Nice isn’t just about glamorous beaches and scenic views; it’s also a city where food is a way of life. Whether you’re after a deep dive into local flavors, a gourmet tasting with wine pairings, or a private day exploring the French Riviera’s art and shopping, Nice offers options for all. We particularly like the Half-Day Walking Food Tour in Nice with Lunch for its lively, authentic taste of the city, and the Gourmet Walking Tour with Lunch and Wine Pairing for its culinary finesse. Both provide a chance to savor local specialties and learn about Nice’s culinary influences, especially from nearby Italy.
This list features three very different lunch experiences in Nice—each with its own appeal. One is a guided tasting tour through the Old Town, another offers a refined gourmet experience with wine, and the third is an exclusive private day of shopping and dining on the French Riviera. Read on to find the best fit for your travel style.
1. Half-Day Walking Food Tour in Nice with Lunch
At number one, this Half-Day Walking Food Tour in Nice with Lunch provides a lively, immersive experience of the city’s culinary scene. For around $139, you get about four hours exploring Nice with a small group capped at 12 people. This tour is perfect if you want to see the city’s sights while sampling delicious local fare. The itinerary includes stops at historic sites like Place Rossetti, home to the beautiful Cathedrale Sainte-Reparate, and the iconic Opera de Nice. You’ll visit the oldest shop in Nice, established in 1820, for some local tastings, and then hop on the tram to Marche de la Liberation, where you’ll sample Socca, a popular chickpea pancake, and enjoy drinks at local watering holes.
Most of the fun lies in the stories your guide shares—often unheard outside local circles—about Nice’s history and culture. The tour ends with a traditional lunch, featuring regional wines and a sweet treat. Guests consistently praise the tour for its friendly guide, authentic food, and relaxed pace, with reviews highlighting “an amazing experience” and “excellent food and wine.” It’s an ideal choice for those who want an engaging, personal introduction to Nice’s cuisine, along with a taste of the city’s history.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a well-rounded, authentic experience combining sightseeing with tastings, making it perfect for first-timers or anyone wanting a taste of local life.
2. Gourmet Walking Tour with Lunch and Wine Pairing
Number two on our list is the Gourmet Walking Tour with Lunch and Wine Pairing. For about $125, this four-hour experience focuses on uncovering Nice’s culinary influences, especially from Italy and the surrounding Mediterranean. This tour is limited to just eight people, ensuring a more intimate experience. Your guide will lead you through Vieux Nice, showing you where locals eat and shop, all while explaining the history behind regional dishes and wines.
What sets this tour apart is its emphasis on food quality and wine pairing. You’ll revisit favorite eateries, try new snacks, and learn how Nice’s cuisine has evolved. Highlights include tasting local specialties, enjoying spectacular views of the Mediterranean, and discovering how the city’s proximity to Italy influences its food. Reviewers appreciate Jules’ friendly, knowledgeable approach, noting, “The food & drinks were delicious and the views spectacular.” It’s ideal for travelers who want a more refined, culinary-focused experience with a chance to revisit spots on their own later.
Bottom Line: Perfect for food connoisseurs and wine lovers, this tour blends education with gourmet tastings in a small-group setting.
3. Private Tour French Riviera Shopping & Lunch in St Paul de Vence
For those who prefer a fully personalized experience, the Private Tour French Riviera Shopping & Lunch in St Paul de Vence offers a full, eight-hour day exploring the best spots on the Riviera. At a price of $856.63 for up to eight people, this is a splurge, but one that includes a private driver, comfort, and flexibility. Your day begins with shopping at Polygone Riviera, France’s first outdoor shopping center featuring major brands in fashion, beauty, and leisure.
After shopping, you’ll visit the medieval village of Saint Paul de Vence, known for its art galleries and quaint streets. You’ll have lunch in this picturesque town, with options to browse art shops or relax in cafes. Then, your guide will take you to Cannes for luxury shopping along La Croisette, home to high-end brands and designer boutiques. This trip is ideal for travelers seeking a seamless, private day combining shopping, culture, and gourmet dining.
Reviewers mention the guide making reservations and customizing the day, making it a stress-free way to see the Riviera. The main challenge might be the higher price, but if privacy and tailored experiences matter, this is a top choice.
Bottom Line: Best suited for luxury travelers or small groups wanting an exclusive, flexible day of shopping, sightseeing, and dining.
How to Choose the Right Lunch Experience
Choosing between these options depends on your interests, budget, and how much local flavor you want to encounter. If you’re after a lively immersion into Nice’s street food and history, the Half-Day Walking Food Tour offers great value and a friendly vibe. For a more refined, wine-focused taste of the city, the Gourmet Walking Tour provides a culinary journey with scenic views. Travelers seeking exclusivity will appreciate the Private Riviera Shopping & Lunch, especially if they want a personalized, relaxed day with shopping, art, and gourmet meals.
Think about your budget: Tours range from about $125 to $860 for a private experience. Also consider your schedule: A half-day tour fits neatly into a day of sightseeing, whereas the private tour takes a full day with more flexibility.
Booking early is recommended, especially for private experiences or during peak travel seasons, to secure spots and avoid disappointment.
Final Thoughts
Nice offers a wonderful variety of lunch experiences that cater to different tastes. If you want a balance of sightseeing and local flavors, the Half-Day Walking Food Tour is hard to beat. For a gourmet, wine-paired feast, the Gourmet Walking Tour delivers a deliciously memorable afternoon. For those with a taste for privacy and luxury, the Private Riviera Shopping & Lunch offers a full day of tailored exploration.
Whatever your style, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these highly-rated, authentic experiences. Nice’s culinary scene is just waiting to be explored—bon appétit!
