Are you planning a trip to southern France and trying to figure out where to stay in Nice?
Nice, tucked away on the French Riviera’s beautiful Azure, the water’s edge is a city that deftly combines a sense of classic elegance with the energy of the present. Every inch of this Mediterranean jewel, with its bright marketplaces, art-filled streets, and sun-kissed beaches, whispers a tale just waiting to be uncovered. However, a vital query arises as you organize your vacation to this alluring location.
Come along as we investigate the top spots to stay in Nice. We guarantee comfort and a once-in-a-lifetime encounter infused with the region’s rich culture and stunning surroundings.
My Top 3 Picks: Best Hotels in Nice
Palais Saleya Boutique Hotel
The Palais Saleya Boutique Hotel, ideally located in the centre of Nice’s bustling Old Town, expertly mixes modern luxury with historical charm. Each apartment features luxurious furniture that invites visitors to relax in luxury, creating a beautiful fusion of classic Provençal aesthetics and modern design. The hotel’s well-considered renovations honour its rich history while providing all the modern comforts that selective tourists demand.
✔️ Large rooms
✔️ The rooms are lovely, modern, and comfortable
✔️ In the centre of Old Town
Hotel Suisse
The Hotel Suisse is a little haven of luxury that expertly mixes modern comforts with classic Swiss hospitality. Located right in the middle of the historic district, its architecture combines elements of the past with the comforts of the present to create a welcoming haven for travellers. Well-appointed rooms with local artwork enhance the welcoming atmosphere, giving visitors a genuine experience of Swiss creativity and culture.
✔️ Superb setting above the Promenade des Anglais
✔️ Beautiful rooms with sea views and quick access to the beach
Hotel Florence Nice
Located in the centre of the French Riviera, Hotel Florence Nice provides a completely lovely experience. This small hotel combines classic style with contemporary comfort, tucked away in a charming area with many shops and cafés.
✔️ Located near the beach, Old Town, and train
✔️ Beautiful, elegant rooms
✔️ Several rooms include balconies.
✔️ A good choice for a budget
Where to Stay in Nice: 7 Best Neighborhoods
The area’s advantages and disadvantages are discussed in the following sections. To help you quickly and efficiently plan your trip, I suggest top-notch hotels and vacation rentals!
1. Old Town – Perfect for First-Time Visitors and Being in the Center of the Action
The Old Town of Nice is charming, quaint, and beautifully kept in all its shades of orange and yellow. You will find some of Nice’s best cafes, restaurants, and speciality stores along the small, winding lanes.
The Marché aux Fleurs flower and produce market is located in the Cours Saleya, closer to the water. If your apartment has a kitchen, you can buy food here for simple, fresh meals to prepare at home.
Nestled in the heart of Nice’s old town lies Place Rossetti, a plaza lined with cafes and ice cream stores, and the Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate de Nice. The towering Castle Hill bounds the Old Town’s eastern boundary.
- Advantages: Almost perfectly central, brimming with personality and charm, stunning golden buildings
- Cons: Although it’s one of the city’s most touristy locations, driving through it might be challenging.
- Best for: Those who like vacation rentals (there are fewer hotel alternatives in this region), love to stay in the most picturesque and historic part of town, and want to be right in the middle of everything. This is an excellent location for first-time guests.
Best Hotels In Old Town:
Albert Premier
Mercure Nice Marché aux Fleurs
Palais Saleya Boutique Hotel
Where To Stay In Old Town – Vacation Rentals:
Charming French-style apartment in Old Town: Nestled in the centre of Old Town, this charming French-style apartment blends historical magnificence and modern comfort. The room is opened up by the exposed beams on the vaulted ceiling, which allow an abundance of natural light to dance across the traditional parquet flooring.
Stylish, Newly Renovated Apartment on Rue Rossetti: This chic, recently updated apartment on Rue Rossetti is tucked away in the bustling centre of Nice and offers a wonderful combination of old-world charm and modern elegance. Large windows that enclose stunning views of the busy street below flood the open-concept design with natural light. A modern aesthetic is reflected in stylish décor, enhanced by well-chosen furnishings that combine luxury and comfort. Every section of the home has character, from the finely designed kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances to the welcoming living room with original artwork.
2. The Port: Best for Maritime Enthusiasts and LGBTQ Visitors
The Port of Nice, also called Port Lympia, is home to larger boats, boats with sails, fishing boats, and speedboats. The harbour is a magnificent, historic location in Nice, and the buildings surrounding it are vibrant and elegant.
Situated on the western boundary of the Port district, Castle Hill is easily accessible from this location.
Although Place du Pin is a well-liked LGBT hangout plaza, Rue Bonaparte and the surrounding area are regarded as the hub of gay clubs and restaurants in Nice. The city itself is quite gay-friendly.
- Advantages: A stunning port, modern, and numerous gay-friendly businesses
- Cons: There are few hotels; however, this could be a plus, depending on your perspective! – a far greater selection of vacation rental possibilities than portside hotels.
- Ideal For: Those who enjoy being near boats or the sea, those who wish to be in Nice’s historic district but a little bit further away from the crowds, and those who wish to remain close to gay-friendly businesses.
Recommended Hotels In The Port:
Ibis Styles Nice Centre Port
Hotel du Pin Nice Port
Best Vacation Rentals In The Port:
View of the Port Apartment: This newly updated apartment in a historic building features modern conveniences and hints of old-world charm. The view from every window is the true attraction of this location—a breathtaking panorama over the port!
3. Promenade des Anglais: Perfect for Beach Lovers and Strolling Enthusiasts
Running along Nice’s blue beachfront, the Promenade des Anglais is a popular gathering place for strollers and tourists, as well as a beautiful boardwalk. Visitors can enjoy the sun and vibrant atmosphere of the lively cafés and little stores throughout this Mediterranean jewel, all against a backdrop of palm trees. AddStreettertainers and art installations offer another level of intrigue, turning every walk into an unexpected adventure.
- Benefits: You may take in breathtaking ocean views directly next to the promenade and beach.
- The cons are that there is some traffic noise, and the Promenade des Anglais street is pretty busy. Seaside accommodations may be more costly.
- Ideal for: Individuals desiring stunning ocean views, convenient beach access, or a strolling route.
My Hotel Recommendations On The Promenade Des Anglais
Hotel West End Promenade
Westminster Hotel and Spa Nice
Hotel Suisse
Recommended Vacation Rentals On The Promenade Des Anglais
Stunning Beachfront Apartment along Promenade: Imagine waking to the soft sound of waves crashing into the coast, with sunlight pouring through floor-to-ceiling windows framing an expansive sea view. This gorgeous beachfront property on the promenade offers a lifestyle full of inspiration, tranquillity, and luxurious living. You’ll experience a refreshing connection to nature every morning while enjoying your coffee on the spacious balcony, which seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor life.
Waterfront Panorama Seaview Apartment Near Negresco: This apartment has several lovely areas, is perfectly arranged for a family, and is just a short distance from the beach!
4. Jean-Medecin: A Great Central Area
The Place Massena, the largest plaza in Nice with red-brick buildings and streets with black-and-white checkerboard patterns, is located in the Jean-Medecin area.
The centre of this area is the Avenue Jean-Medecin, a broad, magnificent thoroughfare reserved for walkers and the municipal tram (no other motorized traffic is permitted). This route also leads up to Nice’s rail station.
Along this route and the surrounding streets, there are many places to shop, including souvenir shops, well-known brands, and independent boutiques. The renowned Galeries Lafayette shop and the Nice Etoile mall are noteworthy.
Advantages: It is located near Old Town and has numerous stores and eateries. The rail station is closer the further north you travel.
Drawback: Some areas may be further from the ocean.
Best for: This is the ideal place to stay for those who wish to be near the train station and in the heart of Nice’s old and new towns. Families with little children should also consider whether they value having a park and playground nearby.
Where To Stay In Jean-Medecin – Recommended Hotels
Hotel de la Mer
Hotel Florence Nice
Les Suites Massena
Top Vacation Rentals In Jean-Medecin
Beautiful, Spacious Garden View Flat: With its parquet hardwood floors, gilded mirrors, beautiful forming, full-length windows, and a garden overlook, this apartment is the French apartment of my dreams.
5. Carre d’Or: The Heart of the Belle Epoque in Nice
Located away between the beautiful Mediterranean and the energetic streets of Nice, Carré d’Or is more than simply a place; it’s a beating heart that captures the grace of the Belle Époque. With its imposing buildings and luxurious hotels, this quaint community captures a time when Nice was the playground of Europe’s wealth. You can almost hear the drones of high society dancing through rich ballrooms and cafes filled with clinking glasses and laughter as you stroll down its tree-lined avenues.
Structures are typically constructed in the beautiful Belle Époque style. The most well-known example of a luxurious, exquisite, and historic structure is the Hotel Le Negresco. Famously, it faces the Promenade des Anglais.
The Carré d’Or area also houses the Casino du Palais de la Méditerranée and the Musée Massena, which features artwork from the French Riviera.
- Advantages: Gorgeous setting, near a ton of attractions without actually being in them, and near the sea
- Cons: Honestly, I can’t think of any major drawbacks!
- Ideal for: Those who wish to stay in a lovely, more residential area that is nevertheless relatively accessible to the sites.
Recommended Hotels In The Carré D’Or Neighborhood
Hotel Villa Rivoli
Hotel Le Meurice
Hotel Le Negresco
Recommended Vacation Rentals In The Carré D’Or Neighborhood
Fantastic Modern One Bedroom: This new, large apartment offers lovely wood floors and is easily accessible anywhere.
Villa on the Roof Apartment: This cute, large apartment has an old-world charm and is ideal for a family or group. Its huge rooftop terrace is ideal for spending summer evenings on the French Riviera.
6. Gambetta – Where to Stay in Nice on a Budget
A hidden treasure in Nice, Gambetta provides delectable choices for tourists on a tight budget without sacrificing the charm of the French Riviera. Located a short stroll from the picturesque Promenade des Anglais, this lively area offers small guesthouses and charming small hotels that perfectly reflect the spirit of the local way of life. Suppose you’re eager to get your hands dirty and experience real life; book a stay at one of the many family-run lodgings. In that case, they provide reasonable prices and firsthand information about the greatest places to visit.
However, there are a few attractions in this area. The Musée des Beaux-Arts de Nice (the Museum of Fine Art), the Cathédrale Saint-Nicolas de Nice (the Russian Cathedral), and the Alsace-Lorraine Gardens (a small garden with a playground) are all nearby.
- Advantages: A more peaceful area distant from the city’s busiest areas
- Cons: You’ll have to walk in to see the attractions in Nice because it’s farther away from most places.
- Best For: Those looking to avoid the major tourist attractions, children, and those on a budget
Recommended Hotels In Gambetta
Locarno Hotel
Hotel Amour Nice
Hotel La Villa Nice Promenade
Recommended Vacation Rentals In Gambetta
Maison Cournichée Apartment: This low-cost apartment has modern facilities and a fully furnished, clean, and comfortable living area, making it an incredible deal.
Appartement Le Victor Hugo: This property, which is in a residential area, is cheerful, light-filled, and quite roomy. It is updated, modern, clean, and has a charming little terrace. This apartment also offers a selection of baby gear goods for a modest cost.
7. Cimiez – Perfect for Families and Lovers of Roman History
Cimiez is a charming suburb tucked away in the hills above Nice. It enthrals tourists of all ages with its rich tapestry of Roman history and charming mix of family-friendly activities. Families can easily interactively appreciate history by walking through the ruins of a grand theatre as their kids explore the beautiful gardens surrounding it. The ruins of former baths and villas take you back to the prosperous Roman era when Cimiez flourished, providing a backdrop for contemporary Nice.
This region was known as Cemenelum in the Roman era and was home to several iconic Roman buildings. Go to the Jardins des Arènes de Cimiez today to view the Roman baths and amphitheatre remnants.
European aristocracy and government began to frequent this region as a vacation destination in the late 1800s and early 1900s. The most wealthy and well-liked hotel for the royals was the Ancien Hotel Regina.
When you visit the Monastery of Cimiez, check out the lovely gardens and cemetery offering city views.
Cimiez and Place Massena in Nice are well connected by bus; walking takes 15 or 30 minutes.
- Pros: If you wish to stay in an area away from other visitors, this section offers plenty of interesting, off-the-beaten-path things to see.
- Cons: It’s a good hike uphill into Cimiez, and it’s rather far from many places, including the coastline.
- Ideal For: Lovers of Roman history, families, and those wishing to remain in quiet areas
Recommended Hotels In Cimiez
NH Nice Hotel
Hotel Le Petit Palais
Recommended Apartments In Cimiez
Appartement Liberation: The arrangement of this apartment is light, airy, and open, with a spacious, broad balcony.
To Summarize, This is Where to Stay in Nice:
- For Families: Carré d’Or or Jean Medecin (close to everything, including the park), Gambetta (more residential), or Cimiez (also more residential)
- For First-Time Visitors: Old Town, Promenade, Carré d’Or
- For Beach and Sea Lovers: Promenade des Anglais (Beach), The Port (Sea Lovers)
- For a More Local, Quiet Experience: Gambetta or Cimiez
- On a Budget: Gambetta
- To Be Close to the Most/Best Restaurants and Bars: Port, Carré d’Or, Jean Medecin, Old Town
- For the LGBTQ Area: The Port
Important Things to Know About Hotels in France
When to Book Your Hotel (or Rental) for Nice
Since Nice is a well-liked travel location, I recommend reserving your lodging as soon as possible. Hotels and vacation rentals are often fully booked months in advance, especially if you visit between April and October.
Make your reservation as soon as possible to secure your preferred Nice lodging!
A Few Important Notes About Hotels in Nice
When selecting your accommodations in Nice, remember that hotel rooms in France are often significantly smaller than those in the United States—let’s say cosier. There’s less floor space, and the rooms are a little more cramped because these are older buildings. Just something to keep in mind!
Only some locations have an elevator, so be prepared for them to be extremely small. The little elevators in France are so unique that I adore them!
Similarly, very few hotels provide complimentary breakfast. Although not free, breakfast is almost always included in hotel rates.
Final Thoughts on Best Areas in Nice to Stay
Nice is a lovely city with charming, lively areas spread throughout. A few of these hotels have pools, others have amazing views, and some are in the ideal setting.
You will have an amazing time in southern France, whether you choose to spend a week exploring hidden jewels, take day trips into the countryside from Nice, or stay for a few days in Nice.