How to choose
Nice is compact: from Le Negresco to the port is about 45 minutes on foot. So distance matters less than the atmosphere you are after. Here are the four neighbourhoods we recommend for a holiday.
Promenade des Anglais: for the sea view
The postcard image: waking up facing the Baie des Anges. The great historic hotels are here, with the beaches just opposite. The downside is price, especially for a sea-facing room.
Le Negresco
The historic pink-domed palace, opened in 1913. Every room is decorated differently.
Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée
A 1929 Art Deco façade and an outdoor pool facing the sea.
Hôtel West End
The Promenade's sea view for a gentler budget than the palaces.
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Old Nice: for atmosphere
Staying in the lanes means the Cours Saleya market when you wake up and café terraces at night. Hotels here are smaller and more intimate. The area is lively late in summer: ask for a quiet room.
Hôtel La Pérouse
Built into the rock between Old Nice and the sea, with the whole bay in view.
Hôtel Villa La Tour
A small hotel in the heart of the lanes, to live the neighbourhood from morning to night.
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City centre: for convenience
Around Place Masséna and Avenue Jean-Médecin, you are 5 minutes from the sea, Old Nice and the shops, with the tram outside the door. The best choice for a first visit on a mid-range budget.
Le Windsor Jungle Art Hotel
Rooms decorated by artists and a tropical garden, two streets from the sea.
Hotels around Place Masséna
The most convenient area: tram, shops and Old Nice a few minutes away.
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The port: for calm and restaurants
Port Lympia and its Italian-coloured façades are a 10-minute walk from Old Nice. The area is more residential, quieter at night and known for its seafood restaurants.
Hotels in the port area
Quieter at night, with good restaurants and ferries to Corsica.
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Our booking tips
- Sea view: make sure it is in the room type. "Side sea view" often means seeing the sea if you lean out.
- Air conditioning: essential in July and August.
- Free cancellation: worth choosing, as prices often move as your dates approach.
- Parking: rare and expensive in the centre. If you are driving, check it is offered.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best area to stay in Nice?
On a first visit, the Promenade des Anglais and the centre around Place Masséna are the most convenient: everything is walkable. Old Nice has the most atmosphere but can be noisy at night.
When should you book a hotel in Nice?
As early as possible for July, August and big events such as the Carnival in February or the Monaco Grand Prix in May. Out of season, a few weeks ahead is usually enough.
Should you stay near the airport?
Only for a very early flight. The tram links the airport to the centre in about thirty minutes, so it is better to stay in town.
Is Old Nice noisy at night?
The lively squares and streets are, until late in summer. If you are a light sleeper, ask for a room facing the courtyard or choose the quieter port area.
