Nice City, Villefranche sur Mer and Wine Tasting

If you’re planning a trip to the South of France and considering a day tour that combines the vibrant city life, charming coastal villages, and some well-earned wine tastings, this experience from Riviera Star Tours might catch your eye. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, I’ve read through plenty of reviews and tour descriptions to get a clear picture of what it offers—and who it’s best suited for.

What really appeals to me is how this tour emphasizes “feeling like a NISSART,” or a local from Nice, stepping away from typical tourist spots to see the city through the eyes of someone who lives there. Plus, the mix of cultural sights, picturesque villages, and wine tasting on the hills offers a well-rounded day. The only potential downside? The price tag of $1,276 for a group of up to 8 might seem steep, especially since lunch isn’t included, but considering the personalized experience, it could be worth it for those who want a curated day without the hassle of planning every detail.

This tour seems particularly suited for travelers who enjoy a flexible, in-depth approach to exploring a region—those who appreciate local flavor over tourist traps, and value scenic views and authentic experiences. If you’re traveling as a couple, a small group, or even with friends who love wine and culture, this might be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Authentic Local Experience: You’ll explore Nice like a local, away from crowded tourist spots.
• Scenic Coastal Drive: The route along the coast to Villefranche offers stunning views and memorable photo opportunities.
• Cultural Highlights: Roman arenas, Queen Victoria’s palace, and the Saint Nicholas Cathedral add depth to your visit.
• Wine Tasting in a Historic Setting: Visiting Château Cremat combines history, scenery, and tastings, with a connection to Coco Chanel.
• Panoramic Views: Gairaut hill offers one of the best vantage points over Nice plus a lovely waterfall.
• Flexible & Private: The tour is private, customizable, and includes hotel pickup and drop-off.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting with the City of Nice

The tour kicks off with a true local flavor—the Provençal market at Place de la Libération. Instead of the tourist-heavy flower market in Old Town, this is where residents buy their produce in the mornings. Here, you’ll get a feel for daily life, sampling fresh fruits, cheeses, or just soaking in the lively atmosphere. It’s a great way to set the tone for the day, knowing you’re seeing a slice of authentic Niçoise life.

Next, you’ll move through the Cimiez district, where history and elegance meet. The Roman arenas, Queen Victoria’s palace, Franciscan monastery, and the cemetery with Matisse’s thumb are all notable stops. These sites provide a layered glimpse into Nice’s past and its royal connections. The Roman arenas, in particular, are a reminder of the city’s ancient roots, and many travelers find these ruins surprisingly well-preserved.

A visit to Saint Nicholas Cathedral is another highlight. Built in 1903 and opened in 1912, this Orthodox church presents a striking contrast to the Mediterranean architecture around it. The intricate details and grandeur are worth experiencing, especially if you’re after something visually different from typical French churches.

We loved the way the guide shares stories about these landmarks, making history come alive rather than just ticking off sights.

Cruising Along the Coast to Villefranche sur Mer

After exploring the city’s heart, your guide will take you along the Promenade des Anglais, one of Nice’s most famous streets, past the bustling port. Then, the short drive to Villefranche sur Mer is where the scenery truly shines. This tiny medieval port village is a favorite among locals and travelers alike, known for its colorful buildings and breathtaking bay.

You’ll have free time here for lunch in the port (note: lunch isn’t included) — a chance to enjoy fresh seafood or simple Mediterranean fare while soaking in views of the sparkling bay and yachts. Villefranche’s charm is its authenticity—narrow streets, pastel-colored houses, and a peaceful vibe that’s often overshadowed by more crowded spots.

Wine Tasting at Château Crémet

No trip to the South of France would be complete without a touch of wine. Château Crémet, a historic estate where Coco Chanel vacationed, is the focus here. The visit includes a tour of the vineyards and a tasting session. It’s a well-curated experience that offers insight into local winemaking traditions and the chance to sample some excellent wines.

We appreciated that the tasting is held in the castle’s historic rooms, adding a sense of occasion. The connection to Coco Chanel adds a layer of glamour, but more importantly, the wines speak for themselves. This is especially appealing for wine lovers or those curious about Provençal wine culture.

Keep in mind, the price includes the visit and tasting but not the lunch, so you might want to plan accordingly.

Panoramic Views and Waterfalls at Gairaut Hill

Ending the day on Gairaut hill is a smart choice. From here, you get an outstanding view of Nice, with the city sprawling below. The hill is called the “hill of lovers” because it’s a favorite weekend spot for locals. Plus, there’s a waterfall that adds a peaceful, scenic touch—perfect for some final photos and reflections.

Many reviews highlight how this spot offers one of the best vistas of Nice, especially at sunset or during good weather. It’s a perfect way to wrap up a day full of diverse experiences.

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What’s Included and What’s Not

This is a private tour with a dedicated guide/driver, which makes a significant difference in terms of comfort and flexibility. The pickup and drop-off at your hotel in Nice are included, easing logistics. Transportation, visits to Château Crémet, and the wine tasting are part of the package.

However, lunch is not included, so you’ll want to budget separately for a meal in Villefranche. The cost of $1,276 per group up to 8 might seem steep, but when you consider the private guide, transport, exclusive visits, and tasting experiences, it offers a personalized, hassle-free way to see some of the most beautiful parts of the area.

Is This Tour Worth It?

For travelers who cherish personalized experiences, are interested in local culture, and want to enjoy scenic views without the hassle of organizing multiple stops, this tour can be quite rewarding. The mix of history, charm, and flavor makes it a well-rounded day.

That said, it’s on the pricier side, so if you’re traveling solo or on a tighter budget, you might find other options or group tours more economical. But if a private, curated day tailored to your interests appeals, this could be a memorable way to experience the French Riviera.

Who Would Love This Tour?

• Culture enthusiasts who enjoy learning about local history and architecture.
• Wine lovers keen to sample Provençal wines in a picturesque setting.
• Scenic lovers who want breathtaking views of Nice and the surrounding hills.
• Travelers seeking flexibility and personalized attention.
• Couples or small groups looking for a private experience that balances sightseeing with relaxation.

Who Might Want to Skip It?

• Those on a tight schedule or budget might prefer more affordable group options.
• Travelers not interested in wine tasting or cultural stops might find the itinerary too focused on those aspects.
• If you prefer to explore independently at your own pace, a self-guided day might suit better.

FAQs

Is food included in this tour?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll have free time in Villefranche to grab a meal, so bring some cash or plan ahead.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts around 9 hours, starting with hotel pickup and ending with drop-off back where you’re staying in Nice.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, since it’s a private tour, your guide is happy to modify the schedule or suggest additional stops based on your interests.

What languages are available?
The tour is offered in several languages including French, English, Spanish, Portuguese, and German.

Is this suitable for families or children?
The information provided doesn’t specify family-friendly features, but since it’s a private, relaxed experience, families with older children might enjoy it. Always check with the provider for specific age recommendations.

What is the price based on?
The cost is for the entire group, up to 8 people, covering transport, guide, visits, and tastings.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a thoughtfully curated mix of culture, scenery, and flavor, with a focus on authentic local experiences. You’ll get a true taste of the Nice region, from its lively markets and historic sites to its stunning coastline and garden views. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer a private, customizable approach rather than crowded group outings.

While the price might be on the higher side, the personalized service, exclusive visits, and scenic stops provide good value if those elements appeal to you. This experience is especially well-suited for those who want a relaxed yet enriching day, without the stress of planning every detail.

If you’re after a memorable day combining history, local charm, and some excellent wine, this tour could be just what you need to make your trip to the French Riviera truly special.

Note: Always double-check with the provider about current availability, cancellation policies, and any specific needs or requests to ensure this experience is a perfect fit for your travel plans.

You can check availability for your dates here: