Nice, Seen My Way: Cafés, Hotels, and Hidden Gems

Heading to Nice

Getting to Nice from Antibes was pretty straightforward. I decided to grab an Uber, which cost me around 80 euros and took about 45 minutes. The ride was smooth, and it gave me a little time to just relax and take in the views of the coastline as we drove along. If you’re traveling solo like me, it’s nice to have that moment to yourself before diving into the city.

Getting to Know Nice

Nice hits you the moment you step out onto the streets. The air smells faintly of salt and pastries, and the colors of the buildings - soft pastels with sun-bleached shutters make you feel like you’ve stepped into a painting. There’s a quiet energy to the mornings, and by evening the city takes on a warm, golden glow that makes walking around feel effortless.

A little history sneaks in everywhere. Did you know that Nice actually used to be part of Italy until the late 19th century? That explains why some of the architecture and even a few phrases in the local dialect feel a bit Italian. It’s like the city couldn’t decide which identity to fully commit to, and honestly, it works in our favor because now we get the best of both worlds.

Nice has always had a bit of a glamorous side, and it’s easy to see why. The city and the nearby French Riviera have long been playgrounds for celebrities, influencers, and some of the richest people in the world. You’ll catch glimpses of luxury yachts bobbing in the harbor, designer boutiques lining the streets, and cafés where a cappuccino might cost more than your Uber ride from Antibes. But the funny thing is, even with all that glitz, Nice somehow manages to feel approachable. 

Today, it is known for its beautiful promenade, bustling markets, and a charming mix of old-world elegance with lively café culture. For a solo traveler, it’s surprisingly easy to navigate. The city center is very walkable, and I never felt unsafe wandering the streets on my own. Mornings are perfect for a stroll along the Promenade des Anglais when the sea is calm and the city slowly wakes up. Evenings are just as magical, with lights reflecting on the water and a gentle buzz from the cafés and bars. Walking at your own pace, seeing the city wake up and wind down, it almost feels like Nice is your personal playground - without anyone judging you for talking to yourself while figuring out the map.

Where I Stayed in Nice

Chill, Central, and Cozy: The Deck Hotel by HappyCulture

I stayed at The Deck Hotel by HappyCulture in a Chambre Cabine, and honestly, August in Nice is no joke when it comes to hotel prices. Rooms are expensive everywhere, so I went with this property partly because of the good reviews and its prime location.

I specifically asked for a quiet, garden-facing room because Nice can get noisy, especially in the city center, and they accommodated me without issue. The room itself wasn’t my favorite - bit outdated, but it did the job. It’s compact, a true “cabin” feel, but I actually loved the color palette - soft blues and whites that feel instantly refreshing, like a mini seaside escape. The bed and linens were comfortable, and while storage is limited, it was enough for a solo traveler like me. The windows open, and the curtains are excellent at blocking out light, which made sleeping in easy.

The bathroom has a shower, standard toiletries, and they offer refillable options - scented, but nothing overpowering. Tech-wise, Wi-Fi was solid, plenty of outlets/USB ports, and the AC handled the summer heat (it was around 35°C / 95°F) without breaking a sweat.

The hotel’s lobby and common areas are light, cozy, and full of greenery, making them perfect for working on a laptop or just relaxing. There’s definitely that HappyCulture sister-brand vibe - friendly, welcoming, easygoing. They also offer meeting rooms and co-working spaces: 1 hour of co-working is 5€, half a day in the meeting room (1:30–6 pm) is 150€, and you can add a gourmet break for 5€/person. Small pets (up to 10 kg) are welcome too.

Location-wise, it’s fantastic for a solo traveler. The hotel is about 150 meters off the main tourist road, so it’s peaceful, yet the beach is 5 minutes, the center of Nice 10 minutes, and the train station 15 minutes on foot. Breakfast is a rich buffet, and hot drinks or water are available all day. Shoutout to Maya, the intern, who handled everything with impeccable reliability and friendliness.

That said, I have to be honest - at €230 per night, the room felt worn-out compared to the price. The hotel is lovely, clean, and very central, but if you want a modern, stylish room for that rate, you might want to look elsewhere.

Verdict: Perfect for solo travelers who value location, quiet, and cozy common spaces, but if you’re after a sleek, luxurious room experience, this might not be your pick.

Where (and What) I Ate in Nice

Coffee with a View - Le Méridien Nice

Le Méridien Nice has one of the best rooftops in town, and it’s no secret why - it sits right across from the Promenade des Anglais, with the beach stretching out in front of you. I stopped by for a coffee, and honestly, the view was everything. Sitting there with the sea glittering in the sun made even an ordinary cup of coffee feel special (though let’s be real, the view definitely outshone the coffee).

I went in the daytime, but I kept thinking how magical it must look at sunset, when the sky softens into pinks and golds. If you’re celebrating a birthday or just want a moment that feels a little extra, this rooftop would be perfect.

Inside, the hotel is just as chic as you’d expect, with a welcoming atmosphere. The lobby downstairs is also a good spot to work - the air conditioning was a lifesaver in the summer heat, and it has that quiet, comfortable vibe that makes you want to linger with your laptop.

If you’re into photos, aim for morning or golden hour for the best light. You won’t regret it.

Work + Dessert - Maison Albar - Le Victoria

Maison Albar - Le Victoria is one of those hotels where you walk in and immediately slow down a little. The lobby is a dream - light tones, velvet couches, sparkling chandeliers, and a polished minimalism that somehow feels both chic and a bit futuristic. It’s the kind of place where you catch yourself looking around more than once, because every detail feels designed to impress. Honestly, you could drop an “Emily in Paris” episode here and no one would question it.

I settled in with the New York Times and ordered a lemon sorbet with espresso, which turned out to be one of the best little pairings I’ve had in a long time. Simple, refreshing, perfect - 10/10. The service matched the setting: warm and professional, but never stiff. Forget business meetings, this is the only kind of work break I ever want to have.

What I loved most was how easy it felt to just linger. Whether you’re working on your laptop or just soaking in the atmosphere, the space has that rare balance of comfort and elegance.

Dinner - Hanoi Opera (Vietnamese)

I don’t know what it is about Vietnamese food, but it always feels like a little flavor party in a bowl. Fresh herbs, crunchy veggies, tangy sauces - it somehow manages to be both comforting and refreshing at the same time.

At Hanoi Opera, I ordered the Bò Bún (basically a noodle bowl with beef and loads of herbs). It came out looking way too pretty to eat… but don’t worry, I managed. Every bite had that mix of mint, cilantro, and spice that makes you think, “Yep, I could eat this every day and never complain.”

The restaurant itself has this bright, open feel, with ceilings high enough to make you forget you’re indoors. Service was quick and super friendly. The vibe is lively without being chaotic, so you can actually hear your own thoughts (or your friends, if you bring them).

All in all, Hanoi Opera is one of those places where the food’s fantastic, the bill doesn’t sting, and you leave already plotting your return.

Lunch – La Villa Massenet

For lunch, I stopped by La Villa Massenet, and it turned out to be such a bright, cheerful little oasis. I went for a fresh salad, creamy mashed potatoes, and perfectly cooked meat - simple things, but done so well that I almost felt guilty for not ordering more. Every ingredient tasted fresh, like the chefs actually care about what’s on your plate.

The restaurant itself is spacious and airy, with pastel-colored interiors and huge windows letting in plenty of light. I ended up sitting outside, soaking up the sun, and watching the world drift by - it’s the kind of spot that makes you forget what day it is. Service was attentive. 

It’s one of those lunch spots where everything just works: food, light, atmosphere, and that little bit of calm you didn’t know you needed while wandering through Nice. Definitely a place I’d go back to when I need a relaxed midday recharge.

Classic Niçoise - La Merenda

Just a short walk from The Deck, I stumbled upon La Merenda, a tiny Old Town gem that feels more like someone’s kitchen than a restaurant. And honestly? That’s the charm. Every square meter here is put to use - tables are practically touching. At first I thought it might feel cramped, but it ended up being part of the fun. I could chat with my neighbors between bites, and if you’re dining solo, you’ll almost definitely make a new friend.

Now, let’s talk food. I ordered the green pasta with fresh pesto and… wow. I finally understood why people obsess over pâtes au pistou. The sauce was vibrant and herbaceous, clinging perfectly to the pasta. No exaggeration - this was one of the best bowls of pasta I’ve ever had. Pure, simple, honest flavors that somehow felt luxurious. For dessert, I tried the cottage cheese compote, light yet creamy, the kind of finish that doesn’t weigh you down but still feels indulgent.

The whole vibe is cozy, unfussy, and authentic. Service was fast, friendly, and efficient - like they’ve perfected the art of making you feel at home without fussing over you. The food? Succulent, soulful, and a solid 5/5 for me. 

What really blows my mind is how this place only has four stars online. Ignore the nitpicking reviews. If you’re looking for a spot that’s small in size but massive in flavor, La Merenda is it. I went back twice and would happily return again. Comfort food at its best, with a side of local charm. 

Sunset Stroll Along the Promenade

If there’s one thing I’d recommend to anyone staying near The Deck, it’s a walk along the Promenade des Anglais at sunset. It’s doable in 1–2 hours, easy to fit into any day, and feels like the perfect way to soak in Nice’s energy without rushing.

The best time of day is about an hour before sunset - soft golden light, cooler temperatures, and the sea sparkling just right. Crowds can build later in the evening, so aim to start a little earlier if you want some breathing room and photo opportunities.

Practical note: wear comfortable shoes (you’ll be strolling a few kilometers if you let yourself wander), bring water, and be ready for a few gentle steps along the promenade and adjoining streets. Nothing extreme, just enough to stretch your legs and enjoy the views.

By the end of the walk, you’ll have seen the city in that perfect light, felt the sea breeze, and maybe even caught a glimpse of local life that doesn’t make it into the guidebooks. It’s simple, but it’s the kind of experience that stays with you.