Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, France Guide
Know Before You Go...®
St. Jean Cap Ferrat, located on the French Riviera, is a picturesque peninsula known for its stunning beauty and exclusive atmosphere. Surrounded by turquoise waters, the area offers tranquil beaches, lush gardens, and scenic coastal paths. Famous for its luxurious villas and the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, a grand estate with exquisite gardens and art collections, it’s a haven for those seeking relaxation and elegance. Just a short distance from Nice and Monaco, St. Jean Cap Ferrat provides the perfect combination of peaceful retreat and easy access to the excitement of the Riviera, making it a coveted destination.
Why Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, France?
- Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is located on the French Riviera, in the Alpes-Maritimes department.
- The peninsula is home to some of the most expensive real estate in the world.
- The famous Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild is located on the peninsula.
- The peninsula is home to a variety of plant and animal life, including some endangered species.
- The peninsula is a popular destination for celebrities, royalty, and businesspeople.
Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, France Weather/Climate
Average Temperatures
| January |
54° F
|
° F
|
| February |
55° F
|
° F
|
| March |
57° F
|
° F
|
| April |
63° F
|
° F
|
| May |
68° F
|
° F
|
| June |
75° F
|
° F
|
| July |
81° F
|
° F
|
| August |
81° F
|
° F
|
| September |
77° F
|
° F
|
| October |
70° F
|
° F
|
| November |
61° F
|
° F
|
| December |
55° F
|
° F
|
Average Rainfall
| January |
3.1 inches
|
| February |
3.2 inches
|
| March |
2.9 inches
|
| April |
2.1 inches
|
| May |
2 inches
|
| June |
1.5 inches
|
| July |
0.6 inches
|
| August |
1.6 inches
|
| September |
2.6 inches
|
| October |
3.9 inches
|
| November |
4.1 inches
|
| December |
3.4 inches
|
History
St. Jean Cap Ferrat has a rich history shaped by its natural beauty and strategic location along the French Riviera. Originally settled by the Greeks, it was known as “Phocea” in antiquity, a reference to the Phoceans who established the first trade routes in the region. Over the centuries, the peninsula remained relatively quiet, mostly used for fishing and farming. In the late 19th century, however, it began to attract the wealthy and elite, particularly after the construction of the railway and the development of the nearby city of Nice.
The transformation into a glamorous retreat began in the early 20th century when aristocrats and industrialists built grand villas along the coastline. The most famous of these was the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, built by Baroness Béatrice Ephrussi de Rothschild in 1905, which remains one of the area’s main attractions today. As the years passed, St. Jean Cap Ferrat solidified its reputation as a luxurious destination, frequented by royalty, artists, and celebrities.
Today, the peninsula maintains its serene charm, with beautiful gardens, secluded beaches, and a relaxed atmosphere. Despite its modern luxury, St. Jean Cap Ferrat retains much of its historical allure, making it a coveted spot for those seeking both history and elegance.
Transportation on Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, France
Getting to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, France and getting around. Our transportation tips will
help make your trip smoother. More good sand advice.
Entry Documents
- Passport valid for the duration of the stay.
- Most nationalities can enter France visa-free for up to 90 days within the Schengen Area.
- Proof of onward or return travel may be required.
Departure Tax
No specific departure tax in France; taxes are included in airfare.
Driving
- Driving License: EU licenses are valid; non-EU licenses require an International Driving Permit (IDP).
- Driving Side: Right.
- Roads: Well-maintained but narrow and winding, especially along the coastline.
- Speed Limits: Typically 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas, 80-90 km/h (50-56 mph) on rural roads, and 130 km/h (81 mph) on highways.
- Traffic Rules: Be cautious of pedestrians and cyclists. Parking is limited near beaches and popular tourist areas, particularly during the summer season.
Local Transportation
Local transportation in St. Jean Cap Ferrat is limited but convenient due to its small size. The area is best explored on foot, with scenic walking paths and coastal routes offering easy access to key attractions. Buses connect St. Jean Cap Ferrat to nearby towns, including Nice and Villefranche-sur-Mer, making it easy to reach larger cities. Taxis are available but relatively expensive. For those seeking more flexibility, renting a car or scooter is a good option, though parking can be limited in the area. Boating is also a popular way to access the peninsula from surrounding coastal towns.
Know Before You Go...® - Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, France Travel Tips
Before making their way to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, France , vacationers like
to know a little bit of helpful information to make them feel more at home during their stay. Take a
look at our travel tips to make your time in villas
in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, France even more relaxing.
| Capital: |
Not applicable |
| Population: |
2,000 (estimated) |
| Size: |
0.84 square miles |
| Electric Current: |
230 |
| Official Language: |
French is the official language of St Jean Cap Ferrat. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants due to its international appeal. |
| Currency: |
- The official currency is the Euro (EUR).
- ATMs are available in nearby towns and tourist areas.
- Major credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) are accepted in most establishments.
- Contactless payments are common in shops, restaurants, and hotels.
|
| Tipping and Taxes: |
- Tipping is not mandatory as service charges are included in restaurant bills, but rounding up or leaving a small tip is appreciated for excellent service.
- VAT (Value Added Tax) of 20% is typically included in displayed prices.
|
| Dress Code: |
St Jean Cap Ferrat has a refined yet relaxed dress code. Casual, chic attire is ideal for the day, while smart casual is expected for evenings, especially at upscale restaurants and events. |
| Topography: |
St Jean Cap Ferrat is a scenic peninsula on the French Riviera, known for its rocky coastline, lush greenery, and luxurious villas. It offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and secluded beaches. |
| Telephone: |
* Country code: +33
* Area code: 04 (for the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region).
* Mobile networks and Wi-Fi are widely available in hotels and cafes. |
Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, France Weddings and Honeymoons
In St Jean Cap Ferrat, getting married involves a few clear steps and required documents.
Application: Submit a marriage application to the Mairie (Town Hall) in St. Jean Cap Ferrat. At least one partner must have resided in the commune for at least 30 days prior to the application.
Required documents include:
- Valid passports or national ID cards
- Birth certificates (issued within the last three months, with an official French translation if not in French)
- Certificate of celibacy (attestation de célibat) confirming the individual is free to marry
- Certificate of no impediment to marriage (certificat de non-opposition)
- Proof of residence in St. Jean Cap Ferrat (for at least one partner)
- Divorce decree or death certificate (if applicable)
Publication of Banns: The marriage banns must be displayed at the Mairie for at least 10 days before the wedding.
Ceremony: Civil ceremonies are conducted in French at the Mairie by the Mayor or their representative. This is the legally binding part of the marriage.
Costs: Civil marriage ceremonies at the Mairie are generally free for residents. Additional fees may apply for document translations, certifications, and optional services.
Couples often arrange religious or symbolic ceremonies after the civil marriage. St. Jean Cap Ferrat offers luxury villas, beachfront locations, and scenic gardens that are ideal for such ceremonies.
