Villefranche-sur-Mer; The Most Colorful Town on the French Riviera
AFrench Gem You Really Need To Visit
Villefranche-sur-Mer stands out as an absolute must-visit, when it comes to picturesque destinations on the French Riviera.
This charming seaside town has so much beautiful gema, from the historic old town to the deep azure sea and the lush green hill. You should go and visit the cobblestone staircases, houses adorned with a riot of colors and charming shutters, and cascading potted flowers that grace its walls.
While not the largest of towns, it’s perfectly formed and an ideal day trip from Nice.
This is Villefranche-sur-Mer
Colorful Houses and a Hollywood Legacy
Every corner of Villefranche-sur-Mer is a canvas of colorful houses harmoniously contrasting with the deep blue Mediterranean waters. It’s so beautiful that this town is on the silver screen in several famous films, including ‘An Affair to Remember’ and ‘The Bucket List.’
Things to Do in Villefranche-sur-Mer
Market Days in Jardin Francois Binon
If you happen to visit Villefranche on a Wednesday or Saturday, you need to visit the bi-weekly market. The Villefranche-sur-Mer market, held in the enchanting Jardin Francois Binon, is very special. You’ll find fruits, vegetables, cheese, and olive oil, along with exquisite flowers, ceramics, and fabrics.
Relax on the Sandy Shores
The French Riviera is known for its stunning beaches, and Villefranche-sur-Mer is no exception. What sets it apart is the sandy shores, a rare gem on this pretty coastline. Plage des Marinieres, the main beach, has breathtaking views, crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming, and a panoramic vista of the colorful old town houses.
Harbor Vibes
Villefranche Harbor distinguishes itself as the deepest in the region, and it’s a spectacle with ships passing through regularly. Spend some leisurely moments strolling along the harbor. Also you need to go gazing at the boats and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
Wander the Old Town
The heart of Villefranche-sur-Mer lies in its old town, a district where most buildings date back to the 12th and 13th centuries. Their facades are painted in a kaleidoscope of colors, complemented by charming shutters, plants, and flowers.
It’s a place where getting lost is a joy, allowing you to discover beautiful details around every corner and capture memorable photos of your journey.
Pro Tip: For an unusual experience, explore Rue Obscure (Dark Street), a 13th-century tunnel beneath the old town, for a touch of the eerie.
The Citadel and St. Pierre Chapel
Citadel with a View
Placed high on a hill above the town, the Citadel of Villefranche-sur-Mer is a medieval fortress from the 16th century. You get the finest views in town, vistas of the bay, the town, and the Cote d’Azur coastline. Sunset or sunrise visits are truly breathtaking.
The citadel is also home to the town hall, museums, a delightful garden, and an open-air theater, with free entry to both the citadel and its museums, some of which showcase remarkable artworks and sculptures.
St. Pierre Chapel’s Surprising Murals
The 16th-century St. Pierre Chapel in Villefranche-sur-Mer, once used as a storage area by local fishermen in the 19th century, later found favor with the famous artist and film director Jean Cocteau. He adorned the church with murals depicting the lives of local fishermen in Villefranche. Visiting this chapel is a beautiful way to spend your time in Villefranche-sur-Mer.
Opening times: Open Wednesday to Sunday (closed on Tuesdays and at lunchtime)
How to Get to Villefranche-sur-Mer
Reaching Villefranche-sur-Mer on a day trip from Nice is very easy. You can opt for a scenic train journey from Nice to Italy, with Villefranche as one of the stops, just a short ride away. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even walk to Villefranche in under two hours.
Dining in Villefranche-sur-Mer
Apart from the delectable offerings at the local market, Villefranche-sur-Mer boasts a plethora of fantastic restaurants influenced by its proximity to Italy. Here are some noteworthy options to savor on your visit:
- La Cuisine (French)
- Le Mekong (Vietnamese)
- Les Amoureux (Italian)
Where to Stay
While many visitors opt for a day trip to Villefranche-sur-Mer from Nice, it’s easy to fall in love with this enchanting town and decide to extend your stay. If that’s the case, you’ll find a selection of charming apartments in the old town and upscale beachfront hotels to choose from.
Best Time to Visit
Villefranche-sur-Mer basks in over 300 days of sunshine each year, making it a year-round destination. However, summer allows you to fully relish the sea, and the town is blissfully less crowded than its neighboring counterparts like Monaco or Nice.
In Villefranche-sur-Mer, you’ll find a town that seamlessly blends history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a vibrant gem on the French Riviera.
