From Nice: Nice Old Town, Monaco, Monte-Carlo and Eze tour

If you’re dreaming of exploring the glamorous coastlines and charming villages of the French Riviera, a guided tour covering Nice, Monaco, Eze, and Monte-Carlo might be just what you need. This particular experience, offered by A La Française Tourisme – Provence, promises a full day of sightseeing, culture, and stunning vistas—all led by a local guide who knows the area inside out.

What stands out about this tour? First, we love how it balances walking through historic neighborhoods with scenic drives along the coast, giving you a well-rounded experience without feeling rushed. Second, the guide’s local knowledge truly shines, making even the most touristy spots feel personal and special.

One possible consideration is the length of the day—it’s a full 9 hours, so you’ll want to be prepared for a fair amount of walking and driving. Heavy traffic, especially in high season, can also impact the schedule, but the guide will do their best to keep things moving smoothly.

This tour is best suited for curious travelers who want a comprehensive glance at the region’s most iconic locations, especially if you’re visiting for just a day and want to maximize your time efficiently.

Key Points

• Well-rounded itinerary covering Nice, Eze, Monaco, Monte-Carlo, and La Turbie.
• Knowledgeable guides who share local insights and stories.
• Combination of walking and driving allows for wide coverage and comfort.
• Includes scenic photo stops with breathtaking views of the coast and Monaco.
• Visit to Fragonard Perfume Factory adds a sensory experience.
• Small group size (limited to 8 participants) offers personalized attention.
• Flexible options, with cancellations up to 24 hours in advance and pay later booking.
• Considerations include the long day and potential traffic delays during high season.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Experience

This tour is designed for those who want to see the highlights of the French Riviera without the hassle of planning multiple transportation arrangements. Starting in Nice, you’ll spend the morning wandering the Old Town and Flower Market, soaking in the local sights and sounds. Your guide, fluent in both English and French, will point out interesting facts about Nice’s history, culture, and even its dialect, Nissart.

In the afternoon, you’ll journey to Eze, the medieval village perched above the coast. This part of the tour is especially memorable thanks to the guided visit of Eze and the Fragonard Perfume Factory—a sensory treat that offers insights into one of France’s most famous crafts. The visit isn’t just about smelling lovely scents; it’s also about understanding the history and craftsmanship behind French perfume-making.

Getting to Monaco and Monte-Carlo, you’ll see the luxurious side of the Riviera. You’ll explore Monaco’s old town, including the Cathedral where Princess Grace Kelly is laid to rest, as well as the Prince’s Palace square. The highlight for many is the chance to drive past the Formula 1 Grand Prix circuit and see the famous Casino Square, with its high-end boutiques and historic casino buildings.

Throughout the day, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the coast, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, Villefranche, and Nice itself during various photo stops. These moments are perfect for capturing memories or simply soaking in the scenery.

What to Expect from the Morning in Nice

The tour kicks off at 10 am, meeting in front of the Micro-Folie départementale building. Expect a warm welcome from your guide, who will be your friendly companion for the day. The morning will feature a walk around Nice’s Old Town, with visits to the Flower Market and iconic squares. The guide’s local insights make this part engaging; you’ll learn about Nice’s history and the local dialect, Nissart, which adds a touch of authenticity to your experience.

Following the walk, you’ll hop into a comfortable air-conditioned minibus to explore the port neighborhood and vantage points across the city. This part of the tour is less about walking and more about enjoying the views from the coach, which saves your energy for the later stops.

A quick 30-minute lunch break gives you time to stretch and maybe grab a snack before the afternoon adventures.

The Charm of Eze and the Perfume Experience

Eze is a highlight for many travelers, thanks to its medieval vibe and stunning cliffside views. The guided visit will take you through narrow cobbled streets, showcasing artisan shops and historical details. The visit to the Fragonard Perfume Factory is particularly popular because it combines craftsmanship with sensory pleasure. For about an hour, you’ll learn how perfumes are made, with the chance to purchase some souvenirs.

The guided tour of Eze is roughly 1.5 hours, which provides enough time to soak in the atmosphere without feeling rushed. The local guide’s storytelling makes this small village come alive, sharing its history and secrets. Be sure to bring comfortable shoes because cobbled streets can be uneven.

Scenic Stop at La Turbie and Panoramic Views

Next, you’ll visit La Turbie, a small village known for its Trophy of Augustus, and enjoy a quick photo stop, capturing views over Monaco and the coast. It’s a brief moment but worth it for the spectacular scenery.

This part of the tour is perfect for snapping pictures of Monaco’s skyline and the luxurious yachts below. The guide might share some local stories or facts about the area, adding context to the impressive panoramas.

More Great Tours Nearby

Exploring Monaco and Monte-Carlo

Arriving in Monaco, the tour drops you off right on Le Rocher—the old town’s historic heart. Here, you’ll visit the Cathedral where Grace Kelly is buried and walk through the Prince’s Palace square, soaking up the regal atmosphere.

The highlight for many is the drive around Monte Carlo, where you’ll get to see the famous Grand Prix circuit from the comfort of the minibus. The tour also includes a visit to the Place du Casino, home to the Monte Carlo Casino, the Hotel de Paris, and luxury boutiques. You’ll have about 45 minutes here to explore, take photos, or just enjoy the opulence.

Given Monaco’s small size, this part of the tour packs a lot of visual and cultural punch in a short amount of time.

Final Leg and Return to Nice

After exploring Monaco and Monte Carlo, the guide will take you on a drive back along the coast, offering more photo opportunities and commentary. The return journey to Nice is roughly an hour, though heavy traffic, especially during high season or the Monaco Grand Prix, might extend this.

The tour concludes back at the original meeting point in Nice around 7 pm, wrapping up a full and varied day.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, guided commentary, and several key experiences that justify the cost of $165 per person. Highlights like the perfume factory, scenic photo stops, and guided visits to Monaco and Eze add real value, especially since entrance fees and meals are not included.

The tour includes sample regional specialties—like olive oil—adding a tasty local touch, and the small group size (limit of 8 participants) ensures a more intimate experience.

However, it’s important to note that hotel pickup/drop-off isn’t included, and participants need to bring essentials like comfortable shoes, sun protection, and water. The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues due to cobbled streets and walking.

Authentic Traveler Feedback

From past reviews, many travelers rave about the knowledgeable guides. One reviewer said, “Thalis, our local guide, was a delight, she was friendly and very informative,” highlighting the importance of a good guide in making the experience memorable.

Others appreciate how smoothly the itinerary runs, especially given the potential for traffic delays. People mention the spectacular views during photo stops and the chance to see both cultural landmarks and luxurious surroundings in one day.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers wanting an all-in-one day trip that balances sightseeing, culture, and scenery. It’s especially suitable for first-time visitors who want a structured overview with the comfort of a guided tour.

If you’re interested in luxury, history, and scenic views, and don’t mind a long day, this tour offers good value. It’s less ideal for those needing accommodations pickup or traveling with mobility concerns, given the cobbled streets and walking involved.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this tour packs a lot into one day, making it a solid choice for those pressed for time but eager to see the highlights of the French Riviera. The combination of expert guiding, scenic stops, and visits to charming villages and luxury spots makes it a well-rounded experience.

While no tour is without its potential traffic delays or long hours, the knowledgeable guide and thoughtfully curated itinerary help turn those into part of the adventure. You’ll leave with great photos, a richer understanding of the region, and perhaps a new appreciation for the blend of history, luxury, and natural beauty that defines the Côte d’Azur.

If you’re after a practical, friendly, and immersive day trip, this tour deserves a spot on your list.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour begins at a designated meeting point in Nice, and drop-off is at the same location.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a sun hat, sunscreen, and water. There are cobbled streets and outdoor stops, so prepare accordingly.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 9 hours, starting around 10 am and returning by 7 pm.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour involves walking on cobbled streets and some long hours, so it’s best for those able to walk comfortably and remain engaged for the full day.

What languages are available?
Guiding is offered in both English and French.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are entrance fees included?
No, additional entrance fees to sites like the Cathedral or casino are not included.

What if I’m traveling solo?
The tour operates with a minimum of 2 passengers. If you’re the only booking, the tour provider might contact you for an alternative date or offer a refund.

This well-organized and thoughtfully designed tour offers a nice balance of sightseeing, local culture, and scenic beauty. Whether you’re a first-timer wanting a taste of the Riviera or a seasoned traveler looking to check off key sights effortlessly, it’s a solid choice.

You can check availability for your dates here: