In July 2021, the city of Nice was inscribed on UNESCO's World Heritage List as a "Winter Resort City on the French Riviera." This inscription encompasses an urban area of 522 hectares, including the iconic Promenade des Anglais, the Cimiez and Mont-Boron districts, magnificent villas and charming boutique hotels, and the urban planning and architecture that have shaped the city over the years. Nice is an internationally renowned destination offering numerous sightseeing opportunities. While on holiday at the West End Hotel – part of the 3A Hotels La Collection group – here is a selection of five sites that are part of this listed heritage.
The Promenade des Anglais
The Promenade des Anglais is no coincidence. The Camin dei Ingles was created in 1824 by British winter visitors who fell in love with the laid-back lifestyle of the French Riviera. An iconic feature of Nice, stretching 7 kilometers and lined with 1,300 palm trees, it's a must-see. It's home to some of Nice's finest hotels, including the West End Hotel, which dates back to the mid-19th century. Whether early in the morning or at sunset, the Promenade is well worth a visit, whatever the season.
Castle Hill
It's one of the most beautiful panoramas in the world! From Castle Hill and its Nietzsche Terrace, the view over the Bay of Angels is well worth the trip. A true haven of greenery in the heart of the city, Castle Hill is the ideal place to recharge during a stay in Nice. It can be reached from the Port or via the Quai Rauba Capeau by taking the Lesage stairs which, although impressive, reveal Nice little by little as you climb them.
Place Masséna in the heart of Nice
What would Nice be without Place Masséna? The beating heart of the city, the square is recognizable by its black and white checkerboard pattern and its magnificent Fountain of the Sun, surrounded by the red facades of Haussmannian buildings. On one side, the sea; on the other, Avenue Jean Médecin; and on either side, the Promenade du Paillon (Coulée Verte) and Old Nice. Place Masséna is a place to stroll through, photograph, and admire…
The Regina Palace in the Cimiez district
Dominating the Cimiez district, the former Hotel Excelsior, also known as the Regina Palace – pictured above – was built in honor of the famous Queen Victoria after her visit to Nice in April 1895. In a very short time, this giant rose from the ground at the top of Boulevard de Cimiez: five stories, a 150-meter facade, and no less than 6,250 square meters of floor space. Due to its excellent sun exposure, the entire west wing of the building was reserved for the Queen. Even today, a huge wrought-iron crown crowns this section.
The Russian church in the Imperial Park district
In the Imperial Park district, the imposing St. Nicholas Cathedral, more commonly known as the "Russian Church," is impossible to miss. Built in 1912, it is one of the largest Orthodox churches in Europe. A true architectural gem inspired by the churches of Moscow, it boasts rich decoration and is adorned with a multitude of icons, frescoes, and carved woodwork. Set further back and older, the accompanying Byzantine-style mausoleum was built in 1867.