The picturesque city of Nice, nestled on the southern coast of France, attracts people with its impressive food, art, and culture. The capital of the French Riviera, Nice has a glamorous reputation, thanks to its attractive leafy streets, designer boutiques, and impressive art museums.
Nice is known for its scenic beachside, and its splendid Promenade des Anglais is a wonderful place to spend a sunny day in the city, exploring various restaurants, bars, and shops.
There are also some wonderful green spaces to explore, or history enthusiasts will enjoy walking around Nice’s historic Roman ruins, its gothic cathedrals, and exploring the Old Town.
With a small town area, Nice is easy to navigate on foot. However, you can also make use of the city’s great tram system, to ensure you see as much of an invigorating city as possible.
Whether you are visiting Nice for a relaxing beachside escape or you are looking to enjoy the lively bar and restaurant scene, Nice is the ideal vacation destination with things to see and do that will inspire everyone.
In this travel guide:
Vieux Nice (Old Town)
The area of Vieux Nice is brimming with architectural delights and is one of the most lively areas of the city, where you can find the pretty Cours Saleya market square, and many popular bars and restaurants.
If you are looking for Nice’s historic sites and baroque architecture, then head to Vieux Nice, where you can discover the Cathedral Sainte-Réparate, and the baroque Chapelle de la Miséricorde.
The area is very romantic, and is the ideal place to wander along Nice’s narrow cobbled streets, popping into independent cafes and art galleries.
Those searching for a slice of the French food scene will enjoy the Old Town area of Nice. Visit the Cours Saleya market that sells flowers and local food produce, pick up delicious French wine at Cave de la Tour, or enjoy street food dishes such as socca, a chickpea pancake sold by street food vendors in Vieux Nice.
The restaurants in the Old Town offer various cuisines from traditional Nicoise cuisine, to fresh seafood dishes, and vegetarian and vegan. Peixes is a popular restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine, whilst Bocca serves tapas from a rooftop terrace with stunning views over the city’s red roofs.
Best place to stay in Vieux Nice
Palais Saleya Boutique Hôtel. Address: 21 Rue du Marché, 06300 Nice, France.
Le Port
Le Port is the port area of Nice and one of the most trendy and affluent areas of Nice. Million-dollar yachts dock in the marina here, and the area is known for its delicious fresh seafood.
The tram line from the airport terminates in this area and the Old Town is a short walk away, making the Le Port area a popular location for tourists and locals alike.
Le Port is close to the famous Promenade des Anglais and the harbor area has both rustic and modern restaurants where visitors and locals come together to enjoy the attractive marina.
On Mondays, there is a flea market where antiques including art and furniture are sold on Quai Papacino. Visitors can also explore the Museum of Modern Art, where you can see works from French artists such as Niki de Saint Phalle, and Yves Klein.
The area of Le Port is relaxed and laid-back yet has a sophisticated vibe. If you are seeking a quiet yet arty atmosphere, then Le Port is the ideal place to spend the day, admiring the super-yachts, and enjoying a delicious meal with views of the ocean.
La Vigna is the perfect place to sit and watch the boats in the marina while enjoying traditional French cuisine and their extensive wine list. Whereas Le Marlin is the place to go to enjoy fresh seafood that comes from the local fishermen of Nice.
Best place to stay in Le Port
Hotel du Pin. Address: 6 Rue Emmanuel Philibert Place Du Pin, 06300 Nice, France.
Promenade des Anglais
Promenade des Anglais is the serene 7-kilometer stretch of beach that runs along the coast of Nice, and it’s what the city is known for. As the heart of the French Riviera, it is where locals and tourists go to relax, enjoy the views, and dine at the impressive restaurants that line the Promenade.
Referred to as “La Pom” by locals, the Promenade des Anglais is a popular destination in Nice and is the ideal place to spend the day, soaking up the sun on one of Nice’s iconic blue deckchairs.
If you are feeling adventurous, you can also book an excursion along the French Riviera to the nearby Monaco departing from the Promenade, which makes for a great daytime activity.
The Promenade du Paillon is located nearby and is also a great place to wander, and enjoy the park with its pretty fountains and green spaces, a perfect place where children can play safely while you relax.
The Promenade des Anglais also has a lively nightlife, with many great bars and restaurants coming to life once the sun sets, entertaining those looking for a thrilling night out.
With so much to offer and enjoy, Le Pom is a must-see visit during any vacation to Nice.
Best place to stay in Promenade des Anglais
Le Negresco. Address: 37 Promenade Des Anglais, 06000 Nice, France.
Cheaper alternative:
Westminster Hotel & Spa. Address: 27 Promenade Des Anglais, 06000 Nice, France.
Jean Médecin (New Town)
Nice is known for its excellent shopping districts and its designer boutiques and the area of Jean Médecin is bustling with wonderful shops and leafy pedestrian-only avenues.
Located right in the center of Nice, in the New Town area, Jean Médecin is a bustling area that attracts many people from the city to its wide selection of retail stores and modern buildings.
Every budget is catered for and the more exclusive stores, such as Chanel and Louis Vuitton are located towards the far end of Jean Médecin Avenue on the Avenue de Verdun.
Once you have finished shopping, you can take in the picturesque Basilica of Notre-Dame which is located north of Jean Médecin Avenue. This stunning Cathedral was built in the 1860s and is the largest church in Nice, displaying Neo-Gothic architecture.
The area of Jean Médecin is a great place to spend an afternoon, perusing the stores that line this extensive avenue and stopping to enjoy French cuisine at the small eateries in the area.
The tram runs through Jean Médecin, making the avenue a great place to stop for a spot of shopping and enjoy the modern side of the city, on your exploration of Nice.
Best place to stay in Jean Médecin
Hotel Massena. Address: 58, Rue Gioffredo, 06000 Nice, France.
Cimiez
The Cimiez district of Nice is known for its peaceful atmosphere and quiet leafy avenues. It is an attractive area for families and is mainly residential, with many parks and attractive gardens. It is also home to the Matisse Museum, with stunning exhibits of the famous artist, who settled in Nice during the 1950s.
Located away from the main attractions of the city, the streets of Cimiez are home to many examples of Belle Époque architecture that you can see in the form of grand villas. It is no wonder that the area attracts affluent French residents seeking the quieter side of Nice.
However, the area is still a great place to visit during any trip to Nice and Cimiez attracts tourists with its impressive Roman Ruins. People interested in the ancient history of Nice, come here to view the Roman amphitheater, archaeology museum, and the 16th-century Cimiez Monastery.
Despite its quiet reputation, the area of Cimiez has many things to see and do with the Cathédrale Saint Nicolas located here and a serene olive grove in the Jardin des Arenes, to explore.
Best place to stay in Cimiez
Hôtel Petit Palais. Address: 17, Av. Emile Bieckert, 06000 Nice, France.
Where travel critics stay in Nice
Curious to discover the accommodation choices of travel experts from renowned publishers such as The New York Times, Frommer’s, Fodor’s and Lonely Planet when they are in Nice? Delve into our comprehensive guide showcasing all highly recommended hotels in Nice. This includes everything from hostels to B&Bs that these critics prefer during their stay.
Budget
“Behind heavy iron gates hides this gem: the nine beautifully appointed rooms – the work of the exquisite Marion – are a subtle blend of old and new and overlook a delightful garden with a glorious orange tree. Amazingly, all this charm and peacefulness is just two blocks from the promenade.” – Lonely Planet.
Address: 1, Rue du Congrès, 06000 Nice, France.
Mid-range
“Following a full renovation in 2013, Villa Victoria sports colorful rooms with funky wallpapers and bright fabrics. But the main draw is the courtyard garden.” – New York Times.
Address: 33, Boulevard Victor Hugo, 06000 Nice, France.
Luxury
“For more than a century, the Negresco has been Nice’s most iconic hotel. Its flamingo-pink dome crowns the Promenade des Anglais, its Belle Epoque facade turned towards the sea. Guestrooms—a mix of Louis XIV antiques and state-of-the-art bathrooms—have hosted each era’s most noted celebrities, from the Beatles and Salvador Dalí to Michael Jackson.” – Frommers.
Address: 37 Promenade Des Anglais, 06000 Nice, France.
FAQ: Nice hotel tips
Looking for the best budget, boutique, or luxury hotel in Nice? Or maybe you’re a backpacker looking for a splendid hostel? Want to know which Nice hotel serves a great breakfast? Here are the answers to all those and other questions about where to stay in Nice.
How much does a night in a hotel in Nice cost?
If you want to stay in a 3-star hotel in central Nice, you would be looking at an average price of $110 per night. For 4-star hotels, the average price is around $170 per night. For a 5-star hotel in central Nice, the average rate is around $350 per night.
What is the best affordable hotel in Nice?
If you are on the hunt for an affordable hotel, then you should consider reserving Esprit D’Azur. It is a great option for those on a budget, as it provides good value for your money. Additionally, the hotel is in a suitable location, and professional travelers have given it their approval. Moreover, the guests who have stayed at the hotel have shared positive reviews. We also have a list of the top-rated budget hotels in Nice.
What is the best boutique hotel in Nice?
If you fancy a bit of extravagance but prefer to stay away from the well-known chain hotels, then L’Abeille is an excellent option for you. This hotel has been very well-reviewed by travelers and experts alike. For more information on other cool hotels, take a look at our list of the best boutique hotels in Nice.
What is the best luxury hotel in Nice?
If cost is not an issue, Le Negresco is a great option for those seeking a luxurious hotel in Nice. This establishment offers excellent customer service, is situated in an ideal location, and has garnered high reviews from customers and travel experts alike. To discover more 5-star hotels, take a look at our selection of the top luxury hotels in Nice.
What is the best hostel in Nice?
If you’re searching for a well-priced private room or comfy dorm in Nice, Hostel Ozz is worth a look. The hostel has been highly praised by backpackers. Additionally, we have compiled a shortlist of the finest hostels in Nice based on thousands of reviews from backpackers.
Which is the best hotel in Nice for a family stay?
If you and your family are considering a holiday getaway to Nice, travelers who have gone there with their families have had excellent feedback about L’Abeille Apartments.
Which Nice hotel offers the best views?
If you’re looking for a room with a view, then check out Le Negresco. This hotel offers magnificent views of the city and the beach.
Which Nice hotel serves a delicious breakfast?
To begin the day on a positive note, the Hôtel Petit Palais is a great choice if you’re seeking accommodations in Nice with a fantastic morning meal. Those who have recently stayed there have provided magnificent reviews about the breakfast provided at the hotel.
Best time to visit Nice
During the summer months of June, July, and August, Nice comes alive with tourists from all over the world. The sunny weather and warm temperatures make it the perfect time to hit the beach and soak up the Mediterranean sun.
You can take a dip in the crystal-clear waters or simply relax on the soft sand. The city also hosts various events and festivals during this time, such as the Nice Jazz Festival and the Nice Carnival, adding an extra element of excitement to your visit.
If you prefer a quieter and more budget-friendly trip, consider visiting Nice during the spring or autumn months. From April to May and September to October, the weather is still pleasant, and you’ll have fewer crowds to contend with.
This is the ideal time to explore the city’s charming streets, visit local markets, and indulge in delicious French cuisine at outdoor cafes. You can also take advantage of lower hotel rates and enjoy a more authentic experience as you mingle with the locals.
Best things to do in Nice
There are many things to do in Nice and the surrounding areas, including day trips, attractions, museums, sightseeing tours and many other activities. Here’s our list of 3 things you should definitely do when you’re in Nice:
From Nice: Discover the French Riviera in One Day
Explore the landscapes and towns of the French Riviera on this day trip from Nice. Travel in a spacious and air-conditioned bus to stunning destinations like the charming village of Èze, Monaco, Antibes and Cannes. Enjoy the panoramic view of Villefranche-sur-Mer and Saint Jean Cap Ferrat. Price: $90. More info.
Gorges of Verdon and Fields of Lavender Tour
Discover France’s most scenic landscapes on a full-day trip to Castellane, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, and the Verdon Gorge from Nice. See the iconic Lavender Fields and learn about these picturesque locations from your guide. Price: $120. More info.
Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour of Nice
See the sights of Nice at your own pace and enjoy panoramic views from an open-top bus. Purchase a 1-day or 2-day pass for the hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus and enjoy unlimited sightseeing opportunities. Price: $26. More info.
Deciding where to stay in Nice
As a closing note, let’s summarize this travel guide. We covered the best areas of Nice, so you can decide which part of town you want to stay in.
Top 5 areas to stay in Nice
- Vieux Nice
- Promenades des Anglais
- Cimiez
- Le Port
- Jean Médecin
As you have seen in this article, there are plenty of things to explore, and deciding where to stay in Nice is important. Whether you stay in Vieux Nice, Promenades des Anglais, Cimiez, Le Port or Jean Médecin, all those neighborhoods are great areas for your stay.
When deliberating your stay in Nice, several factors may come into play. The ambiance of the area, whether your journey to this magnificent city is prompted by business or pleasure, and who you’re traveling with family or friends. Also critical is how close you’ll be to the attractions that spark your interest.
Regardless of these variables, one thing remains certain – a fantastic time awaits you during your stay in Nice, France!
Nice overview
| 🏨 Hotel prices: | High |
| 🛏 Budget hotel: | $90 |
| 💑 Boutique hotel: | $160 |
| ⭐ 5-star hotel: | $320 |
| 🌎 Best area for first visit: | Vieux Nice |
| 👪 Best area for families: | Cimiez |
| 💎 Best luxury hotel: | Le Negresco |
| 👫 Best boutique hotel: | L’Abeille |
| 💰 Best cheap hotel: | Esprit D’Azur |
| 🎒 Best hostel: | Hostel Ozz |
More Nice tips
Get to know the city even better by reading our other articles about Nice:
