The village of Éze, perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, is an incredibly beautiful spot that is so worth visiting any time of the year.
In winter, its cobblestone streets, quaint shops, and stunning views take on a special charm.
The village is small enough to explore in one day but offers plenty of opportunities to pass the time, including hikes up to the ruins of an old castle and breathtaking views from atop the cliff.
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However, as winter is the low season, there are fewer restaurants and shops open in Éze than any other time of year. Additionally, the weather can be cold and wet, making it difficult to truly enjoy all that this lovely village has to offer.
So, is Èze really worth visiting during winter?
Despite these drawbacks, Éze still remains a wonderful destination in winter for those who don’t mind having a gorgeous medieval village to themselves (I know I don’t!). So yes, it is definitely worth visiting.
In winter, one can find the peace and quiet that comes with the season change. The winter chill also serves to bring out the beauty of the landscape even more.
However, most shops and restaurants are closed which reduces the activity and lively atmosphere of the village.
ESSENTIALS FOR A DAY IN ÈZE
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Tips for visiting Èze Village in winter
1- Hike up to the village through Nietzsche’s Path
The chilly air of winter is perfect for hiking, so take advantage of it and explore the paths around Éze.
Also known as the Nietzsche Path, the steep climb up to the village is a great way to get an amazing view of the Mediterranean Sea and its rocky coastline.
2- Have a picnic
As most restaurants in the village are closed during the winter season, you can enjoy a peaceful picnic to take in the scenery. Bring your own provisions and find a spot with an amazing view of the Mediterranean Sea.
Personally, I found the Jardin Exotique de Èze to be the perfect spot for a picnic.
3- Pack warm clothes
The way the village of Èze is built makes for a lot of shade (which is great to keep it cool in the summer).
Unfortunately, it also means that there’s no escaping the winter chill and you’ll want to come prepared with warm clothing.
4- Go to Jardin Exotique d’Èze for the best views
The Jardin Exotique d’Èze is an incredible garden with stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Winter can provide a unique opportunity to explore and appreciate its beauty in peace and quiet.
5- You can extend your visit to Monaco
Since a few hours are more than enough to see Èze during winter, you can easily extend your visit to neighboring Monaco.
The city is less than 20 minutes away, so you can take a bus or train to explore the glamorous destination.
How to get to Èze
The train is the most convenient way to get to Èze from Nice.
READ: 35 Best things to do in Nice, France
The line will take you directly from the Nice-Ville train station to the Èze-sur-Mer station. From there, you can either hike Nietzsche’s Path to the village or take the bus.
Another great option is going on a guided day trip to Èze. These tours from Nice usually leave from Nice and allow you to see a few of the best places on the French Riviera in a single day.
→ For another wonderful day trip idea, check out Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild
Where to stay in Èze during winter
As we previously mention, there are not really a lot of options for accommodation in Èze during winter.
However, if you’re looking for a place to stay, Les Terrasses d’Eze – Hôtel & Spa is an option worth considering. The boutique hotel boasts incredible amenities and provides really comfortable interiors and friendly staff.
If you are in the mood to splurge or celebrate a special occasion, the most incredible option is definitely Chateau Eza. This luxury hotel offers a unique experience with its beautiful suites and incredible views of the French Riviera.
Conclusion: Visiting Èze Village in winter
So, is Èze worth visiting in winter? Absolutely! This little village has so much to offer and the cold season brings its own special charm. You’ll get to experience beautiful landscapes, spectacular views, and serenity – something that’s hard to come by in summer.
So if you’re up for a winter adventure, put Éze on your list!
Oh! And if you are visiting the South of France soon, follow my Instagram for more hidden gems and travel tips. Happy travels!
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