Where to Stay in Nice Based on Your Travel Style
Nice looks compact on the map, but picking the right base can shape your whole trip. Whether you’re here for sunbathing, sightseeing, or nightlife, each area has its own pace, perks, and quirks.
Here’s how to choose the right one for you.
1. If You’re a First-Time Visitor Who Wants to See It All
Stay in or near the Old Town (Vieux Nice). You’ll have quick access to the Promenade des Anglais, La Colline du Château (Castle Hill), and the market at Cours Saleya.
Streets are narrow and mostly pedestrian, so it’s walkable. Restaurants, bars, and landmarks are within a short stroll. Tram line 1 runs right up the edge of the old town, so it’s very easy to get around.
Hotels tend to be in older buildings, so don’t expect elevators or soundproofing unless specified.
2. If You’re Here to Relax by the Sea
Pick a hotel or apartment along the western stretch of the Promenade des Anglais between the airport and the Negresco. Fabron and Magnan are names to look for when browsing accommodations.
This is where you’ll find sea views, direct beach access, and a slower pace. There are fewer shops and restaurants than in the center, but it’s quiet at night.
Public beaches are within steps, and bus 12 or tram 2 can take you into the heart of town in 15–20 minutes.
3. If You’re Looking for a Social Scene and Nightlife
Stay near Place Masséna or along Rue Bonaparte by the Port. These areas stay lively after dark.
You’ll find wine bars, rooftop terraces, and popular cafés that draw both locals and visitors. It’s also easier to meet people here, especially around Place du Pin and the bar-heavy corners of the Old Town.
The location still puts you close to the beach and tram lines, while nightlife is the main draw.
4. If You’re a Solo Traveler Who Wants Convenience and Safety
Stay near Jean Médecin or the Carabacel area.
Jean Médecin is a central shopping street with cafés, transport connections, and lots of foot traffic day and night. It’s not scenic, but everything’s nearby and the trams make getting around easy.
Carabacel, just above the Old Town, is quieter and more residential with a calmer feel. You’ll find a mix of hotels, apart-hotels, and hostels, many of them well-rated and solo-friendly.
5. If You’re Traveling With Family
Consider staying around the Libération neighborhood or close to the Promenade near the Negresco.
Libération has wider sidewalks, fewer tourist crowds, and a famous local market. You’ll find supermarkets, bakeries, and tram stops that make moving around with kids easier.
If beach access is a priority, go instead for the quieter stretch of the Promenade near blue zone beaches.
Apartments with kitchens are more common in both areas.
6. If You’re a Digital Nomad or Long-Stay Visitor
Look around Gambetta or the Musiciens district.
These areas are residential but central, with easier long-stay apartment options. Grocery stores, laundromats, cafés with Wi-Fi, and tram connections are all nearby.
You won’t find much nightlife, but you will find stability and comfort. Many apartments have balconies, elevators, and better layouts for work-from-home setups.
7. If You’re Here for Day Trips and Regional Exploration
Stay close to the Nice-Ville train station.
From here you can catch TER trains to Monaco, Antibes, Menton, and beyond. It’s not the prettiest area, but it’s functional.
If you’re planning multiple day trips and just want a decent place to sleep that’s close to transport, this is the most practical choice.
Look for places west of the station, closer to Avenue Thiers or Rue Gounod to avoid the grittier edges.
8. If You’re Planning a Romantic Trip
Look into boutique hotels or apartments near Mont Boron or the eastern Port area.
Mont Boron has villas and scenic views, but you’ll need a car or be ready to use buses. The Port area, by contrast, is walkable and has some of the prettiest views in town, especially near the Coco Beach side.
It’s less chaotic than the center, with quiet streets and a strong local feel.
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Cover photo: Demonzak (CC BY 3.0)