Villa Kérylos — Attraction in Nice

I visited Villa Kérylos today and was deeply disappointed by the unprofessional and discriminatory behavior of the ticketing staff. According to both the official website and the notice board at the entrance, visitors aged 18-25 who reside in EU are entitled to free entry, regardless of nationality.

As a 25-year-old student residing in France, I presented both my valid student ID and my French residency card to prove my eligibility—something that has never been questioned in any other museum or cultural site across the EU. Yet, the lady immediately dismissed me, asking me about my nationality, claiming I wasn’t French and therefore couldn’t benefit from the free entrance.

I politely pointed out the exact sentence on their own entrance sign, which clearly states that 18-25 students residency in France qualifies a visitor for free admission, regardless of nationality. Instead of admitting the mistake, the staff ignored me, continued talking to another customer, and then, after realizing I was right, threw my ticket at me without apologising.

It’s not about the money—it’s about my right as a student to enjoy the benefits afforded by the French government. And as a student who always appreciates such policies, I typically donate money or purchase something from the shop to support the museum, showing my gratitude.

I sincerely hope the management team can properly train their staff, not just in reading and applying their own admission policies, but also in basic professionalism—and, dare I say, ensuring they treat all visitors equally, regardless of nationality. After all, in a villa that celebrates the grandeur of Greek civilization, one would expect a bit more cultural openness rather than a closed-minded attitude from the Dark Ages.

Would I recommend visiting? Sure, it’s a pretty villa, but be ready fight for your rights at the ticket counter before even...

Our expectations were quite low for this site, as we had no idea what to expect (most of the feedback we had from people who visited Cap Ferrat talked at length about the Rothschild villa) so we were extremely pleased by the results of our visit.

The entrance way to the Villa is not very grand, turning off of the main coastal road and at the end of this small short street. The attendant in the gift shop who sold us the ticket was very nice and helpful, providing directions on the best way to walk through the villa (though it was not required as the path is very linear and trouble free).

Built at the very beginning of the 20th century, the villa is an attempt to construct a modern home in a classic Greco style. What is most amazing is the level of detail the architect took in every aspect of the building; the walls, columns and mosaic in the floors all coordinate. The patterns are incredibly intricate; the finishing's beautiful. I only wished that that would show more of the entire villa.

If you enjoy ancient Greek (and even Roman) art and architecture this is well worth the visit...especially if you are already going to see the Rothschild villa as well.

PARKING: In the immediate vicinity, parking is very difficult. There are some spots further off but it could be about a 10 minute walk. We arrived early (10am) so were ok but if you come later and during peak season I am sure it will...

Your reception staff at Villa Kerylos were the nastiest and rudest people I have encountered in my travels. Visitors to your establishment should be welcomed in a hospitable manner, especially if you are in a position of customer service. Stephanie as seen in this picture was extremely rude and dismissive to my son’s student ID and valid Irish residency card, forcing us to pay for his ticket even though we are entitled to benefits coming to study in the EU. I had no issues receiving my student ticket at Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, but Stephanie refused and was extremely nasty. Will never return and encourage other students to avoid this establishment. I hope management takes note of this post and reaches out to me directly for a ticket refund. Stephanie ruined our experience and left a sour...