Top reasons to visit Old Town
- Charming Old Architecture: Wander through picturesque streets lined with stunning historical buildings that showcase the region’s rich heritage.
- Vibrant Local Culture: Experience lively piazzas and bustling markets, perfect for families and couples to enjoy the local atmosphere.
- Stunning Coastal Views: Discover breathtaking vantage points along the coastline, ideal for photography and relaxation.
- Delightful Accommodations: Choose from a variety of charming hotels and cosy bed & breakfasts, catering to diverse preferences.
- Proximity to Attractions: Easily explore nearby destinations, including the historic old town of Nice and its cultural gems.
Find great hotels near Old Town
Discover the charm of Old Town in Villefranche-sur-Mer, where a variety of accommodations await to enhance your stay. Choose from delightful hotels and cosy bed & breakfasts, many of which offer pet-friendly options. Whether you seek a beachfront escape, a business-friendly environment, or a relaxing vacation experience, you'll find the perfect lodging to suit your needs amidst the picturesque streets of this historic area.
- Albert 1'er Hotel Nice, France: Nestled a short distance from Old Town, Albert 1'er Hotel Nice offers a delightful blend of adventure and romance for its guests. With a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, this 3-star hotel features direct access to the beach, making it an ideal choice for those eager to embrace outdoor activities like waterskiing, surfing, and bicycle rentals. Couples can indulge in romance packages and enjoy intimate dining experiences through limited hours room service. The hotel's amenities also include nearby spa and pool services, allowing for a rejuvenating retreat after a day of exploration.
- Hôtel Vacances Bleues Le Royal: Located slightly further from Old Town, Hôtel Vacances Bleues Le Royal is a charming 3-star hotel with a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10. This property is all about the beach experience, offering guests direct access to the sandy shores for sunbathing and leisurely strolls along the water. The hotel is tailored for those seeking a relaxing beach holiday, with comfortable accommodations and a welcoming atmosphere that encourages guests to unwind and soak up the Mediterranean sun.
- Hotel West End Nice Promenade: With its prime location and a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, Hotel West End Nice Promenade is a sophisticated 4-star hotel that caters to beach lovers and pet owners alike. Situated conveniently near Old Town, this property boasts direct beach access and a pet-friendly policy that welcomes furry companions. Guests can expect thoughtful amenities, including food and water bowls for pets and no fees for service animals. The elegant surroundings and attentive service create a memorable stay for both you and your pet.
Where to stay near Old Town
Old Town, Villefranche-sur-Mer, offers a delightful mix of historical charm and vibrant local culture. Venture into the picturesque streets of Vieux Nice, where you'll find quaint local boutiques and a lively atmosphere perfect for families and couples alike. Explore the stunning coastline and nearby attractions, ensuring a memorable experience in this enchanting region. The warmth of friendly locals and the romantic ambiance make it an ideal destination for travellers seeking both adventure and relaxation.
- Nice: As a bustling metropolis, Nice is a vibrant hub on the French Riviera, boasting a rich blend of culture and leisure. Situated along the stunning Mediterranean coastline, it is renowned for its beautiful esplanades, inviting beaches, and luxurious marina. The city attracts visitors year-round, particularly from July to September, making it the perfect destination for family outings, outdoor adventures, and urban exploration. Don't miss the opportunity to shop in the lively markets or take in the spectacular views from nearby ski resorts in winter.
- Nice City Centre: Just a few miles from Old Town, Nice City Centre is the heart of the city, where the rhythm of life pulses with activity. This neighbourhood features a plethora of shopping areas, including expansive shopping malls and local boutiques, catering to all tastes. The city centre is characterised by its lively atmosphere, ideal for family outings and those seeking an outdoor experience. With easy access to the beach and marina, it’s a fantastic spot for leisurely strolls and soaking up the sun, especially during the peak months of July to September.
- Villefranche-sur-Mer: Nestled along the picturesque coastline, Villefranche-sur-Mer is a charming city that offers a more tranquil escape from the bustling Nice. With its beautiful family beaches and stunning esplanade, it’s an ideal location for outdoor activities and city-themed exploration. The city sees a peak in visitor numbers from June to August, making it a popular choice for families looking to relax by the sea. Explore its quaint streets, indulge in local cuisine, and enjoy the scenic views that make this coastal gem unforgettable.
Things to do near Old Town
Shopping
In Old Town, you can explore charming boutiques offering local crafts and unique souvenirs. The bustling market, Marché de Villefranche, features fresh produce and artisanal goods. Nearby, the vibrant streets are lined with shops showcasing handmade items, making it an enjoyable shopping experience.
Recreation
Experience tranquillity at the Spa Cinq Mondes, where traditional therapies and luxurious treatments rejuvenate your body and mind. Enjoy a serene yoga session at the beachfront, followed by a leisurely stroll through the picturesque streets of Old Town, soaking in the charming ambiance and stunning views.
Adventure
Experience the thrill of ziplining at Riviera Nature, a ropes course located 32km from Old Town, where adventure awaits amidst stunning outdoor scenery. Alternatively, challenge yourself at Accro de Merveilles, another exhilarating zipline ropes course situated 47km away, offering more outdoor excitement.
Nightlife
Experience the charm of Old Town with an evening at Le Café de la Fontaine for a relaxed drink, or explore the lively atmosphere at La Vigne de Provence, where you can enjoy local wines. For a more vibrant scene, head to the nearby bar, Le Virage, for music and conversation.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Old Town
To save money on your trip to Old Town, Villefranche-sur-Mer, consider visiting during the off-peak months of January to February and November for lower accommodation rates. Book your hotel about a month in advance, or check Expedia for last-minute deals, particularly on Tuesdays which tend to be cheaper. Use Expedia’s price filter to find the best offers, and consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Walking is an excellent way to explore the charming old town without incurring transport costs.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Old Town are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Old Town is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Old Town is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Old Town is Friday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to narrow down your options based on your budget, preferred location, and desired type of accommodation. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can reduce your expenses by combining your hotel reservation in Old Town with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions near Old Town
Old Town in Villefranche-sur-Mer is perfect for family and outdoor-themed holidays, offering a delightful mix of culture and relaxation. Enjoy the charming beach, vibrant piazza, and picturesque marina, all set against a backdrop of stunning old architecture. Explore nearby attractions, including the historic old town of Nice and the lovely Nice Theatre, to immerse yourself in the region’s rich heritage while enjoying a memorable outdoor experience.
- Promenade des Anglais: This picturesque esplanade, located 3km from Old Town, offers a romantic setting for leisurely strolls along the azure coastline. Lined with palm trees and vibrant cafés, it's ideal for families seeking outdoor enjoyment against a stunning backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea.
- Place Massena: Just 3km from Old Town, this lively square is the heart of Nice’s cultural scene. Surrounded by striking architecture and fountains, it serves as a vibrant gathering place, making it a fantastic spot to immerse yourself in the local atmosphere and enjoy various events.
- Port of Nice: Situated only 2km from Old Town, this charming marina is perfect for adventure seekers. Explore the vibrant waterfront, enjoy beach activities, or simply relax while watching the boats come and go, all in a lively seaside atmosphere.
Best time to go to Old Town
The best time to visit Old Town is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is sunny with no rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Old Town
Accessing Old Town, Villefranche-sur-Mer is convenient from nearby airports. Nice Côte d'Azur Airport (NCE) is the closest, located 10km away. Recommended hotels include the Anantara Plaza Nice Hotel, Hotel Le Negresco, and Hôtel Palais de la Méditerranée, all offering various transportation services to the airport. Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport (GOA) is 146km from Old Town, with options like Melia Genova and Grand Hotel Savoia providing nearby access. Toulon Hyères Airport (TLN) is situated 116km away, with hotels such as Best Western Plus Hotel Hyeres Cote D'azur and Mercure Hyeres Centre, all conveniently accessible to the airport.