A Travel Guide to Villefranche-sur-Mer
If you’ve been daydreaming about picturesque coastal towns with charming streets and vibrant culture, let me introduce you to one of my all-time favourites, Villefranche-sur-Mer. Nestled beautifully between the glamour of Monaco and the historic allure of Nice, Villefranche offers a slower, less touristy slice of the French Riviera, yet is only a quick 5-minute train ride from Nice. This little gem is one of my favourite spots to dock when cruising, thanks to the breathtaking scenery that welcomes you even before stepping ashore.
Whether you're visiting for a few hours or planning a longer stay, Villefranche-sur-Mer is the perfect place to slow down, explore, and soak in the beauty of the Côte d’Azur. Here is your go-to travel guide to make the most out of this dreamy destination.
This guide covers the best things to do, must-see sights, and hidden gems. You will find tips on the best time to visit, the best ways to get around, and nearby destinations to explore, ensuring you make the most of this dreamy getaway!
Villefranche-Sur-Mer Marina
View of Villefranche-Sur-Mer From Cruise Ship
Things to Do in Villefranche-sur-Mer
Stroll the Old Town
Villefranche’s Old Town is a real-life postcard, with its narrow streets lined with pastel-coloured houses (a dream destination for Instagrammers). From quaint boutiques and cafés to picturesque views from the higher vantage points. Every corner feels like a new photo opportunity, and climbing the town’s stairs will reward you with amazing views that make every step worth it.
Villefranche-Sur-Mer Old Town
Visit Saint-Michel Church
In the heart of the Old Town, Saint-Michel Church is a beautiful baroque-style landmark. Its impressive architecture and peaceful atmosphere are perfect for a few moments of quiet.
Relax at Plage des Marinieres
Known as one of the most beautiful beaches on the French Riviera, it’s a great spot to sunbathe, swim, or just enjoy the coastal beauty. The soft sands and turquoise waters will make it hard to leave.
The Marina and Waterfront
The waterfront area is lined with bars and restaurants where you can grab a drink and watch the world go by. Stroll the marina, explore the little market stalls, or take a seat at a café and enjoy the scenic harbour views.
Saint-Pierre Chapel
Saint-Pierre Chapel is a must-see for art lovers! This small yet captivating chapel was decorated by the French artist Jean Cocteau, who infused it with his unique and vivid style. Inside, you’ll find intricate and colourful frescoes that bring the chapel to life.
Saint-Pierre Chapel
Rue Obscure
Step back in time with a visit to Rue Obscure, a medieval underground passageway used for military purposes centuries ago. The dimly lit street offers a unique peek into Villefranche’s past and provides a striking contrast to the bright, lively streets above.
Day Trips from Villefranche-sur-Mer
Villefranche-sur-mer’s location makes it perfect for exploring other iconic French Riviera destinations:
Nice
Only five minutes by train, Nice is perfect for those craving a mix of beach, history, and city vibes. The train station in Villefranche is super easy to navigate, and staff are usually on hand to help with tickets (or book in advance on your phone via Trip.com). If you're on a cruise, aim to catch the earliest train possible to ensure you have enough time to get back for the last tender boat.
Monaco
If you’re after glitz, glamour, and fast cars, Monaco is a quick 10-15 minute train ride away. A word of caution: if your visit coincides with the Monaco Grand Prix, expect extra crowds and potential delays on public transport - not the time you want to risk missing the last boat back to your cruise ship!
Other Easy Day Trips
With towns like Cannes, Antibes, Èze, and Menton all within reach, Villefranche is a dream base for sightseeing. Cannes is perfect for a taste of the red-carpet lifestyle, Antibes offers charming coastal vibes, Èze is famous for its medieval cliffside charm, and Menton brings its signature lemon-filled culture.
Where to Stay in Villefranche-sur-Mer
If you’re staying overnight or longer, here are a couple of great hotel options:
Welcome Hotel
A boutique hotel with an unbeatable location right on the waterfront. The views from here are simply stunning, making it my top pick for a stay in Villefranche.
Hôtel le Provençal French Riviera
Perched up the hill, this chic hotel offers incredible Riviera views. It’s a little further from the sea but perfect if you’re looking for a quieter escape.
Best Ways to Get Around
Getting around Villefranche and beyond is a breeze. For local trips, trains and buses are convenient and reliable, with trains being especially popular for longer journeys along the coast. I recommend using Trip.com to plan your routes or look into Discover Cars if you prefer the flexibility of a rental car. Villefranche’s compact size also means most of the town can be explored on foot, with gorgeous views at nearly every turn!
When to Visit
Villefranche-sur-mer is at its best from May to October, with July and August bringing reliably warm and sunny weather. Be aware that the Monaco Grand Prix in May can make things busier in the area, and July-August are peak tourist months, so plan accordingly if you want a quieter visit.
Villefranche-Sur-Mer Old Town
Villefranche-Sur-Mer Old Town
How Long to Stay
If you really want to soak up the Riviera’s beauty, consider staying for a week. This will give you enough time to explore not only Villefranche but also nearby gems like Nice, Monaco, and Cannes without rushing through the experience.
Villefranche-sur-Mer is a fantastic place to unwind, explore, and fall in love with the south of France. So next time you’re planning a Riviera getaway, put this hidden treasure at the top of your list—you won’t regret it!
