Where to Stay in Nice
France
|Pop. 343K
|4 neighbourhoods covered
|Updated March 2026
Photo: Jared Rice / Unsplash
Quick Answer: Best Area to Stay
For most visitors, Vieux Nice (Old Town) is the best neighbourhood to stay in Nice. A labyrinth of narrow, colorful streets filled with historic charm and lively markets. Ideal for first-timers, couples, foodies. Budget travellers can get by on EUR 70/day.
Areas to Avoid in Nice
Safety rated "safe". See which areas need extra caution and where to stay instead.
Best Neighbourhoods at a Glance
| Neighbourhood | Vibe | Budget | Best For | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vieux Nice (Old Town) | A labyrinth of narrow, colorful streets filled with historic charm and lively markets. | Mid-range | first-timers, couples | Generally safe during the day, but be aw... |
| Promenade des Anglais | The iconic seaside promenade offering endless stretches of beach and elegant Belle Époque architecture. | Luxury | first-timers, couples | Very safe during the day and evening due... |
| Port Lympia | A bustling marina district with a more local feel, offering waterfront dining and views of yachts. | Mid-range | foodies, culture | Generally safe day and night, though it'... |
| Cimiez | An elegant, residential hillside neighborhood known for its Roman ruins, museums, and gardens. | Luxury | culture, families | Very safe day and night due to its resid... |
Vieux Nice (Old Town)
Mid-rangeA labyrinth of narrow, colorful streets filled with historic charm and lively markets.
Generally safe during the day, but be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas; at ...
Promenade des Anglais
LuxuryThe iconic seaside promenade offering endless stretches of beach and elegant Belle Époque architecture.
Very safe during the day and evening due to high foot traffic; standard precauti...
Port Lympia
Mid-rangeA bustling marina district with a more local feel, offering waterfront dining and views of yachts.
Generally safe day and night, though it's advisable to be aware of your surround...
Cimiez
LuxuryAn elegant, residential hillside neighborhood known for its Roman ruins, museums, and gardens.
Very safe day and night due to its residential and upscale nature.
Top 3 Areas to Stay in Nice
Liveliest areas for nightlife, culture, and entertainment
Vieux Nice (Old Town)
A labyrinth of narrow, colorful streets filled with historic charm and lively markets.
Our top picks in Vieux Nice (Old Town)
Port Lympia
A bustling marina district with a more local feel, offering waterfront dining and views of yachts.
Our top picks in Port Lympia
Promenade des Anglais
The iconic seaside promenade offering endless stretches of beach and elegant Belle Époque architecture.
Our top picks in Promenade des Anglais
Modern luxury with a prime beachfront location and rooftop pool.
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Things to Do in Nice
Popular tours, activities, and experiences you can book in advance
🚶Walking Tour
Explore the city on foot with a local guide
🍽️Food Tour
Taste the best local dishes and street food
🚐Day Trip
Discover stunning destinations just outside the city
🏛️Museum & Culture
Skip-the-line access to top museums and galleries
🚌Hop-on Hop-off Bus
See all the highlights from an open-top bus
⛵Boat Tour
See the city skyline from the water
👨🍳Cooking Class
Learn to cook authentic local recipes
🌙Night Tour
Experience the city after dark with a guided tour
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Nice at a Glance
4 categories
Top Tips for Nice
Things to know before you go
Local Tip
Take advantage of the local 'petanque' courts in parks like Promenade du Paillon; you might see locals playing and can even try your hand if invited.
Getting Around
Purchase tickets from machines or the Lignes d'Azur app before boarding; validate upon entry. Walking is excellent for exploring central areas.
Watch Out For
The 'ring scam' where a gold ring is 'found' and offered to you at a low price.
Solo Female Travel
Nice is generally safe for solo female travelers. Standard precautions like being aware of surroundings, avoiding poorly lit areas at night, and securing valuables are recommended, especially in crowded tourist spots.
Hidden Gems in Nice
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Musée des Arts Asiatiques
This serene museum, designed by architect Kenzo Tange, houses a beautiful collection of Asian art. Its tranquil Japanese garden and reflecting pool offer a peaceful escape from the city buzz.
Colline du Château
FREEWhile known, many tourists only visit for the main viewpoint. Explore the waterfall, ruins, and hidden gardens for a truly romantic and less crowded experience with stunning panoramic views.
Cours Saleya Market (Flower Market)
FREEBeyond the bustling food stalls, the morning flower market here is a vibrant spectacle of color and fragrance. It’s a feast for the senses and a great spot for people watching.
La Petite Place
This charming little square is lined with authentic Niçoise restaurants often missed by tourists. Enjoy a leisurely meal of local specialties like socca or pissaladière in a genuine local atmosphere.
Promenade du Paillon
FREEThis expansive, contemporary park stretches from the sea to the foot of the old town, featuring playful water features and shaded green spaces. It's a perfect spot for families and a refreshing urban oasis.
Le Port Lympia
FREEWander around the harbor and admire the colorful boats and grand architecture. It's a picturesque area with fewer crowds than the Promenade des Anglais, offering a glimpse into local maritime life.
Things to Do in Nice
Popular tours, activities, and experiences you can book in advance
🚶Walking Tour
Explore the city on foot with a local guide
🍽️Food Tour
Taste the best local dishes and street food
🚐Day Trip
Discover stunning destinations just outside the city
🏛️Museum & Culture
Skip-the-line access to top museums and galleries
🚌Hop-on Hop-off Bus
See all the highlights from an open-top bus
⛵Boat Tour
See the city skyline from the water
👨🍳Cooking Class
Learn to cook authentic local recipes
🌙Night Tour
Experience the city after dark with a guided tour
We earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
Top-rated Nice tours and activities
Skip-the-line tickets, guided walking tours, food experiences, and day trips. Reserve now, pay later; free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
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What It Costs in Nice
Daily budget per person in EUR
💡62% cheaper than New York
EUR 70/day
EUR 150/day
EUR 350/day
Where to Stay in Nice
Honest neighborhood guide: where to stay and where to avoid
Best for
Walk to
- Promenade des Anglais10 min
- Cours Saleya Market2 min
- Castle Hill15 min
Pros
- +Charming atmosphere
- +Abundant dining options
- +Central location
Cons
- -Can be very crowded
- -Noisy at night
Top stays in Vieux Nice (Old Town)
Hotel La Pérouse Nice Baie des Anges
$$$Offers stunning sea views and a rooftop terrace.
Hotel Rossetti
$$Charming boutique hotel located right in the heart of the old town.
Hotel Ancienne Cour
$$Well-located with a pleasant courtyard, offering good value.
Hôtel Aston La Scala
$$Features a rooftop pool with panoramic views of the city and sea.
Best for
Walk to
- Vieux Nice10 min
- Place Masséna5 min
- Port Lympia20 min
Pros
- +Beautiful sea views
- +Easy access to beaches
- +Good for walking and cycling
Cons
- -Can be noisy due to traffic
- -Beaches are pebbly
Top stays in Promenade des Anglais
Hôtel Negresco
$$$A legendary landmark hotel with a renowned art collection.
Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée
$$$Modern luxury with a prime beachfront location and rooftop pool.
Hôtel Le Méridien Nice
$$$Offers exceptional sea views from its rooms and rooftop terrace.
AC Hotel by Marriott Nice
$$Contemporary hotel with a rooftop pool and bar overlooking the sea.
Best for
Walk to
- Vieux Nice15 min
- Castle Hill10 min
- Promenade des Anglais20 min
Pros
- +Less touristy
- +Good seafood restaurants
- +Pleasant waterfront walks
Cons
- -Fewer accommodation options
- -Can feel slightly disconnected from the main tourist hubs
Best for
Walk to
- Matisse Museum5 min
- Roman Amphitheatre5 min
- Monastère de Cimiez10 min
Pros
- +Peaceful and quiet
- +Rich in history and art
- +Beautiful parks and gardens
Cons
- -Further from the beach and old town
- -Less nightlife
Top stays in Cimiez
Hyatt Palais de la Méditerranée
$$$While technically closer to the Promenade, it's a short bus ride to Cimiez and offers luxury.
Hotel Regina
$$Historic hotel with elegant rooms and a good location near Cimiez attractions.
Aparthotel Adagio Nice Centre
$$Offers apartment-style accommodation, convenient for longer stays and families.
Areas to be cautious
- Areas immediately surrounding the train station (Gare Nice-Ville): Can feel a bit gritty and less charming than other parts of the city, with some transient populations and less appealing streetscapes, though generally safe.
Insider tip: Take advantage of the local 'petanque' courts in parks like Promenade du Paillon; you might see locals playing and can even try your hand if invited.
Where to Stay in Nice
Compare hotel deals across the best neighbourhoods on Expedia.
Stay in Vieux Nice (Old Town)
A labyrinth of narrow, colorful streets filled with historic charm and lively markets.
Stay in Promenade des Anglais
The iconic seaside promenade offering endless stretches of beach and elegant Belle Époque architecture.
Stay in Port Lympia
A bustling marina district with a more local feel, offering waterfront dining and views of yachts.
We earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
Places to Stay in Nice
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List Your PropertySafety in Nice
SafeSolo Female Travel
Nice is generally safe for solo female travelers. Standard precautions like being aware of surroundings, avoiding poorly lit areas at night, and securing valuables are recommended, especially in crowded tourist spots.
At Night
Stick to well-lit and populated areas like the Promenade des Anglais, Vieux Nice main streets, and Place Masséna. Be cautious in quieter side streets or industrial areas.
Emergency
112
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1The 'ring scam' where a gold ring is 'found' and offered to you at a low price.
- 2Pickpocketing in crowded markets (Cours Saleya) and on public transport.
- 3Overcharging at unregulated tourist traps, especially for drinks or souvenirs.
Compare hotel deals in Nice
See today's prices across hundreds of hotels. Free cancellation on most bookings, so you can lock in a great rate risk-free.
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Travel Insurance for Nice
SafetyWing Nomad Insurance. Medical cover from $45/month, designed for travellers. 10% back if unused.
Stay Connected in France
Skip expensive roaming. Get an eSIM for France and have data the moment you land.
Get an eSIMGetting Around Nice
Transport, connectivity, and costs
✈️
Airport to City
Bus 12 (approx. 30-40 min, 1.50 EUR) or Tram Line 2 (approx. 25 min, 1.50 EUR) to Jean Médecin, then transfer. Taxi (approx. 30-40 min, 30-50 EUR).
🎫
Day Pass
1.50 EUR for a single journey ticket valid for 74 minutes (multiple transfers allowed). Day passes exist but are often less economical than single tickets for moderate use.
Single: 1.50 EUR (valid 74 minutes with transfers).
🚶
Walkability
Very WalkableUber
📶
WiFi
Good30-50 Mbps
Public Transport
Lignes d'Azur buses and trams. Tram lines 1, 2, and 3 are most useful for tourists.
Ride-share
Uber is available. Typical cost for a short ride is 10-15 EUR.
Transport Tip
Purchase tickets from machines or the Lignes d'Azur app before boarding; validate upon entry. Walking is excellent for exploring central areas.
WiFi & Remote Work
Free WiFi
Public Wi-Fi hotspots (e.g., 'Nice Wifi'), some cafes and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi to customers.
Coworking
Nice is developing its coworking scene. Options like 'La Station' or 'Spaces' are available, typically costing 5-25 EUR per day.
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Best months to visit: Jul, Sep, Oct
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Hotels & Accommodation in Nice
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Who Is Nice Best For?
Matched recommendations for different traveller types
First-time Visitors
Offers the quintessential Nice experience with its historic charm, vibrant atmosphere, and proximity to key sights.
Couples
Provides romantic seaside strolls, beautiful views, and access to elegant dining.
Foodies
Home to countless restaurants, local specialties, and the famous Cours Saleya market.
Culture Enthusiasts
Boasts significant historical sites, museums like the Matisse Museum, and tranquil gardens.
Budget Backpackers
Offers slightly more affordable accommodation and dining options compared to the prime beachfront areas.
Beach Lovers
Direct access to the pebble beaches and the iconic seaside walkway.
About Nice
Nice ( NEESS; French pronunciation: [nis] ) is a French city located in the prefecture of the Alpes-Maritimes department. The Nice agglomeration extends beyond the administrative city limits, with a population of nearly one million over an area of 744 km2 (287 sq mi). Located on the French Riviera, the southeastern coast of France on the Mediterranean Sea, at the foot of the French Alps, Nice is the second-largest French city on the Mediterranean coast and second-largest city in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region after Marseille.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nice
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