In September, 2012 my daughter & I will spend 3 nights on the Riviera coming from Arles to Nice by train. We've never been to the Riviera before. I'm reading that Nice is the biggest city and centrally located but is very crowded. I've heard Villefranche is really nice. Given that we only have 2 full days can anyone recommend the best place to stay and why. Thanks
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32352 posts
Terry, Both locations are beautiful, but my suggestion would be to stay in Nice. I didn't really find it to be too crowded. If you stay in the vicinity of the Promenade des Anglais, it's an easy walk to the "old town" section, which has lots of nice restaurants and shops. There's also the Chagall and Matisse Museums, if you're interested. If you want to take a day trip to Monaco and Monte Carlo, it's an easy Bus ride and as I recall the cost is only about €1. From the Bus stop in Monaco, you can either walk up the hill to the city or spend another €1. There's a terrific Oceanographic Museum there. If you want to see the Changing of the Guard at the Royal Palace, that takes place at 11:55. Be sure to get there early so that you can "stake out" a good spot! For a Hotel in Nice, I'd highly recommend Hotel Suisse. It's right at the end of the Promenade des Anglais. Happy travels!
Posted by
Lake Oswego, Oregon
1329 posts
Terry - What do you plan to do when you are there? Nice has good museums, Villefranche is a good place to kick back and relax and is also close to Cap Ferret. I have stayed in both Villefranche sur Mer (recommend the Hotel Darse due to good rate and views) and Nice (recomment Hotel Royal due to central location and good views and reasonable rates). It is easy to get around by public transportation from either Nice or Villefranche. You'll need to decide which you prefer - staying in the city or a small town.