Nice, a beautiful city on the French Riviera, is famous for its stunning beaches, clear blue waters, and picturesque views. One of the most iconic landmarks is the Promenade des Anglais, a seaside boulevard that stretches for miles along the Mediterranean coastline. For travelers visiting Nice, staying near the Promenade offers easy access to the beach, stunning views, and proximity to the city’s vibrant center. While Nice is often associated with luxury, there are many budget-friendly hotels that provide comfortable accommodations without breaking the bank.
My Stay at Hôtel Solara
During my trip to Nice, I chose to stay at Hôtel Solara, a budget-friendly option located right in the heart of the city, just a short walk from the Promenade des Anglais. I was searching for a hotel that offered convenience, comfort, and affordability, and Hôtel Solara checked all the boxes.
Location:
Hôtel Solara is located at 7 Rue de France, just a couple of minutes away from the Promenade des Anglais and within walking distance of key attractions like the Place Masséna and Vieux Nice (Old Town). This made it incredibly easy for me to explore the city on foot. The hotel’s central location also meant that I had access to countless restaurants, cafes, and shops, all within a short stroll.
How to Book:
I booked my stay directly through the hotel’s official website after comparing prices across various booking platforms. The process was straightforward, and they offer different room categories depending on your budget. I found that booking directly allowed me to take advantage of special promotions that weren’t available on third-party sites.
How to Get There:
Getting to Hôtel Solara from Nice Côte d’Azur Airport was a breeze. I took the tram Line 2, which runs directly from the airport to the city center. The tram stop Jean Médecin was a short 10-minute walk from the hotel. For those coming by train, the Gare de Nice-Ville is also nearby, making it a convenient option for travelers arriving by rail.
Environment and Facilities:
Hôtel Solara is a small, two-star hotel that offers a cozy, family-run atmosphere. The building is charming, with a classic French façade and a welcoming entrance. Despite its budget status, the hotel is clean and well-maintained. The lobby is modest, but the staff were incredibly friendly and offered me a warm welcome.
As for facilities, the hotel doesn’t boast luxury amenities like a pool or spa, but it does offer free Wi-Fi and air conditioning—two crucial elements for a comfortable stay, especially in the summer. There’s no restaurant on-site, but given the hotel’s central location, finding food was never a problem. Breakfast is available for an extra fee, and it’s served in the comfort of your room, which I found convenient on lazy mornings.
Room and Experience:
I stayed in a standard double room with a small balcony that offered a view of the bustling Rue de France. The room was simple but clean, with all the essentials: a comfortable bed, a small desk, and a flat-screen TV. The bathroom was compact but spotless, and the air conditioning worked perfectly to keep the room cool during the warm nights.
What I appreciated most was the hotel’s peaceful atmosphere despite being in such a central location. After long days of sightseeing, I looked forward to retreating to my quiet room for a good night’s sleep. Overall, my experience at Hôtel Solara was highly positive, and it provided excellent value for the price.
Rating: 8/10
For a budget stay in Nice, Hôtel Solara exceeded my expectations. Its unbeatable location and friendly service make it a great option for travelers who want to be near the Promenade des Anglais without spending a fortune.
Hotel de la Fontaine: Modern Comforts Close to the Beach
For travelers seeking modern comforts at a reasonable price, Hotel de la Fontaine is an excellent option. Located just a two-minute walk from the Promenade des Anglais, this three-star hotel offers convenience, comfort, and affordability, making it a top choice for budget-conscious visitors.
Location:
Hotel de la Fontaine is situated on 49 Rue de France, only 50 meters from the Promenade des Anglais. It’s also within walking distance of Place Masséna and the Musée Masséna, making it an ideal base for those who want to explore both the beach and cultural landmarks.
How to Book:
Rooms at Hotel de la Fontaine can be booked directly on their website, which offers promotions and last-minute deals. You can also find competitive prices on popular booking platforms like Booking.com and Expedia.
Environment and Facilities:
The hotel’s most charming feature is its tranquil courtyard garden, where guests can enjoy breakfast or relax with a drink. The rooms are decorated in a modern style with contemporary furnishings, and all are equipped with air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi. Though it’s a budget hotel, the attention to detail in the design and comfort of the rooms sets it apart from other options in this price range.
What to Expect:
Guests consistently praise Hotel de la Fontaine for its friendly staff, clean rooms, and convenient location. It’s a quiet retreat despite being so close to the bustling Promenade, making it a great choice for travelers looking for a peaceful yet central hotel.
Average Price:
Rooms start at around €85 per night, depending on the season, which is excellent value for a hotel this close to the beach.
Villa Rivoli: Old-World Charm in a Central Location
For those who appreciate a bit of history and old-world charm, Villa Rivoli is a beautiful budget-friendly option located near the Promenade des Anglais. This hotel combines the elegance of 19th-century architecture with modern amenities, providing a unique experience for travelers who want a taste of classic French hospitality.
Location:
Villa Rivoli is located on 10 Rue de Rivoli, just a short walk from the Promenade des Anglais and the beaches. It’s also close to the Jardin Albert I and Avenue Jean Médecin, making it a convenient spot for both beachgoers and shoppers.
How to Book:
You can book a room directly through the hotel’s website or on booking platforms like Hotels.com or Agoda. Villa Rivoli offers various room categories, from small budget rooms to larger superior rooms, so there’s something for every type of traveler.
Environment and Facilities:
Villa Rivoli is housed in a historic building that dates back to the Belle Époque period, and the hotel has preserved much of its original charm. The rooms are individually decorated with vintage furniture and offer a cozy, intimate atmosphere. While the hotel doesn’t have a restaurant, there’s a charming breakfast room where guests can enjoy a continental breakfast each morning.
What to Expect:
The hotel’s staff are known for their warm hospitality and helpfulness, going above and beyond to ensure guests have a comfortable stay. The rooms, while not large, are tastefully decorated, and many have views of the garden or surrounding city. The quiet, residential area adds to the hotel’s charm, making it feel like a hidden gem in the center of Nice.
Average Price:
Rooms start at around €70 per night, making Villa Rivoli an affordable yet charming option for travelers who want to stay near the Promenade.
Hôtel Les Cigales: Affordable Luxury in the City Center
If you’re looking for a budget hotel that offers a bit more luxury without the hefty price tag, Hôtel Les Cigales is a fantastic option. Located in the city center, just a few minutes from the Promenade des Anglais, this three-star hotel provides modern comforts and excellent service at an affordable rate.
Location:
Hôtel Les Cigales is located on 16 Rue Dalpozzo, a quiet street just a short walk from the Promenade. It’s also close to Avenue Jean Médecin, where you can find numerous shops, restaurants, and cafes.
How to Book:
Rooms can be booked directly through the hotel’s website, which often has special offers for early bookings. It’s also available on platforms like Booking.com and Expedia.
Environment and Facilities:
Hôtel Les Cigales offers stylish, modern rooms with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs. The hotel also has a rooftop terrace where guests can relax after a day of sightseeing. The staff are known for their friendly and helpful service, often going out of their way to provide recommendations for things to do in Nice.
What to Expect:
Guests who stay at Hôtel Les Cigales often remark on its cleanliness and comfort. The hotel’s location is perfect for those who want to be near the beach and the city’s main attractions while enjoying a peaceful, relaxing stay. The rooms are bright and modern, and the rooftop terrace is a nice touch for a budget hotel.
Average Price:
Prices start at around €90 per night, making it a great value for those looking for affordable luxury in Nice.
Nice has plenty to offer travelers on a budget, especially when it comes to hotels near the iconic Promenade des Anglais. Whether you’re looking for a charming historic hotel like Villa Rivoli, a modern, comfortable option like Hotel de la Fontaine, or something with old-world elegance like Hôtel Solara, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful city. Each of these hotels provides easy access to the Promenade and the city’s top attractions, all while keeping your stay affordable and comfortable.
