Jules Chéret Fine Arts Museum

The Jules Chéret Fine Arts Museum is a Belle Époque gem. Housed in a sumptuous 19th-century Italian villa once owned by Princess Kotschoubey, the museum displays its collections in lavishly decorated rooms with frescoes, chandeliers, and mirrors, offering an exceptional setting for the artworks. The collection spans from the 17th to the mid-20th century.

You will admire masterpieces of French and European painting: landscapes by Claude Gellée (known as Le Lorrain), genre scenes by the Le Nain brothers, major works by Gustave Doré, sculptures by Jean-Baptiste Carpeaux, and an entire room dedicated to the colorful posters and paintings of Jules Chéret, the master of the advertising poster. The museum also highlights painters of the Riviera, such as Raoul Dufy, whose works from the reserves were recently exhibited. Until September 29, 2025, don't miss the exhibition 'Berthe Morisot in Nice, Impressionist Stages', exploring the artist's stays on the Riviera.

Atmosphere: Elegant and hushed. The morning light is perfect for admiring the details of the painted ceilings. The museum opens at 11am, and the garden is a pleasant place to wait. In the afternoon, the crowd is more family-oriented, drawn by creative workshops. The visit feels like a stroll through an artist's home of the past.

Prices: Permanent collection and temporary exhibitions: €10 (full price). Free for under-18s, students, and on the first Sunday of the month. The French Riviera Pass is accepted.

Visitor reviews

Positive points: Visitors are delighted by the magnificent setting of this Belle Époque villa, as beautiful outside as it is inside. Many emphasize the quality of the temporary exhibitions, such as those dedicated to Raoul Dufy or Berthe Morisot, which allow visitors to discover works usually kept in storage. The garden, pleasant for a stroll while waiting for opening, is regularly cited. The museum's strong point lies in its passionate guides, who share fascinating anecdotes about the works and the history of the place. The presence of a Rodin Kiss on the first floor also delights art lovers.

Points for improvement: The 11am opening time is considered late by some visitors, who sometimes have to wait in the garden. The lighting in some rooms could be improved to better highlight the paintings. A few reviews mention that some renovations would be welcome to modernize certain spaces without altering the old-fashioned charm of the place. The modest size of the museum is sometimes regretted, but it also contributes to its intimacy.