Narrow streets filled with green plants, stone-walled houses, hidden fountains, castle ruins and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean… You can enjoy all this less than 1 hour from Nice.
Discover our selection of the best villages near Nice !
In this article, we take you on a tour of these charming places to add to your itinerary, with practical advice and our own photos.
This guide is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
The best villages near Nice: our selection
In this article we have chosen the following criteria:
- Villages or charming old town centers in small towns
- less than an hour’s drive from Nice
For more choice, see our article on the best villages on the Côte d’Azur.
1. Èze (25 min from Nice), perched village
Why visit?
Èze is the most popular village on the Côte d’Azur and even in Provence. So we had a preconceived notion when we went there. But he absolutely deserves his popularity. It’s exceptional!
Perched on a steep hill some 427 metres above the Mediterranean Sea, it offers spectacular views of the coast and sea. It’s a maze of narrow lanes and cobbled streets, typical of the Mediterranean region, with tunnels and arches. You can stroll through the picturesque alleyways, explore the local craft stores and discover Èze’s charming medieval architecture.
What’s more, it also has a remarkable hillside garden! And we were enchanted by the mix of cacti, rooftops and endless sea views!
The must-dos
- The maze of alleyways
- The exotic garden with all its cacti and waterfalls
- Its church and paintings
- Views of the coast and the Mediterranean
- See our article
How to get there from Nice
- East of Nice
- Between Nice and Monaco
- Nice to Èze = 25min drive
- There is a large paying underground parking lot, or a parking lot further away from the village with a shuttle bus.
- You can come by bus from Nice or Monaco, or by cab.
- Note that the Eze train station is at beach level, 400m below. If you get there, you’ll have to take a bus afterwards, or hike (but the slope is steep).
- There are also organized tours departing from Nice – see program
Practical advice
- We arrived at 8:30 a.m., which was ideal, as we were able to explore the narrow streets before the crowds arrived. We highly recommend this approach
- Wear good walking shoes, as the alleyways are old and cobbled.
- Bring water, the village is on a slope and so is the exotic garden!
- Plan at least half a day
- Choice of restaurants, including gourmet eateries
An unforgettable experience
Èze is truly an exceptional place, one of the must-sees around Nice. You’ll even find some superb hotels here, and one or more nights in this historic location is an unforgettable experience in our eyes.
- At Hotel Chateau Eza – see photos and availability
- At Hotel La Chèvre d’Or – see photos and availability
2. Roquebrune (35 min from Nice)
Why visit?
Also perched on a hill, Roquebrune once again offers an unforgettable experience, steeped in history and Mediterranean charm. It’s a medieval village with narrow streets, tunnels and breathtaking views of the coast and Monaco.
What’s more, there’s a castle to visit at the top of this rocky spur for even more history and exceptional views.
We really enjoyed exploring the village and climbing to the top of the castle!
The must-dos
- Visit the castle
- Exploring the village to find the best viewpoints
- The old olive tree, a remarkable tree
How to get there from Nice
- East of Nice
- Between Menton and Monaco
- Nice to Roquebrune = 25min drive
- Fairly easy road
- There’s a good-sized parking lot under the village
- We recommend that you come by car
Practical advice
- As with all villages, come early enough to find parking easily.
- Take good shoes, as there are many steps, slopes and cobblestones.
- Make sure you drink plenty of water, there are a lot of stairs!
WHERE TO STAY IN Nice
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
On the waterfront, with sea view:
Anantara Hotel – See prices, photos and availability
In the new town, close to the sea:
Hotel Apollinaire, elegant and bright – See prices, photos and availability
In the old town, with all the charm:
AparthotelAMMI Vieux Nice very practical and pleasant – see prices, photos and availability
3. Mougins (30 min from Nice)
Why visit?
With its medieval charm, refined cuisine and artistic ambience, Mougins has something to please every visitor. It’s a circular labyrinth of charming narrow cobbled streets. Its statue-decorated squares create an enchanting atmosphere, perfect for a peaceful stroll.
Beware, it’s easy to get lost, but don’t worry, the village isn’t big, so you’ll easily find your way (like us!).
The must-dos
- Admire mountain views (which may be snow-capped at certain times of the year)
- Getting lost in the alleys
- Visit the Musée d’Art Classique de Mougins, with its juxtaposition of ancient and modern works.
How to get there from Nice
- West of Nice
- Near Cannes
- From Nice: 30min drive
- It’s easier to come by car
Practical advice
- The parking lots are not very large, so come early enough to find a space easily.
- Avoid heeled shoes when exploring alleyways
- Mougins has several renowned restaurants. We thoroughly enjoyed our experience at Restaurant L’Amandier in Mougins.
4. Hauts-de-Cagnes (30min from Nice)
Why visit?
This village, with its cobbled streets, has attracted many artists, including Renoir and Matisse, as well as Josephine Backer, Suzy Solidor and Georges Simenon.
This charming village, a little less well-known than its neighbor Saint-Paul-de-Vence (#8), has it all: a hilltop location, charming little streets, a superb church, a château-museum, views in every direction!
The must-dos
- View of the surrounding hills
- Visit the Grimaldi castle-museum
- The magnificent Saint-Pierre Saint-Paul church and its original entrance.
How to get there from Nice
- West of Nice
- Between Antibes and Nice
- From Nice: 25min drive
- There’s an automatic parking lot close to the center: you leave your car and it’s transported to a parking space.
Practical advice
- Avoid shoes with heels, because of the small pebbles.
- The automatic parking lot fills up on summer days, so don’t come too late or you’ll have to park further away.
OUR TPS FOR RENTING YOUR CAR IN Provence
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Choose a car that is powerful enough (the roads are steep) but compact (some passages are narrow).
- Think of thecomplete insurance (some roads are tortuous and narrow).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
5. Saint-Paul-de-Vence (35min from Nice)
Why visit?
After the village of Èze, Saint-Paul-de-Vence is undoubtedly one of the best-known villages on the Côte d’Azur. It combines medieval charm, a rich artistic history and magnificent views over the region.
It’s very well preserved and lively, with many art galleries and restaurants.
We particularly enjoyed strolling along the ramparts to admire the views over and around the village.
The village is renowned for its art scene (particularly in the 20th century). It has attracted many famous artists, including Marc Chagall, who lived and worked there, as well as Renoir and Picasso.
The must-dos
- Alleys with little gems for you to discover
- Walk along the fortifications
- Tomb of Chagall and the Maeght family
- The many art galleries
- The Maeght Foundation is a 5-minute drive away
How to get there
- West of Nice
- Between Antibes and Nice
- From Nice: 35min drive
- There is a multi-storey pay parking lot just outside the town center.
- or take a guided tour from Nice – see program
Practical advice
- The village is on a fairly flat area at the top of a hill, with not too many slopes or steps.
- Be careful with fortifications, there is no protection.
- Avoid wearing shoes with heels, as the floors are cobbled.
6. Sainte-Agnès (45min from Nice)
Why visit?
Sainte-Agnès is an unspoilt medieval village with narrow streets, stone houses and a timeless atmosphere. It’s known as Europe’s highest coastal village. It’s perched at an altitude of 800m, overlooking the sea!
Thanks to its strategic location, it has a long military history, with the ruins of a castle at the summit, and the Fort de Sainte-Agnes (part of the Maginot Line), built before the Second World War, which juts out into the rocky spur.
It has been awarded the “Les Plus Beaux Villages de France” label.
The must-dos
- The view of the mountains on one side and the sea on the other
- Views of the village from the viewpoint and from the climb to the castle ruins
- Maginot Line Fort
- Alleys and church
- See our article
How to get there from Nice
- East of Nice
- Next to the town of Menton
- From Nice: 45min
- It’s easier to come by car, as there is a parking lot at each end of the village, and one below, at the chapel.
- End of the road in the mountains, but not difficult
- There is also a bus service from the Menton bus station.
Practical advice
- If you plan to climb to the castle ruins, wear walking shoes
- Bring water. Lots of stairs
- Beware: the ruins are not secure
- Limited opening hours for Fort de Sainte-Agnes
A LITTLE MORE patience
All the photos, maps, information, good addresses to make your stay in Provence a success, will soon be gathered in a single ebook!
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7. La Turbie (25 min from Nice)
Why visit?
La Turbie is often nicknamed the “Terrace of Monaco” due to its proximity to the Principality. The panoramic views from certain parts of the village are spectacular.
One of the town’s main attractions is the Alpine Trophy, a Roman monument dating from the 1st century B.C. It commemorates Emperor Augustus’ victory over the Alpine tribes and offers a fascinating insight into Roman history in the region. We were impressed to be able to climb on them at the foot of the columns.
And, in addition to its Roman heritage, La Turbie also boasts medieval charm, with its cobbled streets and stone houses.
The must-dos
- The Alps Trophy
- Views of Monaco and the Mediterranean Sea
- The alleys
How to get there
- East of Nice
- Next to Monaco
- From Nice: 25min drive
- There are several parking lots around the village, but they fill up fast!
- Or visit it on an excursion from Nice, combined with Èze – see program
Practical advice
- Come early to find a seat easily
- Avoid windy or rainy days, as you will not be able to climb the Trophée des Alpes monument.
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Historic centers near Nice
8. Valbonne
Valbonne, located in the hinterland of France’s Côte d’Azur, is an enchanting Provencal village. Unlike the others, its alleyways form a grid, so it’s easier to get lost!
It’s a mix of cobbled streets, stone houses, colorful Provencal houses and arches. It’s still very much alive, with a lively Provencal market and numerous shops. A good mix of historic charm and modern Provencal lifestyle.
Near Cannes.
West of Nice
Driving time from Nice: 35 min
9. Chin
Menton is the most unique town on the Côte d’Azur. It’s a fascinating destination to explore. The old town of Menton, with its narrow streets and colorful facades, offers an immersion in the authenticity of the region.
The city is famous for its lush gardens, notably the Val Rahmeh Botanical Garden, which amazed us. Menton is the ideal place to relax on its sunny beaches, stroll through its gardens and sample local specialties. The town harmoniously combines the Mediterranean art of living with a peaceful, sunny atmosphere. We were spellbound.
East of Nice
Driving time from Nice: 35 min
Also accessible by train from Nice
10. Antibes
Antibes is one of our favorites on the Côte d’Azur. It’s rarely mentioned first, but we’re going to make an exception! It may be less famous and luxurious than its neighbors Nice and Cannes, but it offers the charm of history, beautiful stonework and breathtaking views.
It’s a pleasure to stroll through this human-sized commune, which offers magnificent Mediterranean landscapes, with ramparts, a rich heritage, sandy beaches and views of the sea and mountains.
Last but not least, it’s an ideal place to relax: numerous beaches, water sports and leisure parks. In Antibes, you’ll immediately feel like you’re on vacation!
See our article on the best attractions in Antibes.
West of Nice
Driving time from Nice: 35 min
Also accessible by train from Nice
11. Villefranches-sur-mer
Villefranche-sur-Mer is a famous coastal village. Narrow streets, colorful houses with wooden shutters and a picturesque port make this a popular Mediterranean destination. Villefranche-sur-Mer is also known for its pebble beach, seafront cafés and relaxed atmosphere.
It’s a small enclave that transports you to another world just outside Nice.
East of Nice
From Nice: bus or 20min drive
Hilltop villages in the hinterland
And you can also head further inland, to the villages of:
Peillon
30min from Nice.
North-east of Nice.
Medieval town on a rocky outcrop.
Peille
40min from Nice.
North-east of Nice.
A long medieval town on a cliffside.
Sospel
50min from Nice.
North-east of Nice.
Along the river in the Bévéra valley, surrounded by mountains.
Gourdon
1h from Nice.
North-west of Nice.
An eagle’s nest with a castle and medieval streets.
DISCOVER Nice
- Best things to do in Nice
- Where to stay in Nice: 15 best hotels
- Where to eat in Nice: 20 best restaurants
- The 12 best museums in Nice
- Best beaches
- Visit the Palais Lascaris
- Visit the MAMAC Museum
- Visit the Museum of Photography
- Itineraries: 1 day – 2 days – 3 days – 5 days – 7 days
- Rent a car in Nice (airport or train station)
- Most beautiful villages around Nice
