Nice, France

Fact 1 - The iconic Promenade des Anglais owes its existence to an English reverend, Lewis Way, who funded its initial construction in the early 19th century as a place for the city's burgeoning English community to stroll during the winter months.

Fact 2 - Nice was actually part of Italy (Kingdom of Sardinia) until 1860 when it was ceded to France as part of a secret agreement following France's support in the Second Italian War of Independence.

Fact 3 - The Nice Observatory, perched atop Mont Gros, boasts the largest rotating dome in Europe, designed by Gustave Eiffel (of Eiffel Tower fame) and completed in 1887.

Fact 4 - Despite being a major tourist destination, only about 340,000 people permanently reside in Nice, making it a city where the tourism industry heavily influences the local economy and culture.

Fact 5 - Socca, a chickpea pancake, is a Niçoise culinary staple, and it's traditionally cooked in a wood-fired oven and served immediately, often with just a sprinkling of black pepper; purists believe it should only be eaten within minutes of being cooked.

Fact 6 - The Cascade de Gairaut, a stunning artificial waterfall and park, hides a replica Chalet de Suisse; built in the late 19th century as a drinking water pavilion, showcasing a Swiss chalet design for a unique architectural experience.

Fact 7 - Henri Matisse, one of the 20th century's most influential artists, spent the last 37 years of his life in Nice and the city houses the Musée Matisse, dedicated solely to his work, showcasing his evolution and enduring impact on modern art.

Fact 8 - The 'Chaise Bleue' (Blue Chair) is an emblem of Nice, with versions of it scattered along the Promenade des Anglais, initially designed as simple seating in the 1950s, they have since become an iconic symbol of the city and its seaside charm.