells located above the circular window designed to bring in as much of the Mediterranean light as possible.

The strip is lined with cafes and boutiques. Here is one of my favorites Le Safari. They are busy setting up now because in an hour the restaurant will be completely packed with locals enjoying pizza’s from the wood~burning oven, Niçoise olives, local grilled fish, Salade Niçoise, and other spécialtiés niçoises and other cuisine traditionelle française including chilled glasses of rosé. Pop in early to reserve a table, the food is delicious and the people watching is incomparable.

At the eastern end of the Cours Saleya is the Place Charles Felix. Enticed by the light, Henri Matisse lived in the top floors here from 1921 – 1938 and painted many still lifes, interiors, nudes and Odalisques during his “Nice Period”

Now that you have your bearings {and a lunch reservation} feel free to wander along and find some treasures…

Hoping you found something you cannot live without. Au Revoir!