Travel Guide to Èze, France

Ra's Travel Guide to Èze

A hidden gem in the French Riviera; complete travel guide to Eze.

Table of Contents

While visiting a friend in Antibes, I had the opportunity to take a day trip to Èze, which is the hidden gem in the French Rivera. Èze is composed of three main sections, the Upper Corniche, the Old Village, and the Sea Side. To get to the Old Village from the Sea Side (the location of the train station), you will have to hike the Nietzsche de la Mer. Cars are able to drive up the majority of the mountain, but are not allowed within the old village. Use this travel guide to help plan or navigate your trip to Eze!

Getting to Èze, France: Transportation Options and Travel Tips

Traveling to Èze is an exciting and scenic journey that can be achieved through various means of transportation. If you're arriving from a distant location, the most common way to reach Èze is by flying into Nice Côte d'Azur Airport, which is well-connected to major cities around the world. From the airport, you can take a taxi or rent a car to drive to Èze, which is approximately a 30-minute drive away. Alternatively, you can also take public transportation, such as buses or trains, which run regularly between Nice and Èze. The train journey offers stunning views of the French Riviera coastline, making it a picturesque and enjoyable ride.

Bus: Bus routes #82 and #112 from Nice will take you to the Old Village. Note, route #82 only runs on Sundays and holidays.

Train: Take the Monaco bound train from Nice, for a short 15 minute trip. The train will arrive at the Sea Side station.

Car: Drive on the Moyenne Corniche road to reach Èze in around 20 minutes

Consider checking on Rome2rio, to compare travel methods and prices.

Where to Stay in Èze, France?

Èze offers a range of charming accommodations that cater to different preferences and budgets. For a luxurious and unforgettable experience, consider staying in one of the exquisite boutique hotels or luxury resorts perched on the hills, providing stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. These accommodations often boast lavish amenities, including spa facilities and infinity pools, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and indulgence. If you're seeking a more authentic and intimate stay, the medieval village itself features enchanting guesthouses and charming bed and breakfasts that exude traditional French charm. Staying within the village allows you to immerse yourself in the historic atmosphere and enjoy the quaint cobblestone streets and picturesque squares.

Whichever option you choose, the unique beauty and tranquility of Èze will surely leave you with unforgettable memories of your stay on the stunning French Riviera. Continue below in this travel guide to learn what to do in Eze.

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Getting Around Èze, France

Car

In Èze, you can explore the hilly terrain and drive through the three main sections of the town, including the medieval village, with convenient parking areas. While Uber is available in major cities across France, it may be less accessible in Èze due to its smaller size, especially outside peak tourist seasons.

Bus

For a convenient way to reach the Old Village atop the hills from the Sea Side, there is a bus line that saves you from a challenging hike, allowing you to save time and energy while enjoying the medieval charm of Èze.

Taxi

Taxis in Èze provide a convenient and comfortable way to navigate the town, especially for those who prefer not to drive or walk. You can find taxi stands located conveniently around Èze, making it easy to catch a cab whenever needed. If you're staying at a hotel in the area, the front desk can also assist you in scheduling a taxi in advance, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free journey.

Walking

Embrace the enchanting ambiance of Èze by strolling through its picturesque streets, as walking is the preferred and most enjoyable method of transportation, with sidewalks conveniently spread throughout the town.

What to Do in Èze, France?

Hike Nietzsche Path

This hike is for the adventurer. Embark on a 427 meter-high hike up a narrow path, originally used as a mule path. The entire hike will take about 5 hours round trip, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes. In addition to burning a lot of calories, you will be met with breath-taking views. My memory of Èze would not be the same, if I did not take the hike up and down the mountain.

Medieval Village

Located at the top of the mountain in the Old Village section of Èze, this small medieval village is filled with small boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, and more. Wander along the cobblestone paths taking in the scenic views, and beautiful floral.

Jardin Botanique d’Èze

This beautiful garden contains three different layers, connected to the chateau in the medieval village, filled with exotic plants, sculptures, and complemented with amazing views. Make sure to check their website to ensure that the garden is open before visiting, since it is closed at certain points during the off-peak of tourist season.

Fragonard Perfume Factory

Visit the famous French Perfume factory and view the entire perfume process from generating the scent, all the way to bottling. Make sure to purchase perfume as a souvenir since this perfume cannot be purchased anywhere else except in France.

Walk the Cobblestoned Paths

Explore all three sections of Èze, walking along the meandering cobblestone pathways. Discover beautiful views, taking photos, and enjoying the medieval architecture.

Èze Sur Mer Beach

Located right next to the train station, this small beach is perfect for relaxing in the sun rays, and swimming in the crystal clear blue waters.

Art Galleries

Within the Old Village are a few art galleries, open for viewing, displaying local artists’ work. These galleries tend to often be free for viewing, selling their pieces.

Go Shopping

Many of the businesses in the medieval village have been there for multiple generations and rely on tourism to stay in business. When shopping for souvenirs, consider shopping local rather than the mass-produced souvenir gifts.

My ultimate favorite souvenir I purchased was from Atelier, an art gallery and shop by the local artist, Michel N Gebard. Artist Michel, creates unique one-of-a-kind pieces right in the studio. When walking around his shop, I had the pleasure of speaking with him about his pieces and learning about his history. Monsieur Gebard, is a third generation artist, whose family has been operating the studio in the medieval village for many generations. I bought a few paintings for my family and friends and purchased a unique piece on a roof tile of Èze.

Èze's captivating beauty, rich history, and breathtaking views make it a must-visit destination on the French Riviera, promising an enchanting experience for all travelers! Use this travel guide to Eze to maximize your experience.

Travel Tip

If you’re feeling adventurous and take the Nietzsche trail to the top of Old Village, don’t be fooled by the gates on the trail on the Sea Side. The path may seem closed, but the gates are part of a house, not the trail.