© Ali Shayler
© Ali Shayler
© Ali Shayler
© Ali Shayler
© Ali Shayler
© Ali Shayler
© Ali Shayler
Place Saint-Francois
Historical square and former convent
A small but bustling little square with plenty of character, Place Saint-Francois is named after the 13th century Franciscan convent that once stood here. Most of the convent was destroyed during the Revolution and all that remains is a restored 18th century bell tower and a little of the cloister. The square is also surrounded by the Baroque Palais Communal, which originally dates to the 16th century.
Nowadays the square’s main activity is the daily fish market, which takes place around an old stone fountain. The best catches are to be found early, so get there in the morning and hustle with the locals to get the freshest fish.
Although there isn’t much to Place Saint-Francois there is plenty to explore nearby; it is right in between Promenade du Paillon and the old town of Nice, with lots of shops and boutiques to browse.
There are two places in Place Saint-Francois to enjoy lunch, Restaurant Gaglio and Bar Nomad, as well as a boulangerie (bakery). Restaurant Gaglio has a large terrace and serves all the local dishes such as daube, socca, salade nicoise, etc and always seems quite busy. Bar Nomad is more of a snack bar but they still serve meals such as burgers, salads and a daily plat du jour - they do tapas and Happy Hour of an evening, which is popular with locals.
The easiest way to find Place Saint-Francois is to get off the tram at Cathédrale Vieille Ville and look out for Restaurant Gaglio opposite the large park.
Visitor comments
- "We enjoyed a coffee and pastry as we watched the fish stalls pack away washing their trays in the old fountain, water spouting from the mouths of fish. Very attractive little fountain." - Trip Advisor
- "Walking through you feel this market has been here for years and not just for tourists. You rub shoulders with residents buying their fish for the evening meal. The selection and quality of the fish is stunning a real feast for the eyes even if you don't buy anything." - Trip Advisor
- "Its a nice traditional French plaza. Lots of places to grab a drink or a bite to eat. Well proved too as its the old town so not as many tourists. It's picturesque and we were lucky with the weather so spent a couple of hours drinking wine and watching the world go by at a leisurely pace. Worth a visit" - Trip Advisor
