Traveller's Guide: Your Holiday Rental in Nice

Nice is the jewel of the Côte d'Azur. France's fifth largest city, it offers a unique blend of culture, gastronomy and beaches. Its Mediterranean climate guarantees 300 days of sunshine per year. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2021, Nice captivates with its diverse neighbourhoods, from the Promenade des Anglais to Old Nice, the port and Cimiez. The city is perfectly connected via its international airport (3rd busiest in France) and TGV train station.

Old Nice (Vieux Nice) is ideal for atmosphere and authenticity: colourful lanes, Cours Saleya market, bars and restaurants. Choose an apartment near the Promenade des Anglais if you prioritise beach proximity. The Carré d'Or, between Place Masséna and the Promenade, offers the best of both worlds: shopping, nightlife and the sea steps away. The Port is a quieter, authentic neighbourhood with excellent fish restaurants. Cimiez, on the hills, suits families with spacious apartments, the Matisse Museum and gardens.

The tramway (3 lines) is the most practical way to get around. Line 1 connects the north to Old Nice, Line 2 serves the airport and port. Lignes d'Azur buses cover the entire metropolitan area for €1.50 per journey. Vélos Bleus (bike-sharing) are perfect for riding along the Promenade. From Nice, you can easily reach Monaco (20 min by train), Antibes (15 min), Cannes (30 min) or even Italy (1 hour by car).

Nice has around twenty beaches along the Baie des Anges, mixing free public beaches and private beaches with sun loungers and restaurants. Most popular: Castel Plage (Old Nice), Blue Beach (airport area), Beau Rivage (city centre). Water activities include paddle boarding, jet skiing, parasailing and diving. The Villefranche-sur-Mer nature reserve is a renowned diving spot just 10 minutes away.

Niçois cuisine is a must: socca (chickpea pancake), pissaladière (onion tart), salade niçoise, pan bagnat, farcis niçois, ratatouille. Best places to try it: Cours Saleya market (morning), the Port neighbourhood (family restaurants), rue Pairolière in Old Nice. Don't miss Fenocchio's artisan ice cream (Place Rossetti) with over 90 flavours.

Some tips to make the most of your holiday rental in Nice: • Book early for summer (June–August): the best properties go fast • Prefer May–June and September for lower rates and fewer crowds • Download the Lignes d'Azur app for public transport • Visit the Cours Saleya flower market in the morning, and the flea market on Mondays • Walk up Castle Hill for the sunset (free) • Our personalised welcome guides contain all the local tips