Hotel Villa Victoria

Just outside the pedestrianised area of Old Nice, and a short walk to its beach, this affordable, light-filled boutique hotel has a large, sunny garden, bright with bougainvillea and scented with jasmine.

Breakfast is served there on fine days, and when you’ve done your sightseeing, lounge chairs beckon for lazing with a drink from the bar – you can even join in a game of petanque. Recently renovated, rooms come in various sizes and soothing, modern colours; many have balconies, too. Try to get one overlooking the garden.

The staff are charming and friendly, and there are a handful of parking spaces, too (first come, first served).