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Nice, the glamorous capital of the French Riviera, offers an irresistible blend of stunning natural beauty, Italian-influenced architecture, and world-class art. The city is defined by the iconic Promenade des Anglais, a sweeping, palm-lined boulevard that runs along the pebbled shore of the Baie des Anges, inviting you to stroll or cycle alongside the brilliant blue of the Mediterranean Sea.
Nice’s heart lies in the Vieux Nice (Old Town), a maze of narrow, colourful streets teeming with Baroque churches, lively markets like the Cours Saleya, and charming local eateries. With world-class museums dedicated to artists like Matisse and Chagall, and its proximity to other glamorous French and Italian destinations, Nice is an essential European city for art, sun, and sophistication.
Your choice of hotel location in Nice will dictate the style of your trip, whether you are after beachfront views, old-world charm, or modern city convenience.
For first-time visitors who want to be immersed in atmosphere, the Vieux Nice (Old Town) is a perfect, if energetic, choice. Staying in this labyrinth of colourful streets places you close to the daily flower and produce market at Cours Saleya and puts you at the foot of Castle Hill, which offers fantastic panoramic views. The Old Town is packed with authentic Niçoise restaurants and bars.
The Promenade des Anglais area is ideal for those seeking a classic Riviera experience and easy beach access. Hotels here, ranging from grand Belle Époque palaces to modern stays, often offer magnificent sea views. Staying along the Promenade is perfect for families and those who want direct access to the pebble beach and the open air, although this area tends to be quieter in terms of nightlife.
For the city's central shopping and transport hub, look to the Jean-Médecin district. This area is home to the main commercial street, Avenue Jean Médecin, filled with international stores. It’s a bustling, modern part of Nice that offers a wide range of accommodation options and is excellent for those who value being centrally located for shopping and ease of transport around the city.
A more local and increasingly trendy area is Le Port (The Port), which mixes historic charm with modern life around the beautiful harbour. This district has a genuine, local feel, with a great mix of dining spots and antique shops. It is a slightly quieter base, well-connected to the Old Town and the main shopping areas.
Nice is served by Nice Côte d'Azur Airport (NCE), which is conveniently located and easily accessible via the tram network straight into the city centre, including the Promenade des Anglais and Jean-Médecin areas. The city’s comprehensive tram system makes navigating between districts simple, no matter where you choose to stay.
To secure the best prices for your hotel in Nice, it's vital to avoid the high season and be flexible with your dates. The high season runs from June to September, with prices peaking when the summer weather is at its best.
For the most significant savings, consider travelling in the low season, especially during the quiet months of November and January. A helpful tip unique to the Côte d'Azur is to be aware of the major regional events. The world-famous Cannes Film Festival in May and the Monaco Grand Prix typically in May, cause a ripple effect across the entire region, including Nice. Hotels book up and prices surge across the entire French Riviera during these weeks. By avoiding these specific, high-profile events, you will ensure you find the most competitive hotel rates.