Nice is the town you visit when you’ve had your fill of bustling city breaks and need a place to slow down, lay low for a while. It’s where you blend in with the locals, sip a glass of wine under the awning of a quiet café, and watch the waves roll in. When considering hotels in Nice, France, the best way to choose is by picking the right neighborhood—one that matches the way you want to experience this amazing city.
Check out my recommendations for the top things to do in Nice, France here!
From the vibrant streets of Cœur de Nice to the charming alleyways of Old Nice and the elegant, café-lined corners of Le Carré d’Or, I’ve explored each of these neighborhoods firsthand. I’m not recommending them as someone who’s just read about them—I’ve walked these streets and explored this town in depth. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious stay, a comfortable mid-range hotel, or an affordable yet charming option, here are the hotels and areas I’d recommend in Nice, France.
Cœur de Nice: The Heart of the Action
If you want to be at the center of all Nice has to offer, Cœur de Nice is the perfect base. Shopping, dining, and nightlife are all just steps away, with Avenue Jean Médecin serving as the city’s main artery. A charming trolley runs along this avenue, making it easy to get to the beach or the famous Flower Market. While hotels directly on Avenue Jean Médecin can be pricey, venturing a few blocks east or west can save you money while keeping you close to the action.
I remember walking through Cœur de Nice after arriving from Barcelona via train, watching the locals walk away from the flower market with baskets of fresh fruit next to thier perfectly arranged bouquet of tulips. The warm air carried the scent of fresh bread, espresso, and lavender.
As I meandered down to the end of the Flower March Market, the smell of the sea breeze increased with each step until I was only a few hundred feet away from the sea. Passing by a small courtyard and through some iconic archways, I was now face to face with the Ligurian Sea and ready to sit down and relax. I let the city pass me by here, and it was the best time I’ve ever wasted.
Check out my recommendations for the top things to do in Nice, France here!
Back to the hotels of Nice, France! For a five-star experience, Boscolo Exedra Nice is a stunning choice. This hotel offers a mix of classic charm and modern comfort, with a stunning rooftop pool and a well-known spa. Whether you’re sipping a drink by the pool or enjoying a peaceful morning at the spa, it’s the perfect spot to soak in the easygoing pace of Nice.
If you’re after something mid-range, Hotel Nice Riviera offers a fantastic balance of comfort and location, with spacious rooms and a cozy lounge. Budget-conscious travelers should check out Hostel Villa Saint Exupery Beach, an eco-friendly hostel with a relaxed atmosphere, just a short walk from almost all Nice has to offer.
Old Nice: Where History Meets Nightlife
If your idea of the perfect evening involves wine bars, cobblestone streets, and epic sunsets, then Old Nice is where you’ll want to stay. This district, with its pastel-hued buildings and narrow alleyways, offers an authentic taste of the city’s charm. Staying here also means you’re within walking distance of Colline du Château Park, where you’ll catch some of the best sunsets in Nice.
Check out my recommendations for the top things to do in Nice, France here!
One of my favorite memories of Old Nice was getting lost in the maze of streets, only to stumble upon the beautiful Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate de Nice with its immaculate baroque architecture. I was so amazed, I grabbed a seat at a cafe in the nearby courtyard and enjoyed a cappuccino while taking in the sights for nearly an hour. As the sun began to set, I climbed the stairs to the top of Colline du Château Park and caught the final remaining rays of light as the sun set over the French Riviera–unbelievable!
For a high-end hotel in Old Nice, France, Palais Saleya Boutique Hôtel offers spacious, modern rooms in a beautifully restored 18th-century building. Plus, you’ll be only steps away from the iconic flower market! If you prefer a four-star hotel with local character, Hôtel Rossetti is a stylish boutique option right in the heart of Old Nice. For travelers on a budget, Hostel Mayerbeer provides simple yet comfortable pet-friendly accommodations including a kitchen and free Wi-Fi, perfect for exploring the city on foot.
Le Carré d’Or: A Taste of Elegance
This is the final neighborhood I’d recommend for hotels in Nice, France. If you imagine yourself enjoying a glass of wine under an awning as the rain falls, Le Carré d’Or might be your ideal spot. This refined neighborhood, just steps from the Promenade des Anglais, is known for its upscale boutiques, welcoming cafés, lush green spaces, and an amazing boardwalk bordering the Ligurian Sea. While it’s quieter than Cœur de Nice, it’s still within walking distance of Nice’s main attractions.
One evening in Le Carré d’Or, I settled into a cozy café, the warm glow of the lamp casting soft shadows on the cobblestone street. Around me, locals chatted animatedly, their voices blending with the quiet hum of the city. A few raindrops tapped against the awning above, barely noticeable at first. Then, as if Poseidon himself had arrived with a grand announcement, the skies opened into a sudden, torrential downpour. Under the shelter of my awning, I sipped my wine and watched the scene unfold—tourists dashing from one doorway to the next, laughter and shrieks filling the air, while the locals, unfazed, simply lifted their umbrellas and carried on as if nothing had changed.
Check out my recommendations for the top things to do in Nice, France here!
Back to the hotels of Nice, France for this area: for a luxurious stay, Hôtel Negresco is a landmark on the French Riviera, known for its unique mix of classic charm and modern comfort. With its historic design and seaside location, it offers an upscale experience that still feels welcoming rather than over-the-top. If you prefer a four-star option, Hotel Le Grimaldi offers elegant rooms and a welcoming atmosphere. Budget travelers will love Hôtel de la Fontaine, an eco-friendly charming three-star just a short walk from the sea.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right neighborhood can make all the difference when booking hotels in Nice, France. Whether you want the energy of Cœur de Nice, the charm of Old Nice, or the elegance of Le Carré d’Or, there’s a perfect spot for every traveler. No matter your budget, you’ll find accommodations that enhance your experience of Nice, France—a city best enjoyed at a relaxed pace, with a glass of wine in hand and the sea breeze in your hair.
If you’re looking for things to do in Nice, consider reading my blog: Seven Must-visit Sights in Nice, France. I wrote this article after arriving from Barcelona and was so amazed by the town, I had to give it space on my website. Safe travels!
