Mercure Nice Promenade des Anglais

A recently renovated outpost of the Mercure hotel chain, the Mercure Nice Promenade des Anglais is located in a dated 1970s building but the interiors have a surprisingly sleek and modern look for the sleepy beach city. The lobby is small, but bright, with banquette seating, colorful leather stools, polished stone floors, and mirrored or wood-paneled walls. The breakfast room -- the only real common area -- is similarly bright and airy, with a wall of windows looking out towards the Promenade. But the hotel's convenient and desirable location (steps from the beach) is its biggest draw, and attracts travelers of all kinds looking for a pleasant and affordable place to stay in between excursions and meetings.

The Mercure Nice Promenade des Anglais is next to the beachfront Promenade des Anglais and the Casino Ruhl, just a short walk from the historic Vieux Nice and its winding streets lined with Baroque churches, markets, shops, and restaurants. The Cours Saleya -- the open air market with flowers of all types and fruit and vegetable stands -- is just a couple minutes away. It's also a short walk to Castle Hill, with its stunning views of the Baie des Anges. The famous Promenade -- with its strolling families, skateboarders, and blue chaise lounges -- is the perfect place for people-watching and promenading. Also nearby is the Musee d'Art et d'Histoire Palais Massena (Massena Museum), filled with artifacts illustrating the history of Nice. The hotel is a 15-minute drive from the Nice Cote d-Azur International Airport and a 15-minute walk from the Gare de Nice. Parking around the hotel is limited and can be pricey.

Rooms are bright white and modern, with one wall of glass overlooking a balcony and letting in plenty of light and, for some, a picturesque view of the sea fringed with palm trees and the promenade. Other rooms overlook either the garden or the city; if you want a good view, be sure to request one when you book. A color scheme of purple and gray -- including a light violet wall, brown and purple striped carpets, and small purple pillows on a queen-size white bed -- lends a modish feel to the room. Most rooms have a flat-screen TV, large closet with shelving, white modern-style writing desk, small safe, Nespresso machine, and alcoholic minibar. The modern white and violet bathroom has a large standing shower (no tub), gels and soaps, and two bathrobes. Lower category rooms have a double bed or twin beds with duvets. There's also an upgrade to a Privilege Room, which boasts a sea view, balcony, and an iPhone/iPad docking station. All rooms have free Wi-Fi.

The Mercure Nice Promenade des Anglais has relatively limited facilities. A buffet breakfast is served each morning for a fee, and you might get a better value (and meal) by going to one of the many nearby cafes. There's free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel, as well, and meeting rooms are available. Otherwise, there is no bar or restaurant, nor is there a fitness center or spa. Dry cleaning services are available and the front desk can help with suggestions for restaurants and shopping.