Guide to Alpes-Maritimes & Property in Department 06

Found in the southeast corner of France, Alpes-Maritimes (number 06) is a popular department within the PACA region in the heart of the French Riviera. Visitors and locals are treated to a plethora of sights, leisure activities, culture and traditions. Surrounded by the Var, Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, Italy, Monaco and the Mediterranean Sea. The Côte d’Azur - best known as the Riviera - is famous for its warm climate, and the Alpes-Maritimes benefits from over 300 days of sunshine per year. Due to the complex terrain, you may also experience the odd thunderstorm that illuminates the skies of some of the more exposed areas. This climate enhances the charm the department offers to those who visit and live here.

Embrace Rich Past and Culture

The history of the Alpes-Maritimes offers an important architectural and cultural heritage to discover. The Mediterranean Sea and beaches provide relaxation and water sports, or you can head to the mountains for peaceful walks and active pursuits. Inland, the countryside and mountains display picturesque views and hide idyllic villages. The striking scenery doesn’t end there; the Mercantour National Park covers much of the northern part of the Alpes-Maritimes. For a truly authentic experience of this Provencal department, we invite you to the preserved and traditional city of Nice.

Experience the Vibrancy of Nice

As you pass through the dramatic scenery surrounding the hilltop villages, you’ll reach the department’s coastal resort and capital, Nice. As one of the largest cities in France, the popular destination attracts a variety of visitors from around the world, offering something for everyone, including private beaches and a global reputation for its lively atmosphere.

The Bay of Angels Awaits

If you choose to fly into Nice airport, your eyes will be immediately excited by the sight of the famous and beautiful curve of the Bay of Angels, and this is just the beginning! The traditional city has interesting museums, landmarks, shops and seaside restaurants. Generally, the French Riviera is the perfect place to retire and relax, and Nice is no different; as the second most popular French city after Paris, you’ll never be bored.

Explore Further Around Nice

Along the French Riviera, Nice’s neighbours include Cannes, Antibes, Juan-les-Pins and Menton, whose locals, lifestyle and climate make for a unique place to live. As you can tell, this corner of France is best known for its coastal resorts; however, if you spend more time here, you will quickly see that there’s more to the Alpes-Maritimes than the Riviera.  Notable towns and villages include Grasse, Coaraze, and Gourdon, many of which offer stunning views across the valleys, olive groves, and the Mediterranean.

Key Information about the Alpes-Maritimes (06)

• Main City/Prefecture: Nice
• Nearest Airport: Nice Côte d'Azur International Airport (in Nice)
• Population: Around 1.1 million (as of the latest census)
• Area: 4,299 sq. kilometres and 1,660 sq. miles
• Landmark: Promenade des Anglais, the famous boulevard along the Mediterranean in Nice.  
• Number of Tourists/Year: Approx. 11 million, drawn by the Riviera, luxury resorts and events like the Cannes Film Festival.

Types of Properties for Sale in Alpes-Maritimes

In Alpes-Maritimes, you can find a variety of properties, including traditional houses, modern villas (often with pools), seafront apartments in cities like Nice and Cannes, character homes in the countryside, and more affordable options in some communes.

Coastal areas like Nice, Cannes, and Antibes are highly sought after, known for luxury seafront apartments and premium villas, many of which offer sea views. Inland, away from the coast (Hinterland), you’ll find more traditional homes, such as Provençal mas (stone farmhouses) or charming properties, which tend to be more affordable than coastal alternatives.

Most Common Property Styles

• Villas: Often luxurious with outdoor spaces such as pools and gardens, these villas are common along the Côte d’Azur.
• Contemporary/Modern Houses: These custom-designed properties are built throughout the department.
• Traditional/Provençal Houses: Constructed with local materials like stone and terracotta tiles, they blend seamlessly into the Mediterranean landscape.
• Townhouses/Village houses: Very rare on the market, these are typically found in city centres and are often smaller, sometimes terraced, with less emphasis on outdoor space.
• Apartments: From luxury seafront residences with terraces and views to new build homes for investment, these properties offer low-maintenance living.

Property Prices in Alpes-Maritimes (06) in 2025

• Houses: the average price per sq. metre: €5,363 (source: Le Figaro - October 2025)
• Apartments: average price per sq. metre: €5,789 (source: Le Figaro - October 2025)
• Price trends: -1% over the last 12 months, +25% over the last 5 years (Le Figaro).

2025 House Prices in the Main Towns of Alpes-Maritimes 

• Average House Price in Nice: €5,580 per sq. metre
• Average House Price in Cannes: €4,121 per sq. metre
• Average House Price in Antibes: €6,102 per sq. metre
• Average House Price in Grasse: €4,295 per sq. metre
• Average House Price in Le Cannet: €5,564 per sq. metre

(source: Le Figaro - October 2025)

Five Reasons to Buy Property in Alpes-Maritimes

• Prestige and Luxury: The Alpes-Maritimes region, home to glamorous coastal cities such as Nice, Cannes, and Monaco, features luxury villas, seafront apartments, and exclusive estates that attract international buyers seeking high-end living.
• Strong Rental Potential: With over 12 million tourists annually, properties in Cannes, Antibes, and Nice achieve high seasonal rental yields (6–12% annually), particularly for seafront apartments and villas with pools.
• Unmatched Accessibility: Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (the third busiest in France), TGV connections to Paris (5.5 hours), and its proximity to Monaco and Italy.
• Mediterranean Climate: Enjoy over 300 days of sunshine yearly, mild winters, and hot summers (ranging from 28–32°C).
• Diverse Lifestyle: From glamorous beach clubs in Saint-Tropez to quaint Provençal villages in the countryside, the region combines cosmopolitan vibes with rustic appeals.

If you are looking for a property in Alpes-Maritimes, please get in touch to discuss your search criteria.