It was impossible to spend a weekend on the French Riviera without stopping at Èze. Perched on a hill, this medieval village overlooks the Mediterranean Sea and offers incredible views. Even if Èze has not yet been elected by the association The Most Beautiful Villages of France is a real favorite for us. It must be said that Èze has it all. Thethe village is rich in history and culture, with stone buildings and cobbled streets that transport visitors back in time. After having strolled for a long time in the steep alleys of the perched village, observed the view from the top of the hill at 428 meters above sea level, you can reach the beach (Èze Bord de Mer) in less than an hour by a hiking trail. Discover in this article what to do and what to see in Èze.
If you want to quickly access the different points of our article, here is the summary:
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How to reach Eze Village?
Located between Nice and Monaco, it is easy to get to Èze Village by taking the D6007, also called the Middle Corniche. To reach Èze Bord de Mer, simply take the D6098 (Basse Corniche) and to access the Col d'Èze take the D2564 (Grande Corniche).
In the car: this is the black point when we visit the village since the places are very limited. We were lucky, we were able to park in the small parking lot next to the Tourist Office at the entrance to the village. If there are no more places, go to the Oppidum car park at the Col d’Èze. Open from 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., it will cost you €6 a day. A shuttle connects the car park to the historic center every 20 minutes.
Practical information: Keep your parking ticket carefully since it will allow you to have free entry per car to the Exotic Garden of Èze.
By bus: from Nice city center , you can reach Èze Village by bus n°82. From Beaulieu-sur-Mer, get on the bus n°83. You can go to the Lignes d'Azur website, to get the correct route from where you are.
When is the best time of year to visit Eze?
The best time to visit Eze is spring or fall, when temperatures are more pleasant and crowds are fewer. Summer can be very hot and crowded with tourists, while winter can be rainy and some tourist sites may be closed. Spring and autumn therefore offer a perfect balance between pleasant weather and calm.
What to do in Èze?
Discover the historic center
This is one of our favorite moments during our trip to Èze. To access the village, you will pass the fortified double gate (the postern) from the 14th century. You can then stroll through the small cobbled streets which are steeped in history but which are also full of charm. Don't miss the parish church, the Sainte-Croix chapel and the Place du Planet with its Italian fountain from the 1930s. To make the pleasure last, we settled on the terrace of a small restaurant in one of the small streets.
Practical information: with the many steps, access to the old town is difficult with a stroller. We recommend using a baby carrier.
Explore the exotic garden of Èze
The exotic garden is a must visit when visiting Èze. There are waterfalls, sculptures and fountains, Mediterranean plants but also several species of cacti. Perched above the village, it offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. Despite the sun in summer, the visit to the garden remains very pleasant since there are many shady places. You will also find water points to refresh yourself. If you are looking for spectacular views of the Côte d'Azur, the exotic garden of Èze will satisfy you.
Practical info : if you want to visit the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, buy a combined ticket to pay less.
Visit the Fragonnard perfumery
Founded in 1926 by the former Parisian notary Eugène Fuchs, the Fragonard perfumery is one of the oldest in Grasse. You can visit the product manufacturing plant, which was inaugurated in 1968, and discover their secrets during your day in Èze. Modernism is particularly emphasized in this perfumery factory. You will also visit the cosmetics laboratory, where body care products are developed.
Practical info: you can book your free guided tour directly on the internet.
Visit the Galimard factory
Located a few steps from the city center of Èze, this factory is one of the oldest perfumeries in the region, with more than 260 years of history. During a guided tour of the factory, you will discover all the stages of the creation of a perfume, from the selection of the ingredients to the bottling. The visit is free and lasts 45 minutes. You can also participate in a perfume creation workshop, where you can create your own unique fragrance. After this fun visit, don't miss the factory shop, where you can buy perfumes and skin care products, all locally made and at factory prices.
Hike the Nietzsche Trail
This hiking trail offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and surrounding mountains. Access to the trail is right next to the entrance to Goat Castle 'Gold. The hike takes about 1.5 hours and follows the path that the famous German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche took to find inspiration. The landscapes he crossed are simply breathtaking. The hike is considered easy, even for beginners. There are plenty of places to rest and enjoy the view along the way. The trail is open year-round, but spring and fall are the best times to do it, when temperatures are cooler.
Where to eat in Èze?
If you are looking for an exceptional dining experience, do not miss The Tavern of Yesteryear. This historic establishment in the old town offers top quality traditional cuisine, tasty dishes and a fine selection of local wines.
If you are looking for a high-level dining experience, go to Chateau Eza. The restaurant has one star in the Michelin Guide and offers magnificent views of the Mediterranean.
If you want to enjoy an exceptional panoramic view while tasting high quality French cuisine, the restaurant La Chèvre d'Or is made for you.
Where to sleep in Èze?
If you are looking for a romantic place to spend the night, do not miss The Terraces of Eze. This charming hotel offers elegant rooms with a view of the sea and the surrounding mountains. The rooms are air-conditioned and equipped with all modern conveniences. The hotel also has a beautiful outdoor swimming pool, jacuzzi and spa to help you relax and rejuvenate after a busy day.
Do not hesitate to check the availability of all accommodation in Èze here:
What to see around Èze?
La Turbie : visiting the village is very pleasant but if you are passing through the Côte d'Azur, go at more than 1150 meters above sea level, at
Monaco : known for its pier, casino and luxury stores, discover the Prince's Palace of Monaco, home to the royal family, as well as the famous Monte-Carlo Casino. It is also possible to visit the Oceanographic of Monaco and the exotic garden.
Menton : famous for its lemon festival, which takes place every year in February. Visitors can also visit the old town of Menton, with its cobbled streets and colorful buildings, as well as the Jean Cocteau Museum, which displays the works of the French artist. Discover our article on What to do and what see in Menton?
Nice : famous for its Promenade des Anglais, its old town and its flower market. Stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, visit the Matisse museum or the Russian Orthodox cathedral. The old town is also a must-see with its narrow streets, restaurants and shops. Discover our article on What to do in Nice?
Villefranche-sur-Mer : it is an ideal place to relax and enjoy the beach, the sea and the sun. Explore the old town, with its narrow streets and colorful buildings, or visit the Citadelle Saint-Elme, which offers a panoramic view over the bay of Villefranche.
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