Nice is a fantastic base for exploring some of France’s most stunning sights, and its location makes it ideal for full-day tours. Whether you’re a lover of scenic train journeys, medieval villages, or glamorous resorts, Nice offers options that suit all interests and fitness levels. One of our favorites is the Train Experience Through The Alps, which combines breathtaking mountain views with charming villages — perfect for those who want adventure in the open air. Another top pick is the French Riviera Full-Day Tour, offering a glimpse of Monaco’s glitz along with Provençal towns, ideal for travelers who want a mix of luxury and culture.
What makes Nice particularly suited for these full-day experiences is its proximity to diverse landscapes — from mountain villages and vineyards to seaside resorts and historic towns. You can choose to explore the mountains, the Riviera’s glamour, or the medieval heart of Provence. The list below features some of the most well-rounded and highly-rated day trips available, with details on what makes each one special.
1. Train Experience Through The Alps (Full Day)
At number 1 on our list, this Train Experience Through The Alps offers a spectacular rail journey through mountain canyons, tunnels, and viaducts. The tour includes stops in picture-perfect medieval villages like Annot and Entrevaux, where you can wander cobbled streets and soak in historic sights. A highlight is the chance to enjoy a local authentic lunch and optional hiking with a guide in the French Alps. The train ride itself is highly praised, with reviews emphasizing the stunning scenery and professional guiding. It’s ideal for active travelers who appreciate a mix of train travel, walking, and exploring small villages. The tour demands good fitness — expect to walk up to 7 miles (11 km) — but the views and authentic village visits make it worth the effort.
Bottom Line: An unforgettable way to combine train travel, mountain scenery, and village life, perfect for adventure seekers who enjoy walking and scenery.
2. From Nice: The Best of the French Riviera Full Day Tour
For around $136, the French Riviera Full-Day Tour hits the mark for those wanting a comprehensive glimpse of Riviera glamour. It covers Monaco, Monte Carlo, Eze, Saint-Paul de Vence, and Antibes, with plenty of time spent in each location. Highlights include walking through Monaco’s old town and the Casino Square, and exploring the art-filled streets of Saint-Paul de Vence. The tour’s pace is lively but not rushed, and reviews note the knowledgeable guides and scenic drives. Whether you’re interested in trying your luck at the Monte Carlo casino or browsing art galleries in Saint-Paul, this tour offers a well-rounded experience.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those who want a taste of Riviera luxury and culture in one day, with a friendly price for a full itinerary.
3. Nice: Medieval Villages Full-Day Guided Trip
This Medieval Villages Guided Trip takes you to some of Provence’s most charming towns, including Grasse, Gourdon, and Saint-Paul-de-Vence. The tour includes a visit to the Fragonard perfume factory in Grasse, a UNESCO-listed town celebrated for its fragrance industry. Gourdon offers breathtaking views from its hilltop fortress, and Tourettes-sur-Loup is famous for violets and art galleries. The tour is perfect for travelers interested in history, art, and rural life. With eight hours of sightseeing, it balances activity with relaxed exploration. As one reviewer noted, it’s an “excellent day,” with a friendly and knowledgeable guide making the experience memorable.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a cultural, artistic, and fragrant journey through Provence’s best medieval villages.
4. Nice: Full-Day Côtes de Provence Wine Tour
At number 4, this Côtes de Provence Wine Tour offers a delicious day among vineyards, tasting the region’s signature rosé, reds, and whites. It visits three award-winning wineries, with guided tastings and insights into wine-making and pairing. The scenic drive through the Provençal countryside provides plenty of photo opportunities, and the tour includes a traditional village lunch. It’s especially suited for wine enthusiasts eager to learn more about local wines. The reviews mention the engaging guides and high-quality wines, making the $186 price a solid value for the experience.
Bottom Line: A wine lover’s dream, combining scenic views and expert tastings in a relaxed, friendly setting.
5. From Nice: French Riviera Full-Day Tour
This French Riviera Full-Day Tour offers a budget-friendly way to see Monaco, Eze, Antibes, Saint-Paul, and more. For $108, the tour covers a lot of ground with a mix of sightseeing, shopping, and scenic drives. Highlights include a visit to the Monaco Grand Prix circuit and the Fragonard perfume factory. The reviews praise the itinerary’s richness and the friendly guides, making it suitable for those who want to pack a lot into a day. The tour is fast-paced, perfect for travelers who prefer a structured day rather than a relaxed pace.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers seeking a rundown of the Riviera, with excellent value for money.
6. From Nice: Provence and its Medieval Villages Full-Day Tour
This Provence & Medieval Villages Tour takes you through several picturesque towns, including Saint-Paul de Vence and Violets Village. It emphasizes the artistic and scenic aspects of Provence, with a chance to learn about perfume making at Fragonard. The 9-hour tour is perfect for those who want a balanced mix of culture, scenery, and history, with enough free time to explore each village. Reviewers note the friendly guides and well-organized logistics.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for travelers interested in art, rural scenery, and Provençal charm.
7. From Nice: Provence Wine Full-Day Tour
This Provence Wine Full-Day Tour is for serious wine fans wanting an immersive experience. Visiting three wineries, guests enjoy guided tastings of the region’s best wines, including reds, whites, and rosés. The tour combines scenic vineyard views with a mini-masterclass on wine and food pairing. At $216, it offers high-quality tastings and expert guidance, perfect for those who want to deepen their appreciation of Provence wines. As one reviewer says, “Experience total immersion into Côte de Provence, its wines, and ‘Art de Vivre’.”
Bottom Line: Excellent for wine enthusiasts eager to learn and taste in a scenic, relaxed setting.
8. Full day tour Medieval Villages Grasse Gourdon Tourettes St Paul
This tour balances scenic drives and cultural stops, with emphasis on avoiding traffic jams. It visits Grasse, Gourdon, Tourettes-sur-Loup, and Saint-Paul-de-Vence, including a perfume factory and the village of Gourdon perched high on a hill. Visitors love the focus on enjoying each site at a comfortable pace, with 2.5 hours in Grasse to explore the perfume industry. The guide’s insights make this a memorable day, even on rainy days, as reviews highlight. For those interested in art, fragrance, and medieval towns, it’s a great pick.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a relaxed, well-structured day of Provençal culture and beauty.
9. From Nice: Verdon Gorge Full-Day Tour
The Verdon Gorge Tour is a must for lovers of jaw-dropping landscapes. You’ll see the Grand Canyon of Europe, plus the Lake of Sainte-Croix and charming villages like Moustiers-Sainte-Marie. The tour includes panoramic views and photo opportunities that will satisfy any landscape enthusiast. The 9 to 10-hour trip is suited for travelers who enjoy sightseeing and nature, with reviews praising the scenic highlights and the guide’s knowledge. It’s a full day of stunning vistas and small-town charm.
Bottom Line: Ideal for scenery lovers wanting to take in some of France’s most impressive natural sights.
10. French Riviera Private Full-Day Tour
This private tour offers customization, visiting four Riviera spots, including Antibes, St. Paul de Vence, and Monaco. For $1,312, it’s suited for groups up to six who want a personalized experience. Highlights include exploring Roman ruins, a perfume factory in Eze, and Monaco’s luxury casinos. The guide’s expertise and private transport ensure flexibility and comfort. Guests rave about the personalized service, and the itinerary can be tailored to your specific interests.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a bespoke, intimate day with the flexibility to choose what’s most interesting.
11. From Nice: Saint-Tropez and Port Grimaud Full-Day Tour
This popular day trip takes you from Nice to the famous Saint-Tropez and the scenic canals of Port Grimaud. A boat ride across the bay adds a touch of luxury. Explore the village of Saint-Tropez and its glamorous port, then wander through Port Grimaud’s canals, called the “little French Venice.” The 9 to 10-hour itinerary is perfect for those dreaming of seaside glamour and picturesque villages. The reviews mention the enjoyable boat ride and the beautiful scenery.
Bottom Line: Great for those craving a mix of coast, glamour, and charming canal-side towns.
12. The Italian Riviera: Full-Day Tour from Nice
This Italian Riviera tour offers a taste of Italy with visits to Sanremo, Bordighera, and Dolceacqua. The day includes wandering Italian markets, tasting local foods, and exploring pretty villages. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a change of scenery and a taste of Italy, just a short drive from Nice. Reviews emphasize the charm of Dolceacqua and the lively markets.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a quick escape into Italy’s colorful towns and markets.
13. Full-Day Small Group Tour to Monaco and Eze
This Small Group Monaco & Eze combines scenic views with cultural highlights. Starting with Eze’s breathtaking village, then exploring Monaco’s principality, including the famous casino and the perfume factory, it’s a well-organized day in a small group. The personal attention makes it ideal for travelers wanting an intimate experience. Reviewers mention the knowledgeable guide and manageable pace.
Bottom Line: Great for those who prefer a small-group atmosphere with personalized insights.
14. French Riviera Full Day Shared Tour from Nice
This Shared Tour offers a comprehensive look at the Riviera in about nine hours. It covers Villefranche, Eze, Monaco, Cannes, and Antibes, with a focus on efficiency and ease. The reviews praise the smooth logistics and the chance to see many highlights in one trip. It’s ideal for travelers on a budget or those wanting a busy, sightseeing-packed day.
Bottom Line: Best for those who want a full, value-packed day with minimal planning.
15. Full-Day Private Cannes Shore Excursion
Finally, the Private Cannes Shore Excursion is perfect for cruise travelers wanting flexibility. The private guide customizes the visit to your interests, including Castle Hill, Monaco’s casinos, and Antibes’ Old Town. The tours are limited to up to 8 people, making it comfortable and personalized. Reviewers love the attentive guide and the ability to skip busy spots or linger longer.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for cruise passengers or groups seeking a tailor-made day with maximum flexibility.
How to Choose the Right Full-Day Tour in Nice
When selecting your perfect day trip, consider your budget, activity level, and interests. If you love scenic train rides and hiking, the Train Experience Through The Alps is a top choice. For those wanting a mix of luxury, art, and seaside glamour, the French Riviera Full-Day Tour offers a stellar roundup. If wine tasting or exploring medieval villages appeals, then tours like the Côtes de Provence Wine Tour or Provence & Medieval Villages fit perfectly.
Fitness levels vary; some tours involve walking and hiking, like the Alps train trip, while others are mostly scenic drives with short stops. Book early, especially for private and small-group tours, to secure your preferred date. Also, check the tour duration and start times to match your schedule.
Final Thoughts
Nice offers a diverse array of full-day tours, whether you’re after mountain adventures, seaside glamour, or historic villages. For a scenic train ride through rugged mountains, the Alps train experience is unbeatable. If you want to soak up Riviera luxury, the Monaco and Eze tours deliver in style. Wine lovers and art enthusiasts will find plenty of options, from vineyards to Provençal villages. Cruise travelers and those on a tighter schedule will appreciate the efficient, well-organized options.
No matter what you choose, booking early guarantees a smoother trip. These tours help transform a visit to Nice from merely enjoyable into a truly memorable adventure.
