A pinnacle of international luxury hospitality has opened its doors below Gare Thiers and Avenue Jean Médecin. The Double Tree by Hilton Nice Centre Iconic, a four-star hotel, now resides in what Nice's mayor, Christian Estrosi, has dubbed the "Pyramid of Louvre of Nice". The official inauguration of this new hotel took place tonight, attended by its general manager, Maxime Salembier, and Philippe Journo, President of La Compagnie de Phalsbourg, which won the 2016 project bid from the Métropole to build this glass-clad, futuristic design by renowned American architect Daniel Libeskind.
This "Diamond" already houses a dozen commercial outlets including dining venues and a fashion store, and will soon welcome two schools and a 1500-square-meter sports facility, the Metropolitan Sport Club & Spa, by the next academic term. "We know that when a city aims to evolve and make its mark on its era, it must construct buildings that embody its time, as seen here with this place quickly embraced by the people of Nice," noted Philippe Journo, thanking the mayor for his trust. "The Hausmannian station would not be as beautiful without Iconic beside it, and Iconic is enhanced by the Hausmannian station, creating this absolutely fantastic aesthetic at the heart of this unique architectural ensemble in this 19th-century historic district," Christian Estrosi elaborated.
Strategic Investment and Urban Renewal
The Hilton Hotel, offering 105 rooms and suites across four floors, boasts state-of-the-art amenities, unmatched sound isolation, and stunning views of neighboring buildings, the station, and its rooftop. Situated in a previously deteriorated historic quarter, recent years have seen significant urban renewal efforts including the renovation and requalification of nearby streets such as Rue de Suisse, Rue d'Italie, Rue d'Angleterre, Rue Trachel, and Square Colonel Jean Pierre. "This is a strategic choice because I believe every euro of public money invested should generate eight cents of private investment," justified Christian Estrosi. "Our city beautification efforts are paying off with the commitment of major investors who will reap future returns."
Expanding High-End Hospitality
Ranked as the third largest real estate group globally with 200 million loyal patrons, Hilton contributes to the upscale accommodation that epitomizes Nice's tourism policy and enhances its allure. "This marks our 30th establishment in France but the first in Nice," specified General Manager Maxime Salembier. "We are pleased to establish ourselves in such a dynamic city, amidst attractive communal spaces." Hilton's 105 rooms are part of 2,000 additional four and five-star rooms and palaces set to open in Nice over the next three years, enabling operators to host major sporting and cultural events, appealing to both business and leisure travelers.
Thriving Tourism
This new offering symbolizes the robust health of Nice's tourism sector, averaging 10 million visitors annually and generating €6.5 million in overnight stays. Since January, hotel occupancy rates have seen a steady increase, expected to escalate further due to numerous summer events including the Etape du Tour this weekend and the historic arrival of the Grande Boucle in Nice in 15 days. "The Diamond section beneath Iconic will be lit in yellow for the Tour de France's arrival and in blue, white, and red for Bastille Day on July 14th," revealed Philippe Journo, President of La Compagnie de Phalsbourg.
Come September, Hilton Hotel will unveil a top-floor seafood restaurant offering visitors an unprecedented view of Tour Bellanda and the basilica Notre-Dame's bell tower, promising an unforgettable culinary experience.