French Riviera: Small Group Day Trip from Nice with Monaco & Cannes

Summary

Monaco’s glamour, Cannes’ film buzz, old towns & sea views all in one day

You’ll travel from Nice through six iconic French Riviera spots in one small group day trip—take in sea views over Villefranche, wander medieval Eze’s lanes, watch luxury life unfold in Monaco and Cannes, sample local markets in Antibes, and stroll flower-filled streets of Saint-Paul de Vence with your local guide. Expect laughter, surprises, and moments you’ll replay long after you’re home.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered if the French Riviera really sparkles the way it does in movies? I did too—until our guide, Luc, picked us up right outside our hotel in Nice. There were just six of us in the van, still a bit groggy as we wound up the hills for that first photo stop above Villefranche. The bay below was this wild patchwork of turquoise and navy, and someone (maybe me) blurted out “Is that even real?” Luc just grinned and told us about Cap Ferrat’s villas—he said Elton John has a place there but didn’t say which one. The air smelled faintly salty and something floral I couldn’t quite place.

Eze was next—a medieval jumble of stone lanes clinging to a cliff. We wandered up past little shops selling lavender soap and postcards that looked exactly like what was in front of us. I tried to say “bonjour” to an old woman sweeping her stoop; she smiled but my accent must’ve given me away. Some folks ducked into the Fragonard perfumery (I skipped it—my nose gets overwhelmed), but others came out sniffing their wrists and giggling over which scent made them feel fancy. The views from Eze are sharp and bright—sea on one side, mountains on the other. It’s almost too much to take in at once.

Monaco felt like stepping onto another planet: spotless streets, Ferraris everywhere you look. We stood outside the palace where tourists milled around snapping photos, then wandered down to see where Princess Grace is buried—the cathedral was hushed except for a few whispered prayers. Luc pointed out the Formula 1 circuit (“You’re driving on it now!”), which made my brother geek out completely. Monte Carlo’s casino square was all polished marble and shiny cars; I tried not to stare at people who probably wouldn’t notice anyway.

Cannes was busier than I expected—boulevard la Croisette lined with palm trees and designer shops I’d never dare enter. Walking up those famous red-carpet steps at Palais des Festivals felt silly but fun (we took about 20 photos pretending to be movie stars). Antibes had this different vibe: boats bobbing in the marina, market stalls selling cheese that smelled so strong it made me laugh. By late afternoon Saint-Paul de Vence was quiet except for birdsong and distant voices from art galleries tucked behind flower pots. I could see why painters fell for this place—it’s got a slow magic that sneaks up on you.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore French Riviera highlights

• Pick up from Nice accommodation
• Stop at Villefranche bay viewpoint
• View Cap Ferrat luxury houses
• Visit medieval village of Èze
• Optional visit to Fragonard perfumery
• Tour old town of Monaco
• See Prince's Palace and cathedral
• Walk Monaco Formula 1 circuit
• Admire yachts at Hercules Port
• Free time at Monte-Carlo Casino Square
• Explore Cannes Boulevard la Croisette
• Take photos on Cannes red carpet
• Pass Juan-les-Pins to Antibes
• Visit Antibes marina and old town
• Explore Saint-Paul de Vence village
• Return and drop off in Nice

Top questions

How long is the French Riviera day trip from Nice?

The full-day tour lasts approximately 9 hours including pickup and drop-off in Nice.

Does this small group tour include hotel pickup?

Yes, free pickup from your accommodation in Nice is included.

Which towns are visited during the tour?

The tour visits Eze, Monaco (including Monte Carlo), Cannes, Antibes, Saint-Paul de Vence, and Villefranche viewpoint.

Is lunch included on this French Riviera day trip?

No lunch is provided; you’ll have free time to buy food at stops like Antibes or Cannes.

Can I skip the Fragonard perfumery visit?

Yes—the perfume factory visit is optional; just let your guide know if you’d rather explore Eze longer.

Are entrance fees included?

All fees and taxes are included except for optional entry to Eze’s exotic garden (€8).

Is this tour suitable for families or infants?

Yes—the tour offers infant seats and can accommodate strollers or prams if needed.

Does the tour operate for cruise ship passengers?

No—this tour is only available for guests staying in Nice city accommodations.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Nice city limits, all transportation by recent vehicle with a local driver-guide throughout six Riviera destinations, entry fees (except optional Eze garden), taxes covered, plus flexibility to join or skip the Fragonard perfume factory stop depending on your mood that day.