A last minute choice due to change of travel plans, chose Hotel de La Mer because of its location in the most iconic square of Nice, easy to reach via tram from the airport & a very reasonable room rate.
Have stayed in a dozen hotels in Nice over the years: this was a surprise: 95% a good surprise.
Read to the end for the one small caveat.
The location is outstanding. Literally two blocks from the Promenade des Anglais & pix by the hotel are accurate: you ARE right at the Apollo fountain.
Windows well soundproofed, enjoy the fountain sounds with them open, dead quite when they're closed.
The room was comfortablly laid out, nicely done, a bit small, bed & bedding were good, closet decent size, WC was modern & nice, good toiletries.
A hot water kettle with teas & coffees in the room.
We were welcomed by staff, given our room an hour early, and offered tea, coffee, a croissant.
The caveat: entering the hotel was a bit off-putting. The main hall serves the entire building not just the two dozen rooms of this hotel which is on the first flight up from street level.
Unfortunately the entry hall and staircase are dim.
You'll have to carry luggage up the first flight: however both when on arrival & departure staff offered to help carry luggage. (On booking they ask for an arrival time to be ready to help!)
Would I stay here again? Absolutely.
Guessing 2/3 the rooms face Place Massena but not all.
You DEF want a room facing the square: iconic view such an absolute pleasure.