Èze village: what to see in the Riviera's eagle's nest
Clinging to a rocky peak more than 400 metres above the Mediterranean, Èze is one of the most photographed villages on the Côte d'Azur. Medieval lanes, a 360° panorama, a perfumery and a cactus garden: here is what to see, and how to reach this eagle's nest between Nice and Monaco.
The medieval village
Pedestrian-only, Èze unfolds through a maze of cobbled lanes, stairways and vaulted passages lined with art galleries and craft workshops. Stone houses rise in tiers up to the church of Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption at the top.
The climb is a little demanding but short: sturdy shoes and a little time are all you need to savour every corner.
The Exotic Garden and its panorama
At the highest point, on the ruins of the old castle, the Exotic Garden of Èze lines up cacti and succulents facing one of the finest panoramas on the Riviera: on a clear day, the view reaches as far as Cap Ferrat and beyond.
It is the highlight of the visit: bring a camera and avoid the hottest hours in summer.
Perfume and fine dining
Èze is home to a Fragonard perfumery where you can discover the stages of making a fragrance. For dining, the village is known for its exceptional addresses, including the famous Chèvre d'Or and Château Eza, perched with sea views.
Even without dining there, you can enjoy the terraces and viewpoints that made the village's reputation.
Nietzsche's path
A trail links Èze village to Èze-sur-Mer below: the Nietzsche path, where the philosopher is said to have found inspiration for Thus Spoke Zarathustra. The descent is steep but stunning; most prefer to walk it from village down to sea.
Being dropped off at the top and picked up at the bottom saves the climb back and the parking headache.
How to get up to Èze
Èze lies on the Moyenne Corniche, between Nice and Monaco (about twenty minutes from each in normal conditions). Parking in the village is limited and fills up fast in season. A chauffeur drops you at the village entrance and picks you up at the agreed time — the simplest way to enjoy it freely.