Nice hotels

Topping my list of the best hotels in Nice, the Anantara Plaza epitomizes all the glamour of the French Riviera. One of the city's oldest hotels, the Anantara Plaza was the Anantara group's first outpost in Europe. Behind its imperial yellow Belle Époque façade, you'll find a contemporary hotel with a fabulous sense of service and detail.

In the evenings, mingle with the locals while admiring the view from the rooftop, or embark on a culinary journey at in-house restaurant Seen by Olivi. There's no pool, though there is an excellent spa, where you can indulge in one of the hotel's signature massages. When I have time, I take advantage of my stay to join a Mediterranean cooking class, which includes a stroll through the market with the chef from Seen.

Over a century old, the Negresco stands as an institution among the top 10 hotels in Nice. A symbol of the French art of living and Niçoise elegance, this iconic palace is simply exceptional. A must-visit stop on the Promenade des Anglais, the hotel has hosted the likes of Princess Grace of Monaco, The Beatles and Louis Armstrong.

Inside, history and culture freely intertwine. During each stay, I am tempted by a different ambience. From the Montserrat Caballé suite with its four-poster bed to the Le France junior suite with its ship's bow headboard, luxury is in the details here. Depending on your mood, you can dine on the sunny terrace of Virginie Basselot's Michelin-starred restaurant, relax on the Negresco's private beach or indulge in a range of treatments at the spacious new hotel spa.

Located in the heart of the city centre, this chic and bohemian address is one of the best hotels in Nice. Far more than just a traditional hotel, the establishment offers an experience akin to a large vacation home.

Tiles in olive green tones, terracotta, ancient patinas, wooden furniture... Far from classic design features, the eclectic decoration takes you to a different world. Lying on my comfortable bed, I find myself dreaming of trips to Bali and Mediterranean retreats. Beyond the classic rooms, the hotel also offers cleverly furnished mini-rooms called City, where every square centimetre has been optimized – cozy cocoons in which you can relax for hours. During the day, I like to sit down to work in the verdant chill-space. The atmosphere is relaxed and the tranquility absolute. It's no wonder this design hotel ranks among the best stays in Nice.

To experience the French Riviera spirit, there's nothing better than a stay at this charming city centre address in Nice. Set in an elegant Art Deco building, the Riviera Collection more than earns its place on my top 10 list for Nice. Designed as a vacation home, this confidential urban retreat is the perfect place to relax under the Mediterranean sun.

The décor, decidedly cheerful and colourful, echoes the warm atmosphere of the Côte d'Azur. I love the petite rooms with balconies, geometric patterns, minimalism and clean lines. The omnipresent Klein blue is perfectly pitched and light floods every room. In the early morning, I settle on the terrace, where each of my senses is gently awakened. At the Riviera Hotel, luxury, tranquility and design are all-important. Chic and relaxed, this inspired and inspiring address is a true ode to the Mediterranean.

Often overlooked yet undoubtedly one of the best establishments in Nice, Hotel La Pérouse embodies the very spirit of the French Riviera. Established in 1936 on the slopes of the castle hill, this typical Nice family guesthouse offers breathtaking views of the Bay of Angels. While the hotel underwent a facelift in 2023, it has managed to preserve the intimate spirit that makes it a unique place.

Almost all rooms offer a sea view, but I usually choose those on the upper floors: the panorama is stunning. Inside, natural materials and craftsmanship are wonderfully showcased. But one of my favourite spots remains the pool nestled in the stone, just a few steps from Le Patio restaurant. Is there any greater joy than swimming with the Mediterranean Sea as a backdrop?

The Art Deco façade of this 1929 building is all that remains of the former hotel-casino in Nice. Completely redesigned in the 1980's, the Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée stands out as one of the most stunning hotels in Nice. The outdoor pool, the restaurant bar-lounge with panoramic terrace, the ultra-comfortable rooms... It embodies all the codes of contemporary luxury – a signature of the Hyatt Regency group.

Located right in the heart of Nice's Golden Square, the hotel maintains a standard of excellence in service. While being pampered by the team is an absolute delight, it's the hotel's events programming that, in my opinion, makes the difference. The establishment hosts immersive experiences, concerts and lively events throughout the year. A way to feel the pulse of the city while freeing yourself from the constraints of daily life.

On the famous Boulevard Dubouchage, the Apollinaire Nice has a deservedly great reputation. Tastefully renovated in 2021, this 19th-century building houses a high-end establishment with around 100 rooms and suites. Here, there are no flashy gestures: The focus is on harmony and refinement. In the rooms, you'll find a few touches of colour and pattern, and a beautiful view of the neighbourhood from the large windows.

My favourite spot? The patio, adorned with shrubs and plants that add a Mediterranean aroma – this is where I always have my breakfast. Take a seat in one of the light blue armchairs and enjoy the sun. It's also the perfect setting to sip a cocktail before strolling around the beautiful Place Masséna, just a 10-minute walk away.

Colourful, design-oriented and undeniably charming, Maison Durante is a hit with everyone, due both to the Mediterranean-hued decoration and the warm welcome all guests receive. Nestled at the end of a private cul-de-sac, this discreet family home has established itself as one of the top 10 hotels in Nice. Behind its orange entrance façade, this Niçoise residence is a true ode to the dolce vita of the Riviera.

The striped yellow curtains, the zellige-tiled walls, the ochre, blue, and white tones... Style was definitely foregrounded during the renovation! Views of the landscaped garden from guestroom windows are also a delight. Amidst the usual tall palm trees of this urban oasis, the change of scenery is immediate – and the atmosphere too. Maison Durante is an oasis of calm amidst the lively Jean Médecin district.

Eco-conscious travellers will also appreciate the hotel's green approach, favouring bulk-buying, short supply chains and local products.

Palais Saleya is the perfect address for those who love to stay in the real heart of a local neighbourhood. Tucked away on a market street in a restored 18th-century building, this elegant establishment is one of the hidden gems of Nice. Palais Saleya may not claim to be a palace, but its name is a playful nod to the Palace of Justice next door. With its prestigious suites and luxurious setting, this aparthotel certainly exudes elegance.

The entrance hall is minimalist in a palette of black and cream. But the rest of the journey unfolds against a backdrop of colourful friezes and cozy bed throws that add a lively touch to the immaculate white walls. Here and there, cacti and palm trees serve as reminders of the Riviera.

The latest addition to the Amour family, Hôtel Amour Nice is a chic southern version of the trendy Parisian establishments that bear the same name. Designed as a holiday villa, this hotel has quickly found its place among the best hotels in Nice. Visitors will be wowed by the multitude of amenities on offer: the rooftop pool, the Beach Club, the concerts, the vintage furniture, the cocktail bar and more.

Here, you'll find no phones or televisions in the rooms – this hotel is all about disconnecting from the everyday world. From the entrance hall to the guestrooms, you can enjoy a stay outfitted in Southern colours, with pastel tones, shades of pink and blue and pin-up photos on the walls. Beyond the rooms, the flower-bedecked patio and the hotel's Greek tavern offer comfort and tranquility. During the day, head to the private beach of the same name just a few metres away.