A perfect day trip to Èze Village: medieval charm meets adventure on the French Riviera
Tucked high above the glittering Mediterranean coastline between Nice and Monaco, Èze Village is the kind of place that feels plucked from a storybook. A day trip to Èze Village will have you falling in love with its winding cobblestone streets, ivy-draped stone houses, and panoramic views that stretch all the way to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. When visiting the French Riviera, a day in Èze Village offers a magical escape for travellers of all ages, including those with little ones in tow.
How to get to Èze Village from Nice
Take the Bus
From Nice, the number 112 bus to Monte-Carlo goes via Èze Village as does the 82 bus to Plateau de la Justice. the breathtaking bus ride climbs the rocky French Riviera mountains steeply providing the most wonderful views of the ocean from up high. The trip takes you along the famous corniche roads of the Cote d’Azur and for a mere 2 euros, it is the best value scenic drive going around. I’d recommend having the correct change on hand for the driver.
Buses alternate every hour, so plan your trip wisely to avoid lengthy wait times at the bus stops. The trip itself from Nice to Èze Village will take approximately 30 mins one way. Also, note that on Sundays and public holidays only the 82 bus runs.
Catch the Train
There is no train direct to Èze Village, only to the nearby Èze-sur-mer which is the seaside town directly below the cliff top village. From the seaside, it is a steep, hour-long walk up the hill to get to the village. This is definitely not a great option for those with mobility needs or those with young families. Trains go very frequently and only take 15 mins from Nice to Èze but unless you’re really keen for a big old hike, I’d still recommend the bus as the top option!
If you just wanted to walk one way, then I’d suggest getting the bus up to the village and hiking down the cliff instead of up. After a couple of glasses of French wine, you might feel the need for some air and exercise.
Drive/Rideshare
It is pretty easy to get an Uber in Nice and the car ride up to Èze Village is around 25 minutes (traffic depending). Though, it is just as quick and significantly cheaper to take the bus. Also be aware that there are reports of Uber drivers having issues picking up in Èze Village so be sure to have a back up plan in case you can’t get back to your base that way.
Tips for using public transport in the French Riviera
Gone are the days of searching for the correct change for the bus driver. Now, travelling around the French Riviera is even easier with the introduction of the Lignes d’Azur mobile app where you can purchase and validate tickets in the app if you’re an Android user.
Apple users and those not wanting to use the app must purchase a contactless travel card. “La Carte” costs 2 euros if you buy it from Grand Arenas tram stop and load it up with whatever tickets you need. You can buy the tickets for La Carte on the mobile app or at ticket vending machines. Whatever you do, don’t buy La Carte from the Nice Airport – it will cost you 10 euros instead of 2.
Finally, please be wary of your belongings when catching public transport. Being sandwiched in on a busy tram at peak hour is a pickpocket’s dream! I unfortunately fell victim to theft on a crowded tram in Nice who managed to take my entire wallet before I realised what was happening. Read more about my experience being pickpocketed in Europe and my tips for what to do when it happens.
What to do on a day trip to Èze Village
Visit the Jardin Exotique d’Èze
I must admit, I was sceptical when I heard about the Exotic Garden in Èze Village. Why did I want to go and see cacti and succelents when I was in the south of France to explore the Cote d’Azur? Well, this tourist attraction is number one in Èze for a reason. It’s utterly spectacular. If you do one thing in this town, let this garden be it.
From the garden, the terracotta rooftops and sheer cliffs make this village’s perch seem precarious. Up here it is evident why the Cote d’Azur is so named, with the sparkling turquoise of the Mediterannean Sea inviting even from afar.
Nestled in amongst the exotic plants are sculptures of the Earth Goddesses serenely staring out over the coastline. These sculptures are created by artist Jean-Philippe Richard and are scattered throughout the garden, pensively supervising and welcoming visitors.
The garden costs 8 euros per adult and is free for children under 12 years old.
Wander the old streets of Èze Village
Èze Village is a joy to get lost in. Walking the cobble stoned streets that wind around the mountain-top village is one of life’s simplest yet most enjoyable pleasures. There are no cars within the walls of the village, so strolling to your heart’s content, poking your head in to the many shops and galleries along the way can be done without a care.
Its ambling at your own pace that the relaxation and enjoyment sinks in here. Every corner is photogenic and I found myself breathless at what new discovery each corner or laneway held because the town just felt like a fairy tale. There is magic in the air in Èze Village. I’m sure of it.
For the best chance of avoiding crowds in Èze’s tiny laneways, try to visit first thing in the morning or stay a little later into the twilight hours once the day trippers have left.
Take in the view with a drink
There are many fancy places to enjoy a refreshment whilst exploring Èze Village and many of these also happen to be very luxe places to stay whilst in the village. The Chateau Eza is a five-star favourite with five-star price points, but has views to die for. Same goes for the village’s most famous hotel, La Chevre d’Or.
That said, there are plenty of smaller and more casual spots to grab a glass of wine or a snack and watch the world go by. They are on the sides of the path, in the laneways and under the small archways lining the streets with a smattering of a few tables to each establishment. Either get there early or be prepared to wait if there are lots of tourists about as those restaurants can fill up quickly.
Visit Èglise Notre-Dame de l’Assomption
The hilltop church of Èze Village stands out against the skyline when approaching the town. This lovely, sandy coloured church was built in the 18th century and is classified as a historical monument. The exterior may look quaint and simple, but the ornate baroque interior is as unexpected as it is breathtaking. The Èglise Notre-Dame de l’Assomption is totally free to visit, so its a great way to take some time out on a day trip to Èze to connect with the more spiritual side of the village.
Buy a souvenir of French Perfume at Fragonard
Located just outside the walls of Èze Village is an iconic French parfumerie, Fragonard. Whilst Grasse (another town on the French Riviera) is widely touted as the home of French perfume, the Fragonard factory outside Èze Village is focused specifically on making solid perfumes rather than eau de toilette.
Guided tours of the factory are free to attend and run every half an hour with a short break from 12pm – 2pm. The interconnected Fragonard store stocks both traditional perfumes and other items such as soaps, candles and cosmetics.
Walk the Neitzsche trail to Èze-sur-mer
Once you’re finished within the beautiful medieval walls of Èze Village, consider taking the hour-long hike along the Neitzsche Trail down towards Èze-sur-mer. The walk is not an easy one, however, as the trail is steep and the path is sometimes uneven and even crumbly.
The views are incredible as the trail winds down through lush pine forest before getting to the stunning coastal views, making the strenuous walk worthwhile. However, this activity is definitely not for those with young kids or accessibilty needs.
My hot tip? If you’re going to make the trek, reward yourself with a swim at the lovely bay beach, the Plage d’Èze, to cool off before you make your way back on the train to Nice.
Is Èze Village worth visiting with kids?
For families, a day trip to Èze Village is more than just sightseeing; it’s a chance to slow down and soak in the charm of a medieval hilltop village while keeping the kids engaged and curious. Whether you’re wandering through the exotic gardens perched at the very top of the village, letting your children marvel at the ancient castle ruins, or pausing for gelato in a shaded square, Èze offers a blend of history, nature, and relaxation that’s surprisingly kid-friendly.
Of course, navigating a centuries-old village with children comes with its own set of considerations. There are steep paths, limited stroller access, and the occasional need for bribery in the form of lavender-scented souvenirs or crepes. With a little planning and a sense of adventure, a day in Èze Village might just be one of the most memorable stops on your French Riviera itinerary whether you’re travelling as a family or solo.
Where to stay in Èze Village
If you simply must stay in this magical hilltop village, then there are only a few options for you within the walled town. The famous and luxurious Chevre d’Or is Èze Village’s most famous hotel with a price tag to match.
Chateau Èza is another long standing luxe favourite with splendid views of the sparkling Mediterranean Sea below. For an absolutely stunning panoramic view over the Cote d’Azur, Les Terrases d’Eze – Hotel and Spa have my vote. There’s nothing quite like the hotel’s infinity edge pool that looks down over the coast.
Personally, I preferred to stay in one of the bigger towns or cities on the French Riviera and visit Èze Village on a day trip. I’d recommend you stay in Nice as it is incredibly convenient. My favourite hotel that I’ve experienced in my many visits to Nice is the Mercure Nice Marche Aux Fleurs which is in the centre of the old town.
A Perfect Day Trip to Èze: Suggested Itinerary
8:30 AM – Depart Nice
Catch Bus #82 or #112 from Nice to Èze Village. Sit on the right-hand side for the best coastal views. Travel time: ~30 minutes.
9:15 AM – Explore Èze Village
Wander through the medieval cobblestone streets, admire stone houses, and stop at artisan boutiques for perfumes and crafts.
10:00 AM – Visit Jardin Exotique d’Èze
Head to the hilltop garden for panoramic views of the French Riviera. Spend about 45 minutes enjoying the cactus collection and photo spots.
11:00 AM – Fragonard Perfume Factory
Take a free guided tour to learn about perfume-making and shop for unique souvenirs.
12:30 PM – Lunch with a View
Book a table at Château Èza or La Chèvre d’Or for a luxury experience, or try a local café for budget-friendly options. Don’t miss Provençal dishes like ratatouille or pissaladière.
2:00 PM – Leisure & Photos
Stroll back through the village, visit the Èglise Notre-Dame de l’Assomption to see the Baroque interior. Afterwards, grab a gelato and snap photos from the best viewpoints.
3:30 PM – Nietzsche Path Hike
End your day with the scenic hike down the Nietzsche Path to Èze-sur-Mer. It’s a steep 1.6 km trail with stunning sea views (allow 45–60 minutes).
Tip: Wear sturdy shoes and bring water. If the weather is nice, then definitely consider bringing your swimming costume to reward yourself with a dip in the ocean at the end of the hike. If you prefer not to hike, catch the bus back to Nice instead.
5:00 PM – Return to Nice
If you hiked down, take the train from Èze-sur-Mer back to Nice. Otherwise, hop on the bus from Èze Village.
Other Day Trips from Nice
Nice is the perfect launchpad for exploring the gems of the French Riviera. If you’ve already fallen in love with Èze, here are a few more day trips that offer their own unique charm:
🏖 Menton
A pastel-hued coastal town near the Italian border, a day trip to Menton offers a relaxed vibe, stunning old town, and scenic waterfront promenade. It is also the home of French Riviera citrus, so be prepared for lots and lots of lemon products!
🎨 Saint-Paul de Vence
One of my absolutely favourite day trips from Nice. Saint-Paul de Vence is a breathtaking medieval hilltop village filled with galleries, cobblestone streets, and countryside views, perfect for art lovers and romantics.
🌟 Monaco
Luxury yachts, royal history, and grand casinos await in this glamorous principality just a short ride from Nice. A day trip to Monaco is always lots of fun – the kids will love the huge Oceanographic Museum and the whole family will adore strolling the lovely old town.
🎬 Cannes
Beyond its famous film festival, Cannes offers beaches, shopping, and a charming old town that can easily be explored on a day trip.
🌸 Grasse
Known as the perfume capital of the world, Grasse is nestled in the hills and offers fragrant parfumerie museum experiences, scenic views, and a charming old town.
🌊 Villefranche-sur-Mer
Just minutes from Nice, a day trip to Villefranche-sur-mer takes you to a harbour town boasting sandy beaches, a picturesque and colourful old town, and one of the deepest natural harbours in the Mediterranean.
🏰 Antibes
A medieval town with ramparts, a large Picasso museum, and a stunning waterfront walk; a day trip to Antibes blends history and seaside charm beautifully.
In summary:
An Èze Village day trip is the opposite of action packed. Experience all the food, sights and views of this charming medieval town in a day without feeling rushed or stressed. Adults will love the uniqueness of this lovely part of the world and the kids will honestly feel like they’ve been dropped into the setting of a real life fairy tale.
And when you’re done? Take your pick between an hour long stroll down the mountain to the sea side train station or getting the bus back to Nice directly from the village entrance.
Èze life is the best life, after all.
FAQs for a day trip to Èze Village
Is Èze worth visiting for a day trip?
Absolutely! Eze is one of the most picturesque villages on the French Riviera, offering stunning views, medieval streets, and unique attractions like the Jardin Exotique and Fragonard Perfume Factory.
How do I get to Èze from Nice?
You can take Bus #82 or #112 from Nice to Eze Village (around 30 minutes). Alternatively, drive or take the train to Eze-sur-Mer and hike up the Nietzsche Path.
What are the top things to do in Èze?
Explore the medieval village, visit Jardin Exotique for panoramic views, tour the Fragonard Perfume Factory, enjoy lunch at Château Eza or a local café, and hike the Nietzsche Path.
How long should I spend in Èze?
A full day is ideal to explore the village, enjoy lunch, and hike the Nietzsche Path. If you skip the hike, 4–5 hours is enough.
Is the Nietzsche Path hike difficult?
Yes. It’s a steep 1.6 km trail with stunning sea views. Allow 45–60 minutes and wear sturdy shoes. It’s easier downhill from Èze Village to Èze-sur-Mer.
Do I need to book tickets for Jardin Exotique?
No, you can buy tickets at the entrance. It’s usually €8, and the garden offers incredible views of the Riviera.
When is the best time to visit Èze?
Spring and early autumn are perfect for mild weather and fewer crowds. Summer can be busy, so arrive early.
Are there budget-friendly food options in Èze?
Yes! While Château Eza and La Chèvre d’Or are famous for luxury dining, there are small cafés and bistros offering affordable Provençal dishes.
Additional FAQs for travellers with young children
Is Èze Village stroller-friendly?
Not really. Èze’s medieval streets are steep and cobblestoned, making strollers difficult to maneuver. A baby carrier is a better option. That said, cobblestones tend to send our baby to sleep – so you never know!
Are there family-friendly restaurants in Èze?
Yes! While Château Eza and La Chèvre d’Or are upscale, there are casual cafés and bistros that welcome families. Many offer high chairs and kid-friendly menus.
Can kids visit Jardin Exotique?
Yes, children are welcome, but keep in mind the garden is on a hilltop with uneven paths. Supervision is essential.
Is the Nietzsche Path safe for kids?
The hike is steep and rocky, so it’s not recommended for young children. Older kids who are experienced hikers may enjoy it, but always bring water and wear proper shoes.
Are there bathrooms and changing facilities in Èze?
Public restrooms are available near the village entrance and Jardin Exotique. Changing facilities are limited, so plan ahead.
How long should families plan to stay in Èze?
Families with young kids may prefer a shorter visit (3–4 hours) focusing on the village and garden, skipping the hike.
Is there shade or places to rest?
Yes, there are shaded spots and benches throughout the village, but bring hats and sunscreen, especially in summer.
Like this post on a day trip to Èze Village?
Pin to save it for later!
