The Rothschild Villa: Gardens & Glamour in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

Perched on the dreamy peninsula of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, the Rothschild Villa (officially known as the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild), is one of the most stunning attractions on the French Riviera. This pink-hued palace, built by Béatrice Ephrussi de Rothschild in the early 20th century, is a masterpiece of Neo-Renaissance architecture and a must-see for anyone visiting the Côte d’Azur. With its opulent interiors, breathtaking views of both the harbour of Villefranche-sur-Mer and the bay of Beaulieu-sur-Mer, and nine themed gardens, the Rothschild Villa offers a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of the daughter of one of Europe’s most prominent families. Whether you are staying in Nice, Monaco, Antibes, or elsewhere along the French Riviera, a visit to the Rothschild Villa in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is a cultural highlight you will not want to miss! 

Table of Contents:

1. Rothschild Villa: A Brief History 
2. Highlights of the Rothschild Villa
3. How to Visit the Rothschild Villa 
4. Events & Seasonal Experiences at the Rothschild Villa 
5. Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit to the Rothschild Villa 
6. More About Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
7. Final Thoughts: Why the Rothschild Villa & Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat Belongs on Your French Riviera Itinerary

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Rothschild Villa: A Brief History

The Rothschild Villa is one of the most elegant and enchanting estates on the French Riviera. It was built by Béatrice de Rothschild, a member of the prominent French branch of the Rothschild banking dynasty (one of the wealthiest and most influential families in Europe during the 19th and early 20th centuries). Born into extraordinary privilege, Béatrice had a keen eye for art, a deep appreciation for beauty, and a flair for the extravagant.

In 1883, Béatrice married the wealthy Russian-born banker Maurice Ephrussi, but the union was far from ideal. Béatrice was infected with syphilis from Maurice, leaving her unable to have children. Maurice’s compulsive gambling and spiraling debts strained their relationship, and the couple eventually divorced in 1904. While being a divorcée was hardly in fashion at the turn of the 20th century, Béatrice was able to weather the storm thanks to the large inheritance she received after her father's passing the following year, in 1905. Following the divorce, Béatrice, who remained childless, focused her energy and newfound fortune on collecting art, traveling, and, most notably, the building of her dream home on the French Riviera.

Between 1905 and 1912, Béatrice commissioned the construction of the Rothschild Villa on a narrow promontory in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, with panoramic views of both the Bay of Villefranche-sur-Mer and the Bay of Beaulieu-sur-Mer. Inspired by Italian Renaissance architecture, the villa was designed to resemble a grand palazzo, complete with a pink façade, an arcaded loggia, and lavishly decorated salons. Béatrice filled the home with her extensive collections, everything from rare porcelain and antique furniture to 18th-century artworks and tapestries. 

The villa’s interior was only half the vision. Béatrice oversaw the development of nine themed gardens surrounding the property, each with its own distinct identity: French formal, Spanish, Florentine, Japanese, Provençal, exotic, stone, rose, and the Sévres gardens. The gardens were meticulously designed with terraces, fountains, and classical sculptures, and the centerpiece is the formal French garden, largely inspired by the Petit Trianon at Versailles (complete with a replica of the Temple of Love).

A lover of animals, Béatrice surrounded herself with pets, including: two monkeys, birds, dogs, and even a mongoose. (She even commissioned bespoke, miniature furniture for her beloved animals, some of which are still on display in the villa today.) Her deep affection for her animals and eccentric personal tastes only added to the villa’s character. Upon her death in 1934, she bequeathed the Rothschild Villa and all of its contents to the Académie des Beaux-Arts, ensuring that the public would one day be able to experience her extraordinary creation.

Today, the Rothschild Villa stands as a lasting legacy of Béatrice’s impeccable taste and independent spirit, an enduring cultural treasure on the French Riviera.

Highlights of the Rothschild Villa

Béatrice de Rothschild meticulously curated every detail of her villa to reflect her passion for art and design, and today, the villa offers a beautifully preserved glimpse into her opulent and eccentric lifestyle.

The Rothschild Villa

The Rothschild Villa is arranged around a central, now enclosed, patio. Each room is richly decorated with period furniture, tapestries, and priceless decorative arts. Some of the highlights within the Rothschild Villa include: 

The Grand Salon

Among the highlights of the Rothschild Villa is the Grand Salon, my personal favorite, which features Louis XVI-style furnishings and large windows framing views of the gardens and the sea beyond.

Look down, and you will see one of the room’s most exceptional treasures: a richly woven carpet that once belonged to the chapel of the Palace of Versailles. Created during the reign of Louis XV, the carpet features intertwined golden “L”s at its center. Out of the original five carpets made for the Versailles chapel, this is the only known survivor; the others were destroyed during the French Revolution.

Also not to be missed in the Grand Salon is Béatrice’s game table. She loved to host friends for games of bridge, poker, chess, and tric-trac (an early version of backgammon). Despite Béatrice's ex-husband's extensive gambling debts, Béatrice enjoyed gambling and was a frequent visitor to the Monte Carlo Casino, only 8.2 miles (13.2 kilometers) away from the Rothschild Villa. The game table on display in the Grand Salon was a gift from Marie Antoinette to one of her friends in the 18th century. 

Béatrice’s Bedroom

Béatrice’s bedroom is a soft, elegant space that feels surprisingly personal compared to the villa’s more formal salons. Decorated in soft colors with delicate textiles, this room offers a quieter, more intimate glimpse into Béatrice’s world. The space is furnished with a large bed, covered in silk linens. (The Rothschild family engaged in the silk trade with China at the time of the villa's construction.) Across from the bed, in the seating area underneath the large window that overlooks the water, you can see some of the bespoke furniture that Béatrice commissioned for her animals (pictured below).

The Dining Room & Porcelain Room

Another highlight of the Rothschild Villa is Béatrice’s impressive porcelain collection, on display in the Dining Room and Porcelain Room. Béatrice was an avid collector of 18th-century porcelain, and these spaces house some of her most prized pieces, including rare examples from Sèvres and Vincennes. The porcelain is displayed in custom-designed cases that turn each piece into a work of art. More porcelain pieces are on display throughout the villa. 

First-Floor Rooms

Each room located on the first floor of the Rothschild Villa (or second floor as Americans call it) is full of personality, much like Béatrice de Rothschild herself. One of the first spaces you will come across is the Directoire Bedroom, where wall decorations, complete with animals, set the tone for Béatrice’s flair for the exotic and love of animals. Just next door, the Blue Bedroom offers gorgeous views of the sea and gardens.

The final highlight of the Rothschild Villa's interior is the outdoor terrace on the first floor. From here, you get exquisite views of both the manicured gardens below and the shimmering Mediterranean Sea beyond.

The Gardens

As incredible as the Rothschild Villa is inside, it is the gardens that are the real highlight of any trip to the Rothschild Villa. I loved the gardens even more than the house itself, something I had not expected until I saw them in person. Designed as a series of nine distinct themed gardens, each one feels like its own little world. From the symmetry and fountains of the French formal garden, to the romantic pathways of the Florentine garden, to the exotic garden filled with cacti and succulents, the variety is impressive. You could spend hours here wandering from one space to the next, with each turn revealing a new burst of color or a perfectly framed view of the water.

Perched high on the Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat peninsula, the Rothschild Villa is surrounded by bays on both sides, creating a breathtaking backdrop for the lush greenery and manicured flower beds. I visited at the very end of April, and the roses were in bloom! 😍 Between the blossoms, the fountains, and the dramatic coastal views, the gardens at the Rothschild Villa are absolutely incredible and, for me, the most memorable part of the entire visit.

Since the grounds are expansive, covering some 17.3 acres (7 hectares), I recommend spending the bulk of your time visiting three of the themed gardens: the French formal garden, the Florentine garden, and the rose garden. These were my favorites among the gardens at the Rothschild Villa and, in my opinion, had the best scenic viewpoints. 

How to Visit the Rothschild Villa 

Tickets & Opening Hours

Tickets for the Rothschild Villa can be purchased both in-person and online via the Rothschild Villa Ticket Office website. Tickets cost €18 for adults, while discounted tickets are available for children (ages 7-17) and students (ages 18-25, with a valid student ID card). Admission to the Rothschild Villa is free for children under the age of seven. 

The Rothschild Villa is open daily, including holidays. Please note, however, that the Rothschild Villa does serve as a wedding and event space. Therefore, the Rothschild Villa may close to the public for private events. Upcoming closures, if any, are posted on the Rothschild Villa website. 

The Rothschild Villa is typically open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. During the months of July and August, the Rothschild Villa has extended opening hours, from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM. From November through the end of January, the Rothschild Villa is open from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM on weekdays (with regular hours on the weekend, remaining open until 6:00 PM.) The last admission is 30 minutes before closing. 

Transportation 

As you likely now know, the Rothschild Villa is located in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, which is about halfway between Nice and Monaco. The easiest way to access the Rothschild Villa is by car. Free parking is available on-site. 

If you are traveling through the French Riviera as I did, without a car, you can opt to take a taxi or an Uber to the Rothschild Villa. I opted to call Ubers to and from the Rothschild Villa and had no issues. With that being said, public transportation from Nice is also available. Bus #15 stops just outside of the Rothschild Villa. The bus picks up in Nice a couple of blocks from the Musée d'Art Moderne et d'Art Contemporain. The bus ride takes approximately 35 minutes. Once you get off the bus at the Rothschild Villa, it is a short, 5-minute walk to the ticket office and entrance. 

If you are looking to visit the Rothschild Villa from somewhere further away than Nice during your time in the French Riviera, keep in mind that the closest train station to the Rothschild Villa is Beaulieu-sur-Mer. From the train station, it is a 30-minute walk (1.2 miles/2 kilometers) to the Rothschild Villa. 

For additional information regarding opening hours and transportation, please visit the Rothschild Villa website.

Events & Seasonal Experiences at the Rothschild Villa 

For additional information about each of the following events and seasonal experiences at the Rothschild Villa, as well as other events not listed here, please visit the Rothschild Villa website.

Roses & Plants Festival (May)

Every May, the Rothschild Villa gardens are transformed during the Roses & Plant Festival, celebrating Béatrice de Rothschild’s lifelong passion for roses and horticulture. Held over a weekend in early May (most recently May 3-4, 2025), the festival brings together renowned rose growers and gardening experts in the formal French garden. Visitors can discover rare plant species, enjoy workshops, and join guided tours of the nine gardens. The event also features concerts and floral displays woven throughout the gardens. 

Nocturnes of the Villa Show (July & August)

Each summer at the Rothschild Villa, the enchanting Nocturnes of the Villa Show transforms the gardens into a sparkling, candle-lit stage for live musical performances. The outdoor performances take place on the lawn, so you are encouraged to bring a blanket. Picnic baskets are also available for purchase during the event. The Nocturnes of the Villa takes place every Monday and Tuesday night, from 8:00 PM to midnight, from July 14 to August 26, 2025. The shows start promptly at 9:00 PM. For additional information, please visit the Rothschild Villa website.

Dîner sous les étoiles (Dinner Under the Stars)

Twice each summer on select evenings, the Rothschild Villa opens its gardens for a Dinner Under the Stars experience. Tickets include a gourmet, three-course meal and an astronomical observation in partnership with the Observatoire de la Côte d’Azur. This year's events are scheduled for July 24 and August 21, 2025. Advance tickets are required as the event is limited to only 50 guests per night. For additional information, please visit the Rothschild Villa website.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit to the Rothschild Villa

• Arrive Early: To beat the oppressive summer heat and crowds, I recommend arriving to the Rothschild Villa shortly after opening time. You should plan to spend two to three hours at the villa, or longer if you are looking to explore deep into the expansive gardens and/or enjoy lunch at the villa. 
• Use the Free Multilingual Audio Guide: Included with admission, the complementary audio guide provides expert commentary on Béatrice, her collections, and the villa's history. I personally found the audio guide really interesting and it is where I learned the majority of the facts that I shared with you earlier in this blog. 
• Plan Around Seasonal Events & Closures: As I briefly mentioned already, the Rothschild Villa hosts seasonal events and can also serve as a venue for private events. Before visiting, double-check the Rothschild Villa website to see if your visit overlaps with any of the season events or a potential closure. If your timing aligns with one of the seasonal events, like the magical Nocturnes of the Villa, it is well worth planning your visit in conjunction with the event.
• Enjoy On-Site Dining & Afternoon Tea: The charming Béatrice Restaurant and Tea Room offer a lovely respite overlooking the Bay of Villefranche-sur-Mer. Stop by for a light lunch, pastries, or indulge in an elegant afternoon tea. Lunch is served from noon to 3:00 PM. Please keep in mind that the restaurant is only open on weekends during the slow season, from November through January. Advance reservations are recommended. More information regarding the restaurant can be found on the Rothschild Villa website. If the restaurant has a long wait, or you are are looking for more of a snack, there is an ice cream stand just outside the main entrance to the villa. I got the lemon sorbet that was divine!

More About Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

While the Rothschild Villa, an unforgettable blend of art, architecture, and gardens that ranks among the top things to do on the Côte d’Azur, is the greatest jewel in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat there is more to this town that meets the eye. Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is also known for its picturesque beaches and scenic coastal hiking trails. If you are planning on spending some additional time in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, here is some information regarding things to do, hotels, and more in the area.

Additional Things to Do in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat 

Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat may be small, but it is full of charm, coastal beauty, and peaceful spots perfect for a relaxed Riviera day. Here are some other things to do aside from visiting the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild:

• Coastal Path of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat (Tour du Cap-Ferrat): The coastal path wraps around much of the cape, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea, hidden coves, and pine-covered cliffs. The trail is well-marked and relatively easy in terms of difficutly-level. The trail is just shy of 3 miles (4.7 kilometers) and takes about an hour to complete. Due to landslides and inclement weather, parts of the trail may be closed. For additional information, please visit the AllTrails website.
• Paloma Beach: Paloma Beach is a picturesque beach with crystal-clear water, tucked away on the eastern side of the cape. Paloma Beach is a mix of public and private areas and offers loungers, a chic beach restaurant, and views across the bay toward Beaulieu-sur-Mer. Due to ongoing cliff reinforcement work, Paloma Beach is closed for the 2025 season.
• Port of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat: This tranquil harbor is lined with colorful boats and laid-back cafés. It is a great place to enjoy a drink, grab lunch, or just people-watch by the water.
• Saint-Hospice Chapel: The Saint-Hospice Chapel is a peaceful and historic sanctuary tucked away on the eastern tip of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. Originally built in the 11th century, it honors Saint Hospitius, who lived there in the 6th century. Beside the chapel stands a striking 37.4-foot (11.4 meters) bronze statue of the Virgin Mary.
• Villa Kerylos (in nearby Beaulieu-sur-Mer): This lesser-known villa, located in the picturesque Beaulieu-sur-Mer, was designed in the Ancient Greek Revival style, complete with extravagant mosaics and marble, perfect for those interested in the art and architecture of Ancient Greece. In fact, the villa was actually constructed by a relative of Maurice Ephrussi, Béatrice's ex-husband, in the early 1900s. 

Hotels & Accommodations in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

Visitors often enjoy staying in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat thanks to its quiet location off the main tourist path and breathtaking coastal views. The town offers an escape from the busier towns along the French Riviera, with upscale hotels and relatively easy access to destinations like Nice, Villefranche-sur-Mer, and Èze. A few of the highest rated hotels in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat are listed below.

• Grand Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat, A Four Seasons Hotel
• Hotel Royal Riviera
• Boutique Hôtel & Spa La Villa Cap Ferrat

Restaurants in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat 

Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat offers a refined yet relaxed dining scene, perfect for a leisurely lunch or an elegant seaside dinner. Many restaurants are clustered around the port, where you will find everything from fresh seafood and Mediterranean cuisine to more casual cafés with gorgeous sea views. Some of the most popular restaurants in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, include: 

• Le Cap (Grand Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat): A Michelin-starred dining experience, Le Cap offers refined Mediterranean cuisine in an elegant setting overlooking the sea.
• Club Dauphin (Grand Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat): Perched beside the iconic infinity pool, Club Dauphin serves upscale yet relaxed Riviera fare.
• La Véranda (Grand Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat): La Véranda offers a more casual alternative at the Grand Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat, with a menu of Mediterranean favorites enjoyed in a charming garden terrace.
• La Table du Royal (Hotel Royal Riviera): Sophisticated and serene, La Table du Royal delivers gourmet French cuisine in a stylish space.
• Le Quai 28 (Port of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat): A welcoming waterfront spot, Le Quai 28 specializes in fresh seafood and seasonal dishes with a modern twist.
• Equinoxe (Port of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat): Equinoxe blends classic French and Italian flavors in a relaxed, harborside setting ideal for a long lunch or sunset dinner.
• Madamepizza (Port of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat): This local favorite serves up delicious Neapolitan-style pizzas with generous toppings near the marina.

Final Thoughts: Why the Rothschild Villa & Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat Belongs on Your French Riviera Itinerary

The Rothschild Villa is not just the crown jewel of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, it is easily one of the most underrated (and unforgettable) experiences on the entire French Riviera. With its opulent interiors, extravagant themed gardens, and breathtaking views, it offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and natural beauty that sets it apart from the region’s many beaches. Plus, it gives you a peek inside how some of the wealthiest residents lived in the Côte d'Azur in the early 20th century. Whether you are staying in nearby Nice, Antibes, or Monaco, the Rothschild Villa deserves a spot on your itinerary.

For more ideas on how to plan your time in the French Riviera, do not miss our full French Riviera Travel Guide—packed with town-by-town recommendations and helpful tips. If you are heading to Antibes, be sure to check out our dedicated Antibes Travel Guide for everything you need to know about this charming coastal town!

Have you visited the Rothschild Villa and Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat or are you planning to visit soon? Let us know your thoughts or questions in the comments below—we would love to hear from you! Happy travels!