Nestled between Nice and Monaco, the picturesque hilltop village of Eze is a must-see for anyone exploring the French Riviera. Known for its mediaeval charm, stunning views, and rich history, a day trip to Eze offers a memorable foray.
In just one day, you can wander through cobbled streets, discover panoramic gardens, and visit a perfume factory that captures the essence of Provence.
Our itinerary will guide you to the best of Eze’s treasures, ensuring you experience the highlights and hidden gems of this quaint village in a short yet unforgettable visit.
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Getting To & Around Eze
Eze is easily accessible from both Nice and Monaco, making it a perfect destination for a day trip if you’re holidaying in the area.
If you’re travelling from Nice, public transport is straightforward: catch Bus 82 or 112, which both take you directly to Eze village in about 30-40 minutes. From Monaco, Bus 112 also runs to Eze and takes roughly 25 minutes.
Bus schedules can be limited, however, so planning ahead is key for a smooth Eze day trip from Nice or Monaco. Alternatively, renting a car allows flexibility, with a short 20-minute drive from either Nice or Monaco, as Eze helpfully lies right in the middle of the two. You can browse options here.
If you’re driving, you can park in Parking Général De Gaulle, a 24-hour car park near Eze’s village entrance, which saves you a long hike up from the main town below.
Once you’re in Eze village, the best way to explore is on foot. Eze is small and very walkable, with its charming cobbled streets winding through mediaeval buildings and shops. However, keep in mind that the village’s steep paths can be challenging, especially for those with limited mobility.
People who aren’t as confident on their feet may prefer to enjoy the lower, flatter areas around the village entrance or nearby restaurants with panoramic views.
Unfortunately, there’s no internal public transport within Eze, but taxis and car services can bring you directly to the village entrance, which makes it easier to access the highlights without tackling the steep hills.
For those of you who prefer to go on an organised trip from Nice, there are a number of options such as this half-day tour, this full-day tour or this private tour.
1-Day Eze Itinerary
Get ready for an unforgettable adventure over one day, witnessing the Eze’s breathtaking views, rich history, and charming streets.
Explore the Village of Eze
Exploring the village of Eze on foot is the best way to immerse yourself in its mediaeval charm and capture the stunning views it offers. The village is a maze of narrow, winding cobblestone streets lined with charming boutiques, art galleries, and historic stone buildings draped in flowers.
By walking through these streets, you’ll get to experience the village’s unique atmosphere, with every corner revealing another hidden gem or, thanks to its unique hilltop location, a stunning view over the Mediterranean and surrounding mountains, creating picture-perfect moments as you stroll through the village.
It’s best to explore the village in the morning to get your bearings and enjoy ambling before it gets too hot. Allocate about two to three hours to wander through Eze’s cobbled lanes, explore its shops, and visit its beautiful church.
This leisurely pace will give you time to enjoy the sights, take plenty of photos, and perhaps stop at a café for a quick top-up on fluids or pastries. You can also join a walking tour if you prefer to explore with a guide.
Église Notre-Dame de l’Assomption
While exploring the cobbled streets, you’ll come across the wonderful Church of Eze – the Église Notre-Dame de l’Assomption – which offers a serene glimpse into the village’s rich history and architectural charm.
Built in the 18th century, this baroque-style church stands proudly on Eze’s hilltop. Its architecture is particularly unique as it was constructed on the remains of an ancient mediaeval church.
Inside, the church holds many captivating details, including intricately carved wooden altars, a detailed frescoed ceiling, and a stunning organ.
An unusual feature here is the Egyptian cross that adorns the interior, thought to be a reminder of the village’s ancient Phoenician roots and longstanding spiritual legacy. The peaceful interior offers a perfect opportunity to appreciate the craftsmanship that has been preserved over the centuries.
The Église Notre-Dame de l’Assomption is significant not only for its historical and cultural heritage but also for its aesthetic appeal, which adds a layer of beauty to the mediaeval landscape of Eze.
Jardin Exotique d’Eze
Depending on your timing, you may wish to stop by a cafe like Deli’ for a delicious light lunch before visiting the incredible Exotic Gardens of Eze, or you might prefer to squeeze in your exploration of the gardens before lunch to avoid staying out in the summer sun too long.
Perched at the highest point of the village, the Jardin Exotique d’Eze provides sweeping vistas of the Mediterranean Sea, surrounding mountains, and coastline stretching as far as the Italian border, as well as an opportunity to see some stunning flora.
Designed to complement Eze’s natural beauty, the garden is filled with exotic plants and succulents, including cacti of all shapes and sizes, which add a unique aesthetic to the landscape.
Walking through its terraced paths, you’ll encounter sculptures by local artists and educational plaques detailing the flora and history of the garden. There are plenty of quiet corners and seating areas, allowing you to pause, rehydrate and take it all in.
The garden is open daily from 9:00 am, with seasonal closing times around 4:30 pm in winter and up to 7:30 pm in summer, so you may wish to hold off this visit until around sunset to make the most of the incredible views for some stunning pictures. Admission is €7 (from 1 April to 31 October), which goes toward the garden’s upkeep and preservation of the site.
Fragonard Perfume Factory
Next up is the iconic Fragonard Perfume Factory. If you’re visiting during summer – one of the most beautiful and popular times to visit the area – this is a great place to stop in the early afternoon, as it offers a cool, shaded retreat from the sun.
Located near the village entrance, Fragonard is known for its mastery in perfume-making, dating back to 1926, making it one of France’s most renowned perfumeries.
The factory is open daily, with free guided tours available from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, allowing visitors to observe the intricate process of perfume creation, from distillation to bottling, for free! You can also pay extra to join a workshop.
Fragonard’s significance goes beyond its products. The perfumery is deeply rooted in Provençal tradition, blending timeless techniques with high-quality natural ingredients.
At the end of the tour, guests can sample exclusive fragrances and purchase perfumes, soaps, and other unique items only available at Fragonard stores. Whether you’re interested in the artistry and heritage of French perfumes before your visit or not, you certainly will be afterwards.
Nearby, the Galimard Perfumery also offers an insight into the world of perfume, with a similar tour format and free entry. Galimard is older, founded in 1747, and offers a more hands-on experience, allowing visitors to create their own perfumes in a workshop for an additional fee.
While both perfumeries have historic significance and distinctive products, Fragonard is often preferred for its elegance and free samples, whereas Galimard appeals to those looking for a more interactive experience.
Enjoy a Provençal Dinner
Dining in Eze is a highlight of any visit and a perfect way to end your day trip, with options ranging from casual bites to luxurious fine dining, all accompanied by stunning views of the Mediterranean.
Local cuisine here blends Provençal flavours, featuring essential ingredients like olives, fresh herbs (especially thyme, rosemary, and basil), and vegetables like tomatoes, aubergines, and courgettes.
A must-try dish is ratatouille, a savoury vegetable medley that reflects the best of Provence. Another local favourite is socca, a chickpea pancake that’s crispy on the outside and soft inside – a perfect snack or appetiser.
Pair your meal with a crisp and refreshing local rosé or white wine, ideal for the Mediterranean climate, or a lighter red that complements the flavours of the Provençal cuisine.
But don’t forget to start with a herbal pastis as an aperitif, or enjoy it mixed with grenadine and water for the delicious and light cocktail La Tomate. Finish up with a small glass of eau-de-vie (fruit brandy) to complete your Provençal culinary adventure.
For a casual yet delicious meal, Le Cactus offers classics like burgers, brochettes, and fresh salads with a French twist, ideal for a laid-back lunch.
If you’re looking to splurge, any of Eze’s renowned chateau hotels provide exquisite fine dining experiences.
Or, for a more budget-friendly option, L’Antre Potes offers great food at reasonable prices, blending Provençal cuisine with a modern flair.
Wherever you choose to dine, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the coast and lush landscapes, making any meal in Eze as memorable as the food itself.
Have More Time?
While one day is perfect for exploring the mediaeval village of Eze, the modern town of Eze is located further down the hill on the coastline, and worth a stop by if you have more time to spend in the area.
For the adventurous, consider hiking the steep, scenic trail, Chemin de Nietzsche (Nietzsche’s Path) which Friedrich Nietzsche famously climbed, giving it its name. It connects Eze-sur-Mer with the hilltop village and offers stunning views along the way.
While the hike is challenging, it’s well worth it for nature lovers and those who like to see more of the local terrain. In addition to Nietzsche’s Path, you’ll find other hiking trails around Eze, including paths that lead to nearby coastal viewpoints or through the surrounding hills, which often provide access to hidden gems and secluded spots.
If you’d prefer to relax a little more over your weekend in Eze, spend some relaxing time at the nearby Eze Beach, where you can enjoy sunbathing on the long beach, swimming in the clear waters, or dining at beachside restaurants with stunning sea views.
Back up in the village is the beautiful Château de la Chèvre d’Or. If you’re having a luxury weekend, staying here will give you an incredible experience in Eze, however, even if you’re not staying here, consider visiting this luxurious hotel and restaurant, which boasts beautiful gardens and spectacular views.
You can also enjoy a fine dining experience or a casual meal at one of its terraces, soaking in the breathtaking surroundings.
Over a few days in this part of the South of France, you can also enjoy a trip to the village of La Turbie. Just a short drive or hour-long hike away, La Turbie is known for its impressive ruins of the Trophy of Augustus, a Roman monument. Keeping up with the stunning views of the coastline, La Turbie is less touristy than Eze if you want a quieter getaway.
If Roman ruins don’t pique your interest, perhaps an afternoon wine-tasting will? A 30-minute drive from Eze is the Bellet wine region, where you can tour local vineyards and taste unique wines produced in this picturesque area.
Where to Stay in Eze
Hôtel Eze Hermitage – Nestled on a hilltop, this lush hotel is an excellent mid-range option in the village. With plenty of comfortable rooms to choose from and a gorgeous outdoor swimming pool, this is a great option for couples.
Chateau Eza – Boasting incredible views from a panoramic terrace, this luxe hotel is perfect for those after an upmarket stay in Eze. They have plenty of opulent rooms on offer along with swimming pools, room service, an on-site bar and restaurant and a superb breakfast.
Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Eze hotels!
Eze is a stunning hilltop village that shouldn’t be missed on a trip to the area. Whether you’re spending a week around Nice or road-tripping along the French Riviera, Eze showcases some of the region’s best views, food and drink, and unique perfume-making experience!
Are you planning to visit Eze? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!
