Èze Village France: The Definitive Luxury Guide 

January 2024

The French Riviera.  Provence. Iconic, exotic, classic. 

And in the midst of one of the world’s coolest destinations, perched high atop a hillside overlooking shimmering seas, accessible only by foot, sits a less-traveled paradise within the heart of paradise itself.

The village of Èze.

For those searching for a respite from the energy of the Cote d’Azur, read on, we’ve found your hilltop retreat.

Is Eze Worth Visiting?

In a word, yes.  In our opinion, Èze, France is the best-kept-secret of the French Riviera.  It’s an ideal Provence destination for those seeking a relaxing escape that offers luxury travelers both the modern and classic charms of the French Riviera.

Situtated on a hilltop above the Mediterranean, the stunning medieval village of Èze combines  old-world charm with the pinnacle of modern luxury.

Visitors to Èze can take an old-world detour from the energy of the Cote d’Azur and explore the winding cobblestone walkways of the old village, enjoy the quiet beauty of Èze beach life, and in just hours can be back in the whirlwind of the French Riviera.

This pedestrian-only village feels blissfully removed from modern life with its 15th-century citadel walls and labyrinth of narrow cobblestone streets dotted with boutiques and artisan shops.

Èze’s lush, exotic gardens, breathtaking Mediterranean panoramas, and storied status on French Riviera coupled with its unspoiled, frozen-in-time ambiance affords a rare retreat into life in Provence before the age of mass tourism, something we’re always in pursuit of.

But Èze is more than just old-world charm.  It’s also world-class hotels, Michelin-starred dining, and upscale shopping for one-of-a kind creations from local artisans.  It’s this best-of-both-worlds charm that make Èze one of our top ten getaway destinations.

Eze Fact Sheet 

Region: 

● Èze is located along the Côte d’Azur in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region of southeastern France.

● It is approximately 7 miles from Nice and the glittering resorts scattered along the coast. 

Climate:    

● July and August are the hottest months in Èze with average temperatures around 79°F. However, coastal breezes often keep it feeling cooler than inland areas.  

● December through February brings cooler winter weather to the Riviera, with average temps dipping to the mid-40s Fahrenheit range. Rain showers are frequent during this period.    

● Peak tourist season aligns with the warmest weather between June and September. But shoulder seasons in spring and fall provide pleasant weather with fewer crowds. 

Getting There:     

● Èze can be accessed by road, rail or helicopter.

● Nice Côte d’Azur International Airport is the nearest major airport, located about 12 miles away.   

● The village rests 500 feet above sea level atop a steep cliff, so it is only reachable by foot or vehicle via the winding mountain roads D45 and D2564. 

● Alternatively, tourists can take the train from Nice to Eze-sur-Mer station and walk or take the shuttle up to the hilltop village.     

Getting Around:      

● As a pedestrian village, Èze is best explored completely on foot.

● No motor vehicles are allowed within its ancient walls. Visitors must park in lots at the base of the village and ascend by foot. 

● Given the elevation and very steep, narrow passageways lined with stone steps, the village terrain can be challenging for visitors with mobility impairments.

● Èze is a walking village and streets and paths are cobblestoned, so good walking shoes are a highly recommended.

● A tourist train offers rides through the village and to the gardens for those needing assistance accessing the hilltop attractions. Fare is around €8 per person

● Public buses run a continual shuttle route between the upper and lower villages for easy transportation between Eze-sur-Mer beach and Eze Village. Fare is €1.50

For more detailed information on visiting Èze, visit the official tourism site at: Èze Tourisme

What Makes Eze So Unique?

Renowned as one of the most beautiful villages in Provence, France, the mighty citadel of Èze has lured famous philosophers, royalty, and elite society for centuries.

Nestled on steep sea cliffs high above the French Riviera, Èze Village offers a sublime window into medieval life with its stacked stone structures, relics of knights, lords and relics of knights, lords, and pirates carved into azure mountainsides.

Below, the shimmering sands of Èze-sur-Mer tempt families and sunbathers alike while the fragrant hillsides dotted with elegant villas have long captivated romantic souls.

Whether you prefer to hide away in the ancient walls of Èze’s mountaintop retreats or to plunge into Riviera beach life framed by majestic cliffs, you’ll find the tiny village of Èze to be an unforgettable French escape. 

Eze is Actually Two Villages

Èze France actually comprises two very distinct zones: the medieval hilltop village of Èze Village perched high in the cliffs overlooking the sea, and Èze-sur-Mer – the small beach town at sea level below.

This unique combination allows visitors to experience the charms of an ancient mountaintop village along with the seaside pleasures of the French Riviera all in the same trip.

Eze Village

Èze Village is the primary tourist destination we think of as Èze.   The village is home to the majority of the luxury hotels and accommodations in town. 

Five-star resorts and Michelin dining are seamlessly integrated amongst15th century stone buildings, labyrinths of cobblestone pedestrian walkways, museums, galleries, gardens and awe-inspiring views.

Eze Village Highlights: 

• Wander cobblestone alleys past 15th century ramparts & archways  
• Lose yourself for hours amid the exotic cacti gardens clinging to the sea cliffs 
• Sip regional wines on a cliffside terrace while feasting on Provençal cuisine 
• Shop for artisanal handicrafts and fragrances from ateliers tucked behind medieval stone walls  
• Gaze down at glittering blue waters where pirates once ruled the seas   

Eze-sur-Mer

Èze-sur-Mer gives visitors a chance to simultaneously enjoy both the traditional and modern pleasures of the French Riviera.

Sunbathers can bliss-out on smooth rocks or the pristine imported-sand beach lined with cafés and beach clubs.

The calm harbor’s clear waters offer swimming as well as the contemporary pleasures of paddle boarding and sailing, all with the quaint medieval village visible in the high cliffs behind. 

Èze Sur Mer Highlights:  

• Bask on smooth rock beaches or imported golden sands  
• Swim in calm, unspoiled turquoise waters 
• Savor Mediterranean seafood at low-key coastal cafes  
• Relax after tackling mountain trails up to Èze Village 

What’s the History of Eze?

Èze is an ancient village, with evidence of human inhabitance dating back over 2,000 years.  The village itself was first constructed in the 14th century.

It served as a military outpost for monitoring the coast against Mediterranean pirate attacks. Over successive generations, villagers expanded Èze into a fully walled communal settlement.  

The village was constructed entirely from local materials, with buildings sculpted right into the mountainside cliffs.

Tiny pebble streets link the stone structures and courtyards throughout its dense labyrinth. This organic approach created Èze’s signature rugged, stacked architecture in harmony with nature.   

By the 19th century, the onset of Napoleon’s rule brought peace to the region, eliminating the village’s strategic defensive needs.

Soon aristocrats and members of high society descended upon the spectacular region now dubbed the Côte d’Azur (“Coast of Azure”) for its radiant blue seas and skies.  

Èze retained its provincial charm even as glamorous new resort towns popped up along the coast over the next century.

Today it offers a glimpse of medieval life along the French Riveria long before casinos and luxury hotels became mainstays.

The village was officially added to France’s list of “Les Plus Beaux Villages” in 1983.   

What Makes Eze So Alluring? 

Èze captivates tourists with its rich history, spectacular seaside location, and peaceful village lifestyle seemingly frozen in time.

Visitors can lose themselves meandering the labyrinth of ancient tunnels, archways, and tiny streets that thread through the hilltop.

Popping into the many art galleries, locally owned souvenir shops, craft workshops, and artisan perfumeries adds to the quaint medieval town ambience.   

Narrow cobblestone footpaths deliver breathtaking views at every turn as they curve around cliff edges and open onto pocket gardens with ornate fountains.

The 12th century stone chapel of Notre Dame de l’Assomption rests at the highest point in town, offering a prime panorama for gazing upon the sea far below—on a clear day, you can even see the Isle of Corsica.    

In addition to its visual charms, Èze exudes a relaxed way of life that we find irresistible.

Free from the crowds and artificial glitz of the coastal resorts, life here feels simple, peaceful and enriched by natural beauty. The refreshing Mediterranean climate and lush exotic vegetation thrive thanks to plentiful sunshine and rainfall.     

What Are the Top Attractions in Eze?

Below is our comprehensive list of the best things to do in Eze.

Explore the Fortified Village & Soak up the Medieval Atmosphere  

● Wind through narrow cobblestone alleys to uncover scenic overlooks, artisan shops tucked behind stone archways, tiny cafes threading through ancient tunnels, and remnants of the original castle keeps and ramparts. Peek inside tiny chapel courtyards to witness locals paying tribute at weather-worn shrines.  

Take in the Panoramic Views from Jardin Exotique d’Èze

● Tiered cliffside gardens contain hundreds of rare cacti and succulents from around the world that cling to the rocky precipice. Stone paths deliver breathtaking vistas of the sea and coastline from various lookout points along the way up. Ancient ruins at the top surround Notre Dame De L’Assomption Chapel.  

Hike the Nietzsche Path 

● Friedrich Nietzsche was inspired to write his philosophical novel “Thus Spoke Zarathustra” while walking this scenic trail from Èze Village to Èze-sur-Mer.

● The steep footpath snakes past sea cliffs and mosaic stones, delivering sublime Mediterranean panoramas that beckoned great thinkers for centuries. 

● The 3 mile hike takes about 2 hours round trip if going at a leisurely pace, but can be segmented by using the public bus or taxi services between Eze Village and Eze-sur-Mer.

Sample Local Cuisine & Rosé at a Cozy Restaurant or Café   

● Indulge in classic Provençal dishes at low key eateries tucked within tiny stone structures along the ancient lanes.

● Savor fresh Mediterranean catches like sea bream and sea bass.

● Don’t miss dessert! The region excels at sweets like tarte tropézienne, crème brûlée, and ice cream infused with hints of lavender, honey and orange.  

Experience Perfume Creation & Learn it’s History at a Perfumery      

Wander through the open fields portrayed in Cézanne’s paintings en route to world-class perfumeries near town.  Learn centuries-old distillation techniques that transform delicate flower essences into world-famous fragrances evoking the lush aromas of the French Riviera.    

Fragonard Perfume Factory

● Discover the perfume creation process during a free guided tour of the original Eze Village fragrance factory opened in 1926.

● Marvel at copper distillation vats used to extract flower essences and antique collection bottles. 

● Create a custom perfume base to take home by combining your choice of scents at the in-house laboratory.

Visit Fragonard’s site here: Fragonard

Galimard Perfumery

● Founded in 1747, Galimard is one of the most famous perfumeries in the world, celebrated for creating custom fragrances for royalty and celebrities.

● Take a guided tour to witness antique distillation equipment and learn centuries-old fragrance extraction techniques ([url]https://www.galimard.com[/url]).

● Create your own customized Eau de Parfum in the DIY perfumery workshop using locally sourced floral essences.

Visit Galimard’s site here: Galimard, Perfumer

Hunt for Mementos at Local Artisan Shops & Markets  

 

● Gather quality handicrafts and art from the many ceramics studios, art galleries, glass blowing workshops and boutiques dotted throughout the village.

● Find Provençal fabrics, lavender sachets, artisan jewelry and more.

● Don’t miss the weekly open-air market on Place de la Colette in downtown Èze Village to mingle with locals.  

What Are the Best Luxury Hotels in Eze?  

Overnight visitors can choose from a small handful of intimate hotels and guest houses scattered throughout the village. Options range from ultra-luxe to more casual. But in general, lodging capacity is extremely limited, so be sure to book well in advance.

Here are our top-rated places to stay:   

Château de la Chèvre d’Or 

● This world-class resort rests atop Èze Village, offering sublime accommodations and amenities paired with perhaps the best views on the entire Côte d’Azur stretching all the way to Saint-Tropez.  

● Priceless modern art collection in the hotel’s one-of-a-kind terraced garden.  

● Suites with private terraces with stunning views of the sea 180 meters below. Spring for a Premium Suite to enjoy both terrace and heated pool.

● One-star Michelin restaurant on site, plus more casual poolside dining and a champagne lounge.

● Spa includes indoor pool with vitality pool, steam room, sauna, sensory showers and Solarium deck. Treatments use Clarins products.

● Official website: Chèvre d’Or  

La Bastide aux Camelias   

● Five-star hotel with premium location in the center of the village, ample living spaces, and private plunge pools with 8 luxury suites and villas.  

● Guests can take advantage of the concierge service to curate custom French Riviera experiences.   

● Most suites offer either private massage room or outdoor Jacuzzis with spectacular panoramas of the coastline.

● Official website: La Bastide aux Camelias   

Hotel Le Mas De Pierre  

● Cradled by lush gardens mere steps from Èze Village, this Relais & Châteaux 5-star hotel pairs Provençal charm with modern amenities just two miles away.  

● Savor award-winning Mediterranean cuisine between dips in the heated pool or indulging spa treatments, enjoying utter sophistication nested within nature’s beauty.   

● Awarded the prestigious Palace Distinction for excellence in hospitality and fine dining.

● Over 8 acres of lush private gardens dotted with pools, fountains, and sculptures by contemporary artists.

● The spa has an aqua-tonic pool with multiple jets and water features plus fitness room and Daniel Jouvance Paris beauty institute.

● Official website: Le Mas De Pierre

Cap Estel

● Discreet location on a private estate with 24/7 gated security has made this the choice of A-list celebrities for 50 years.  

● Five-star luxury accommodations include two penthouse suites and multiple rooms with outdoor terraces.   

● Onsite Michelin-starred restaurant among the best in Southern France.

What Are the Best Restaurants in Eze?  

Fine dining abounds thanks to the presence of not one but two Michelin-starred restaurants and many excellent casual bistros scattered throughout the tiny village. Reservations are strongly recommended.

Here are top dining options:      

Château Eza   

● The regal cliffside setting and seasonal Mediterranean-Japanese fusion cuisine lure elite celebrity clientele from around the world to this Michelin-starred intimate 50 seat dining room.

● Official website: Château Eza  

La Table de Patrick Raingeard 

● Nestled on a petite open terrace with just a handful of tables, Chef Raingeard’s daily prix fixe menu focused on local vegetables and seafood attracts devoted foodies who praise the food as much as the spectacular views. 

● Holds on Michelin Star. 

● Located in the luxury Hotel Cap Estel. 

● Official website: Le Table de Patrick Raingeard 

La Chevre d’Or

● The restaurant at the Chevre d’Or hotel has earned two Michelin stars.

● Menu favors fresh local seafood and eclectic dishes that are as beautiful as they are delicious.

● Dress code is described as “elegant and chic”, so plan accordingly.    

● Official website: La Chevre d’Or

Le Cactus 

● Situated just below Èze Village within the Château Eza hotel, Le Cactus offers casual dining and delightful views.

● For those with a sweet tooth, don’t miss their artisanal ice creams with homemade Chantilly.    

● Official website: Le Cactus

What are the Best Beaches Near Èze?  

While Èze itself rests high in the mountains, travelers don’t have to venture more than 15-20 minutes away to discover some of the French Riviera’s most prized beaches and coves with unbelievably blue waters and smooth rocks or imported sand lining the Mediterranean coast.

The mild climate encourages beachgoing for much of the year, particularly between April and October.

Here are top beach options near Èze to consider:     

Anjuna Beach      

● This sandy curve punctuated by a small creek feels blissfully hidden despite its ultra VIP location wedged between Monaco and Nice. Crystal waters beckon families who appreciate the calm, shallow swimming area. Beach amenities like chairs, umbrellas and paddle boards are available to rent.     

Plage Mala      

● Flanked by Cap-d’Ail’s historic blockhouses erected in the early 1600s to defend against pirates, this diminutive pebble beach delivers bigger views than its size suggests. Gaze up at Èze perched high atop the coastline in the distance.     

Eze-sur-Mer        

● Directly below Èze Village lies this epic swimming spot tucked amongst rugged cliffs. A small imported beach, private beach club, and handful of restaurants line the pristine shore. Relax after a sweaty hike up to the village!  

Coco Beach       

● Part of the iconic La Reserve hotel estate in nearby Nice, Coco Beach offers a premium oasis of tranquility and style open to the public, complete with sumptuous lounge seating, an icy plunge pool, cold towels and indulgent cocktails delivered right to your chaise.

What Nearby Towns & Attractions Should I Visit?     

Within close proximity along the glistening Côte d’Azur, the following destinations pair beautifully for an idyllic French Riviera escape:     

● Nice 

● Monaco 

● Antibes

● Cannes  

● Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat 

● Saint Paul De Vence 

● Grasse

Some photos used in this guide have been provided by the Official Eze Tourism site. We highly recommend visiting them to plan your full itinerary.