Are you planning a trip to the French Riviera? If Nice is on your itinerary, don’t miss the chance to explore Eze, a stunning town that’s practically a fairy tale come to life. Trust me, the day trip from Nice to Eze is a travel experience you’ll never forget. Start your journey in the vibrant city of Nice, soak up the coastal charm, then make your way to Eze, perched above the Mediterranean.
From exotic gardens to medieval architecture, every step is an adventure. Whether you’re a history buff or a nature lover, the journey from Nice to Eze will leave you spellbound. It’s one of those must-see places that’ll give you travel stories to share for years to come. Enjoy the ride, and don’t forget your camera!
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Nice is a beautiful coastal city located in the southeast of France, known for its stunning beaches, vibrant markets, and old-world charm. The city is also famous for its rich culture, history, and art, with numerous museums, galleries, and historical landmarks.
Eze, on the other hand, is a charming medieval village located atop a hill, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. The village is renowned for its stunning views, picturesque cobblestone streets, and magnificent exotic gardens. Eze is a popular destination for tourists looking for a quiet and scenic escape from the bustling city life.
Navigating a foreign country can be quite a daunting task, but what makes it truly remarkable is the sheer warmth and generosity of the people you encounter along the way. Whether it’s a shared language or just a patient smile, there’s always someone willing to help you out. And when it comes to the French Riviera, let me tell you, it’s an English speaker’s paradise.
It feels like a home away from home. So, let me take you on a journey of our adventurous day trip from Nice to Eze. I won’t lie, it wasn’t easy and we pushed ourselves to the limit, but the incredible experience we had along the way made every step worth it. And trust me, it’s a memory that we will cherish forever.
How to Get from Nice to Eze
While they are relatively close in proximity, getting from Nice to Eze can take some planning. Here are some options for transportation:
- By Car: Renting a car is the easiest and most flexible option. You can take the A8 highway, which is a toll road, from Nice to Eze. The drive takes around 20 minutes and offers stunning views of the coastline. However, parking in Eze can be a challenge, so plan accordingly.
- By Bus: The bus is a convenient and affordable option. Bus line 82 runs from Nice to Eze, with stops in Villefranche-sur-Mer and Beaulieu-sur-Mer. The ride takes around 45 minutes and the views of the coastline are breathtaking. You may need to connect to several different buses depending on where you start in Nice.
- By Train: The train is another option, but it requires a bit more planning. Take the train from Nice to Eze-sur-Mer station, which is the closest train station to Eze village. From the station, you can either take a bus or a taxi to the village. Alternatively, you can take the train to Beaulieu-sur-Mer and catch bus line 83 to Eze village. The average cost for the train is about $4 each way and takes 15 – 20 minutes plus a steep hike uphill if you walk to the village.
- By Taxi: Taxis are readily available in Nice, but they can be expensive. The ride from Nice to Eze takes around 20 minutes and can cost upwards of 50 euros. Rideshares are another option for slightly less than a taxi. Blablacar is considerably less expensive than a taxi.
One Day in Nice
We set out from the comfort of our 4-star boutique hotel, La Malmaison Nice, to explore the charming Old Nice. As we meandered through the vibrant streets, we couldn’t help but feel captivated by the city’s effortless blend of French and Italian influences.
Nestled in the heart of Nice, La Malmaison boasts a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence, and it’s easy to see why. From the pristine cleanliness to the impeccable service, everything exceeded our expectations.
Visit the Molinard Perfumery in Nice
Our journey began with a visit to Molinard Nice, a renowned perfume house established in 1849. This was not only an enjoyable stop but also a highly educational experience for the kids and me. The staff was accommodating and helpful, guiding us through the process of creating our signature scents. The kids had the opportunity to explore their olfactory senses, with the assistance of the patient and experts at Molinard Nice.
It was fascinating to see how each child gravitated towards their preferred fragrance, with my daughter drawn to the sweet and comforting notes of chocolate and vanilla, while my son preferred a cooler, more invigorating scent. The experience was so memorable that we were ecstatic to have our own special perfume combinations to take home with us, as we didn’t want to forget this amazing experience.
History of Perfume-Making in Nice
Nice, France has been famous for its perfume production for centuries. The tradition dates back to the early 18th century when the first perfumeries opened in the city. The climate and landscape of the region made it an ideal location for growing the flowers and plants needed for perfume production, including jasmine, lavender, rose, and orange blossom.
One of the most famous perfumeries in Nice is Molinard. The company’s perfumes are known for their distinctive floral scents, and visitors can tour the Molinard factory and museum to learn about the history and process of perfume making.
Heading to Nice and want to try this experience? Click here to book.
Lunch, Coffee & Treats at Emilie and the Cool Kids
As we wandered the streets of Nice, our next destination was: Emilie and the Cool Kids. The aroma of freshly brewed cappuccino wafted through the air, teasing our senses, while the delectable treats tempted us to try everything.
We were warmly welcomed by the friendly staff. The cappuccino was rich and creamy, while the cookies were amazing! A cozy and inviting spot, Emilie’s was the perfect place to recharge and indulge in some well-deserved treats.
Wandering through Marché aux Fleurs Cours Saleya
As we strolled by the vibrant Marché aux Fleurs Cours Saleya, I couldn’t help but feel a tinge of regret for not spending more time there. The market was bustling with vendors selling all sorts of beautiful flowers, fresh produce, and artisanal goods. The scent of herbs and spices filled the air, and the colorful displays were a feast for the eyes. Next time I visit Nice, I plan to set aside more time to explore this enchanting market and perhaps pick up some fragrant soaps and herbs to bring home with me.
After a morning of exploring Nice, we were excited to continue our journey to Eze. However, our adventure was not without some unexpected mishaps. We took a few wrong turns and found ourselves wandering up and down hills with no real destination in mind. But we persevered and eventually made our way to the bus stop, only to miss the next bus by mere seconds.
Frustrated, we decided to try Uber instead. Our first driver refused to take us, citing the need for a car seat for our 5-year-old. The second driver was more accommodating and agreed to take us, even offering to come back and pick us up later. It was a good thing he did because we later discovered that we should have had a booster seat for both children according to local laws. Lesson learned – always research local regulations before embarking on your travels.
After a morning of exploring Nice, we were excited to continue our journey to Eze. However, our adventure was not without some unexpected mishaps. We took a few wrong turns and found ourselves wandering up and down hills with no real destination in mind. But we persevered and eventually made our way to the bus stop, only to miss the next bus by mere seconds.
Frustrated, we decided to try Uber instead. Our first driver refused to take us, citing the need for a car seat for our 5-year-old. The second driver was more accommodating and agreed to take us, even offering to come back and pick us up later. It was a good thing he did because we later discovered that we should have had a booster seat for both children according to local laws. Lesson learned – always research local regulations before embarking on your travels.
Afternoon Drive to Eze
The drive from Nice to Eze was a short and sweet one, not at all intimidating. However, the drive back down was an unforgettable experience. The hike up from the drop-off point at Eze may seem daunting, but believe me when I say it’s an experience you wouldn’t want to miss out on.
As you make your way through the village’s stone streets and narrow alleys, you’ll find yourself surrounded by a blend of contemporary indulgences intertwined with remnants of the medieval era. It’s a delightful mix of the old and the new, with cafes and boutiques calling out to you to take your time and bask in the charm of this village from top to bottom.
See more photos of Nice and Eze.
The Gardens of Eze
One of the most breathtaking experiences is walking through the exotic gardens of Eze, which is perched on a cliff, offering panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding hills.
The gardens of Eze feature a collection of rare plants and flowers, including succulents, cacti, and exotic species from all over the world. The gardens are divided into several levels and terraces, each offering different views of the sea and surrounding landscapes.
As you wander through the gardens, you will find yourself surrounded by the scents of lavender, rosemary, and other aromatic plants. The gardens are also home to several sculptures and fountains, adding to the ambiance of the place.
From the top of the gardens, you can enjoy a magnificent view of the Mediterranean Sea and the coastline stretching out towards Italy. The stunning blue waters and rugged coastline are truly awe-inspiring.
Take a stroll through the narrow streets of the village and explore its charming architecture and medieval heritage. Don’t forget to visit the Eze castle ruins, which offer even more spectacular views of the sea and the surrounding hills.
Whether you are a nature lover or a history buff, the village of Eze offers something for everyone. So, take your time, soak in the views, and enjoy the unique and unforgettable experience that Eze has to offer.
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Best French Souvenirs
The marketplace at Eze was a treasure trove of unique souvenirs, each one more intriguing than the last. The rose petal-shaped soaps were a delicate and fragrant delight, and the mandarin liquor had a zesty and refreshing flavor. It was hard to resist the temptation to buy everything in sight, but I managed to pick up some of my favorite items as a memento of my time in Eze.
10 Best Souvenirs to Look For in the French Riviera Markets
As we headed back down, we enjoyed that final stroll through the charming streets of Eze, taking in the sights and sounds of this enchanting village.
Return to Nice
After our short side trip to Monaco, we were exhausted and ready to head back to Nice. It was the perfect ending to a wonderful trip, spent wandering and exploring the beautiful landscapes and cultures of France.
Dinner at Franchin
Our last evening in Nice was a culinary adventure at Franchin, a charming French restaurant known for its delicious cuisine and welcoming atmosphere. As we settled into our seats, we were immediately greeted with a warm smile and a cheese plate to whet our appetites.
For starters, we indulged in the rich and creamy foie gras and followed it up with a perfectly cooked steak and a flavorful fish dish. The presentation of the food was as impressive as the taste, with each dish thoughtfully arranged on the plate.
And of course, we couldn’t leave without trying the classic French Rum Baba, a sponge cake soaked in rum and topped with whipped cream. It was the perfect ending to an unforgettable meal. As we savored each bite, we couldn’t help but reflect on the amazing experiences we had during our time in Nice, and how this meal was the perfect culmination of it all.
Looking for more things to do in Nice?
Look no further! One must-see attraction is the French Riviera Pass, which provides free access to various sites, tours, and tastings. With the option to add a bus or tramway transport pass, getting around has never been easier.
If you’re looking for a unique taste of the region, be sure to check out Au Pays De Mandarine, where you can sample tangerine liqueur, limoncello, olive oil, and more. Don’t miss out on the signature Tangerine Canardise de Menton – it’s an eye-opening sugar cube!
Can’t make it to Eze? Not a problem. Why not try making your own orange liqueur, DIY limoncello, or homemade Triple Sec instead? These DIY projects are a fun and tasty way to bring a piece of Nice home with you.
For a virtual experience, take a tour of Eze from the comfort of your own home. You can also check out the luxurious 5-star boutique hotel Chateau Eza, or take a virtual visit to the other 5-star hotel in the area, Le Chevre D’Or. And don’t forget to take a virtual tour of the stunning gardens of Eze – it’s a sight not to be missed!
French Riviera Tickets and Tours
Happy Wandering from Nice to Eze!
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Those are some absolutely gorgeous photos. Nice seems like a great place to getaway in France.
Thanks, Zack! I hope you get the chance to try it for yourself.