Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, the jewel of the Côte d'Azur, is a dream destination for lovers of the sea, nature and culture. Located between Nice and Monaco, this charming peninsula offers a unique blend of breathtaking scenery, fascinating history and timeless elegance. In this article, we present the 17 must-sees for your visit to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. From idyllic beaches and sumptuous villas to coastal paths and lush gardens, get ready to explore the hidden treasures of this exceptional destination!
1. Stroll through the town center
Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat's town center, though small, is full of charm and authenticity. A stroll through its narrow, picturesque streets will allow you to discover the soul of this Provencal commune and enjoy its peaceful, elegant atmosphere. Start your stroll at Place David Niven, named in honor of the British actor who lived in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, where you can stop to sample a local specialty or simply enjoy a drink on the terrace.
Continue your visit by strolling through the neighboring streets, where you can admire the beautiful Provencal houses with their colorful facades and wooden shutters. And don't miss the Saint-Jean-Baptiste church, an 18th-century religious building with a distinctive Baroque façade. The interior of the church, decorated with frescoes and paintings, is also well worth a visit.
2. What to do in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat? Enjoy the best-known beaches
Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is renowned for its magnificent beaches, which offer an idyllic setting for relaxing, swimming and enjoying the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean. Plage des Fosses is the largest sandy beach in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. Located in a sheltered cove, it benefits from calm, shallow waters, making it ideal for families with young children. Plage la Paloma is a charming pebble beach set in a picturesque cove and surrounded by pine trees and rocks. Finally, Plage du Port (Cros deï Pin) is a small sandy and pebbly beach nestled in the heart of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat's harbour, offering a breathtaking view of the boats moored in the harbour and the sumptuous surrounding villas.
3. ...and discover some of the wildest!
Looking for wilder, unspoilt beaches in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat? La Plage des Fossettes is a small pebble beach in a secluded cove, surrounded by cliffs and Mediterranean vegetation. Accessible only on foot via a steep path, it offers a haven of peace away from the hustle and bustle of the more popular beaches. Plage de Passable is another pebble beach, located at the eastern end of the Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat peninsula. Bordered by umbrella pines, it offers a breathtaking view over the bay of Villefranche-sur-Mer to the sound of lapping waves and the song of cicadas.
4. Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat Botanical Garden
The Jardin Botanique de Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, also known as the Jardin de la Paix, is a verdant setting nestled in the heart of the peninsula, housing an impressive collection of exotic and Mediterranean plants, as well as contemporary works of art. During your visit, you can stroll along the shady paths and admire the various plant species, such as cacti, agaves, aloes and eucalyptus. The Jardin Botanique de Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat also offers exceptional views of the Mediterranean Sea and surrounding coastline from the belvedere at the top of the garden, for example.
5. What to do in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat See the Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat lighthouse
The Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat lighthouse is an emblematic building on the peninsula, which has been keeping watch over the coast for over 150 years. Located at the south-eastern tip of the peninsula, it offers an exceptional panorama of the Mediterranean Sea and surrounding coastline. Built in 1828, the Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat lighthouse is a square, 18-metre-high ashlar tower. It was automated in 1952 and is now managed by the lighthouse and beacon services. Although the lighthouse is not open to the public, it can be admired from the coastal paths that run along the peninsula, such as the sentier du littoral, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the sea and rocky coastline.
6. Stroll along the port of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
The port of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is an emblematic and lively spot on the peninsula, where maritime tradition and Provencal art de vivre meet. Strolling along its quays is an unmissable experience during a stay in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. The port, built in the 19th century, is now home to pleasure boats and luxury yachts. The port of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is alsorenowned for its restaurants and boutiques, which line the quays and offer a breathtaking view of the boats and the bay. Last but not least, the port is the starting point for numerous water sports activities, including boat hire, scuba diving and sea excursions.
7. The Tour du Cap Ferrat hike
The easy hike around Cap Ferrat gives you the chance to explore the geology, flora and fauna of the peninsula. The route includes the island's lighthouse, erected in 1732, and magnificent panoramas of the Pointe Saint-Hospice, Nice and the harbor of Villefranche-sur-Mer. On the western side of the peninsula, you'll find creeks ideal for swimming. The hike starts 200 m from Plage des Fosses, at the old stone quarry, and ends at Plage de Passable. It takes around 2 hours (6km walk).
8. What to do in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat? The Tour de la Pointe Saint-Hospice walk
If your schedule doesn't allow for a full tour of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, we recommend the Pointe Saint-Hospice tour. This walk offers a fine overview of the peninsula's landscapes and takes you along the most beautiful beaches (La Paloma, Les Fossettes and Les Fosses). Start and finish at the port, in the heart of the village. The path runs alongside the Chapelle Saint-Hospice, a listed historic monument. If you don't make the round trip to the chapel, the route is virtually level, and you can reduce the walking time to 1.5 hours.
9. The Maurice Rouvier Promenade to Beaulieu sur Mer
This charming promenade, entirely flat and suitable for baby carriages and people with reduced mobility, links Beaulieu-sur-Mer to the village of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. The starting point is on avenue Denis Semeria, near the town hall (look for the white "sentier du littoral" sign). The path overlooks the Plage du Port and follows the eastern coast of the peninsula north towards the seaside resort of Beaulieu-sur-Mer. After the beach, you'll discover a number of pretty coves ideal for swimming. Allow around 25 minutes to reach Plage des Fourmis in Beaulieu (1.5km walk).
10. What to do in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat Snorkeling the Underwater Trail
Here's an original and free activity to do in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat during the summer, to familiarize yourself with the Mediterranean flora and fauna. The SOS Grand Bleu association, in collaboration with the Conseil Départemental des Alpes-Maritimes and the town council, has created an underwater trail in the Baie des Fossettes which is open during July and August. To explore this underwater trail, head to Les Fossettes beach with a mask and snorkel. You'll find a 200-metre-long trail with five buoys and an explanatory panel showing the different ecosystems and enabling you to identify the fish you'll encounter in the bay.
11. Admire the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild
The Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild is a must-see architectural and historical gem in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. This sumptuous residence, built in the early 20th century by Baroness Béatrice Ephrussi de Rothschild, is a testament to the elegance and refinement of the Belle Époque. The Italian Renaissance-style villa is surrounded by nine themed gardens, each more sumptuous than the last. These include the French garden, the Spanish garden, the Japanese garden, the exotic garden and many more. The gardens offer breathtaking views over the bay of Villefranche-sur-Mer and the harbor of Beaulieu-sur-Mer. During your visit, you can also admire the villa's interiors.
11. What to do in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat An excursion to Beaulieu-sur-Mer
Located just a few kilometers from Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, the charming town of Beaulieu-sur-Mer is an ideal destination for a day trip. During your visit to Beaulieu-sur-Mer, you can stroll along the seafront promenade, admire the sumptuous Belle Époque villas and enjoy the fine sandy beaches at Plage de la Petite Afrique, for example. Beaulieu-sur-Mer is also home to numerous cultural and historical sites, such as Villa Kérylos, a palace inspired by ancient Greek architecture, and the 12th-century church of Saint-Michel. And don't missthe Provencal market, held every morning on Place Marinoni, where you can sample local produce and crafts.
13. See Villa Kérylos in Beaulieu-sur-Mer
The Villa Kérylos, located in Beaulieu-sur-Mer, is an exceptional villa not to be missed during your stay in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. Built between 1902 and 1908 by architect Emmanuel Pontremoli for archaeologist and politician Théodore Reinach, the villa is an architectural masterpiece inspired by Greek Antiquity, with its columns, frescoes and mosaics. The tastefully furnished and decorated interiors bear witness to the refinement and elegance of life in ancient Greece. Highlights include the peristyle, inner courtyard, salon, library and bedrooms.
Take advantage of our partner's special rates by booking your ticket to Villa Kerylos here .
14. What to do in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat? Discover Villefranche-sur-Mer
Located just a few kilometers from Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, the charming town of Villefranche-sur-Mer is an ideal destination for a day trip. Stroll through the narrow, winding streets of the old town, lined with colorful facades and local craft stores. Don' t miss the Place Amélie Pollonnais, the heart of the old town, where a lively Provencal market is held, and the port of Villefranche-sur-Mer, with its fishing boats and luxury yachts, which is one of the town's must-sees.
Villefranche-sur-Mer is also home to numerous cultural and historical sites, such as the Chapelle Cocteau, decorated by the artist Jean Cocteau, and the Citadelle Saint-Elme, a 16th-century military edifice that today houses three museums.
15. Strolling through the village of Eze
Located some 20 km from Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, the medieval village of Eze is one of the most beautiful in the region one of the most beautiful villages in the Provence-Alpes-Côte-d'Azur. During your visit to Eze, stroll through the village's narrow cobbled streets, lined with stone houses and local craft stores. Don't miss the Place du Château, home to the ruins of a medieval castle, and the exotic garden. The village of Eze is also renowned for its art studios and galleries, where you can admire and purchase works by local and international artists. Cultural highlights include the Chapelle des Pénitents Blancs, decorated with 18th-century frescoes, and the Musée d'Eze, which traces the history of one of the most beautiful villages in the south of France .
We recommend that you book this guided tour of the medieval village of Èze. It will immerse you in the history and beauty of this village, which has seduced many artists and personalities, such as Nietzsche, Cocteau and Bono.
16. What to do in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat? A sunset cruise
To take full advantage of the beauty of the Côte d'Azur and its breathtaking scenery, what could be better than a sunset cruise from Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat? This unique and romantic experience will allow you to admire the coastline and surrounding towns from a different angle, while enjoying a moment of relaxation and conviviality at sea. Several companies offer sunset cruises departing from Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, with a variety of itineraries. You can sail to Villefranche-sur-Mer, Beaulieu-sur-Mer, Monaco or Nice, and admire the sumptuous villas, sandy beaches and wild creeks that line the coast.
17. Spend a day diving on a sailboat
For scuba diving and sailing enthusiasts, what could be better than a diving day on a sailboat departing from Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat? This unique experience will allow you to discover the seabed of the Côte d'Azur, while enjoying a pleasant sail and a relaxing moment at sea. Several companies offer diving trips on a sailboat departing from Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, with various itineraries along the coast. You can explore the region's most famous dive sites, such as the Cerbère-Banyuls nature reserve, World War II shipwrecks or the coral reefs of Villefranche-sur-Mer Bay.
Did you like our selection? Discover our dedicated article "What to do on the Côte d'Azur? 20 must-sees" and our article"Where to go on vacation with the family? 15 top destinations".
Where to stay in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat?
Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat offers a variety of accommodation options to suit all tastes and budgets. Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is renowned for its luxury hotels, which offer top-of-the-range services and breathtaking sea views. If you're looking for more intimate, authentic accommodation, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat's boutique hotels are an excellent option . Discover our three favorite accommodations!
This charming, fully-renovated hotel offers panoramic views of the Grande Bleue, away from the hustle and bustle of the Côte d'Azur. A pleasant stay by the pool, in the shade of century-old trees, lulled by birdsong, with the sea as your only horizon, awaits you. You're sure to fall in love. Click here for rates and availability!
- The most unusual: Hotel Oursin
Situated just 50 m from the port and right in the heart of the village, this little hotel is very unusual! And with good reason: it looks more like an antique store... Lovers of vintage will be delighted, as the entire establishment is brimming with characterful furniture. Rooms are comfortable, well-equipped and air-conditioned. A small, friendly address with affordable rooms that you can book right here.
- The most elegant: the Royal-Riviera
Located on the turquoise waters of the Bay of Ants, opposite Villa Kerylos, this palace of the Leading Hotels of the World chain is decorated in Art Deco and neo-Hellenic style. The bright, spacious rooms you can book here open onto lush gardens, the Mediterranean or the mountains. We also love the extensive sun terraces, infinity pool and private sandy beach .
What are the best walks in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat?
Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat offers many possibilities for picturesque walks. Our favorite is the Sentier Littoral (Chemin des Douaniers), a coastal path not to be missed in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. Around 7 km long, it offers spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea and lets you discover the natural beauty of the region.
The trail starts at the tip of the peninsula, near the Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat lighthouse, and runs along the coast, passing several coves and beaches, including Plage de Passable and Plage de Paloma. You can also admire magnificent villas and gardens along the way.
The walk is relatively easy and can be completed in around 2-3 hours, depending on your pace. Don't forget to bring water, comfortable shoes and a camera to capture the breathtaking scenery.
Book in advance below the trendiest activities to do during a stay in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat :
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