Hotels and Short Breaks in Nice

Because it’s sunny, fabulously glamorous and very sexy. Because it’s the French Riviera, the Cote D’Azur; synonymous with great painters, beaches, divine bars and clubs, a casino, miraculous food, champagne and glorious scenery.

Artistes flocked to Nice in the last century inspired by the area’s rugged coastal scenery, simple villages and the area’s outstanding natural light. Today, Nice still retains its glamour from its 50’s movie star heyday but it is no longer the sole preserve of the rich and famous. It is now France’s fifth largest city. But at its heart, Nice is still a beautiful old town where winding streets of pretty houses with wooden shutters and flower filled balconies wind down to sun-dappled pavement cafes along the palm fringed Promenade de Anglais overlooking the Bay of Angels.

As for the beach, just remember you can never be over or underdressed in Nice. Although looking good while playing boules or indulging in water sports isn’t always easy. So you may just choose to perch artfully at a beachside bar and watch the wonderful and wacky world of Nice unfurl before your eyes. Lazy days and late nights are the key. And make sure your travelling companion has their camera handy at all times. This is your chance to pose like a movie star against some incredibly chic backdrops, and don’t forget to pout.

The food here is superb. From local favourites like pain au chocolat at J Mulatari’s patisserie or late night crepes in Old Nice, to the seriously expensive restaurants that you won’t get in unless you know half the french aristocracy and/or P Diddy.
Promenade de Anglais as the main tourist drag is pricey but at least have a snack there or a coffee as it is the place to watch the world go by. For restaurants to suit all budgets, visit Vieux Nice. And if money is no object, the place to eat in Nice is actually at Saint Paul, at the historic La Colombe D'Or which has original works of art by Picasso, Leger and Dufy on its walls. They swapped their art for food when they lived in the area. Plus, there is a fantastic terrace with awesome views and the food is terrific.