From Nice: French Riviera in One Day
Hightlight
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English-Speaking
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Group-Friendly
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Local guide
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Reservations
History
The French Riviera, or Côte d’Azur, has been a magnet for artists, aristocrats, and travelers since the 19th century, drawn to its Mediterranean beauty and glamorous lifestyle. Nice, its vibrant hub, blends Provençal charm with cosmopolitan flair, while Èze’s medieval roots date back to ancient times, complemented by its Fragonard Perfumery, a nod to France’s perfume heritage.
Monaco, a sovereign principality since the 13th century, exudes royal elegance, with Monte-Carlo’s casino and Formula 1 circuit adding modern allure. Saint-Paul-de-Vence, a haven for artists like Chagall, and Cannes, famed for its film festival, complete this region’s rich tapestry of history, culture, and luxury.
Highlights
- Enjoy the panoramic view of Villefranche-sur-Mer and Saint Jean Cap Ferrat.
- Stroll through the medieval village of Èze.
- Feel the charm of the Principality of Monaco.
- Visit the jewel of Provence, Saint-Paul-de-Vence.
- See Cannes and walk on the famous red carpet.
Full Description
Embark on a full-day journey through the French Riviera, starting with a convenient hotel pickup in Nice between 8:10 AM and 8:45 AM. Travel in a spacious, air-conditioned bus, beginning with a 15-minute stop at the Moyenne Corniche for stunning panoramic views of Villefranche-sur-Mer’s port and Saint Jean Cap Ferrat’s coastline, setting the tone for a day of breathtaking scenery.
Visit the medieval village of Èze, perched high above the Mediterranean, and explore its charming cobblestone streets. Enjoy a free guided tour of the Fragonard Perfumery, uncovering the secrets of perfume-making. Next, head to Monaco to discover the old town, cathedral, princely palace, and the changing of the guard, followed by a drive along the Formula 1 circuit to Monte-Carlo’s iconic casino and luxury shops. Pause for lunch at one of Monaco’s excellent restaurants (not included).
Continue to Antibes, where nautical traditions meet luxury at the port of billionaires, and explore its historic old town. Then, visit Saint-Paul-de-Vence, the “jewel of Provence,” steeped in artistic history, before concluding in Cannes. Stroll the Croisette, admire luxury hotels, and step onto the famous film festival red carpet, feeling like a Hollywood star. Return to Nice by evening, enriched by the Riviera’s diverse beauty.
Why Choose This Experience?
This comprehensive day trip captures the essence of the French Riviera, blending medieval charm, royal elegance, and modern glamour in a single, well-organized journey. With a professional driver-guide and comfortable transport, it’s a hassle-free way to explore Èze, Monaco, Antibes, Saint-Paul-de-Vence, and Cannes in one day.
Perfect for those seeking a mix of history, culture, and scenic beauty, the tour offers diverse experiences, from perfume-making to the Formula 1 circuit and the Cannes red carpet. The small group size (or private option) ensures a personalized adventure, making it a memorable highlight of your Nice visit.
What’s Included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in Nice.
- Professional driver/guide.
- Transportation by air-conditioned bus.
- Free guided tour of Fragonard Perfumery in Èze.
- Guided commentary during tour stops (private option only).
- Access to all listed destinations, including Monaco, Antibes, and Cannes.
Itinerary
- Pickup from your hotel or chosen location in Nice (8:10 AM–8:45 AM).
- Stop at Moyenne Corniche for panoramic views (15 minutes).
- Visit Èze village and Fragonard Perfumery (1 hour).
- Explore Monaco’s old town, palace, and Monte-Carlo’s Formula 1 circuit (2 hours).
- Lunch break in Monaco (not included, 1 hour).
- Visit Antibes old town and port (1 hour).
- Explore Saint-Paul-de-Vence (1 hour).
- Visit Cannes, including the Croisette and red carpet (1 hour).
- Return to Nice by evening.
Pricing
From $87 per person
Meeting Point
Hotel pickup or designated location in Nice between 8:10 AM and 8:45 AM. Specific details will be provided upon booking (Open in Google Maps).
How to Get There
- By Tram: Take Tram Line 1 or 2 to a central Nice stop (e.g., Garibaldi or Jean Médecin), then walk or taxi to your pickup point.
- By Bus: Routes 8 or 12 serve central Nice, stopping near common pickup zones.
- By Foot: If staying in central Nice, pickup points are often within a short walk.
- By Taxi/Rideshare: Request pickup at your accommodation for direct transfer to the tour’s starting point.
Good to Know
What to Bring:
- Comfortable shoes for walking in Èze and Saint-Paul-de-Vence.
- Sunscreen and a hat for sun protection during outdoor stops.
- Cash or card for lunch and souvenirs in Monaco or Cannes.
Know Before You Go:
- Not allowed: Large bags, food/drinks on the bus, or disruptive items.
- The itinerary may change due to logistical issues or if the minimum participant number isn’t met; have a backup time slot ready.
- Wear modest clothing for Monaco’s cathedral.
- Lunch in Monaco is not included; plan for restaurant costs.
- Tours operate rain or shine; bring an umbrella if needed.
Reviews
- The service and guidance were excellent, making the trip smooth and enjoyable. The variety of stops was perfect for experiencing the Riviera.
- Our guide was lovely, ensuring an amazing tour of the French Riviera’s towns and villages. The itinerary was well-planned, and I highly recommend it.
- A great day out, covering so many beautiful places. Our guide was friendly and knowledgeable, making the trip highly enjoyable and recommendable.
Maps
Video
FAQ's
What is the difference between the standard and private tour options?
The standard tour includes a shared group experience with a driver-guide providing commentary during travel, while the private option offers dedicated guided commentary at each stop, ensuring a more personalized experience with your group. Both follow the same itinerary, visiting Èze, Monaco, Antibes, Saint-Paul-de-Vence, and Cannes, with included Fragonard Perfumery tour and hotel pickup. The private tour is ideal for those seeking tailored attention, while the standard option is cost-effective for groups or solo travelers. Choose based on your preference for exclusivity and budget. Confirm the option when booking to align with your needs.
How much time is spent at each destination, and is it enough to explore?
The tour allocates approximately 1 hour at Èze (including the Fragonard Perfumery), 2 hours in Monaco (including lunch), 1 hour in Antibes, 1 hour in Saint-Paul-de-Vence, and 1 hour in Cannes, plus a 15-minute stop at Moyenne Corniche. This pacing allows sufficient time to explore key highlights, such as Èze’s medieval streets or Cannes’s Croisette, though some stops may feel brisk for in-depth exploration. The schedule balances variety with efficiency, ideal for a day trip. You can prioritize sites during free time, like lingering in Monaco’s old town. Bring comfortable shoes to maximize your exploration within the allotted times.
Is the tour suitable for families with young children?
The tour is suitable for families with children who can handle moderate walking, particularly in Èze and Saint-Paul-de-Vence, where cobblestone streets may challenge strollers. The itinerary, with its mix of scenic views, historical sites, and the Fragonard tour, can engage older children, but the 8–10-hour duration and multiple stops require stamina. Parents should bring child seats for the bus if needed. Lunch in Monaco offers kid-friendly options like creperies. Families should prepare for sun exposure and ensure kids wear comfortable shoes for uneven terrain.
What happens if the tour is canceled or rescheduled due to low participation?
If the minimum number of participants isn’t met or logistical issues (e.g., staff illness) arise, the tour may be rescheduled or canceled, and you’ll be contacted to arrange a new time slot, ideally the next day, or offered a refund. To avoid disruption, book early to help meet the participant threshold, especially in off-peak seasons. Have a backup plan in case of cancellation, as the provider isn’t liable for external issues. Check your contact details when booking to ensure timely communication. The tour’s popularity generally minimizes cancellation risks during peak periods.
Can I take photos at the tour stops, particularly in Monaco and Cannes?
Photography is allowed at all stops, including Èze’s village, Monaco’s old town, and Cannes’s Croisette, but flash photography is prohibited inside the Fragonard Perfumery and Monaco’s cathedral to respect the settings. In public areas like Monte-Carlo’s casino or the Cannes red carpet, be mindful of privacy and avoid disruptive equipment like tripods. The scenic Moyenne Corniche and Saint-Paul-de-Vence offer stunning photo opportunities. Guides will advise on any specific restrictions at each site. A phone or small camera is ideal for capturing the Riviera’s beauty unobtrusively.
