One of the best parts of visiting the French Riviera are all the beautiful little towns you can travel to in a single day. On our recent trip to Villefranche-sur-Mer, we spent an enchanting day in Èze, a magical medieval town perched high atop a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Located between St Jean Cap Ferrat and Monaco, Èze is an easy car ride from Villefranche-sur-Mer (with spectacular views worth the drive)! We enjoyed some sightseeing and shopping, and then we ended our day in Èze with a long lunch at Château Eza. You really don’t want to miss this beautiful village on the Côte d’Azur! This is my little guide for how to spend an enchanting day in Èze on the French Riviera!

Èze is like returning to a time when knights on white horses attempted to win the favor of French maidens. The entire town feels almost castle-like with a touch of modern extravagance tucked around its winding stone pathways. Wear comfortable shoes and you’re good to go! 

Our driver dropped us off at the base of the town where you’ll find several lovely perfumeries. I spent some time in Fragonard and came away with an eau de toilette as a souvenir. You can also tour their perfume factory for free. After some shopping we proceeded to climb to the top. 

Once in the village, you’re surrounded by incredible stonework, wrought-iron lamps, and pastel wooden shutters. I couldn’t help but imagine all that the cobblestones beneath my feet have seen! Specialty shops and art galleries dot the medieval landscape, yet Èze maintains its original charm of centuries’ past. 

We stopped at Planet Cuirs leather workshop where we met the artisan, Johanna Simon. She handcrafted a custom belt for Paul based on his exact needs. It was such a special experience to watch her work, creating a beautiful bespoke accessory that he will have forever. She has a variety of handmade leather goods available for purchase in her shop as well.

There are many spots perfect for a photo. You’ll find ancient stone steps, flowers, fountains and medieval architecture around every corner. 

Be sure to step inside Notre Dame de l’Assomption, an 18th century church built on the foundations of a previous church dating from the 12th century. It is a historical monument with beautiful neoclassical architecture.

Dining in Èze

Before lunch, we stopped at Château de la Chèvre d’Or for an apéritif of rosé in their impressive bar. The lounge area is quite cozy and may have you saying En garde! with its fun medieval atmosphere. The attached terrace has incredible views as well. 

Speaking of views, lunch at Château Eza’s Michelin Starred Restaurant certainly did not disappoint. Panoramic views of the Mediterranean are simply enthralling. The food is also quite delicious, combining traditional French cuisine with Mediterranean flavors. I enjoyed the poached cod fish with confit Chinese artichokes and smoked butter, and Paul enjoyed the lamb with celery, apple, and chestnut tartlet. We finished with a cheese plate (as one does in France) and “Chocolate Sweetness” for dessert.

If a long boozy lunch isn’t your speed but you still want to take in the incredible views, a visit to Le Jardin Exotique at the very top of the village is a nice option.

Èze, like the rest of the French Riviera, feels like a fairytale or movie. It’s hard to believe it when you’re there but oh so amazing that you are! Have you been to Èze?

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xo – Erin

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