Discover the neighbourhoods of Nice
A guide to living and investing in this stunning Mediterranean city.
Nice, the jewel of the French Riviera, offers a diverse array of neighbourhoods, each with its own unique charm and appeal. Whether you're considering a move or an investment, understanding these areas is crucial. Read on for an in-depth look at some of Nice's most sought-after districts.
Looking at a map of Nice there are clear natural boundaries between neighbourhoods, where rivers once stood, gardens now act as transitions, the old town is clustered around the historic fortification and fishing activity, and the port acts as an easy guide for a maritime neighbourhood while the hills that surround the city, once home to flower and produce gardens now accommodate villas, commerce and grand estates. Nice blends centuries of history with modern development and the city’s expansion has been shaped by its position on the Mediterranean, attracting aristocrats in the 18th and 19th centuries, which ultimately led in part to the city evolving into a cosmopolitan hub.
“The neighbourhoods of Nice actually tell the story of the city, how the city has and continues to change over time and reflects the industry and people it attracts.” Dartcho Alman, Savills
Architecturally, Nice offers a fascinating mix. In Cimiez and Mont Boron, you’ll find grand Belle Époque villas and neoclassical mansions, reflecting the city’s aristocratic past. The Musiciens neighbourhood showcases elegant Art Deco façades, while the Old Town features narrow, colourful streets with much older influences. Modern developments in Fabron, Rimiez, and emerging districts such as Libération and Borriglione introduce contemporary apartments, often catering to a younger, dynamic population. This combination of historical charm and modern architecture gives Nice its unique character, appealing to residents and investors alike. Read our blog on architectural trends on the French Riviera to find out more.
Cimiez
Set in the hills north of the city, Cimiez is a sought-after address, where tree lined streets showcase history and elegance with Belle Epoque villas, luxury apartments and many notable residents and buildings, including ‘The Regina’ named after none other than Queen Victoria. Cimiez is also home to the ancient Roman city, here you can step back in time in an amphitheatre or for more artistically minded buyers, trace the steps of Matisse.
Like Cimiez, the neighbouring Rimiez area is a similar hillside retreat but offers a more private and peaceful setting. Many owners choose this location for families homes choosing smaller individual villas and modern apartment style residences still within easy access of the centre.
“Property in Cimiez is prized for its tranquillity and proximity to the city whilst not having to compromise on outdoor space or facilities. Dependent on the building, placement and property condition expect pricing to range between €3,900 to €7,000 per sq m.” Salomon Ouahnich, Savills
Mont Boron
Set high above the city, rising from the port, Mont Boron secures panoramic views of both city and coast. Like Cimiez this setting is home to many larger villas, individual residences and sought-after apartment style buildings, often with a historic past. The neighbourhood features many notable properties including Villa Beau Site, Château de l’Anglais and none other than the former home of James bond actor Sir Sean Connery.
Carré d'Or
Between boulevard Victor Hugo and the famous Promenade des Anglais, as suggested by the name, the Carré d’Or, (which translates to read Golden Square) hosts high end commerce, boutiques, luxury properties and gourmet restaurants.
For those looking to stay central without the larger price tag of the Carré d’Or, the districts of ‘Musiciens’ and ‘Wilson’ border the Carré d’Or and offer a host of charming architecture and history with modern appeal. The recent urban planning initiatives have reduced traffic in the centre, improved public transport and built new greenspaces and bike paths, which all add to the experience of city living.
“In the Carré d’Or expect the exceptional, from historic residences to more modern buildings, a resident or investor is buying into the economic hub of the city. Property is at a premium and as such demands higher pricing, ranging from €8,000 to €14,000 a sq m reflecting the neighbourhoods status as a top tier location” Tatyana Yankovskaya, Savills
Set to the west of the city centre, between the coast and hills, Fabron is a residential neighbourhood, often favoured by families and those working in Cannes. Here residents find greater space, an abundance of amenities, a green setting and stunning views whilst not compromising on easy access to both the city, airport and major motorways.
“Fabron is an ideal choice for families, the range of property in this neighbourhood is exceptional, normally priced under the €5,500 per sq m guide, I work with buyers of all ages to find their ideal space. I grew up in Nice and love showing my knowledge to clients. For buyers looking in this area I always suggest taking time to explore the area of Gairaut as well, a personal favourite.” Cedric Cabane, Savills
Promenade des Anglais
One of the city’s most well-known landmarks, this palm tree lined boulevard is a sought-after address. Whilst guaranteed seafront property and stunning views, the style of the promenades residential offering is truly eclectic and don’t be discouraged, it is all part of the charm, with everything from historic landmarks to more modern residences, property on the Promenade des Anglais is as unique. Highly sought after and in a prime location, expect pricing to range from €7,000 to €12,000 per sq m, dependent on setting, view and condition.
“One of my favourite properties on the Promenade are the original fisherman’s houses (known as the ‘Ponchettes’) which border the old town and boast a truly charming style not seen in other parts of the city. Whilst smaller in sq m for individual houses, they make up for it in style and setting and show the origins of this amazing city we call home. Bordering the old town of Nice (Vieux Nice) characterized by its narrow streets, colourful buildings and bustling markets, many investors are keen to secure an address here” Chuck McKee, Savills
Emerging neighbourhoods in Nice
Libération and Borriglione are two of Nice’s most exciting emerging neighbourhoods, where ongoing regeneration is bringing new shops, restaurants, and improved transport links. Their more accessible property prices make them attractive to young professionals and families, while also offering strong potential for capital growth as the areas continue to develop. With several universities in the city, these districts, along with Musiciens and the city centre, are also popular with students, creating steady demand for rentals and healthy yields for investors.
We are proud to live and work in our local communities and truly enjoy sharing our knowledge. For more property in Nice with everything from villas to apartments, contact our dedicated team to discuss your needs and start your search today;
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