Anda
Èze isn’t just a village—it’s a time machine. People have been living here since around 2000 BC, clinging to the cliffs near Mount Bastide. And today? It’s still alive, still breathtaking. At 1,400 feet up, the nickname “eagle’s nest” fits it perfectly.
All the best private tours France has to offer will include Èze as part of your itinerary, and for good reason. Stay a night, or two, at one of the incredibly romantic hotels in the village. Trust me, I’m already planning my return.
Here’s everything you need to know about getting to Èze, what to do, and why skipping it would be a mistake.
Should Èze Be a Day Trip?
Absolutely. This medieval gem was the highlight of my time on the French Riviera. The views are dreamlike. And the best part is there’s not an overwhelming list of things to do, which makes it all the more enjoyable.
Just stroll, get lost, and soak it all in. If you come here expecting a long checklist of attractions, you’re doing it wrong. I can almost guarantee you won’t leave disappointed.
Getting to Èze from Nice
There are three main ways to get here from Nice, each with its pros and cons.
- By Car – It’s an easy drive with stunning scenery. From Nice, take the A8 motorway, exit at Èze, and follow the signs. However, the village itself is pedestrian-only, so you’ll need to park outside in a small lot and walk uphill. Parking fills up quickly, so arrive early (before 10 AM is best).
- By Bus – There are two options: Route 112 or 82, both departing from Vauban station. They don’t run frequently, especially on Sundays and holidays, but they drop you right by the village with no strenuous climb required.
- By Train – The closest station is Èze-sur-Mer, a short 15-minute ride from Nice Ville station. However, this drops you at sea level, meaning a steep 5km hike up to the village. You can take an Uber or face a challenging climb. Even in the off-season, the train was packed, so the bus might be a better choice.
What to Do in Èze
Visit the Exotic Garden (Jardin Exotique)
Èze is known for its floral scents—think perfumes like Fragonard—but the Exotic Garden is something else entirely. It features dry-climate plants, an array of succulents, and towering cacti. Even if plants don’t interest you, the views here are spectacular. The €7 entry fee is worth it for the scenery alone.
Wander & Shop
Tourist towns often mean tacky souvenir shops, but Èze is different. While there are a few typical gift stores, there are also plenty of hidden gems—handmade art, high-quality jewelry, unique clothing, and stylish home décor.
My wallet took a hit, but I have no regrets. The hand-stitched tote bag and porcelain tea cup I brought home are now treasured souvenirs.
Hike the Nietzsche Path
If you take the train, you’ll have the option to hike up the Nietzsche Path. We did it—and it was tough. Five relentless kilometers of steep incline. And when it started raining? Even worse. If you love hiking, go for it. Otherwise, I’d recommend taking the bus up and hiking down instead. The views are incredible either way.
Explore Local Markets & Food
On Sundays, Èze hosts a small but charming market featuring local olives, fresh bread, handmade chocolates, and fragrant flowers. We ducked into an olive oil tasting when the rain started, and it turned out to be a fun and delicious experience. If you’re a food lover, this is worth checking out.
Other Things to Know
- If you’re walking from the train, wear proper shoes. Sandals won’t cut it—it’s all rocky paths and steep inclines.
- Arrive early. Even on rainy days, Èze gets busy. I can’t imagine what it’s like in peak summer.
- Not wheelchair-friendly. The village is full of staircases and steep paths, with no accessibility options.
- Cash is essential. Many market stalls and small shops don’t accept cards, so bring Euros.
The bottom line? Èze is absolutely worth the visit. If you appreciate history, breathtaking views, and a slower pace, don’t even think about skipping it.