Eze

The Basics

Eze’s tiny size means it’s often relegated to a pit stop for those heading east to Monaco or west to Cannes and St.-Tropez, but the medieval village can also make a quieter base to explore the glitzy resorts along the coast. A full- or half-day tour from Nice, Cannes, or Monte Carlo often includes nearby villages such as St.-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, Menton, or La Turbie.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Bring comfortable shoes to navigate the steep lanes and cobblestones of the Old Town.

• Eze’s medieval streets can sometimes be a challenge for wheelchair users, so it’s best to check ahead for wheelchair access to hotels, restaurants, and attractions.

How to Get to Eze

Eze is located at the eastern tip of the French Riviera and close to the France-Monaco border. Its closest airport is in Nice, just 7 miles (11 kilometers) away, roughly 30 minutes by car, with most tours driving along the famous Corniche coastal road.

When to Get There

Celebrities, jet setters, and sun-seekers flock to the French Riviera in spring and summer, and Eze sees a steady stream of tour groups passing through. To avoid the crowds, get there early or stick around after the tour buses have left. Those wanting to soak up the atmosphere of popular events like the Cannes Film Festival or the Monaco Grand Prix will find Eze a good place to escape the masses, although be aware that accommodation, flight, and tour prices can soar during these busy months. Out of season, Eze is equally charming, but check ahead to ensure that hotels and attractions are open.

A Sightseeing Tour of Eze

Eze’s principal attraction is its attractive Old Town, centered around the majestic ruins of a 12th-century castle, and it’s easy to explore on foot. After admiring the medieval architecture, stroll around the Jardin Exotique and admire the exotic blooms of the stunning gardens, hike down to the beaches of Eze-Sur-Mer, or take a tour of the famous Fragonard perfume factory.

Ways to explore

You don’t need to prebook most activities in Eze, including Fragonard perfumery tours and Exotic Garden of Eze entry tickets. Many French Riviera tours and day trips from Nice, Monaco, and Cannes include a stop in Eze, with time to visit at least one of these attractions.

For a faster-paced Eze experience, consider a Ferrari tour, during which you can get behind the wheel of a luxury sports car and drive up and down some of the most scenic roads in the French Riviera.

Accessibility

Due to its steep streets and number of staircases, Eze village is not wheelchair or stroller accessible.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Sun protection, cash to pay for purchases in smaller restaurants and shops

What to wear

Comfortable shoes, light layers

Not allowed

Cars inside the village itself

Amenities

Hotels, eateries, public restrooms next to the church (bring small change)

Address 

Don’t confuse Eze village with Eze-sur-Mer, which—per its French name—is the village next to the sea. It’s about a 17-minute drive from Monaco and a 25-minute drive from Nice—make the drive yourself or book a guided tour. You can also get there by bus.

Driving

The A8 motorway is the quickest route to Eze, but the Moyenne Corniche (M6007/D6007) is more scenic. When you arrive, leave your car in a garage just outside of town; Parking Général de Gaulle is a good option.

Public transportation

Take the Lignes d’Azur 82 or 602 bus from Nice to Eze, or the 605 from Monace to Eze. Another alternative is to catch a train to Eze-sur-Mer, then transfer to the 83 bus up the hill to Eze village.

Best times to visit

If you’re not here on a tour, arrive in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the tour buses. Visit the Exotic Garden an hour before it closes.

Best days to visit

Weekdays are quieter in this small village, while the Place de la Colette hosts a weekly market on Sunday mornings.

Best months to visit

While the winter season offers fewer crowds, many hotels and restaurants close in the quieter months. Consider traveling in the shoulder months of May, June, and September.