Yulia Saf 
Planning a trip to Nice, France? You’re probably wondering where to stay in Nice, and I couldn’t be more excited to help you plan your trip!
When I spent a whole summer in Southern France, I visited Nice’s hidden gems and immediately fell in love!
From experience, I can tell you that the Old Town is THE best area to stay in Nice due to its vibrant ambiance, top-notch attractions, and historic gems.
Now, I went a step further and compared ALL the areas and hotels in this enchanting Mediterranean city!
Read this post because I will present my absolute winners in the way that it is very easy to book your ideal accommodation.
Reading this post will save you SO much time, and you’ll be able to grab a hotel and book in an instant! Easy!
Make sure you book your stay in advance, as this Riviera city is packed with tourists all year long!
Quick Picks for Your Stay
Check out my ultimate pick of the best hotels to stay in Nice for all budgets:
Contents
- Quick Picks for Your Stay
- 1. Old Town (Vieux Nice) – best part of Nice to stay in for the first time
- 2. Promenade des Anglais – for strolls, people-watching and beaches
- 3. Le Port – the trendiest neighborhood to stay in Nice
- 4. Jean-Médecin (New Town) – best for fashionistas
- 5. Cimiez – where to stay in Nice for families
- 6. Gambetta – where to stay for budget travelers
- 7. Le Carré d’Or – where to stay for beautiful architecture
- FAQs about best places to stay in Nice, France
- Conclusion
Watch my video, it will give you a visual explanation of all the areas:
Here’s a handy map so you can visualize each of the areas I’ll cover below:
Below you can read about each one of them and check out luxury, mid-range, budget, and apartment options.
1. Old Town (Vieux Nice) – best part of Nice to stay in for the first time
If you are a first-time traveler, the Old Town (or Vieux Nice in French) is THE best place to stay in Nice! With its labyrinth of narrow cobblestone streets and tall pastel buildings, it is the heart and soul of the city.
Some of the most important attractions, such as Port Lympia, are located within walking distance. Plus, here, you’ll find charming cafes, eclectic markets, and some of the best ice cream shops!
This is also one of the best areas to stay in Nice for nightlife!
If you are a history and architecture buff, this ancient quarter houses the baroque-style Palais Lascaris and the stunning Nice Cathedral located on the small but beautiful Place Rossetti.
You also shouldn’t miss Colline du Chateau (Castle Hill) for an AMAZING panoramic view to the city! You take a tourist trolley train or even an elevator but I would definitely recommend walking, it is beautiful, not very hard and should take about 30 min.
In addition, a must-visit attraction in the area is the vibrant Cours Saleya, a flower market that beautifies the streets with colorful flowers, as well as the musical instrument collection at Palais Lascaris.
If you want to try street food in Nice, socca is the local dish you must try here! It’s this griddled pancake made of chickpea flour and olive oil – give it a try at Chez Pipo! Maybe more importantly, Chez Acchiardo is the place to eat Salade Niçoise!
The Salade Niçoise originated in Nice sometime in the 19th century. The classic recipe contains tomatoes, hard-boiled eggs, Niçoise olives, and anchovy filets.
If you want to stay in Vieux Nice and fully immerse yourself in the history and culture, here are some great hotels and apartments:
Other accommodation options in the Old Town
Things to do in Old Town
- Climb the Castle Hill of Nice for fantastic Riviera views
- Shop like a local at the local market Marché aux Fleurs Cours Saleya
- Admire France’s second-largest musical instrument collection in Palais Lascaris
- Catch a show at Opéra de Nice
2. Promenade des Anglais – for strolls, people-watching and beaches
Do you enjoy going for a stroll and feeling the breeze while relishing the scenic sea landscapes? The best place for that is the 7 km (4 mi) long Promenade des Anglais – a boardwalk that stretches along the French Riviera.
Promenade des Anglais extends all the way to the airport. As you walk along with it, you’ll come across pristine beaches with astonishing views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Some of the beaches are private and some are public (15 private, 20 public) and have their own chaiselongs. The cost is from €20 to €50 depending on the beach.
TIP: You can enjoy Nice’s public beaches for free! Just bring your own towel!
The literal translation of the area name is “Walkway of the English.” It is called this because the aristocrats from England who immigrated to the South of France in the 18th century loved to stroll there – and soon, you will too!
If you’re here for the beach, on some parts of the promenade, you can rent out wakeboards and try all sorts of fun watersports!
Luxurious hotels, restaurants, and casinos are located in this area of Nice, and prices are higher than in other areas.
Nonetheless, if you can afford it, you can stay at lush hotels overlooking the sea like Negresco, where celebrities from all walks of life and industries stay (think Beatles, Grace Kelly, Dali…)! In World War 2, this hotel served as a hospital, but now it demonstrates all the beauty and luxury you can find in Nice!
You don’t have to be a guest of Hotel Negresco to visit, just stop by to see the lobby!
Similarly, Palais de la Méditerranée (technically in Carré d’Or, but situated at Promenade des Anglais Avenue) and the Insta-perfect La Chaise de SAB are all located in this area!
Other accommodation options in Promenade Des Anglais
Things to do in Promenade des Anglais
- Soak up the Mediterranean sun on the sandy beach
- Walk the entire promenade (~1 hour)
- Check out the Jardin Albert 1er seafront esplanade
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3. Le Port – the trendiest neighborhood to stay in Nice
Quartier du Port (Port Quarter) is the area around the port and is currently one of the trendiest neighborhoods in Nice!
I have recently been to the port area in Marseille, Nice’s big brother, and that one was so and so. The port area in Nice is completely safe, charming, and stylish! And the views are pretty amazing, too.
Some of the most eclectic restaurants and bars are located here. Le Plongeoir, right by the port, serves the most delicious fresh fish and has absolutely fabulous views!
Vieux Port has a lot to offer its visitors. Just walk around and gaze at the number of yachts parked in the marina, or stroll around Puces de Nice, the famous flea market.
A trip to the flea market will give you a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the city’s routine and feel like a local! If you haven’t noticed already, the French LOVE their flea markets!
You can also cruise to St. Tropez or Cannes from the Nice Port!
Other accommodation options in Le Port
Things to do in Le Port
- Walk to the Grotte du Lazaret
- Catch a break at Parc Vigier
- Stroll to the port’s lighthouse
- Grab dinner by the port and enjoy the views
4. Jean-Médecin (New Town) – best for fashionistas
Jean-Médecin, or New Town, is the perfect choice to stay in a modern area near the Old Town and the Promenade des Anglais.
As you explore the wide boulevards, you can have a drink at a fancy bar or enjoy a meal at an exclusive restaurant.
This area is a shoppers’ paradise if you’re into high-end brands or local designers. Malls like Galeries Lafayette and Nicetoile (map) are available next to shops like Levi’s, Celio, Foot Locker, and others on Avenue Jean-Médecin.
Plus, you can attend a perfume workshop at Molinard Perfumery and create your own perfect scent!
Art and history lovers can indulge in world-class museums such as the Modern and Contemporary Art Museum.
Jean-Médecin has plenty of great accommodation options, and it’s right next to a train station so you can easily go on day trips out of Nice! Check out these wine tours for the most incredible experience!
Other accommodation options in Jean-Medecin
Things to do in Jean-Médecin
- Attend a perfume workshop at Molinard Perfumery
- Shop until you drop at Galeries Lafayette
- Enrich your spirit in the Modern and Contemporary Art Museum
- Have the best burger in town at Big Fernand
5. Cimiez – where to stay in Nice for families
Cimiez is a great choice for families with children who want to stay in a quiet and safe area in Nice.
Established atop a hill, Cimiez is just a few minutes from the Old Town. Being a residential area, the atmosphere here is peaceful and relaxing, and the magnificent Belle Époque architecture adds more to its charm.
Cimiez started as a Roman outpost but became more fashionable since it was Queen Victoria’s favorite vacation spot!
Artists, such as Matisse, loved this area! Today, Cimiez hosts many remarkable museums like Musée Matisse!
Cimiez offers a lot of possibilities for a family to enjoy their holiday with parks and child-friendly activities.
Other accommodation options in Cimiez
Things to do in Cimiez
- Visit the Marc Chagall Museum
- Stroll past the Église Sainte-Jeanne d’Arc
- Explore the Valrose Castle
- Walk past the iconic Excelsior Regina Hotel
6. Gambetta – where to stay for budget travelers
Are you looking for something more affordable yet safe? Gambetta is your answer! This neighborhood is a bit further West of the Old Town, but it is the most recommended area for budget travelers.
Moreover, this area is great because there is something for everyone’s interest here. It has a rich past, culture, fashion, and cuisine. Walking around it, you can discover attractions like St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Cathedral (map), Musée des Beaux-Arts de Nice and numerous small markets.
The great thing is that the train station is quite close, so, if you arrive by train, it will be very convenient to get to your hotel.
Accommodation here is cheaper than in other areas, but I have to say it was not easy to find stays that meet my strict quality standards.
Other accommodation options in Gambetta
Things to do in Gambetta
- Relax at the beach
- Visit the Fine Arts Museum
- Stroll past the Gambetta Boulevard like a local
- Head out to the Promenade des Anglais and walk to the Old Town
7. Le Carré d’Or – where to stay for beautiful architecture
If you want to explore the best of Nice’s Belle Epoque architecture and vibe, pick a hotel in the Carre d’Or area! This posh area is filled with pedestrian-friendly streets, and it borders Promenade des Anglais!
This area is home to the Massena Palace Museum of Art and History and the Casino Palais de la Méditéranée, so there are plenty of attractions to keep you busy! When you’re not sightseeing and enjoying the architecture, you can relax at the Jardin Alsace Lorraine.
The luxurious Negresco hotel that I mentioned in the Promenade des Anglais section is technically the intersection between the 2 areas! This means all the beach attractions will be within walking distance, too.
Boulevard de Victor Hugo here is packed with budget and mid-range hotels catered to couples, families, and large groups, so you’re guaranteed to find a place for your specific travel preferences!
Other accommodation options in Le Carré d’Or
Things to do in le Carré d’Or
- Visit Villa Masséna Musée
- Spend a fun afternoon in the Casino Palais de la Méditéranée
- Explore the surroundings and admire the Belle Époque architecture
- Relax at the Jardin Alsace Lorraine
| 👑 Luxury price: | €300 |
| 💵 Mid-range hotel: | €150 |
| 🛏️ Budget: | €80 |
| 📍 Best area: | Old Town |
| 🛎️ Best luxury hotel: | Le Negresco |
| 🧳 Best mid-range hotel: | Palais Hongran de Fiana |
| 👛 Best budget hotel: | Hotel 64 |
FAQs about best places to stay in Nice, France
🚶 Is Nice, France a walkable city?
Absolutely! Nice is a super walkable city compact in size. The Old Town is pedestrian-friendly, and its cobblestone streets and vibrant markets make it an ideal destination for leisurely strolls.
🤔 Where should I stay, Nice or Cannes?
Stay in Cannes for a romantic getaway and luxury shopping. Nice has more diverse activities for families and those seeking an active vacation (but it doesn’t lack shopping and romantic gems, either!)
🛏️ What are the best beachfront hotels in Nice?
Hotel Le Negresco (one of the most famous Nice hotels), Hôtel La Pérouse, and Hyatt Regency are 3 top-rated beachfront hotels in Nice! It’s hard to choose just one South of France hotel on the beach, so go for the one that best fits your needs!
🎄 Where is the best place to stay in Nice for Christmas?
Best Western Hotel Lakmi Nice in Jean-Médecin has fabulous Christmas decorations and makes a great place to stay in Nice for Christmas! Place Masséna is beautiful in December when the Christmas markets and activities are in full swing.
✖️ Which areas should I avoid in Nice, France?
Areas to avoid in Nice, France, include L’Ariane and parts of Old Town. L’Ariane is far from the city center and off the beaten path, so you wouldn’t want to stay here anyway. Don’t walk around the Old Town at night to avoid unpleasant situations.
✅ Is Gambetta, Nice safe?
Yes! If you’re worried about safety in Nice and Gambetta, you can relax! Gambetta is a residential neighborhood to the west of Old Town, and it’s just as safe as any other area in Nice.
Conclusion
This was my extensive guide on where to stay in Nice to help you plan your trip! I included tips about the 7 best neighborhoods in Nice and the best hotels and apartments you can find in each area.
If you haven’t already chosen a place, here are my 2 favorite options:
- Hotel Negresco – a historic hotel with a private beach and Michelin-star restaurant
- Le Meridien Nice – breathtaking views and an incredible infinity pool
Nice is perfect every season, and the best hotels get booked fast, so make sure you secure your spot ahead of time!
I hope this article was helpful and I wish you a pleasant holiday in Nice!
If you’re continuing your vacation in France, check out my posts for the best places to stay in St Tropez and Paris.
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to comment below.
Enjoy visiting Nice, France!
Yulia
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do you have any comments to add about the area “theirs” that is between 6 and 4 on the map??
Hi Sally!
Thiers is another convenient spot to stay in Nice, it is right by the main train station, making it easy to explore the city and take day trips. It’s budget-friendly and walkable to major attractions. The reason why it is not in the list is that it doesn’t have the same charm as the Old Town or the seafront. If you’re after affordability and easy transport, it works—but some streets near the station can feel a little rough at night.
Hope this helps! 🙂