Enchanting Eze Village: All you need to know before visiting
Exploring the French Riviera's Hilltop Charm Eze Village was one of my absolute favourites on our trip to the South of France. It’s one of the most photographed villages in the region, and for good reason. However, while Eze offers plenty to explore, it also comes with its own set of challenges that you should be aware of before your visit.
Here’s a practical guide to help you make the most of your trip to Eze!
What Makes Eze Village Worth Visiting?
Despite its allure, Eze is a working village that attracts a fair number of tourists, so while it's undeniably charming, it may not be as peaceful as one might expect from a hilltop escape.
One of the major draws of Eze is the breathtaking view. From the top of the village, you can enjoy sweeping views of the Mediterranean, with the coast stretching out to Monaco and Nice. The weather is almost always pleasant, but like much of the French Riviera, the summer months can get very crowded.
Things to Do in Eze Village
1. Wander the Old Town (Vieux Eze)
Exploring the Old Town of Eze is a top priority for most visitors. The narrow, winding streets are lined with boutiques, cafés, and artisan shops selling everything from jewelry to local artwork. While it’s beautiful, it can get crowded. My recommendation would be to visit just before or right after the worst tourist season. Otherwise the streets can get quite packed, and the shops cater to tourists, which means prices tend to be on the higher side. Also take into account that the Village sits on top of a mountain top. While the bus takes you to the Village, the old town is still a short climb uphill. It's worth visiting, but you can definitely get more out of your experience by planning your visit carefully.
2. Relax in the Exotic Garden of Eze (Jardin Exotique d'Eze)
The Exotic Garden is perhaps the most iconic spot in Eze. Located at the highest point of the village, the garden is filled with cacti, succulents, and Mediterranean plants. This is where you'll also find the best views Eze has to offer. Although the steep climb to the very top of the Village can be daunting, it's well worth the effort.
Catch my full blog post dedicated to visiting the Exotic Gardens here!
3. Tour the Fragonard Perfume Factory
Eze has a long history of perfume-making, and visiting the Fragonard Perfume Factory offers a chance to learn about the process and history of this craft. The factory offers free guided tours, which are informative, but be aware that the tour is essentially a sales pitch for the perfumes they create. If you’re in the market for a new scent, it’s a great place to pick up something unique, but if you’re just here for the history, be prepared for a bit of upselling.
4. Hike the Nietzsche Path
For those looking to add a bit of adventure to their visit, the Nietzsche Path is a popular hiking trail that takes you from Eze-sur-Mer to the village of Eze. The trail is steep, rocky, and can be physically demanding, so it’s not for everyone. However, if you enjoy a good hike, the views along the way are spectacular. Do keep in mind that it’s a tough climb, especially in the summer heat, so come prepared with plenty of water and sturdy footwear.
5. Visit the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption
Located at the top of the village, the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption is a peaceful spot to visit. The church is simple, with a modest interior, but it offers stunning views over the surrounding hills and sea. It’s a nice, quiet place to pause during your exploration of the village, but there’s not much else to see here unless you’re interested in the church’s history.
Best Time to Visit Eze Village
Eze Village enjoys a Mediterranean climate, making it a year-round destination. However, the best times to visit are in the spring (April to early June) and fall (September to October), when the weather is mild, and the crowds are fewer. Summer months (July and August) are busier, and you may find the village more crowded, especially during peak tourist season.
How to Get to Eze Village
Eze is conveniently located on the French Riviera, making it easy to visit from popular nearby destinations like Nice, Monaco, and Cannes. The village is accessible by car, bus, or even by train. The train station at Eze-sur-Mer is located at the foot of the hill, and from there, you can either take a bus or hike up the scenic Nietzsche Path.
- By Car: Eze Village is about 12 km from Nice and 10 km from Monaco. It’s a short, scenic drive along the coast.
- By Train & Hiking: Eze-sur-Mer station is on the Nice-Monaco train line. From the station, it’s a proper hike up to Eze Village.
- By Bus: Buses run regularly between Nice and Eze Village, also stopping at the smaller coastal towns on the way. Take into account that during peak season busses get crowded too and you might not be able to always hop on! I recommend either traveling outside the worst tourist season or heading there as early as possible.
