Guide to Alpes-Maritimes & Property in Department 06

Situated in southeastern France, Alpes-Maritimes (department 06) is a favoured area in the PACA region, at the heart of the French Riviera. It offers visitors and residents a wide variety of attractions, recreational activities, culture, and traditions. Bordered by the Var, Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, Italy, Monaco, and the Mediterranean Sea, this region is part of the Côte d’Azur, commonly called the Riviera, and is renowned for its mild climate, with over 300 days of sunshine annually. The diverse terrain occasionally brings thunderstorms that light up the skies over some of its more exposed zones.…

History and Culture on the Riviera

The Alpes-Maritimes region offers a wealth of architectural and cultural heritage to discover. The Mediterranean Sea and its beaches provide opportunities for relaxation, water sports, or exploring the mountains for peaceful walks and outdoor activities.

Inland, the landscape features scenic countryside and peaks that hide charming villages, while the stunning scenery extends into Mercantour National Park, which covers much of the northern Alpes-Maritimes.

To experience the authentic charm of this Provencal area, we recommend visiting the well-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 France's largest cities, this popular destination attracts 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 arrive at Nice airport, you'll first be captivated by the iconic, stunning curve of the Bay of Angels—and that's just the start! The charming city boasts fascinating museums, historic landmarks, shops, and seaside eateries.

Overall, the French Riviera is an ideal destination for relaxation and retirement, and Nice is no exception; as the second most popular city in France after Paris, you’ll always find something to do.

Explore Further Around Nice

Along the Riviera, Nice’s neighbours include Cannes, Antibes, Juan-les-Pins, and Menton, each with its unique local culture, lifestyle, and climate, making this region special. While this part of France is best known for its seaside resorts, exploring further shows that the Alpes-Maritimes offer much more than the Riviera. Notable towns and villages like Grasse, Coaraze, and Gourdon provide stunning views of valleys, olive groves, and the Mediterranean coast.

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 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, famous for luxury seafront apartments and premium villas, many with 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.

Property Styles in the Department

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 & Trends in Alpes-Maritimes in 2026

Houses: the average price per sq. metre: €5,318 (April 2026)
Apartments: average price per sq. metre: €5,745 (April 2026)
Price trends: -3% over the last 12 months, +22% over the last 5 years (Le Figaro - April 2026)

House Prices in the Main Towns of Alpes-Maritimes in 2026

Average House Price in Nice: €6,177 per sq. metre (April 2026)
Average House Price in Cannes: €7,111 per sq. metre (April 2026)
Average House Price in Antibes: €6,318 per sq. metre (April 2026)
Average House Price in Grasse: €4,266 per sq. metre (April 2026)
Average House Price in Le Cannet: €5,400 per sq. metre (April 2026)

(source: Le Figaro Immobilier)

Looking to Buy a 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, 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 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 appeal.

Browse our Properties for Sale in Alpes-Maritimes

Explore our selection of villas, holiday homes, luxury apartments and country properties for sale in the Alpes-Maritimes area of the Riviera. These real estate listings are updated daily by our trusted English-speaking local agents. Please contact us to arrange property visits or discuss your search criteria.