Tour description: Hike Nice – Villefranche-sur-Mer 5.5 km
This hike is one of the most scenic and picturesque coastal trails that runs from the old port of Nice along the coast to the colorful and picturesque little town of Villefranche-sur-Mer.
The tour is nicely varied as you briefly leave the coastal path to follow the main road past the Maeterlink mansion before heading back along the coast to the harbor promenade in Villefranche-sur-Mer.
And what better way to end the trip than with lunch at one of the restaurants along the harbor promenade overlooking the bay of Villefranche-sur-Mer.
- Length: 5.5 km
- Difficulty: Easy (not suitable for walking impaired)
- Time required: 1.5-2 hours
- Elevation: +/- 78 m
Tips for the hike!
Download the free version of the AllTrails app and get live guidance along the way. With the app you can always see your exact position in the terrain and follow the right route. Once the app is installed on your phone, simply click on this link: Coastal walk Nice – Villefranche-sur-Mer
Tour start Nice – Villefranche hike
The tour starts in Nice’s old harbor Port Lympia at the historic and restored barracks buildings. From here, follow the coastal road along boulevard Franck Pilatte for about 900 meters until you reach the small garden – Jardin Félix Rainaux. The coastal path starts here and you just follow the stairs down to the path.
The first 1.9 km runs along the sea with beautiful views, rock formations and stone benches, which where you can take a break and enjoy life. This part of the trail ends at the tip of Cap de Nice.
From here it’s a relatively steep climb up some stairs that lead you up to the main road Boulevard Maurice Maeterlinck.
From here, follow the main road east for about 900 meters. On the way you will encounter the impressive mansion Maeterlinck. The Maeterlinck complex today consists of 18 luxury apartments and the name comes from the Belgian poet and writer Maurice Maeterlinck, who bought it in 1930 for his wife, actress Renée Dahon. Maeterlinck named the estate Villa Orlamonde at the time.
Shortly after the Materlinck mansion, the coastal path starts again. It is clearly marked and you simply follow the stairs/path down to the sea, where it continues all the way to Villefranche-sur-Mer.
The final stretch towards Villefrance-sur-Mer is characterized by green slopes and varied flora. As you approach the port of Villefranche-sur-Mer, you’ll pass the old hospital, the Darce barracks and the citadel of Saint-Elme.
Return to Nice
If you don’t feel like walking back to Nice, there are several great options by bus, train or Uber.
Also read:
Villefranche-sur-Mer and its attractions
Sightseeing boat trip Nice – Villefranche
Ferries to Monaco and Saint-Tropez
Worth seeing and experiencing in Nice
By Tommy Sverre – updated 2025
Google Maps - Start coastal walk Nice-Villefranche
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