French Property Hotspot: Nice

A home in the Riviera capital Nice offers access to vibrant city living, Mediterranean beaches and sunny summers, writes Karen Tait…

At the heart of the ever-desirable French Riviera, on the Baie des Anges, Nice is a city full of colour, culture and charm. The cosmopolitan Côte d’Azur capital is home to a vibrant mix of nationalities and has long been a magnet for property buyers from all over the world seeking a permanent or holiday home with that irresistable mix of city and seaside living.

Naturally, this comes at a price with average property values in Nice being €5,300/ m² (houses) and €4,540/m² (apartments). However, this compares favourably with other Med hotspots such as St-Tropez (€17,920/m², €9,670/m²), St-Jean-Cap-Ferrat (€23,130/ m², €10,930/m²) and close neighbour Villefranche-sur- Mer (€12,000/m², €7,260/m²). In Nice, you can find a bijoux bolthole for under €200,000.

The city offers a diverse range of properties and quartiers, each with its own unique character, whether you’re seeking urban buzz, a peaceful residential area or sea views. Just west of the port, the old town, Vieux Nice or Vieille Ville, is a maze of narrow streets and colorful facades, known for its bustling markets, chic boutiques and plethora of bars and restaurants. Choose from a characterful apartment in a centuries-old building or a modern loft.

Also in central Nice, the Carré d’Or district has elegant buildings, upmarket shops and spacious properties with high-end finishes. The prestigious neighbourhood of Cimiez is known for its Belle Époque mansions and beautiful gardens, with properties ranging from grand villas with large gardens to stylish apartments in old buildings. Another popular spot is hillside Mont Boron, overlooking the Bay of Angels. Here you’ll find tranquil streets, lush greenery, luxurious villas and gated communities. On the western edge of Nice, Fabron also offers beautiful hillside views, with a mix of modern apartments and charming villas. Head towards the beach and you can’t miss the Promenade des Anglais, with its exclusive seafront properties offering breathtaking views and direct access to the beach.

If your budget is tight, have a look in the more affordable districts of Libération, St-Roch, St-Antoine, Pasteur and St- Augustin. But wherever you choose, you’ll have access to all the city offers, including its international airport with regular UK flights.

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