Official Language:
French
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Currency:
EUR
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Population:
Approximately 6,877 people call Villefranche home.
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Weather:
Climate and current weather information for Villefranche Sur Mer-(Nice): Summers here are hot and humid with winters that bring rain and an occasional chill. January, the temperatures usually fall between 43-55°F/6-13°C whilst in August they range from 68-81°F (20 to 27°C) degrees. On the coast, sea breezes keep the temperature cool enough to need a light jacket on summer evenings.
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Villefranche-sur-Mer -- 935km (581 miles) S of Paris; 6km ( just 4 miles) from Nice, is one of the most picturesque Cote d'Azue fishing ports. Cruise ships anchor in the harbor and tender passengers to a small terminal that is located in the heart of Villefranche-sur-Mer. This charming French town is located above the crystal waters of the Côte d'Azure. Brightly colored buildings rise beside the narrow streets and stairways from the harbor. There at the harbor you will see the fishing boats and yachts that are moored along with boutiques and cafés that look out to the sea. Medieval chapels along with the impressive hilltop fortress that was built by the Duke of Savoy in 1560 are a party of Villefranche history. Villefranche is close to St Jean-Cap-Ferrat where you can view the Villa Ephrusi along with the wonderful art collection and spledid gardens. From Villefranche there are shore vexcursions that will take you to Eze, Cannes, Antibes, Eze, Monte Carlo, and Nice along with the many other legendary highlights of the French Riviera.
According to legend, Hercules opened his arms and Villefranche was born. It sits on a big blue bay that looks like a gigantic bowl, large enough to accommodate U.S. Sixth Fleet cruisers and destroyers. Quietly slumbering otherwise, Villefranche takes on the appearance of an exciting Mediterranean port when the fleet is in. Once popular with such writers as Katherine Mansfield and Aldous Huxley, it's still a haven for artists, many of whom take over the little houses -- reached by narrow alleyways -- that climb the hillside. Two of the more recent arrivals who have bought homes in the area are Tina Turner and Bono.
Enjoy this old town that dates back to the 14th century. You will find yourself leaving with a romantic & historic feeling. This is a terrific cruise port for relaxing at a waterfront cafe and be mesmerized by the beaches, yachts, marinas, the blue Mediterranean sea, and the beautiful people. The Cote d'Azur a gathering place for the rich, the famous, and a favorite holiday destination for Europeans.
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Attractions |
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The Chapelle St-Pierre
Open Tuesday - Sunday from 10am - 12n and 4pm - 8:30pm. It is a 14th century Romanesque chapel, and is decorated with images that were painted by artist Jean Cocteau.
The Saint Elme Citadel:
The 16th century fortress that overlooks the old town, provides some of the most picturesque views of the beautiful Mediterranean. 0É$The Citadelle, known also as Fort Sainte Elme, is now the location of the city hall, the public gardens and a few art museums.
Some other sights to see include:
A stroll along Quai Courbet, the town’s atmospheric fishing port. Worth the visit is Musee Volti, open Wednesday - Monday 10am - 12n and 3pm - 5 pm and Sundays from 10am - 12n. Here you will find the showcase work of local born sculptor Antoniucci Volti. Volti is most well known for voluptuous bronze sculptures of women.
Beaches:
Plage de Villefranche-sur-Mer, located northwest of old town and approximately a ten minute walk.
Shopping:
Good findings include Provencal wine & Provencal floral linens.
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More Information |
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Web: www.villefranche-sur-mer.com
Web: www.riviera-ports.com/english/ports/situation/Villefranche/villefr.htm
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