Planning a trip to the French Riviera and wondering where to stay in Nice? With its sun-soaked beaches, Mediterranean charm, and easy access to Monaco, Cannes, and the rest of the French Riviera, Nice offers a wide variety of neighborhoods to suit every traveler. Whether you’re looking for luxury, nightlife, family-friendly spots, or authentic local vibes, this guide breaks down the best areas to stay in Nice, France – neighborhood by neighborhood.
1. Vieux Nice (Old Town) – For History & Charm 🏛️
If you’re searching for authentic charm and atmosphere, Vieux Nice is the place to be. This neighborhood is a maze of colorful narrow streets, Baroque churches, lively markets, and small cafés.
- Why stay here: Perfect for first-time visitors, couples, and travelers who love history.
- Highlights: Cours Saleya Flower Market 🌸, Castle Hill (Colline du Château) ⛰️, traditional Niçoise restaurants.
- Accommodation style: Boutique hotels, cozy guesthouses, apartments with character.
2. Promenade des Anglais – For Luxury & Sea Views 🌊
The famous Promenade des Anglais is one of the most iconic places to stay in Nice. Running along the Mediterranean, this boulevard is lined with palm trees 🌴, luxury hotels, and private beach clubs.
- Why stay here: Ideal for travelers who want direct beach access and stunning sea views.
- Highlights: Hotel Negresco 🏨, private beaches 🏝️, cycling along the seafront 🚴.
- Accommodation style: Luxury hotels, seaside resorts, upscale apartments.
3. Carré d’Or – For Shopping & Nightlife 💃🛍️
The Carré d’Or (Golden Square) is an elegant neighborhood located just behind the Promenade des Anglais. It’s known for its Belle Époque architecture, high-end boutiques, and vibrant nightlife.
- Why stay here: Great for fashion lovers 👗, foodies 🍷, and those who enjoy nightlife.
- Highlights: Rue Paradis shopping 👜, stylish cocktail bars 🍸, fine dining restaurants.
- Accommodation style: Upscale hotels, stylish apartments, boutique stays.
4. Cimiez – For a Peaceful & Cultural Stay 🌿🎨
Perched above the city center, Cimiez is a residential area rich in history and culture. It’s home to Roman ruins, beautiful gardens, and museums dedicated to Matisse and Chagall.
- Why stay here: Perfect for families 👨👩👧👦 or travelers seeking tranquility.
- Highlights: Roman amphitheater 🏟️, Musée Matisse 🖼️, olive groves, quiet parks.
- Accommodation style: Charming B&Bs, boutique hotels, family-friendly apartments.
5. Port Lympia – For Trendy Vibes & Dining ⚓🍴
Port Lympia is Nice’s colorful harbor area, known for its pastel façades, seafood restaurants 🐟, and lively bars. This up-and-coming neighborhood has a more local, bohemian feel compared to the Promenade.
- Why stay here: Best for young travelers, foodies, and those who enjoy nightlife with a local twist.
- Highlights: Port views 🚤, Rue Bonaparte cafés ☕, trendy restaurants.
- Accommodation style: Mid-range hotels, chic apartments, boutique guesthouses.
6. Liberation & Jean Médecin – For Local Life & Shopping 🛒
If you want to live like a local, the Liberation district is an excellent choice. It’s home to Nice’s biggest market and is well-connected by tram 🚋 to all parts of the city. Nearby, Jean Médecin Avenue is the main shopping street.
- Why stay here: Great for budget-conscious travelers and families.
- Highlights: Liberation Market 🥖, Nice Étoile Shopping Mall 🏬, tram connections.
- Accommodation style: Budget-friendly hotels, local apartments, modern guesthouses.
7. Mont Boron – For Luxury & Scenic Views 🌅
Located east of the Port, Mont Boron is an exclusive hillside neighborhood offering panoramic views over Nice and the Bay of Angels.
- Why stay here: Ideal for luxury travelers seeking privacy and stunning scenery.
- Highlights: Mont Boron Park 🌳, views over Villefranche-sur-Mer 🌊, hiking trails 🥾.
- Accommodation style: Luxury villas, high-end apartments, boutique hotels.
Final Tips: Choosing the Best Place to Stay in Nice 💡
- For first-timers: Stay in Vieux Nice or Promenade des Anglais.
- For nightlife: Carré d’Or or Port Lympia.
- For families: Cimiez or Liberation.
- For luxury: Promenade des Anglais or Mont Boron.