Villefranche, France
Shore Excursion and Port Information
Great Cote d' Azur Overview
By Nancy Norris

In the heart of the Côte d’Azur, 3 miles east of Nice, lies a picturesque fishing village that maintains the charm of Provence and the prestige of the Riviera.

Villefranche Marina

I fell in love with the French Riviera the moment the ship’s tender pulled into the Villefranche Marina. We had arranged to have an 8 passenger van pick us up at the port for a whirlwind tour of the area. Our itinerary included a visit to Eze, Monaco, Cannes and Nice. Michel, our excellent English speaking guide from Revelation Tours did an outstanding job of fulfilling all of our wishes and provided us with the one of the best and most comprehensive tours I have ever experienced. But, more about that in another review! This review is devoted to the enchanting seaside village known as Villefranche-sur-mer.

Villefranche

Dropped off in the heart of the Old City, Villefranche beckons to be explored. Fortunately, our ship was not set to sail until midnight, so it offered us some time to discover the treasures of this rich oasis when our tour was completed. Based on the recommendation of our tour guide, our first stop was the Welcome Hotel where our group enjoyed a refreshing libation at the bar. This 200 year old hotel, situated right on the waterfront was a destination in itself. The walls are lined with pictures and autographs of many famous guests, such as Michael Douglas, Kathleen Turner and Gerard Depardieu. In fact, Jean Cocteau, the famous artist, writer, director and actor lived there while he worked on the Chapelle St. Pierre, his chapel dedicated to St. Peter, the patron saint of fishermen. The chapel sits opposite the hotel and is another must see.

If time allows, I highly recommend you wander along the fishing wharves, bordered by restaurants with outdoor terraces, until you reach the rather lengthy Villefranche beach. Don’t miss the chance to check out the Citadel, a 16th century fortress on your walking tour. It is now the home of the town hall, congress center, museums and an open-air theatre. The Old Village harbors unusual narrow and covered streets like the strange Rue Obscure, a limestone street with covered passages leading to ancient homes with colored facades.

Door Robert

Such antiquities as the Door Robert, one of five doors that allow access to the old city is hard to miss. Villefranche is definitely a place that I plan to return someday to explore in greater detail. I may even consider a stay at the Welcome Hotel.

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