In July 2021, the city of Nice was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as a ‘winter resort city on the Riviera’. This listing is based on an urban ensemble covering 522 hectares, including the not-to-be-missed Promenade des Anglais, the Cimiez and Mont-Boron districts, the magnificent villas and charming small hotels, and the urban planning and architecture that have shaped the city over the years. Nice is a destination with an international reputation and offers a wide range of possibilities for sightseeing. On holiday at the West End hotel – part of the 3A Hôtels La Collection group – here is a selection of 5 places that are part of this listed heritage. 

The Promenade des Anglais

The name of the Promenade des Anglais is no coincidence. The Camin dei Ingles was created in 1824 by British winter visitors who loved the relaxed way of life on the Côte d’Azur. Emblematic of Nice, with its 7-kilometre length and 1,300 palm trees, it’s a must-see. It is home to some of Nice’s finest hotels, including the West End Hotel, which dates back to the mid-19th century. In any season, early in the morning or at sunset, the Prom’ is well worth a visit

Castle Hill

This is one of the most beautiful views in the world! From the Château hill and its Nietzsche terrace, the view over the Baie des Anges is well worth the diversions. A veritable jewel case of greenery right in the heart of the city, the Château hill is the ideal place to recharge your batteries during a stay in Nice. It can be reached from the Port or via the Quai Rauba Capeau by taking the Lesage staircase, which, although impressive, reveals more of Nice as you go. 

Place Masséna in the heart of Nice

What would Nice be without its Place Masséna? The beating heart of the city, the square is recognisable by its black and white chequered design and its magnificent Sun Fountain, surrounded by the red facades of the Haussmann buildings. On one side is the sea, on the other avenue Jean Médecin and on both sides the green corridor and Vieux-Nice. The Place Masséna can be crossed, photographed and admired… 

The Régina Palace in the Cimiez district

Dominating the Cimiez district, the former Excelsior hotel known as Regina Palace was built in honour of the famous Queen Victoria after her visit to Nice in April 1895. In a very short space of time, this giant rose from the ground at the top of the Boulevard de Cimiez: five storeys, 150 metres of facade and no less than 6,250 square metres of floor space in all. Because of its good exposure to the sun, the entire west wing of the building was reserved for the Queen. Even today, a huge wrought-iron crown dominates this part of the building.

The Russian Church in the Parc Impérial district 

In the Parc Impérial district, it’s impossible to miss the imposing Saint-Nicolas Cathedral, more commonly known as the ‘Russian Church’. Built in 1912, it is one of the largest Orthodox churches in Europe. It is an architectural gem inspired by the churches of Moscow, richly decorated and adorned with a multitude of icons, frescoes and carved woodwork. Set further back and older, the accompanying Byzantine-style mausoleum was built in 1867.