If you haven't been to Eze, it's time it was on your list.
One of my absolute favourite places to visit when I stay in Villefranche sur Mer is the perched hilltop village of Eze. This beautiful village dates back to the middle ages and clings impressively to the mountainside above the Mediterranean Sea, between St Jean Cap Ferrat and Monaco. Panoramic views, ancient façades, and an unbelievable attention to detail are some of the most memorable features of this lovely village.
Drive along the Moyenne Corniche and enjoy spectacular scenery.
The first time I visited Eze, I arrived on the bus from Villefranche, having been treated to exceptional views of the magnificent coastline of the Côte d’Azur as the Moyenne Corniche winds around the rocky outcrops above St Jean Cap Ferrat, Beaulieu sûr Mer, and Eze sûr Mer.
This is worth the trip alone.
It is literally like something out of a movie, and sets the scene for the extraordinary experience about to come. I actually recommend the bus, because it can be tricky to find a carpark near Eze (go early) plus you won’t miss the view because, happily, you’re not at the wheel.
Unless, of course, you can find some uber-cute guy with a sports car to get you there … One day I'll do that drive in a convertible - with a reliable *someone else* at the wheel. In the meantime, Eze features on my 10-day French Riviera Tour where our wonderful driver, Loïc, captains the vehicle.
Medieval architecture and stunning details give Eze its universal appeal.
Walk up from the bus stop in Eze. Even if you drive, it's obvious where you need to pull over and park your car. Cross the street, up past some lovely shops, a delightful refreshment spot, as well as the Tourist Information Centre.
Up the steps, dear. It is a bit of a climb. (Note: terrain includes steps and ancient cobblestones, remarkably well-laid, but do wear comfortable shoes).
Immediately, the architecture is enthralling. Centuries-old stonework is set off beautifully by sublime detailing. Exquisite wrought-iron street lamps hang everywhere, pastel shutters gleam in the morning sunshine, and hints of history abound - in carvings, plaques, and dedications to characters from the past.
There are no cars allowed within the precinct, so – especially if you get there early – the silence is tangible. Only the sea at times, a bird, footfalls ... the sound of yourself moving through a sacred space.
What bliss it is to stroll quietly along the slender passages, musing over the lives of the lucky people who dwell in this precious place. There is something extraordinary to see at every turn, some delightful detail to inspire the creative mind, like stepping back into a (beautifully cared-for) historical timeline.
If you are a shopper, you won’t be disappointed with Eze.
The shops and galleries in Eze offer beautiful, quality goods to tempt you. Art, clothing, homewares, and ateliers are dotted along the winding streets amongst closed doors - which lead to other, private lives. Colourful displays, delightful windows, and desirable things call you into the unique shops, some of which are hidden in tiny basements within the extraordinary buildings. There is so much history here...
I'm not a shopper. I was born in Scotland but have lived most of my life in Australia. Je suis né en Ecosse mais j'ai vécu la plus grande partie de ma vie en Australie. At least, I think that's how it goes. Makes me inclined to being a bit frugal ...
In my soul, however, I am a Francophile.
I prefer to travel light. I savour getting organised before I go. Or, 'organized' as my American friends would spell it. X
I love to take the opportunity to comb through my possessions and simplify more. I love to let things go.
Intentional living, with a touch of cashmere.
Read more about me ...
Enjoy incredible views from the Chateau Eza
I visited the Château Éza, an outstanding 5-star hotel in Eze, offering only 14 rooms and suites, many of which have private balconies with spectacular views of the Mediterranean for your personal enjoyment. In particular, there is a beautiful terrace where mere mortals (like you and I) can go and enjoy coffee, croissants, lunch, or a superb dinner in their divine restaurant.
Be prepared with your credit card, however. Coffee and croissants cost me €18. The coffee is reasonable (as a fussy latte drinker myself), but les petits croissants were superbe, too many for me, several different types. Of course, we have morning tea here on my French Riviera Tour.
And, it's all about the view. Because you're worth it. X
EXPERIENCE THE WONDER OF THE JARDIN EXOTIQUE
Literally the pinnacle of the Eze experience is Le Jardin Exotique, located at the very top of the village in the ruins of the original castle walls.
The chateau dates back to the 12th century, however local people (the Èzasques) have occupied this area since 220BC. The gardens showcase a wonderful variety of exotic succulents and xerophytes from around the world, as well as a variety of local species. Enjoy the most stunning views you’ll see anywhere on the coast and experience the serenity and beautiful sculptures as you meander along the pathways. Just beautiful!
Comme toujours, my advice is to go early.
I like to arrive very early (haven’t made it at sunrise yet, but – oh! – what a spectacle that would be). Everyone else starts arriving at 10:30, and you will be tout seul no more…
HOW TO GET THERE
By Bus
There are two bus routes from Nice to Eze. No.112 and No.82, though on Sundays and holidays only the No.82 runs on a very limited schedule. Don't catch the No. 100 - which goes to Èze sûr Mer - unles you fancy a hike up the mountainside.
Le Jardin Exotique is open:
January, February, March, November, December: from 9am to 4.30pm
April, May, June, October: from 9am to 6.30pm
July, August, September: from 9am to 7.30pm
Admission is between €4 - €6, depending upon the time of year, with group discounts available. Children under 12 are free.
Comments 31
My wife and I visited Eze on June 16th, 2023. We had never been to Europe before (We live in Tennessee in the US) and spent a month working our way from Rome to Dublin via Florence and Lake Como and Nice and Paris and London.
While spending a week in Nice we took the bus to Eze (experience all in itself!) and we were not prepared for the beauty and wonder of what we would experience. Pictures just do not represent the magic and awesomeness that Eze has to offer.
Eze was probably the highlight of our entire month in Europe!!!!
Quick Side Note……We decided not to take the bus back to Nice and instead hike the Nietzsche Trail down to the train station on the coast. Unless you are a Mountain Goat or in great shape and have plenty of water…..I can’t recommend. With that being said it was AMAZING!!!!!
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Bonjour Eddie
What an interesting tale and I was really attentive to what you said about the trail down to Eze-sur-Mer. I’ve thought about it in the past (some people actually go UP it!) but I’m very happy that you have given me the thumbs up to think twice! I’m 63 and definitely no mountain goat 🙂 Bonne journee a vous!
Have you more info on Eze?
Author
Bonjour Lizzy … I don’t have any more informaation about Eze, just that it is wonderful to visit there. A quick Google search will reveal lots more info. Bonne chance! X
Please add me to your newsletter
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Done et merci. A bientot 🙂
I would love to be on your email list. I will be in Nice May of 2024. I am hoping to plan some day trips such as Exe, Grasse and Villefranche. I love your site.
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Thanks so much for your kind words! I have added you to my email list and you’ll hear from me as soon as I have some news 🙂
Going to Nice and St Tropez in late May, early June.
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Oh super! Lucky you! You’re going to have a wonderful time. XX
Love this article ! Will you add me to your website please?
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Bonjour Terri
I just saw your comment on my website and thought that I would check…did you want me to add you to my mailing list? You said ‘add me to the website’ and I just wanted to check…
Please add me to your email list. We will be there the last week in July, the 22-31st. So far, your website has been great information for us.
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Bonjour Karen, I have added you to my mailing list and I’m thrilled to hear that my content has been useful to you. Merci, Louise.
Hello can you tell me where we can park our car? thanks!
Author
Hey Val. Parkeing isn’t always easy so I suggest you do a bit of research. Here is a place to start: https://www.tripadvisor.com.au/FAQ_Answers-g187222-d3670810-t7742507-We_will_be_traveling_by_car_is_parking_easy_in.html
Bon Jour,
My husband, 21 year old daughter & I will be in Nice in May and this town has been on my radar for awhile. I appreciate all of your insight and look forward to a spectacular time exploring all that the South of France has to offer.
Author
Oh, how lovely for you, especially to travel as a family. I wish you a wonderful time. XX
Je voudrais visiter Eze, mais je préférerais y rester pendant deux ou trois semaines. Le calme et la beauté de cet endroit m’attire comme un aimant.
Author
Bonjour Jacquelyn. Je suis tout à fait d’accord, mais c’est devenu très cher de rester à Eze donc j’adore rester à Villefranche, Nice ou Antibes. Vous avez beaucoup de chance si vous pouvez y rester – j’espère que vous le pourrez. XX
Hi Louisa,
Such a lovely piece. I must say that I am completely enamoured. What brought me here is an Insta post on Eze, which intrigued me. That led me to looking up this quaint French town on www and I meandered onto your lovely website. Though I don’t know French, I love to discover little gems of the world and plan to travel there someday soon. Waiting for more such articles that will keep your readers engrossed and enlightened.
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Bonjour Jayshree, thank you for your kind words. I love getting such feedback about my site, which I built myself and still find very pretty. I do hope that you get to visit Eze one day, you will LOVE it! XX
Hi
Love your site, please add me to your mailing list, thank you
Darren
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Important note for people planning to take the #82 bus or #112 bus from Nice to Eze and its medieval village: Check the online map for the departure point. There are no directions at the Vauban tram station so here are directions: Starting at the tram line 1 Vauban stop, walk west past the tram station to Rue Jules et Aline Avigdor (one lane, one way – no street sign). Follow the lane south. You will come to an old tunnel (very short) called Gare Routiere. Beside the tunnel entrance is a map showing the terminal’s bus stops. At the other end of the tunnel are the bus stops. There is also a map on the outside of the small information building (closes for lunch). The sign for #82 is on the roof of the bus shelter in the sea of bus stops. You can also check the map at lignesdazur.com. Beware that Google Maps street view is out of date. Good luck. BTW, the trip was well worth it. Incredible botanical jardin where you wouldn’t expect to find one – and the view! Posted 2022 Mar 9 by a tourist from Canada..
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Dear William, merci beaucoup for this detailed guide on how to navigate the transport system to Eze. Much appreciated … Louise.
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Louise, this is a FABULOUS article on Eze. Magnifique!
Author
Wow! That’s amazing that you commented now, Patricia. I value your opinion *so much. At the same time I have published this post probably 6 or 8 times over the years, and I worry that I’m saturating my story with it. I’m so happy to hear you offer such a thoughtful comment. I’m proud to say, if you look up Eze, I may come up on the front page! Same for ‘Francophile’. Yay! I so appreciate your support and look forward to meeting you soon 🙂
The music is beautiful as well as very relaxing and soothing. Could you tell me what music you played during this presentation?
Author
Thank you so much for your kind comment, Cheryl. The music is from an Australian duet called ‘Baby et Lulu. I LOVE them! Glad you do too! Find that song at: https://www.babyetlulu.com.au/music This song is called ‘Une Histoire de Plage’ XX