GreenAcres
17/04/2025
Alpes-Maritimes
Buying in Nice: The benefits of a second home in this iconic city
Ellipse 1
17/04/2025

The Côte d’Azur has always been a dream destination for those seeking to combine the sea, sun, and a pleasant lifestyle. Among the most popular places, Nice and its surroundings stand out: the capital of the French Riviera, with its Mediterranean climate, spectacular landscapes, and rich culture, attracts many individuals, both French and international, looking for a second home.In this article, we reveal why investing in a second home in Nice and its surroundings is an attractive option, as well as the advantages of different areas.

Why Choose Nice for a Second Home?

1. A Sunny Climate all Year Round

Nice enjoys a Mediterranean climate with more than 300 days of sunshine a year, making it an ideal destination for a second home. Winters are mild, and summers are hot, allowing you to enjoy the beach or outdoor activities throughout the year.

Vue sur la Méditerranée Nice

2. A Diverse Real Estate Offer

Whether you are looking for an apartment with sea view, a house on the heights, a pied-à-terre in the city center, or a villa in a nearby village, Nice offers a wide range of real estate. The second home market is thriving, with properties to suit all budgets and lifestyles.

3. A Lively and Cultural Region

Nice is much more than a seaside destination. It is a vibrant city, rich in cultural events, museums and festivals. From Nice Carnival to Jazz Festival, the city is in perpetual motion, offering second home owners a multitude of activities every time they visit.

Interior of a house Nice
House for sale by Bristol agency on Green acres

4. Proximity to Ski Resorts and Mountains

Another advantage of Nice is its proximity to the ski resorts in the Alpes-Maritimes, just an hour’s drive away. You can ski in the morning and dine by the sea in the evening! This proximity makes your home versatile: perfect for the sea in summer and the mountains in winter.

The Best Neighbourhood of Nice for a Second Home

1. Vieux Nice (the Old City)

Vieux Nice is the historic heart of the city, with its narrow streets, colorful buildings, and Provençal markets. This lively neighborhood is ideal for those who want to experience the authentic atmosphere of Nice, with typical apartments that are often renovated. The proximity to the Promenade des Anglais and the beaches makes it a highly sought-after location for second homes.

Advantages: Authentic atmosphere, direct access to the beaches, entertainment all year round.
Cons: Small apartments, noisy in high season.

2. Mont Boron

The Mont Boron district is renowned for its luxury villas and its panoramic views of the Mediterranean and the Baie des Anges. Located on a hill, it offers a more exclusive and quiet living environment, while remaining close to the center of Nice. It is the perfect place for those looking for a quiet second home, with large outdoor spaces and a stunning views.

Advantages: Quiet, luxury, spectacular views.
Cons: High prices.

Mont boron
House for sale by the Lafage agency on Green acres

3. Cimiez

Cimiez is a chic residential area, prized for its bourgeois buildings and its historic villas. Close to the city center while being quieter, it is ideal for families or retirees wishing a second home with gardens and parks nearby, such as the famous garden of the Arènes de Cimiez. The Matisse Museum and several cultural events also attract many visitors.

Advantages: Quiet atmosphere, proximity to amenities, green setting.
Cons: Far from the beaches.

4. Fabron

Fabron, in the west of Nice, is a modern area with many recent residences offering swimming pools and sea views. This residential area is perfect for those looking for a second home in a quieter area, while still being close to the beach and the airport.

Advantages: Modern residences, proximity to the sea, quiet.
Cons: Less central.

The Most Beautiful Villages around Nice

If you prefer a more peaceful setting while still being close to the sea, the villages around Nice are a great option for a second home. Here are some of the most sought-after villages:

1. Èze

Perched 400 meters above the Mediterranean, Èze is a medieval village offering spectacular views and a peaceful atmosphere. Ideal for those seeking a quiet second home, Èze combines historical heritage with proximity to Nice and Monaco.

Average price: €11,300/m².

Eze

2. Saint-Paul-de-Vence

Saint-Paul-de-Vence, famous for its art galleries and historic architecture, is another gem of the region. This picturesque village is popular with lovers of culture and tranquility. Surrounded by vineyards and lush landscapes, it’s the perfect place for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life while remaining close to Nice.

Average price: €7,000/m².

3. Villefranche-sur-Mer

Located between Nice and Monaco, Villefranche-sur-Mer is a coastal village with colorful facades and idyllic beaches. Highly sought after for second homes, this village offers an exceptional quality of life and immediate proximity to Nice.

Average price: €10,500/m².

Tax benefits and profitability of second homes in Nice

Investing in a second home in Nice can also offer financial advantages. The seasonal rental market is very dynamic, with high demand during the summer and even off-season thanks to cultural events and international conferences. Renting out your second home can therefore generate attractive rental income.

In addition, the Nice region benefits from a stable real estate market with long-term value appreciation, making it a safe investment. You can also benefit from tax advantages if you decide to rent your property, particularly through tax schemes like the LMNP (Non-Professional Furnished Rental) regime.

Maison Mont Boron Nice
House for sale by Lafage agency on Green acres

In Conclusion

Whether you are looking for a pied-à-terre on the French Riviera, a apartment with sea view or a villa in a picturesque village, Nice and its region offer a range of opportunities for a second home. Between sweetness of life, proximity to the sea and rich cultural heritage, owning a second home in Nice allows you to take full advantage of the French Riviera while making a solid investment.

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