Nice
Where to stay in Nice: the best areas and hotels
Sea views from the Promenade des Anglais, the Cours Saleya market on your doorstep or everything within walking distance of Place Masséna. Here are the areas of Nice, the pros of each and the hotels we recommend.
Morning light falls across the Baie des Anges, and the first cyclists and joggers are already out on the Promenade des Anglais. Behind you lie the narrow lanes of the old town and the market on Cours Saleya, in front of you the blue Mediterranean. Nice is a city where where you stay decides whether your day starts with a sea view or the smell of freshly baked socca.
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Short answer: where should you stay in Nice?
By the sea: Along the Promenade des Anglais, overlooking the bay.
For atmosphere: In the old town, Vieux Nice, with the market and restaurants right outside.
Practical and central: Around Place Masséna, between the old town and the shopping streets.
Our three favourites
The icon on the promenade: Hotel Le Negresco. See rooms at Le Negresco
The view over the bay: Hôtel La Pérouse. See rooms at La Pérouse
Art deco by the beach: Palais de la Méditerranée. See rooms at Palais de la Méditerranée
Promenade des Anglais: the sea outside your door
The seven-kilometre promenade along the Baie des Anges is the face of Nice. This is where the grand classic hotels stand, with rooms looking straight out over the water. The old town is an easy walk away, and the airport tram runs along the seafront.
Hotel Le Negresco: the pink dome
The Belle Époque hotel with its pink dome is Nice’s best-known building, filled with art and antiques.
Book your stay: See rooms at Le Negresco
Palais de la Méditerranée: the art deco facade
Behind the white art deco facade is a modern hotel with a pool and sea views.
Book your stay: See rooms at Palais de la Méditerranée
The beach by the Promenade des Anglais.
The old town and Castle Hill
Vieux Nice is a maze of narrow lanes in ochre and terracotta, with the flower market on Cours Saleya, small bars and restaurants serving socca and pissaladière. Above it all rises the Colline du Château, with views over the whole bay.
Hôtel La Pérouse: on the cliff by the old town
The hotel is set into the cliff below Castle Hill, at the end of the promenade, with terraces overlooking the Baie des Anges.
Book your stay: See rooms at Hôtel La Pérouse
Around Place Masséna and the Carré d’Or
Between the old town and the shopping streets lies the practical heart of the city, with the tram, the shops and a short walk to everything. This is where most mid-range hotels are. Read more about the shops in our guide to shopping in Nice.
Before you book
Book early for summer: July and August are peak season, and prices rise sharply.
Ask for a sea view: Sea-facing rooms cost more, but are often worth it.
Use the tram: The tram runs from the airport to the centre and on through the city.
Frequently asked questions about where to stay in Nice
Where should you stay in Nice on a first visit?
Along the Promenade des Anglais or around Place Masséna, close to both the beach and the old town.
Is it a good idea to stay in the old town?
Yes, for atmosphere and restaurants. It can be lively at night, so choose a courtyard room if you are a light sleeper.
How do you get from the airport to the centre?
By tram, which runs from the airport to the centre.