A seaside city with a big personality
Nice curves around the Baie des Anges, with pebbly beaches on one side and a city of pastel facades, markets and gardens on the other. It is compact, and the tram connects the airport with the centre and the port, so getting around is easy.
It is also an excellent base for exploring the coast. Trains and buses run to Monaco, Antibes and the villages in between, so a central location near the station or tram line pays off.
Vieux Nice
The old town is a warren of narrow lanes, ochre buildings and small squares, with the Cours Saleya market at its edge. Staying here means waking up close to bakeries and flower stalls, and stepping out to the beach in minutes. It is atmospheric and great for couples and first-time visitors, although rooms can be small and some streets lively at night.
Because the old town is largely pedestrian, arriving with a large suitcase can mean a walk from the nearest tram stop or taxi drop-off. Travelling light makes life easier here.
Promenade des Anglais and the Carré d'Or
The long seafront Promenade des Anglais is lined with hotels of every style, many with balconies looking out over the water. It suits beach lovers and anyone who wants that classic Riviera view.
Just behind it, the Carré d'Or is an elegant area of shops, restaurants and Belle Époque buildings. It is central, a little quieter than the old town and well placed for both the beach and the main shopping streets around Avenue Jean Médecin.
The Port and Cimiez
East of Castle Hill, the Port area has a more local feel, with antique shops, harbour-side restaurants and ferries out on the water. It is great value compared with the seafront and suits travellers who like a neighbourhood vibe.
Cimiez, on the hills to the north, is residential and peaceful, with Roman ruins, gardens and museums dedicated to famous painters. It suits slower trips and families who prefer calm evenings, with buses down to the centre.
Good to know
- Pack water shoes; most Nice beaches are pebbly.
- Stay near the tram line for easy airport transfers.
- Book seafront rooms early for July and August.