Explore the highlights of the eastern French Riviera on this private day shore excursion from the ports of Villefranche sur Mer and Nice. Our suggested itinerary is carefully crafted to make the best of your time ashore at a relaxed pace, but can be customized to your interests for a fully personalized French Riviera experience.
Discover the glamour, charm, and natural beauty of the French Riviera with this popular day tour. All while enjoying a scenic drive along the breathtaking Mediterranean coast, visit the vibrant city of Nice, experience the medieval allure of Eze, the opulence of royal Monaco, and the luxury of Monte Carlo.
With stops at stunning viewpoints and some off-the-beaten-tracks gems, this is the ultimate tour for those wanting to see the best of the Côte d'Azur at their own pace.
Skip the rush of large group shore excursions and enjoy the undivided attention of your private guide in the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle for up to 8 passengers.
We will start our tour on top of the Nice Castle Hill, where the ruins of an ancient castle overlook the city and the sea, offering breathtaking views of Nice, the coastline, and the deep blue sea below.
From there, we will delve into the winding streets of the Vieux Nice, the city’s historic heart. The Old Town is a labyrinth of narrow lanes filled with colorful buildings, charming squares and local boutiques. We will visit the Cours Saleya, famous for its vibrant flower and produce market, and admire the beautiful Baroque churches and maybe experience some of the local culinary delights of the mouth-watering food stalls.
Back to the car, we will enjoy a leisurely drive along the Mediterranean coast on the iconic Promenade des Anglais, the famous seaside boulevard. We'll pass by iconic grand hotels, beach clubs, and cafés, capturing the essence of Nice’s cosmopolitan atmosphere.
As you wind along the stunning Corniche roads between Nice and Monaco, offering some of the most spectacular coastal views in the world, enjoy panoramic vistas of the Mediterranean, dotted with superyachts and surrounded by lush hills covered with luxury mansions. Your guide will point out the most iconic spots along the way, perfect for photo opportunities and capturing the beauty of the Côte d'Azur.
Discover a true gem of the French Riviera, the picturesque village of Eze, perched dramatically on a cliffside overlooking the Mediterranean. Wander through its labyrinth of narrow cobblestone streets, passing centuries-old stone houses, artisan shops, charming cafes and fragrant flowers. Don’t miss the exotic garden that crowns the village and offers some of the best vistas on the Riviera, from the sea to the mountains (additional 9 euros entrance fee).
Optionnal (free): You could enjoy a guided tour of the famous Fragonard Perfume Factory, where you’ll discover the art of traditional French perfume making and have the opportunity to take home a unique scent.
En route to Monaco, stop at one of the highest vantage points along the coast. From this stunning viewpoint, you’ll enjoy unrivaled panoramic views over the sparkling Mediterranean plus three countries (Monaco, France and Italy) at once!
From Eze, continue to the glamorous Principality of Monaco, known for its royal family and luxurious lifestyle. Your first stop is the historic old town, known as Le Rocher. Here, you’ll admire the Prince's Palace, the official residence of the Grimaldi family, where you might catch the Changing of the Guard ceremony (time permitting). Take a moment to visit the Monaco Cathedral, the final resting place of Princess Grace and Prince Rainier III and wander the charming streets of the old town to soak in the atmosphere. With sweeping views over the Mediterranean, Monaco's royal quarter offers both elegance and a sense of timeless beauty.
On our way to Monte Carlo, imagine the thrill of the world’s most famous race as we drive along the narrow streets of the iconic Formula 1 Grand Prix circuit.
Our final stop is the world-renowned district of Monte Carlo, synonymous with luxury, glamour, and prestige. Here, you’ll have the chance to enter the Casino de Monte-Carlo, an architectural masterpiece where high society gathers to try their luck. Take a walk around the square, admire the Hotel de Paris and the grand Café de Paris, or indulge in some window shopping at the nearby designer boutiques.
Cruise ship port of Nice. You will be greeted by your guide who will be holding a board with your name when you exit the disembarking pier.
Villefranche-sur-Mer is a charming coastal town on the French Riviera, known for its stunning natural beauty, historic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Its picturesque harbor, colorful buildings, and crystal-clear waters make it a perfect destination for travelers seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure.
The Citadel of Saint-Elme is a historic fortress built in the 16th century to protect the town from invasions. It offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding area.
Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is a picturesque peninsula known for its stunning coastal views, luxury villas, and the famous Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat Lighthouse.
The main beach of Villefranche-sur-Mer is a beautiful stretch of pebbled shore with crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
A savory chickpea pancake, similar to a thin pizza, cooked in a wood-fired oven and seasoned with pepper and salt.
A traditional Niçoise tart made with caramelized onions, anchovies, and olives.
A classic Provençal vegetable stew made with eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes.
The peak season in Villefranche-sur-Mer is from June to September, when the weather is warm and sunny, perfect for beach activities and outdoor exploration. The town is lively with various cultural events and festivals during this period.
Euro (EUR)
GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET)
230VV, 50HzHz
Villefranche-sur-Mer is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip, particularly during the peak season when the town can be crowded and busy.
Villefranche-sur-Mer Station
Nice Bus Station
The local bus network is efficient and covers most of the town and surrounding areas. Buses are a convenient and affordable way to get around.
Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt
Car, Bike, Scooter
Nice is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city on the French Riviera, known for its stunning beaches, historic architecture, and rich cultural heritage. It offers a wide range of attractions, from museums and galleries to parks and gardens.
Monaco is a small and glamorous city-state on the French Riviera, known for its luxury shopping, casino, and Formula 1 Grand Prix. It offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern opulence, with stunning coastal views and a rich cultural heritage.
Price varies by option