Top 6 Best Things to Do in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, France

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Published on February 9th, 2025 by Ersilia

Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is the crown jewel of the French Riviera, boasting the second most expensive real estate in the world after Monaco! It is located between Nice and Monaco and is easily accessible from both locations.

This prestigious peninsula has long been a playground for royalty and celebrities, with its crystal-clear waters and Belle Époque villas.

Let me show you the most magnificent experiences and the best things to do in this exclusive paradise.

You can make this place a stop on your French Riviera tour (here is the best way to see the sights in 5 days!) or your destination for multiple days if you are looking for a chill vacation.

In this article we will talk about the best activites that you should not miss if you are visiting Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, including the famous villas, my favourite coastal walk on the French Riviera, the best beaches and the best places to eat ! I put them all together in this map that you can save to use later on your mobile.

The history of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat: From Fishing Village to Millionaires’ Paradise!

It might be difficult to imagine it today, but Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat wasn’t always the glittering playground for the ultra-wealthy that we see today! Back in the 1800s, this was just a humble fishing village that locals called “Cap-Saint-Sospir” – quite a change from today’s scene of mega-yachts and luxury villas, right?

Everything changed during the Belle Époque (that’s the late 1800s to early 1900s for those of us who slept through history class!). European royalty, wealthy industrialists, and artists suddenly discovered this sun-soaked peninsula and thought, “Hey, this would make a perfect escape from those gloomy northern winters!” And just like that, the transformation began. This is what happened to Nice, to, and the English promenade.

The real game-changer? King Leopold II of Belgium. This guy knew how to make an entrance! He started buying up parts of the peninsula in the early 1900s and built several extravagant villas. Soon enough, everyone who was anyone wanted their own piece of Cap-Ferrat – from the Rothschilds to Hollywood stars.

Spooky fact : During World War II, the peninsula suffered a fall from luxury to military strategy. The Germans occupied those beautiful villas, turning them into military headquarters. But don’t worry – this glamorous paradise bounced back stronger than ever after the war!

By the 1950s and 60s, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat had become THE place to see and to be seen. Picture this: Elizabeth Taylor lounging by her pool, David Niven hosting legendary parties, and Charlie Chaplin enjoying the Mediterranean breeze. Even The Beatles made this their holiday spot!

Today, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat holds the title for the second most expensive real estate in the world (after Monaco)! Average villa prices? Breathe in – we’re talking about €30 million and up. And some of those historic villas? Some of them are around €200 million! (It is on my list for the day I’ll won the lotery with my work mates, haha!)

But here’s what I love most about this place – despite all the glamour and money, it’s somehow managed to keep its soul (unlike, Monaco – unpopular opinion, I know). You can still find quiet corners that feel just like that old fishing village, where local traditions live on alongside all the luxury. It’s this mix of old-world charm and ultra-luxury that makes Cap-Ferrat truly special!

Make sure to activate the captions on english !

Know Before You Go: Where to stay

You can get here directly from Nice airport via public transportation or by taking a private transfert. The last option is not that expensive, given the location, last I checked it was around 50 euros (checked in 2025). I prefer to book this via Welcome Pickups, as they are the most easiest to book online.

Want to experience the glamour of Cap-Ferrat peninsula without spending a fortune? Here’s my top tip: don’t stay here! While the peninsula is stunning, luxury hotels like the Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat (Four Seasons) can easily cost €1,000+ per night.

Instead, base yourself in charming Villefranche-sur-Mer or Nice – you’ll get the same gorgeous Riviera experience at a third of the price, and Cap-Ferrat is just a 15-minute bus ride away (Line 15, €1.50).

There are a lot of accommodation options here, one of my favourite being the Welcome Hotel, situated right in the old port with rooms that have views over the sea!

But if you still wish to sleep in the heart of Cap-Ferrat, the best option would be Hôtel Vacances Bleues Delcloy. Situated directly on the waterfront facing the stunning Baie des Fourmis, the hotel enjoys an incredible location that’s worth every penny. While I didn’t stay here overnight, I had the chance to explore the property, and wow – what a spot! For a 3-star hotel, it really punches above its weight with some seriously luxurious amenities, including a private dock and a spectacular swimming pool overlooking the coastline and cliffs.

The best part? If you visit during off-season, the double rooms become surprisingly affordable, making this prime location actually accessible. The rooms are scattered throughout a beautiful tree-filled park in individual villa-style buildings, giving you that exclusive French Riviera feeling without the usual astronomical prices. One major highlight is the direct access to the coastal promenade – you can stroll to either Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat or Beaulieu-sur-Mer in minutes. Perfect for those morning or sunset walks along the Mediterranean!

The best hotels in or near Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

The peninsula is perfect for day trips: explore the villas, walk the coastal path, enjoy the beaches, then head back to your more budget-friendly accommodation.

Just remember to carry water and wear comfortable shoes – the best views require some walking, and summer temperatures can soar. And if you’re driving, arrive early – parking spots are as rare as reasonably priced restaurants in this millionaires’ paradise!

1. Visit the Spectacular Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild

Trust me, if there’s one place that’ll make your jaw drop in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, it’s this pink palace! The Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild isn’t just another pretty house – it’s basically the Great Gatsby of the French Riviera (and yes, the parties here were just as legendary!).

Getting Here (the easiest way)

Want the easiest way to reach this fairy-tale villa?

Hop on Bus Line 15 from Nice’s Promenade des Arts – it’s a scenic 35-minute ride that’ll drop you right near the entrance (bonus: you’ll pass through the adorable fishing village of Villefranche-Sur-Mer!). If you’re feeling fancy, an Uber will set you back about €20-25 from Nice, or €12-15 from Villefranche. If you prefer to reserve your ride in advance, a great way to do it is via Welcome Pickups. I use them in almost every trip I take.

You can also come by train. You have to arrive at the nearby Beaulieu-sur-mer and then walk around 20-25 minutes to the villa.

A Bit of Gossip (Because Why Not?)

Picture this: it’s the early 1900s, and Béatrice de Rothschild, ultimate fashionista of her time, decides she needs a pink villa overlooking the Mediterranean. Seven years and a small fortune later, she created what I can only describe as the most spectacular house party venue in history! The villa hosted the kind of gatherings that would make Leonardo DiCaprio’s Great Gatsby blush ! Orchestras playing while exotic animals roamed the gardens and was considered as normal (yes, really!).

The Beautiful Gardens That’ll Make Your Instagram Followers Jealous

Nine themed gardens surround the villa, and trust me – they’re not your average backyard setup. It’s like walking around a castle garden, but with a different vibe.

One minute you’re in a French formal garden with musical fountains (more on that in a second!), the next you’re transported to a Japanese paradise.

My tip, if you need one, is to visit during rose season when the pink blooms match the villa’s walls – it’s almost too pretty to be real!

Don’t Miss This: The Musical Fountain Show

Okay, here’s something they don’t tell you in the guidebooks – every 15-20 minutes, the fountains in the French garden put on a show that’ll give Vegas a run for its money! Check the schedule when you arrive (it should be writting either at the ticket office or at the beggining of the gardens). Grab a spot early, and prepare for your “wow” moment of the day.

Start with the villa tour, then hit the gardens when the day-trippers start heading back to Nice. You’ll have those dreamy photo spots almost all to yourself!

Lunch Fit for a Rothschild

Here’s my favorite insider secret: the villa’s Salon de thé de Beatrice isn’t just another tourist trap café. For €24-31, you can have lunch in what feels like a time machine to the Belle Époque. The set menu includes a main dish and dessert, and while it’s not cheap, it’s actually reasonable considering you’re dining in literal Rothschild territory!

Just remember to book ahead – this place is popular for a reason. They’re open daily from 11:00 to 17:30 (18:30 in summer), with lunch served 12:00-15:00.

You can book here : [email protected] / (+33) 04.93.76.44.02

2. Discover Hidden Beaches and Coves

Plage Cros Dei Pin

Plage Cros Dei Pin offers a more laid-back alternative to the peninsula’s famous private beaches. This public beach sits in a protected cove, making it ideal for families with children and swimmers seeking calmer waters.

Unlike its pebbled neighbors, Cros Dei Pin features a mix of sand and small pebbles, making it more comfortable for beachgoers. The gentle slope into the water and protected location create perfect conditions for swimming. The beach provides excellent facilities including showers, toilets, and a first aid station during peak season.

A children’s playground sits adjacent to the beach, while the shallow waters near the shore make it an excellent spot for young swimmers. The beach also hosts sailing and water sports activities through the local nautical club, offering lessons and equipment rentals during summer months.

Paloma Beach

You haven’t really experienced Cap-Ferrat until you’ve stretched out on Paloma Beach! This legendary private beach has been hosting celebrities since the 1950s, and trust me – one visit will show you why. But here’s a money-saving tip: skip the pricey beach club chairs and bring your own towel to the public section of the beach. You’ll get the same million-dollar views for free!

Plage de Passable

Where Views Meet Vibes Want to spot some mega-yachts while taking a dip? Passable Beach is your spot! The views of Villefranche-sur-Mer are absolutely incredible, especially during sunset. Fair warning though – the trendy beach restaurant here has become quite the Instagram sensation lately. While the setting is definitely photo-worthy (and the food is pretty good), be prepared for prices that’ll remind you you’re in one of the world’s most expensive ZIP codes! We paid 20 euros for a beer and a syrup, which even for the French Riviera, it’s expensive.*

Local Secret: The Lighthouse Coves

Something most tourists never discover is that just below the lighthouse, there are two hidden coves that feel like your own private slice of paradise! Look for the concrete platforms built into the rocks – they make perfect sunbathing spots, and the crystal-clear water is perfect for snorkeling.

Getting here requires a bit of a scramble down the rocks (wear proper shoes!), but that’s exactly what keeps the crowds away.

Water Activities (Because You Can’t Just Lie There All Day!)

The waters around Cap-Ferrat are like a natural swimming pool – seriously, I’ve never seen water this clear in France!

Grab a snorkel mask from any of the local shops (or bring your own), and you’ll spot all sorts of fish darting around the rocks. For the adventurous types, you can rent kayaks or paddleboards from Paloma Beach – paddling around the peninsula gives you a whole new perspective of those fancy villas!

An ever better experience is to take a boat ride around the peninsula and get to feel the vibe from a small luxury boat. This one even has a private picnic option !

Just keep in mind:

• Visit beaches before 10am or after 4pm to avoid the crowds (and the strongest sun!)
• Bring water shoes – those pretty rocks can be sharp
• Pack your own snacks unless you’re ready for beach club prices
• The best snorkeling spots are around the rocky edges of each beach

3. The Sentier du Littoral: Cap-Ferrat’s Most Spectacular Walk!

If there’s one thing you absolutely MUST do in Cap-Ferrat, it’s walking along the Promenade Maurice Rouvier! This scenic path hugs the coastline and offers views that’ll make your Instagram followers think you’ve stumbled into a movie set.

Actually, when you search on google “Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat”, chances are that you will stumble upon a photo from this place.

The best thing about it? It’s the perfect place to enjoy the sea views even on spring days when it’s still too early to swim !

Starting from Beaulieu-sur-Mer (my favorite way to begin!), you’ll immediately spot the show-stopping pink villa perched right on the water – it’s like something straight out of a Wes Anderson film! A few steps further, and you’ll find yourself face-to-face with Villa Kerylos, an incredible recreation of an ancient Greek villa.

If you’re fascinated by architecture, consider getting a combined ticket for both Villa Kerylos and Villa Ephrussi – they offer completely different vibes and it’s totally worth it!

As you continue along the path, get ready for some serious real estate daydreaming! The modern villas dotting the coastline are basically a masterclass in luxury living. I always find myself wondering which movie star or billionaire might be sipping coffee on those incredible terraces!

Rememver that you can save my map !

Don’t Miss This:

• The lighthouse and semaphore tower (perfect sunset spot!)
• The old port (more on that in a minute – it’s a gem!)
• Those crystal-clear swimming spots along the way

If you want to remember a few tips, these would be :

• Start early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat
• Bring water and wear comfortable shoes (those Instagram-worthy shots require some walking!)
• Pack your camera – the yacht-spotting here is next level
• Plan for about 2-3 hours if you want to take photos and make stops

The best part? This walk connects you to the seaside town of Villefranche-sur-Mer, making it perfect for a half-day adventure. Just remember to look up from your camera occasionally – with views this stunning, you’ll want to soak it all in!

4. The Old Port : Tales from the Sea

The old port isn’t just a fancy yacht parking lot – it’s the heart of Cap-Ferrat’s fishing heritage!

Take a stroll around early morning, and you might still catch local fishermen bringing in their catch (yes, some people here actually work for a living!).

The port’s history dates back centuries, and if you’re lucky, you might spot some traditional wooden fishing boats among the luxury yachts.

5. Hidden Gems: Cap-Ferrat’s Cultural Side That Most Tourists Miss!

While everyone’s busy snapping photos of mega-yachts, let me tell you about the fascinating cultural spots that tell the real story of Cap-Ferrat. For me, these hidden corners are where the peninsula’s soul truly lives.

The Chapel of Saint-Hospice: A Peaceful Time Machine

Perched on the highest point of the peninsula, the Chapel of Saint-Hospice is one of those places that takes your breath away! This 11th-century chapel is packed with history.

It was named after a 6th-century hermit who lived here (talk about prime real estate!). The 11.6-meter bronze statue of the Virgin Mary standing guard outside is impossible to miss, and the views of the Mediterranean from up here? Absolutely incredible!

The Chapel is usually open mornings and late afternoons (check local times).

Visit late afternoon when the light is perfect for photos.

The Belgian Military Cemetery: A Moving Memorial

Just steps from the chapel lies one of Cap-Ferrat’s most touching sites. This peaceful cemetery honors Belgian soldiers who fought in World War I and were sent to the French Riviera to recover from their injuries.

It’s a quiet, reflective space that reminds us there’s more to this peninsula than glitz and glamour. The perfectly maintained graves and Mediterranean views create a powerfully moving experience.

Art Galleries: Modern Culture Meets Old Money

While smaller than the art scenes in Nice or Antibes, Cap-Ferrat’s galleries pack a punch! My favorite is tucked away near the port (I’ll let you discover that one on your own – half the fun is stumbling upon these places!). These intimate galleries often feature local artists and rotating exhibitions that capture the essence of Riviera life.

Remember, while the villas and beaches get all the attention, these cultural spots tell the real story of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. They’re the perfect way to escape the crowds and discover what makes this peninsula truly special!

6. Indulge in Gastronomic Experiences

For food enthusiasts, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat offers an exquisite blend of high gastronomy and simple Mediterranean pleasures. From Michelin-starred dining to casual seaside restaurants, the peninsula serves up unforgettable culinary experiences.

La Table du Royal: A Michelin Star Experience

Located within the Royal-Riviera Hotel, La Table du Royal delivers an extraordinary dining experience. The restaurant’s sophisticated menu combines French culinary tradition with Mediterranean influences. Each dish celebrates local ingredients while showcasing innovative techniques. The sea views from the terrace add another layer of magic to the dining experience. Reservations are essential, particularly during peak season.

Local Seafood Treasures

The peninsula’s restaurants excel in fresh seafood preparations. The Le Pacha du Sloop – Chez Fifi in the port offers catch-of-the-day specials and traditional Niçoise dishes.

The grilled fish, served with simple olive oil and herbs, captures the essence of coastal dining. For a more casual experience, La Cabane de l’Ecailler serves excellent seafood platters in a relaxed setting overlooking the harbor.

Sunset Cocktails and Beach Clubs

Fancy cocktail time

Just because you don’t sleep at the most expensive hotel in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, doesn’t mean you can’t indulge in a fancy cocktail there !

The Four Seasons Grand-Hôtel is absolutely breathtaking – and I mean jaw-dropping stunning! The Mediterranean views from here are simply unreal. For an unforgettable aperitif experience, you can choose between cozying up in their intimate library (amazing for those rare rainy days) or lounging on their spectacular terrace.

The cocktail menu here is something special. Their signature drinks showcase some seriously creative mixology skills, and they’re absolutely worth the splurge. Not drinking? No problem – their mocktails are equally impressive. Wine enthusiasts will appreciate their extensive selection of wines and champagnes, while spirit connoisseurs can explore their impressive collection of premium spirits. The whisky selection is particularly noteworthy – they take their brown spirits very seriously here!

A word about visiting: while it’s one of the most expensive spots in Cap-Ferrat (because, well, Four Seasons!), having one drink here is a perfect way to experience this legendary hotel without booking a room. The service and atmosphere make it a memorable splurge, especially during sunset hours when the views are at their most magical.

Beach Clubs not to miss

Paloma Beach Club transforms from a daytime haven into a sophisticated evening venue. The sunset cocktail hour here is a cherished ritual, with creative drinks and small plates served against a backdrop of changing sky colors.

At Passable Beach, the trendy beach restaurant offers innovative cocktails and a glamorous atmosphere, though prices reflect the exclusive setting.

Morning Market and Local Produce

The small morning market near the port provides a glimpse into local life. Fresh produce from nearby farms, regional cheeses, and artisanal products create a authentic shopping experience.

The market also offers prepared foods perfect for a picnic along the coastal path.

Dining Notes:

• Peak season dinner reservations recommended 2-3 days in advance
• Most high-end restaurants close for lunch from November to March
• Beach clubs often require minimum spends for sunset service
• Market opens early morning until 1pm (days vary seasonally)

The gastronomic scene in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat balances luxury dining with traditional Mediterranean flavors, creating memorable culinary moments for every palate and budget.

SO, are you ready to explore this incredible peninsula ? When are you going? Let me know in the comments !

Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat offers an unparalleled blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and luxurious experiences. Whether you’re exploring grand villas, swimming in hidden coves, or dining at world-class restaurants, this Mediterranean paradise promises unforgettable moments. Plan your visit to experience the French Riviera’s most exclusive destination!