Nice: City Tour by Sidecar

If you’re considering a way to see Nice that’s a little different from the usual sightseeing bus or walking tour, this City Tour by Sidecar might just be the experience you’re after. I’ve come across plenty of tours in the past, but something about riding around in a vintage sidecar, with the wind in your hair and a guide sharing local stories, always sounds appealing. While I haven’t tried this exact tour myself, I’ve read through reviews and details that make it clear this is a charming way to get a feel for Nice and its surroundings.

Two things I particularly like about this tour are the unobstructed panoramic views you get from the sidecar and the opportunity to sample local products during a stop in Villefranche-sur-Mer. Plus, the fact that it’s a private group means the experience feels intimate and personalized. On the flip side, keep in mind that at just 1 hour and 15 minutes, it’s a relatively short ride, so it’s best for those who want a quick but memorable taste of the Riviera. This tour suits travelers who are looking for a fun, stylish way to see some key sights without spending a whole day in transit.

Key Points

• Unique Experience: Riding in a vintage sidecar offers a nostalgic and elegant way to explore Nice.
• Scenic Stops: The tour includes several photo-worthy stops, such as Mont Boron and Villefranche-sur-Mer’s famous bay.
• Local Flavor: The optional tasting of regional products adds an authentic touch.
• Inclusive Comforts: Helmets, gloves, and blankets are provided, with options for rain gear.
• Expert Guide: Your driver shares insights and stories about the region, making each stop more meaningful.
• Short & Sweet: Perfect for a quick, scenic overview, especially if you’re short on time but want something memorable.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect From the Tour

This city tour kicks off at the 9 oblique lines artwork at 105 Quai des États-Unis, where your sidecar adventure begins. From there, your guide will lead you on a route that hits some of Nice’s most iconic sights, blending history, views, and local flavor.

An Authentic Ride Through Nice

The tour lasts about 1 hour and 15 minutes, making it a manageable addition to your day. It’s designed to give you a rundown of the city’s highlights, with plenty of opportunities for photos and small stops. The sidecar’s design ensures you have an unobstructed view of your surroundings, giving you a better picture of the city’s layout and scenic beauty compared to a bus or car.

Stops and Sights

• Place Masséna: Starting just a short motorcycle ride from the meeting point, this square’s grand architecture and statue of Apollo set the tone for your adventure.
• Place Garibaldi: A historic square with a lively atmosphere, perfect for capturing some shots or just soaking in the local vibe.
• Panorama of Mont Boron: Here, you’ll pause to snap some photos of the sweeping views, appreciating how the city meets the sea.
• Villefranche-sur-Mer: The highlight for many, this tiny seaside town’s turquoise bay makes for a wonderful photo stop. During your visit, you can opt for a tasting plate of regional specialties like Pissaladière, tapenade, and zucchini flower fritters, paired with a glass of wine.
• La Réserve Beach: A quick pass-by that showcases one of Nice’s most recognizable beaches, complete with its famous diving board.
• #ILoveNICE Hashtag: The final photo opportunity before wrapping up your ride with a scenic drive along the promenade.

The Experience on the Sidecar

You’ll ride either in the sidecar or sit comfortably in the back, with helmets, gloves, and blankets provided for your comfort. As several reviews highlight, the guides are attentive and friendly, making you feel at ease whether you’re a thrill-seeker or just looking to enjoy the sights casually. The experience is described as “nostalgic,” “elegant,” and “unforgettable,” which speaks to how well it captures the charm of vintage travel.

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The Optional Tasting

A real standout is the optional tasting stop in Villefranche-sur-Mer. This isn’t just a quick snack; it’s a curated platter featuring regional products like Pissaladière (a kind of onion tart), peppers in oil, tapenade, and artichokes with Parmesan—all paired with a glass of local wine. Reviews mention that this adds genuine value and flavor to the experience, giving you a taste of local life outside the more touristy spots. Just be aware that this tasting is optional, so if you prefer to focus solely on sightseeing, you can skip it.

How the Itinerary Breaks Down

• Start at Quai des États-Unis: The meeting point offers a visually striking backdrop for your adventure’s start.
• Transit through key city squares: Moving from Place Masséna to Place Garibaldi, your guide will fill you in on their history and significance.
• Panoramic stop at Mont Boron: Expect a brief but rewarding pause to admire the views.
• Villefranche-sur-Mer visit: The star of the tour, with a chance to photograph and taste local specialties.
• La Réserve Beach: A quick look at one of Nice’s most iconic beaches.
• Final scenic route along the promenade: Ending at the “I Love Nice” hashtag, a favorite for photos.

The entire journey is designed to give you a well-rounded snapshot of the city’s beauty and charm.

What Travelers Say

The reviews echo what’s apparent from the details. Travelers love the knowledgeable guides, with one reviewer praising Franck for making them feel comfortable and showing them places they wouldn’t have seen otherwise. The views during the stops are consistently mentioned as breathtaking, especially the photo spots in Villefranche-sur-Mer and Mont Boron.

Many describe the experience as “very memorable” and “an excellent way to relive the golden age of sidecar travel,” emphasizing its nostalgic and elegant feel. The optional local tasting gets high praise for adding authenticity, with reviewers mentioning the delicious regional products and the lovely seaside setting.

Some comments note that, despite the sometimes windy or cloudy weather, the sidecar remained comfortable and sheltered, which can be surprisingly important given the open nature of this type of ride.

Practical Details and Value

At $116 for a private group of up to two, this tour offers good value—especially considering the personalized nature and the unique experience it provides. It’s a short, focused ride, perfect if you want a quick yet immersive experience. The inclusion of helmets, gloves, and blankets ensures comfort and safety, while the option for pickup means you don’t have to worry about logistics.

It’s worth noting that the tour is available in multiple languages—French, English, and Italian—making it accessible to diverse travelers. With flexible cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, you can plan with confidence.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits adventurous travelers looking for something more stylish and intimate than a bus tour. It’s ideal for those who appreciate vintage charm, enjoy photography, and want a personalized, guided ride that hits several scenic highlights. It’s also a good fit for couples or small groups wanting a memorable, photo-worthy activity that doesn’t take up an entire day.

If you’re traveling with children, the tour might be suitable depending on their comfort with open rides and weather, but it’s primarily best for adults or older kids due to the nature of riding in a sidecar.

The Sum Up

The Nice City Tour by Sidecar offers a delightful mix of scenic views, cultural highlights, and authentic local flavors, all wrapped up in a stylish vintage package. It’s a fantastic way to see the city’s top sights without the hassle of navigating busy streets or crowded buses. The optional tasting adds a layer of local flavor, making the experience even more authentic and enjoyable.

While it’s a short tour, it’s packed with memorable moments and picturesque stops that will leave you with plenty of great photos and stories. This tour is best suited for those who want a stylish, intimate, and fun way to explore Nice, especially if you’re a fan of vintage rides or looking to do something a little different.

If you love scenic viewpoints, engaging guides, and a touch of nostalgia, this sidecar tour could be the highlight of your trip to the French Riviera. It’s a little luxurious, a little adventurous, and a whole lot of charming.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
The experience involves riding in a sidecar, so it’s mostly suited for adults or older, comfortable children. Consider their comfort with open rides and weather before booking.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which provides some flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
The tour can provide raincoats if needed, but poor weather might affect the experience. It’s best to check the forecast and be prepared.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at the same location: 101 Quai des États-Unis, in front of the nine oblique lines artwork.

Are helmets and safety gear provided?
Yes, helmets and gloves are included, and blankets are available for added comfort.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s designed for a private group, making the experience more personalized and relaxed.

If a vintage ride through Nice sounds like your kind of adventure, this tour is definitely worth considering. It blends sightseeing, culture, and a dash of nostalgia into a memorable package that shows off the best of the French Riviera.

You can check availability for your dates here: