Au Son des Guitares

In the alleys of Old Nice, Au Son des Guitares bears its name as a promise: here, music is alive. Real musicians on a real stage, every Friday and Saturday evening, playing rock, blues, disco and covers — sets that get a mixed, local, authentic crowd singing and dancing. It is a radically different experience from the electronic clubs or nightclubs that make up the bulk of Nice nightlife.

The address is a secret known to those who live in Nice or return regularly. The room — convivial, a little tight, with a small raised stage — fills up quickly on good programming evenings. The dancefloor responds naturally to the musicians: when a band launches a recognisable classic, bodies move without needing an invitation. It is this spontaneity and human warmth — linked to the physical presence of musicians — that live music fans cite as irreplaceable.

The clientele is more local and less touristy than Wayne's, slightly older on average (25-50 years), and evidently there to appreciate the music above all. You encounter regulars who have been coming for years, musicians on their night off, tourists who got the right tip. Entry is free — a rare business model in this category, made possible by bar consumption that is encouraged but never imposed.

Programming & Music

Bands vary from week to week — classic rock, electric blues, disco funk, covers of international standards. Musical quality is generally good to very good depending on the evening. There is no permanent official website — programming is announced primarily via social media and local word of mouth. Arrive early (10pm–10:30pm) to secure a good spot.

Practical Information

Located in Old Nice's alleys — the exact address is on TripAdvisor (regular 4+ rating) or via social media. Live concerts Fridays and Saturdays, from approximately 10pm. Free entry. No strict dress code — casual welcome. Bar with draft beers, wines, simple cocktails at reasonable prices (€4–10). Limited capacity — arriving before 11pm strongly advised on good evenings.

Visitor reviews

Positive points: Au Son des Guitares is cited as Nice's most authentic and accessible live music address for rock, blues and disco enthusiasts. Bands are described as 'good', 'varied' and 'giving real energy'. Free entry is very appreciated, especially by travellers seeking a quality evening without spending much. The clientele is described as 'friendly', 'diverse', 'no fuss'. The 'real concert venue' atmosphere is regularly cited as unique in Nice. Tourists who stumble upon the address often describe it as one of their stay's best surprises.

Points for improvement: Capacity is limited — on very good programming evenings, the venue is packed and it can be difficult to move around or have a good view of the stage. Evenings without a band (cancellation or programme change) can be disappointing for those who come specifically for live music. Programming communication could be improved — no reliable, up-to-date online agenda. The sound atmosphere can be intense — not the ideal place for a conversation evening.

Overall: Au Son des Guitares is Old Nice's unmissable live music address — the place for those who prefer real guitars to DJs, human sound to electronic, and local authenticity to tourist uniformity. A rarity in Nice, and a great evening guaranteed on the right nights.