Èze and Menton: the jewels of Côte d’Azur
Èze and Menton might be the most vibrant towns on Côte d’Azur - seeing these views, especially in the morning and evening golden light, literally made me catch my breath and feel like I am in a movie. So if you are visiting South of France, definitely put these two magical places on your bucket list ! Both of them are perfect for a half-day adventure from Nice and easily accessible by car, bus or train. In this post I am sharing some practical information you might need for your trip and the photos I have taken during mine. Hope you will get inspired !
Èze
Tiny village located on the top of the hill, with stunning views of the coast and smell of magnolias. No photo can transmit the feeling of this place - calm, as it was lost in times, and filled with fragrance.
When to visit ? - Best during May, June and September, in the early morning to escape the heat and crowds of tourists. I arrived at 7:15am and it was the best time as the village was empty and I could truly enjoy wandering around. Keep in mind that all cafes and local souvenir stores at the village open around 9-10am.
How to reach ? - the best option is to take a bus from Nice, which stops directly at the entrance to the village. Do not take the train as it will bring you to Èze-sur-Mer on the coast, and from there you would need to take another bus or hike up the hill for about an hour.
What to do ? - walk around narrow medieval lanes, visit Jardin Exotique for breathtaking views and Fragonard store to buy a perfume, cream or soap produced with local ingredients.
Menton
If each town on Côte d’Azur had its own signature color, it would be yellow for Menton. Not only because of the color of the buildings, but also because of it is lemons, and Menton hosts lemon festival every year in the end of February. Located almost on the border of France and Italy, it feels less crowded than the rest of Côte d’Azur, almost like a hidden gem.
Best plan ? Come here in the evening when everything will be bathed in the beautiful golden hour light, walk around the lanes, take pizza at Pizzeria 430gradi (it’s truly one of the best I’ve had) and enjoy it sitting on the beach. Just be aware of the seagulls, they have a huge tendency of stealing food !
Oh, and if you like finding authentic postcards while traveling as much as I do, don’t miss Gallerie De SAÏD, postcards with the views of Menton are truly beautiful, and the shop is located only a few steps away from the Basilique Saint-Michel and the famous yellow staircase.
