A global leader in luxury hospitality has unveiled its latest gem nestled below Gare Thiers and Avenue Jean Médecin. The DoubleTree by Hilton Nice Centre Iconic, a prestigious four-star establishment, now occupies what Mayor Christian Estrosi fondly calls the "Pyramid of Louvre of Nice". The official inauguration ceremony of this new hotel was held tonight, graced by Mayor Estrosi, General Manager Maxime Salembier, and Philippe Journo, President of La Compagnie de Phalsbourg, the visionary force behind this glass-clad, futuristic design crafted by renowned architect Daniel Libeskind.
Already home to a bustling array of commercial outlets including eateries and a fashion boutique, the "Diamond" will soon house two schools and a sprawling 1500-square-meter sports complex, the Metropolitan Sport Club & Spa, set to open by the upcoming academic term. "Cities evolve and leave their mark by constructing buildings of their time, and this location has swiftly captured the hearts of the people of Nice," remarked Philippe Journo, expressing gratitude to Mayor Estrosi for his steadfast support. Mayor Estrosi added, "The juxtaposition of Iconic with the Hausmannian station enhances the beauty of both, creating an aesthetically remarkable ensemble in this historic 19th-century district."
Strategic Investment and Urban Renaissance
Featuring 105 rooms and suites spread across four floors, Hilton Hotel offers unparalleled amenities, exceptional soundproofing, and breathtaking views of neighboring structures, the station, and its lively plaza. Located in a previously neglected historic area, recent years have seen a transformative urban renaissance with extensive refurbishments of nearby streets such as Rue de Suisse, Rue d'Italie, Rue d'Angleterre, Rue Trachel, and Square Colonel Jean Pierre. "Every euro of public investment should yield eight cents of private investment," emphasized Mayor Estrosi. "Our city beautification efforts are yielding returns with commitments from major investors poised for future growth."
Expanding Upscale Hospitality
Ranked as the third largest global real estate group with a loyal base of 200 million patrons, Hilton contributes to the upscale accommodation that defines Nice's tourism strategy and amplifies its allure. "This marks our 30th establishment in France and our first in Nice," noted General Manager Maxime Salembier. "We are thrilled to be part of such a vibrant city, surrounded by appealing communal spaces." Hilton's 105 rooms are part of an ambitious plan to add 2,000 additional four and five-star rooms and palaces in Nice over the next three years, enhancing capacity for major sporting and cultural events to attract both business and leisure travelers.
Flourishing Tourism
This new addition underlines the robust state of Nice's tourism industry, averaging 10 million visitors annually and generating €6.5 million from overnight stays. Since January, hotel occupancy rates have shown a steady increase, set to soar with the upcoming summer events, including the Etape du Tour and the historic arrival of the Grande Boucle in Nice in two weeks. "The Diamond section below Iconic will illuminate in yellow for the Tour de France and in blue, white, and red for Bastille Day on July 14th," revealed Philippe Journo, President of La Compagnie de Phalsbourg.
In September, Hilton Hotel will unveil a rooftop seafood restaurant offering unparalleled views of Tour Bellanda and the bell tower of Notre-Dame basilica, promising an unforgettable dining experience for visitors.
