From the mid-18th century, Nice began captivating an increasing number of aristocratic and upper-class families, especially the British, who established a tradition of spending winters there. In 1832, under the Kingdom of Sardinia, the city launched the “Consiglio d’Ornato,” devising an ambitious city planning scheme and architectural standards to charm its affluent visitors. The once modest "Camin dei Ingles," a charming coastal path forged by British winter travelers in 1824, evolved into the illustrious Promenade des Anglais.

After Nice's transition to French rule in 1860 and its connection to the European rail network, the city experienced a flood of international winter tourists. This influx spurred the expansion of vibrant new districts beyond the medieval old town. The rich tapestry of cultural influences brought by these visitors, coupled with a keen embrace of the favorable climate and stunning coastal views, has profoundly shaped the city's urban fabric and eclectic architectural styles, solidifying Nice’s status as a cosmopolitan winter resort.