The medieval village of Eze is perched more than 400 metres above sea level and commands sweeping views over the French Riviera. Strolling around Eze feels like stepping into a French storybook. You’ll be enchanted by cobbled streets, crooked stone houses and sparkling panoramas over the Mediterranean Sea.
Things to do in Eze
Eze cascades down a mountainside and is known as the “Jewel of the French Riviera”. Get lost in winding lanes lined with stone houses and bright pink bougainvillea. Many of the historic buildings have been reimagined as cafes, boutiques and art galleries. The village was fortified in the 1300s and is filled with centuries-old buildings, including the beautiful Chapelle de la Sainte Croix. Stop to admire the canary-yellow façade decorated with pebble mosaics.
Jardin Exotique d’Eze, a sun-drenched garden overlooking the village, is filled with plants from around the world. The views are particularly dramatic from the Zen area. Enjoy lunch in the ruins of the fortified castle and admire bronze statues cast by French artist Jean-Phillipe Richard.
Bask in the Mediterranean sunshine on Papaya Beach. This stretch of pebble sand is fringed by crystalline water and offers sun loungers and umbrella rentals in the summer. Cool off with a citrus spritz or a glass of wine.
Chateau Eze serves gourmet food with breathtaking sea views. The iconic hotel was built 400 years ago and was later purchased by a Swedish prince. Enjoy a meal in the fine-dining restaurant, sip cocktails in the outdoor bar and wander around the postcard-perfect grounds.
Getting around Eze
Eze is in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region, a 30-minute drive from Nice and 15 minutes from Monaco. The village is compact and easy to get around on foot, though parts can be steep. Local buses run between Eze Train Station and the village in 15 minutes. The walk is long and can take over an hour. Nice Côte d'Azur Airport is a 30-minute drive away.