Lascaris Palace

The Lascaris Palace

A stop on the Nice audio-guided tour, the Lascaris Palace is on rue Droite, the former main street of the seventeenth century linking the port to Place Garibaldi. At number 15, a sumptuous richly decorated facade announces this Baroque jewel, nicknamed the little Versailles.

The little Versailles of Nice

The name of rue Droite comes from a mistranslation of the Nicois Drecha, which meant direct rather than straight. The palace, very well preserved, was built by the Lascaris de Vintimille, a family of the high Nicois nobility. A true Baroque masterpiece, it now houses a municipal museum awarded the Musee de France label.

What to see

Inside, a monumental staircase framed by galleries, painted ceilings, period furniture and a collection of ancient musical instruments reveal the opulence of the Nicois nobility. An essential visit to discover Nicois Baroque in all its splendour.

Practical information

The Lascaris Palace is on rue Droite, in the heart of old Nice. Admission is charged; opening days, hours and prices should be checked depending on the season.

Why is the Lascaris Palace nicknamed the little Versailles ?

For the opulence of its Baroque decoration, the work of the noble Lascaris de Vintimille family.

What does the palace hold today ?

A municipal museum with the Musee de France label, with a collection of ancient musical instruments.