Alpes-Maritimes

Alpes-Maritimes is an administrative unit in southeastern France that runs from the Mediterranean shore inland to the southern Alpine ranges. The area covers urban centers along the coast, smaller towns in the middle hills, and mountain villages at higher elevations.

The territory became part of France in 1860 after the County of Nice was transferred through a political agreement between Sardinia and the French Empire. Before that, the region belonged to the House of Savoy for centuries and had strong Italian-speaking ties.

The department hosts major international events including the Cannes Film Festival and Nice Carnival, while maintaining traditional Provençal customs and Mediterranean gastronomy.

The area is split into two administrative circles centered in Nice and Grasse, with Nice serving as the main hub for transport links and public services. Travelers will find access to both coastal towns and mountain areas, each offering different conditions depending on the season.

The boundary between sea and mountains lies so close here that on some winter days snow falls in the peaks while palm trees still grow down by the shore. This quick shift in landscape shapes the entire area and influences vegetation and climate within a short distance.

Location: Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur

Inception: June 23, 1860

Capital city: Nice

Reference: 06

Shares border with: Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, Var, Piedmont, Liguria, Province of Cuneo, Province of Imperia

Website: https://alpes-maritimes.gouv.fr

GPS coordinates: 43.83333,7.16667

Latest update: December 12, 2025 22:01