The Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild is a stunning mansion located on the southern coast of France, in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, that makes for a perfect half-day trip from Nice.
Built in the early 1900s by Baroness Beatrice de Rothschild, the villa is a prime example of the Belle Epoque style, characterized by opulence and extravagance.
With its pink facade, manicured gardens, and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea, the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild is a sight to behold.
In addition to its architectural beauty, the villa also houses an impressive collection of art, including tapestries, furniture, and porcelain pieces.
Visitors can explore the lush gardens or tour the opulent interiors to get a taste of the glamour and luxury of the early 20th century.
Personally, I can’t believe it took me so long to visit the villa after moving to Nice! It’s honestly stunning and one of those places that really make you stop and realize that you are, in fact, in one of the most beautiful places in the world.
Looking for the best way to get from Nice to Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild? You are in the right place.
This guide will provide you with all the necessary information you need to visit this stunning hidden gem on the French Riviera.
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How to get to Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild from Nice
Getting from Nice to the villa is no problem at all and there are a few ways to do it.
By bus
The Lignes d’Azur buses line 15, “Passable – Rothschild” or line 100, “Point Saint Jean” stop a few minutes walk to the Villa.
The bus has several stops in Nice, but I recommend getting it at the Promenade des Arts or at the Port. The bus ride takes about 30 minutes.
By car
By far the easiest way to get to the villa is by car. The journey takes about 15 minutes, depending on traffic.
Take the A8 highway towards Monaco, then take exit 56 at Saint Jean Cap Ferrat and follow the signs for Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild. Parking is available on-site.
By uber
You can also take an Uber to get from Nice to the villa. The ride takes about 15 minutes and costs about 25 euros.
By train
Another option is taking the train to Beaulieu-sur-mer.
The train ride from Nice to the Beaulieu train station takes only about 15 minutes and from there you can either walk for 30 minutes or take the 15 bus from the train station to the villa, which takes about 10 minutes.
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If you decide to walk, follow the signs for “Parc Rothschild” and it will lead you to one of the entrance gates of the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild.
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Hiking
I you love long walks (which is easy in the South of France, the views are stunning!) and you are looking for a workout, hiking from the Nice port to the villa takes around 1 hour and a half and will reward you with amazing views of the coast.
If you decide to go for it, follow the coastal trail and then the signs to the villa once you reach Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat.
Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild Ticket Prices
These are the ticket prices shown on the villa’s official website:
Full rate: €16
Senior rate: €15 € (+65 years old)
Reduced rate: €13 (students, Education Pass holders, and unemployed)
Youth rate: €11 (7-25 years old)
Family rate: €45 (for 2 adults and 2 children aged 7-25 years old)
Free for ICOM/ICOMOS/SNELAC card-holders, journalists, disabled visitors, and accompanying person
Opening times
The Villa is open 365 days a year from 10 am to 6 pm, except for:
July and August: from 10 am to 7 pm
From November to January: from 10 am to 6 pm on weekends and from 2 pm to 6 pm on weekdays
What to see at Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild
I would recommend staying at the villa for at least two hours, as there is plenty to see and explore.
You can’t miss the breathtaking 9 dream gardens, each inspired by a different country or region. Take your time to appreciate the beauty and fragrances of each garden. My favorites were the Spanish, Provençal, and Florentine gardens.
You also have to, of course, tour the interior of the villa. Make sure to see Beatrice’s apartments, her porcelain collection, and the rooms on the first floor.
As soon as you enter the villa, you will find an information desk providing free audio tours if you wish to know more about the villa’s history and art collection.
There is also a beautiful balcony on the second floor that has an amazing view of the main garden behind the villa.
Finally, make sure to stop for at least a cup of tea (if not a wonderful lunch) at the villa’s tea room.
This restaurant/café is definitely one of the most beautiful ones I have seen in the South of France (and I have seen many!), and both the indoor and outdoor sitting options are straight out of a fairy tale.
What to do after visiting the villa
After visiting the villa, there are a few different things you can do.
1- Explore Saint Jean Cap Ferrat
Saint Jean Cap Ferrat is a wonderful village with picturesque streets, breathtaking views, and great restaurants. You can either walk around or take the 15 bus from the villa to explore it.
2- Head to Villefranch-sur-Mer
Villefranche-sur-Mer is another beautiful village located only 5 minutes away by car (or 10 minutes by bus). There are plenty of shops, cafes, and great restaurants to explore.
3- Hike Sentier du Litoral
If you are looking for a workout, this is the perfect choice. The hike from Beaulieu-sur-mer to Nice takes about 2 hours and will reward you with wonderful views of the coastline.
4- Visit Monaco
Monaco is very close by, only 15 minutes away by car and you can easily combine it with a visit to the villa. Make sure to explore the old part of Monaco and see the Prince’s Palace and its amazing gardens.
Finding a place to stay in Nice
Still haven’t chosen a place to stay in Nice? No problem. There are many good boutique hotels and Airbnbs in the city. I would recommend staying anywhere near the old town and the Promenade des Anglais, so you can easily explore everything on foot.
These are some of my favorite hotels:
- La Pérouse – a Mediterranean heaven
- Le Petit Palais – a gorgeous villa with a pool
- Hotel Villa Les Cygnes – a romantic french villa
- Palais Saleya – stunning luxurious rooms
- Hôtel Suisse – wonderful views of the sea
Conclusion: How to get to Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild From Nice
That’s a wrap! Getting to Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild from Nice is really easy and can be done either by car, bus, or even on foot.
I highly recommend visiting the villa if you are in Nice, as it is an iconic building and a great place to truly start to comprehend how historic and beautiful this region is.
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