Discover the Historical Charm of La Citadelle de Villefranche-sur-Mer
Explore La Citadelle de Villefranche-sur-Mer, a stunning 16th-century fortress offering breathtaking views and a rich historical experience.
La Citadelle de Villefranche-sur-Mer is a captivating cultural landmark that offers a glimpse into the rich history and stunning views of the French Riviera. This impressive fortress, dating back to the 16th century, is not just a visual feast, but a serene escape where visitors can immerse themselves in the historical architecture, beautiful gardens, and breathtaking coastal vistas.
A brief summary to La Citadelle de Villefranche-sur-Mer
- 17 Pl. Emmanuel Philibert, La Citadelle, Villefranche-sur-Mer, 06230, FR
- +33493763327
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
- Thursday 9 am-6 pm
- Friday 9 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy the citadel with fewer crowds and the best lighting for photos.
- Don’t forget to bring water and snacks; the gardens are perfect for a relaxing picnic.
- Check for any special events or exhibitions during your visit for a more enriching experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes as exploring the citadel involves some walking and uneven surfaces.
Getting There
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Car
From Jardin Exotique, head southeast on Avenue de la Costa towards Avenue d'Ostende. Continue on this road and take the exit toward M6098. Merge onto M6098 and follow the signs for Nice/Monaco. After about 4 km, take the exit for M6098 toward Villefranche-sur-Mer. Continue on the M6098 for approximately 2 km, then follow signs for Villefranche-sur-Mer. Once in the town, follow the signs to the waterfront and then up to Place Emmanuel Philibert where La Citadelle is located. Note that parking in Villefranche-sur-Mer may incur costs, typically around €1.50 per hour.
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Public Transportation (Bus)
From Jardin Exotique, walk to the nearest bus stop, which is located on Avenue de la Costa. Take Bus Line 100 towards Menton. The bus ride takes approximately 30 minutes. Get off at the Villefranche-sur-Mer stop, which is near the waterfront. From there, it's a short 10-minute walk to La Citadelle de Villefranche-sur-Mer. Head up the hill towards Place Emmanuel Philibert. The bus fare is approximately €1.50.
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Public Transportation (Train)
From Jardin Exotique, walk to the nearest train station in Monaco (Gare de Monaco-Monte-Carlo). Take a train towards Nice Ville. After about 10 minutes, get off at the Villefranche-sur-Mer station. From the train station, it’s about a 20-minute walk to La Citadelle. You'll walk down to the waterfront, then follow the signs or ask locals for directions to Place Emmanuel Philibert. Train tickets cost around €2.00.
Discover more about La Citadelle de Villefranche-sur-Mer
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Pl. Emmanuel Philibert
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Point de vue
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Panorama du Mont-Boron
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panorama nizza
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Parc Castel des Deux Rois
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Place David Niven
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Villa Kérylos
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Belvédère du Mont Boron
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Villa Beau Site
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Square de l’Escadrille Normandie-Niemen
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French searchlight position
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Château de l'Anglais
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Walk the City Nice
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Nice Harbour
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Phare de Nice
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Unmissable attractions to see
Musées de la Citadelle
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Viewpoint Fos de la Citadelle
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Chapelle Saint-Pierre "Cocteau"
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Villefranche-sur-Mer
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Villefranche sur Mer Lighthouse
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Port de Villefranche-sur-Mer
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Plage des Marinieres
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Fort du Mont Alban
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Grace Picnic
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Parc du Mont Boron
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Rade de Villefranche-sur-Mer
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Bd du Mont-Boron
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Saint jean cap ferrat littoral
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Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild
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Promenade Rouvier
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Essential places to dine
Cave Nature
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La Belle Etoile
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La Stoa
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La Terrasse du Versailles
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Colin Coquillages
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Brasserie du Col
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Jasmin Grill & Lounge
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La Table du Royal
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La Table « à » Julie
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So'bella
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La Réserve de Nice
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PIZZA MONT BORON
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Le Plongeoir
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La Vigna
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L'Ane Rouge
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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La Chouette Mauve
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L’Entrepôt Nice Luxury Outlet
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Mon Oeil
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Saint James
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Ma Cabane Vintage
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DAR J decoration
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Palace
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Frip 'n the city
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Hattori boutique
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Margotte
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Caprice Vintage Shop
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Wine Pier
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Le Phare
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Bar Le Brungill
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Le San Lucas
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Ma Nolan's Irish Pub, Nice Port
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FOAM Nice, Port Lympia : Bar à Bière - Craft Beer Bars
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Zitto Speakeasy
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Sausalito Bar Nice
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Borghese Lust
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Boston Bar
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BDA Bar
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BBS The Wine Bar
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TOMAHAWK
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Kai's Monkey Business
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Restaurant Le Bar du port
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