Cannes isn’t just about film festivals and luxury hotels; it’s a fantastic base for exploring some of the most interesting destinations along the French Riviera. Whether you’re craving a private day with customized stops, dreaming of sailing the bay on a sleek catamaran, or eager to taste Provençal wines, Cannes offers a wide range of full-day tours that suit different interests and budgets. We’re especially fond of the Private Full-Day Tour on the French Riviera from Cannes, which combines VIP-style visits to Monaco, Eze, and La Turbie—perfect for those wanting a personalized experience with insider access.
From opulent casino visits and scenic villages to underwater snorkeling and gourmet wine tastings, the list below covers a variety of experiences. Whether you prefer exploring at your own pace, enjoying a scenic boat ride, or soaking in local culture with a guided tour, there’s an option here to match your style.
The list includes everything from private and small-group tours, luxurious boat trips, and private shore excursions, to more budget-friendly options. Each offers a unique way to see the French Riviera’s highlights, including Monaco, Eze, Saint Paul de Vence, and even the Lerins Islands. Dive into our detailed descriptions below to find the perfect full-day adventure for your trip.
1. Private Full-Day Tour on the French Riviera from Cannes
This private tour offers a tailored experience along the French Riviera, combining visits to Monaco, Eze, and La Turbie. For roughly $695 per group (up to 8 people), the 8-hour adventure is perfect for travelers who want to skip the crowds and enjoy a customized itinerary. Your guide takes you into the medieval village of Eze, where you can explore cobblestone streets and visit the Fragonard perfume factory. Then, it’s on to Monaco, where you’ll see the Prince’s Palace, the Casino of Monte Carlo, and the Formula One Grand Prix track—an experience that’s hard to beat for car enthusiasts and culture seekers alike. The tour includes a stop at La Turbie for spectacular views over the French Riviera and the Trophy of the Alps monument.
This tour has consistently earned top reviews, with travelers praising the flexibility, knowledge, and friendliness of guides like Irina, who made the day highly personalized. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate privacy, comfort, and the ability to customize their day to their interests.
Bottom Line: If you want a private, flexible, and luxury-focused day with all the major Riviera sights in one go, this tour delivers.
2. Full-Day Catamaran Cruise Departing from Cannes
Sailing on a modern catamaran in the Bay of Cannes offers a relaxed yet exhilarating day on the water. Priced at a reasonable rate, this cruise provides opportunities to swim, snorkel, or simply lounge on deck while enjoying the spectacular coastline. The full-day cruise includes a cold buffet lunch and a glass of wine, making it a perfect choice for those who want a mix of adventure and leisure. The boat is fully equipped, and the scenery—coves, cliffs, and yachts—is second to none.
Guests often comment on the peacefulness of the trip and the chance to cool off in the clear waters. It’s an excellent option for families, couples, or groups seeking a laid-back day with plenty of time for sunbathing and water activities. Note that this is more about relaxing on the water than visiting inland sights, so it suits those who want to escape the land and see the coast from a different perspective.
Bottom Line: For a chilled day on the water with swimming and snorkeling, this cruise is a top pick, offering good value and a memorable experience.
3. Full-Day Monaco, Monte-Carlo & Eze Tour from Cannes
This guided day trip is a comprehensive way to see key highlights of the Riviera for $140 per person. The tour includes stops at Éze for a quick walk through the medieval village, and a visit to the Parfumerie Fragonard for a behind-the-scenes look at perfume-making. Then, it’s on to Monaco for a tour of the Old Town, the Grand Prix circuit, and the Monte Carlo Casino square.
Guests praise the knowledgeable guides like Rolf, who share interesting tidbits about the region’s history and culture. The 8-hour itinerary balances sightseeing with enough free time to explore or shop. The scenic drive along the Grand Prix race track is a highlight, especially for racing fans.
Bottom Line: This tour provides a well-rounded, value-packed introduction to Monaco and the Riviera’s most iconic sights, perfect for first-timers.
4. Full-Day Private Custom-Made Cannes Shore Excursion
If you prefer to craft your own adventure, this private tour lets you choose your destinations within the Riviera. Available for around $1,364 per group (up to 7), it’s ideal for travelers who want maximum flexibility. You can visit Nice, explore Eze, cross into Monaco, or even include hidden villages and beaches along your preferred route.
Your guide will pick you up from the cruise port and customize the day based on your interests. The itinerary can include a walking tour of Nice, a visit to the medieval village of Eze, and exploring Monte Carlo’s casinos. The private nature ensures intimacy and tailored experiences.
Guests appreciate the personalized approach, noting guides like Pierre as attentive and flexible. However, at this price point, it’s more suitable for those wanting bespoke experiences or traveling in a group.
Bottom Line: For travelers seeking a fully personalized day with all the private comforts, this custom tour offers maximum flexibility.
5. Full-Day Private Cannes Shore Excursion: Eze & Monaco
This private shore excursion, costing about $1,305 for up to 8 people, is designed for those who want a seamless, all-in-one tour of the Riviera’s highlights. It starts with a drive along the Croisette in Cannes, then heads to Eze for incredible views and a walk through a medieval village. From there, you’ll explore Monaco-Ville, including the Prince’s Palace and the Cathedral, before driving around the Formule 1 race track.
The reviews mention guides like Pierre and Xavier, who are praised for their knowledge and flexibility, making this tour an excellent value for a full day of sightseeing from the port. It’s perfect for first-time visitors looking for a comprehensive experience with a private guide.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for travelers wanting a complete Riviera overview with a private, personalized touch.
6. The best French Riviera Full-Day from Cannes Small-Group Shore Excursion
Limited to just eight people, this small-group tour combines several highlights in about 9 hours for around $153 per person. It’s a good choice for travelers who prefer a more intimate experience, visiting Antibes, Eze, and Monaco, along with the Billionaire’s Quay to see luxury yachts. The tour includes a visit to the Fragonard perfumery and scenic drives along the coast.
Guests note the knowledgeable driver and the ability to explore at a comfortable pace. The small group size makes it easier to ask questions and get personalized attention.
Bottom Line: If you value a small-group vibe and want to see the major sights without a huge bus, this tour provides good value and a boutique experience.
7. Countryside and Wine Tasting Full-day tour from Cannes
For something different, this 8.5-hour tour combines countryside exploration with wine tasting. Starting with a visit to Grasse, the perfume capital, you’ll tour the Fragonard factory to see how fragrances are created. Then, it’s on to Valbonne, a charming village, and Gourdon, perched high above the Loup river with stunning views.
This tour is particularly popular for its wine tasting at a hilltop winery, which offers an authentic taste of Provençal life. Guests praise the knowledgeable guides and the chance to learn about local perfumery and wines in one day.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers interested in culture, crafts, and food, especially those who want a relaxed, small-group experience.
8. French Riviera Full-Day Private Tour
This flexible private tour allows you to explore the Riviera according to your desires. For about $815, you get a personalized 8-hour experience that can include Nice, Eze, Monaco, or Saint-Paul de Vence. The itinerary is custom-built around your interests, with stops that can be as brief or as long as needed.
Travelers like Irina and Xavier appreciate guides who are attentive and knowledgeable. The flexibility makes it ideal for those who want to focus on specific towns or sites without being tied to a preset schedule.
Bottom Line: For travelers who want a tailored, private experience with the freedom to choose their stops, this tour delivers.
9. Full-Day Cannes Private Boat Trip to discover the Lerins Islands
This private boat trip offers an 8-hour voyage to the Lerins Islands, starting from Cannes. At about $2,162 for a group up to 11, it’s an indulgent way to see the coast from the water. The trip includes stops at the Underwater Museum, views of the Fort Royal, and the opportunity to explore Sainte-Marguerite and Saint-Honorat islands.
Guests praise the opportunity for snorkeling, swimming, and even having lunch at the restaurant La Tonnelle on Île Saint-Honorat. It’s perfect for those who want a private, scenic day on the sea with options for exploring untouched nature.
Bottom Line: If budget isn’t a concern and you’re after a private, luxury boat experience, this trip delivers unmatched exclusivity.
10. Italian Riviera, open air market principality of “SEBORGA -private tour full day”
This half-day tour extends into Italy, visiting Ventimiglia or San Remo for their lively markets, and the Principality of Seborga. Starting early in the morning, it’s ideal for travelers interested in local markets, boutiques, and regional specialties.
Guests love the colorful markets and the chance to taste authentic Italian products. The tour also includes lunch by the sea, with options for seafood or local Provençal cuisine. The visits to Seborga are especially unique, with its quirky independence and medieval charm.
Bottom Line: Best suited for shoppers and culture lovers curious about cross-border Italy and France, with a mix of markets and scenic villages.
11. The “French Riviera” – private full day tour
This custom private tour offers a flexible itinerary for about $793 for a group up to 8. It includes stops at Antibes with the Picasso Museum, Saint Paul de Vence, and Gourdon, plus Monaco and Eze. Each stop lasts between 20 and 45 minutes, making it a quick but rundown.
Tour guides like Xavier make this tour engaging, sharing stories about each town’s artistic and cultural significance. It’s ideal for travelers who wish to see many sights but prefer a more relaxed pace than a large coach tour.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a personalized, all-encompassing day with options to focus on arts, scenery, or glamour.
12. Full Day Guided Riviera Sightseeing Tour from Cannes
This budget-friendly, 9-hour tour offers a structured day exploring St. Paul de Vence, Nice, Eze, and Monte Carlo for just $126. It’s a good option for travelers who want a guided experience without breaking the bank. The tour includes stops at famous villages, the Promenade des Anglais, and the casino district.
While not as personalized as private options, guests find this tour well-organized and informative. It works particularly well for those with limited time who want to tick off major sites.
Bottom Line: For an affordable, guided overview of the Riviera, this tour delivers solid value.
How to Choose Your Ideal Full-Day Tour in Cannes
When selecting among these options, consider your budget, interests, and fitness level. If you’re after a luxury, private experience, the Private Full-Day Tour or the Custom Shore Excursion are excellent choices. For those who want to relax on water, the Catamaran Cruise offers a memorable day at sea.
History and culture lovers might prefer the small-group tour, while food and wine enthusiasts will enjoy the Countryside and Wine Tasting. Budget travelers should consider the guided day tour for a cost-effective overview.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak seasons like summer, to secure your preferred date and avoid disappointment.
Final Thoughts
Cannes’s location makes it an ideal hub for exploring the French and Italian Rivieras, with options tailored to almost every travel style. Whether you want a private, tailored day, a luxurious boat cruise, or a guided cultural exploration, the full-day tours listed here provide a variety of ways to enrich your visit.
If you’re traveling with family, a group, or on a romantic getaway, choices like the Private Boat Trip or the Private Custom Tour will deliver a memorable, personalized experience. Budget-conscious travelers can enjoy the guided sightseeing tour, which covers the key highlights affordably.
No matter your choice, early planning helps make the most of your time on the French Riviera. Now, all that’s left is to book your adventure and get ready for a full day of discovery.
