Apartments and Villas for sale in Nice

Situated between the Promenade des Anglais and Boulevard Jean Jaures, Old Nice has it all. With its long winding streets, gastronomic restaurants, bars with live music, Brasseries, theatres, wonderful markets and buildings dating back to the 16th century, Nice‘s old town is a focal point for tourists and property purchasers alike.

Whether buying a property to enjoy the tranquil Mediterranean lifestyle or for the pure investment rewards, the accessibility of the old town with both the bus-station and the beach just 5 minutes away, makes life here stress-free. The completion of the tramway in June 2007 will add to this by making old Nice even more accessible to other shopping areas such as Jean Medecin.

Old Nice's original architecture dates back to medieval times. This can been seen by the pointed arches above some of the shops which have been restored, especially in Rue du Pont-Vieux and Rue de la Prefecture. These features only add to its quaint charm that has been attracting people for decades. The streets leading from Place Rossetti, in the heart of Old Town, with its many restaurants and lively atmosphere enjoy high ceilings giving a spacious feel. However due to the listed nature of these buildings, these unique charming features of life 300 years ago seldom include terraces and lifts and although the winding narrow streets of the Old Town are charming, they limit light and can also be quite noisy during the summer months. This being said, for those looking to be in the heart of the action, nothing beats the buzz of the Old Town.

One of Nice's most prominent features is the ruins of the Chateau, these remains sit on top of a rocky hill of shady green trees. This rocky hill is host to a park, playground, Roman ruins and a waterfall. The 213 steps climbed to the observation platform on top of the Naval museum serve a panoramic view of Nice‘s old town and the Mediterranean coastline. For those who have over-exerted themselves on the beach below, a lift service with a fee of 80 cents may be found at its foot.

Old Nice is home to many magnificent Churches and Cathedrals. La Cathedral Sainte-Reparate is one of the old town's most historic landmarks. Built in the 17th century in honour of the young martyr Sainte Reparate, patron saint of the town of Nice, it boasts an elegant gateway, high alter and marble choir stall. Its bell tower dates back to the 18th century and can be seen on approach to the old town. Le Chapelle De La Lisericode is another example of splendid architecture; its first stone was laid in 1740. This chapel has a superb baroque style both inside and out with a lovely golden colour and a distinct preference for curved lines.

When speaking of architecture one must include Nice's Opera House, which is a fine example of Belle-Epoque architecture, built on the site of the former Municipal theatre. It was destroyed by fire in 1881 and was re-opened in 1885 making its immediate vicinity a haven for buyers who appreciate quality architecture.

Henri Matisse was one of the many artists to succumb to the charms of Old Nice. Many of his works were influenced by the radiant colours and the luminosity of daylight he caught from his residence on the Cours Saleya. Today the Cours Saleya is host to many markets. On Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 6am to 5.30pm, this bustling street is brought alive with the vibrant colours and alluring scents of the flower market. Tuesday to Sunday, between the hours of 6am and 12.30pm, the food market trades some of the best herbs, spices, fresh fruit and vegetables in the region. On Mondays from 7am to 6pm, a large antiques market captivates tourists and natives alike. By night this cobbled street is brought alive by many outdoor restaurants, making it one of the most rentable areas of nice.

Just north of the Cours Saleya, bordering Jean Jaures, Place St-Francois is home to fish markets on Tuesday and Sunday between 6am and 12pm. Here one can find an assortment of fresh fish and crustaceans. If you spend some time walking around the enchanting streets of old Nice you will notice them alive with shops showcasing art and furnishings from all periods. This can be especially seen in the streets around Rue Droite, Rue Rossetti and Rue Saint Reparate.

Old Nice is home to numerous interesting buildings such as Le Palais de la Prefecture, which is home to the President of the General Council and the Prefect of the Alpes-Maritimes. This grand building was built at the start of the 17th century to accommodate the Governor and Dukes of Savoy when visiting Nice. In 1860, when Nice was reunited with the rest of France this building transformed into the headquarters of the "Prefecture des Alpes-Maritimes"

Le Palais de Justice is home to the law courts that were built in neo-classical style at the end of the 19th century. The Place de Palais is a small pedestrianised zone where one can enjoy a mid-afternoon coffee. You might even hear the local language spoken, Nicoise.

All these features make Old Nice a very attractive place to purchase property. For a one or two bedroom apartment you could expect to pay between 150,000 € and300,000 €. There is great potential to capitalize on rental income during the summer months, when an apartment can be rented per week for the same amount that it could be rented for per month in the winter. winter rental income is usually between €400 per month for a studio up to €1400 per month for a two bedroom apartment.