Èze Travel Guide: Best Things to Do in the French Riviera’s Most Charming Hilltop Village

Posted on April 22, 2025 | Julie J. |

If you’ve ever daydreamed about wandering through a hilltop village straight out of a fairytale, Èze is your spot. Nestled high above the French Riviera between Nice and Monaco, this tiny medieval village packs a serious punch with its jaw-dropping views, winding cobbled lanes, and stone buildings overflowing with flowers.

It’s the kind of place that makes you slow down, breathe in the sea air, and feel like you’ve stepped into another century (with better gelato).

I visited as a day trip from Nice with a stop in Villefranche-sur-Mer on the way and loved it. It was back in March and was quite crowded already. I can’t imagine what it’s like in the summertime, so if you want to avoid the summer crowds, try to go early in the morning (or during the off-season).

I spent around 2-3 hours visiting the village, then hiked down the Nietzsche Path. From the bottom, you can catch a train back to Nice (or onto Monaco or Menton) after enjoying the sea views.

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Practical Tips for Visiting Èze

How to Get There

Èze is easy to reach from the French Riviera. If you’re staying in Nice, hop on bus #82 or #112 (about 30–40 minutes) from the Vauban bus station, or take a train to Èze-sur-Mer. Just note: the train station is down by the coast, while the famous medieval village is way up the hill. You’ll need to hike up the Nietzsche Path (a steep 45–60 minute walk) or grab a quick taxi or bus ride to the top.

If you’re driving, there’s limited parking near the entrance of the village—arrive early to snag a spot, especially in summer.

Best Time to Visit

Spring (April to June) and early fall (September to October) are ideal—think warm sun, blooming flowers, and fewer crowds. Summer is stunning but very busy (and hot), so go early in the morning if you’re visiting then. In winter, the village is much quieter, but some shops and restaurants may be closed.

Things to Know Before You Go

Wear comfy shoes—the cobbled streets are beautiful but not stiletto-friendly.
Èze is mostly pedestrian, and there are lots of stairs and uneven paths. It’s not ideal for strollers or anyone with limited mobility.
Bring water and sunscreen, especially if you’re walking up from the train station.
The village is tiny and best explored at a slow pace. Half a day is plenty unless you’re settling in for lunch with a view.

Don’t Forget Your Camera

This place is all about the views—on clear days, you can see all the way to Saint-Tropez. The Exotic Garden (Jardin Exotique d’Èze) offers some of the best panoramic shots on the Riviera.

Make a Day of It: Other Nearby Stops

Èze is beautiful, but it’s also tiny—so if you’re planning a day trip, you’ll likely have time to explore more of the stunning Côte d’Azur. A classic combo is to pair Èze with Villefranche-sur-Mer, a colorful seaside town perfect for a stroll along the promenade and a lazy lunch by the water.

If you’re up for some glam, Monaco is just a short hop away—walk the marina, visit the Oceanographic Museum, or splurge at the Monte Carlo Casino.

For something more relaxed, head to Beaulieu-sur-Mer, where you can visit the Villa Kérylos or dip your toes in the sea. All of these spots are within 20–30 minutes of Èze by car, bus, or train, making it easy to string together a perfect Côte d’Azur day.

Best Things to Do in Èze

Wander the Medieval Village

The main draw of Èze is Èze itself. This clifftop village is a real-life fairytale with narrow cobbled streets, ivy-covered stone houses, and endless little alleyways to explore. There’s no big “main square”—just winding paths that reveal hidden corners, cute boutiques, and art galleries around every turn.

Visit the Jardin Exotique d’Èze

At the very top of the village, you’ll find the Exotic Garden—a magical spot filled with cacti, succulents, and statues, all perched on a cliff 400+ meters above the sea. The views? Unreal. It’s the kind of place where you’ll take 17 photos, delete none. Entry costs a few euros and it’s totally worth it.

Tour the Fragonard Perfume Factory

Èze is home to one of the Fragonard perfume factories, and you can take a free guided tour to learn how fragrances are made—from flower to flacon. Even if you’re not a perfume person, it’s fascinating, and there’s a lovely shop at the end where you can pick up souvenirs that smell very French Riviera.

Hike the Nietzsche Path

Named after philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche—who supposedly hiked here often and got some serious thinking done—the Chemin de Nietzsche links Èze village to Èze-sur-Mer down on the coast. It’s steep and rocky (wear good shoes!) but the views are amazing. If you’re going up, bring water and pace yourself. Going down is easier on the lungs but harder on the knees.

Stop for Lunch with a View

There are several charming restaurants with terraces that overlook the Mediterranean. Whether you go all out at Château Eza or opt for something casual, make time for a long, lazy lunch—it’s part of the Èze experience.

Shop Local Boutiques

You’ll find artisan shops selling everything from handmade ceramics to Provencal textiles and perfumes. Prices can be steep, but browsing is free—and fun.

Where to Eat in Èze

Château Eza – If you’re going to splurge, this is the place. A former royal residence turned luxury hotel and restaurant, Château Eza offers fine French cuisine with absolutely breathtaking terrace views over the Mediterranean. It’s romantic, elegant, and 100% bucket list material.

La Taverne d’Antan – Tucked into the stone alleyways, this cozy spot offers traditional Provençal food with a rustic twist—think duck confit, truffle ravioli, and homemade desserts. The service is warm and the setting is pure storybook charm.

Le Nid d’Aigle – A great casual option right near the entrance to the Exotic Garden. They’ve got a breezy terrace with killer views and serve simple, tasty fare like fresh salads, tartines, and quiches—perfect for a light lunch before more wandering.

Deli’ – Looking for a quick bite? This little deli serves up great sandwiches, fresh juices, and light snacks. It’s ideal if you’re hiking the Nietzsche Path or just want something easy to take on the go.

Unique Places to Stay in Èze (For a Dreamy Overnight)

Èze might be tiny, but if you’re up for a splurge, it has some seriously unforgettable places to stay—perfect if you want to soak up the village’s magic after the day-trippers are gone.

Château Eza – This one’s the crown jewel. Perched high above the sea, this 5-star boutique hotel was once a royal residence and now offers luxurious rooms with balconies that basically float over the Mediterranean. Think canopy beds, antique furniture, and a terrace restaurant that feels straight out of a fairytale. If you’re going to do one ultra-luxurious night in Provence, this is it.

La Chèvre d’Or – Another jaw-dropping option, this legendary Relais & Châteaux property is basically an elegant village within the village. Rooms and suites are scattered across historic stone houses, with lush gardens, multiple fine dining options (including a Michelin-starred restaurant), and views that’ll make you feel like you’ve stepped into a painting. Bonus: there’s a dreamy infinity pool.

Hôtel Cap Estel (just outside Èze) – If you don’t mind staying just down the road toward Èze-sur-Mer, this ultra-exclusive hideaway is nestled on a private peninsula. It’s peaceful, polished, and perfect if you’re after privacy, spa time, and direct sea access.