Cafes
Cafes in Villefranche- sur-Mer
One of the nicest reasons to stay at Villa Hippocampo is how close it is to so many dining experiences. Everything in the village of Villefranche is within easy walking distance of the villa. There are some nice cafes in the upper town, for example, which are easily reached by a short walk down the public staircase near the villa to the coastal road (about 5 minutes). And then there are several waterside cafes which are located at the bottom of the village which is an additional five-minute stroll through the lovely back alleys and little shops.
When someone asks me where the best place to have a great cup of coffee in Villefranche-sur-Mer is, I laugh because I consider the best place to enjoy a leisurely French café is on one of the verandas of Villa Hippocampo! You can’t beat the quiet aesthetic of sipping a Nespresso, sitting in luxury, while taking in the 365 views.
The fact is that there are actually just a very few places to have coffee in Villefranche without having to order something else. Unlike Nice, where there are numerous casual cafes where you can order just a coffee and croissant, Villefranche has far more restaurants than cafes. Nonetheless, there are a few cafes which are definitely worth trying out.
The café where you’ll find the most locals is La Regence “Chez Betty” which is located right on the Basse Corniche, the main coastal road which goes through the center of Villefranche-sur-Mer. The coffee is great, they offer baked goods as well, and you can sit there for hours if you wish. The downside is that the cafe sits directly on the main street and so it is a bit noisy and definitely busier than sitting in a café overlooking the sea. But you’ll get a great appreciation for all of the local activities that occur in the village center.
The cafes which have the greatest attendance are those situated on the Place Amelie Pollonais, the large plaza at the bottom of the village, just adjacent to the sea but without a water view due to buildings across from the plaza obstructing it. Several restaurants located on this plaza, notably Les Palmiers, are open non-stop and you can order coffee, wine, snacks and meals all day and night without worrying about ordering an entire meal. There are both locals and tourists here and it is fun to observe all of the activity near the Harbor and Citadel.
Hotel Welcome is one of the first establishments you pass once access the small road next to the water. The Hotel has a lovely indoor glassed-in area and several tables outside for enjoying a cappuccino and croissant. Both have great water views. Locals rarely eat there but it is a great place to meet fellow travelers, many of whom will be staying at the hotel.
The Good Mood Café, further along the harbor walk toward the main beach, is a great place to enjoy coffee, baked goods and crepes in the morning and all day. The ambience is casual, friendly and attentive. And the views are outstanding!
Despite not having unlimited café options in Villefranche-sur-Mer, the four options presented above give you a great choice of venues to relax, socialize, and enjoy the café life!
