Nice isn’t just a pretty place to visit; it’s a smart base for exploring the French Riviera’s highlights in just a couple of days. With its excellent transport options, charming neighborhoods, and proximity to hilltop villages and glamorous cities, Nice makes a perfect starting point for a 2-day adventure. We especially like how easy it is to get around—whether by a flexible hop-on-hop-off bus or a tailored private tour, the options on this list reveal the region’s best. For example, the Nice: 1 or 2-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour is a budget-friendly way to see major sights at your own pace, with open-top views and frequent stops. Or, if you prefer personalized attention, the Private tour 1/2 day – French Riviera, Excursion 5h to customize offers tailored experiences like wine tastings, visits to Cannes, Antibes, Monaco, and more.
This guide covers a variety of 2-day tour options—from relaxed sightseeing by bus to immersive private expeditions exploring Provence’s hilltop villages, perfume factories, or Monaco’s luxury. Each offers something different, catering to interests like art, history, food, or scenery. Now, let’s take a closer look at the top 7 choices—each with its own flavor and appeal.
1. Nice: 1 or 2-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
For around $28, this hop-on-hop-off bus is one of the best ways to cover a lot of ground quickly. You get a 1- or 2-day pass to explore Nice’s most popular sights at your own pace. The open-top double-decker buses make it easy to see landmarks like Place Garibaldi, Musée Matisse, and the famous Promenade des Anglais. The flexibility is key: you can hop off to visit museums, parks, or picturesque neighborhoods, then hop back on when you’re ready. The reviews are quite positive—rated 4.2/5 from over 2,500 reviews—highlighting its value and convenience.
What makes this tour stand out is the ability to customize your sightseeing schedule without the hassle of navigating public transit or renting a car. It’s perfect for travelers who want an overview with the freedom to linger at favorites. During the ride, you’ll enjoy great city views from the upper deck, making it an engaging way to learn about Nice’s layout and key attractions.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a budget-friendly, flexible way to see Nice’s highlights, this bus tour is hard to beat. It’s especially useful if time is limited but you want a comprehensive snapshot of the city.
2. Private tour 1/2 day – French Riviera, Excursion 5h to customize
At number 2, this private half-day tour is perfect for travelers who want a tailored experience along the Côte d’Azur. For around $570 per group (up to 8 people), your guide will craft an itinerary based on your interests. You could explore Cannes, Antibes, St Paul de Vence, or even visit a vineyard for wine tasting—your choice. The guide is proactive in making your day exceptional, which means you can focus on what interests you most.
What sets this tour apart is its flexibility and personal touch. Many reviewers praise their guides—like Billie—who go above and beyond to tailor the experience and share local insights. The stops are carefully chosen, including Saint-Paul-de-Vence, famed for its artistic community, and Antibes, with its historic charm. The tour also offers a special visit to a Nice vineyard with tastings, adding a flavorful local experience.
Bottom Line: For travelers seeking a personalized, relaxed exploration of the Riviera’s highlights without the worry of logistics, this private tour offers a perfect blend of comfort and customization.
3. Provence 1/2 day Tour: Saint Paul de Vence, Gourdon, Grasse
If you want to make the most of a half-day in Provence, this private tour is a fantastic choice. For about $868, you’ll visit Saint Paul de Vence, Gourdon, and Grasse, with key stops in Tourettes-sur-Loup for violet shopping and a perfume factory tour. It’s a solid option for those who want a quick yet comprehensive taste of Provence’s artistic towns and fragrant industries.
The tour starts with a walk through Saint Paul de Vence, famous for its art galleries and medieval streets. Next, you’ll visit Gourdon, often called the “Balcony of the French Riviera,” for its spectacular views and medieval castle. Then, a trip to Grasse offers the chance to explore the world of perfume—visiting the Fragonard perfume factory and learning how fragrances are made.
Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides—like Eric—who adapt the visit based on your preferences, making this a very personal and enriching experience. The tour includes hotel pickup and round-trip transport, making logistics effortless.
Bottom Line: This private half-day tour offers a rich, customized taste of Provence’s most iconic hilltop villages and perfume capital, perfect for art lovers and fragrance fans.
4. From Nice 1/2 day Tour Gourdon, St-Paul, Tourrettes & Grasse
For travelers on a budget, this half-day tour provides a convenient way to see Gourdon, Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Tourettes-sur-Loup, and Grasse for just about $105 per person. It’s a good value, with several stops around 45 minutes long, allowing you to enjoy each village’s unique charm.
Highlights include a free visit to the perfume factory in Grasse and a photostop in Tourettes-sur-Loup, known for violets. The trip also features time in Gourdon, with its medieval castle and breathtaking views, and Saint-Paul de Vence, famous for its art scene. The reviews commend the friendly guidance and quality of the stops, especially appreciating the chance to see villages “off the beaten path.”
It’s a straightforward, well-organized tour suited for those who want a taste of Provence without committing to a full day. The guide emphasizes personalized attention and smooth logistics.
Bottom Line: If you want an affordable, efficient way to explore some of Provence’s most picturesque villages with a knowledgeable guide, this tour fits the bill.
5. Eze, Monaco, Monte-Carlo Shared and Guided 1/2 Day Tour
This half-day tour offers a taste of luxury and glamour. Priced at about $131 per person, it includes visits to Eze Village, Monaco, and Monte Carlo with a multilingual guide. You’ll enjoy scenic views from the medieval Eze, such as the Exotic Garden, then continue to Monaco, home of the Grand Prix, famous casino, and luxury hotels.
The tour balances sightseeing and free time, so you can explore Casino Square or the Prince’s Palace at your own pace. Highlights include a visit to the perfume factory of Fragonard and panoramic views of the coastline. Reviewers praise the well-organized logistics and friendly guides—like Alisee—who make the experience enjoyable and informative.
This tour is ideal for travelers eager to see the high-end side of the Riviera without the hassle of driving or planning multiple stops. It’s compact but offers a broad taste of the region’s elegance.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those wanting a guided overview of Monaco’s luxury and Eze’s charm, with the convenience of round-trip transportation from Nice.
6. 1/2 day tour; Monaco and Eze guided sightseeing
If you prefer a small-group experience, this guided tour for about $81 per person offers a comprehensive look at Eze and Monaco. The tour includes a visit to the medieval village, with optional visits to the exotic garden, and a walk through Monaco’s old town, including Prince’s Palace and Cathedral.
The highlight: a guided exploration with a driver who shares insights during the drive, making it easier to absorb the region’s stories without feeling rushed. Many reviewers note the friendly guidance and superb driving skills—like Sylvie’s—making the journey comfortable and interesting.
This tour is perfect if you want a more intimate and relaxed experience, with personal attention and flexible stops. It’s a good pick for travelers who enjoy guided commentary and exploring at a gentle pace.
Bottom Line: For those seeking a small-group, personalized tour focusing on highlights without the crowds, this is a solid choice.
7. Flavors & Tastes of Provence, Shared & Guided 1/2 Day from Nice
Last but not least, this half-day foodie tour focuses on Provence’s culinary treasures. For about $127, you’ll visit four villages—Saint-Paul de Vence, Gourdon, Tourettes-sur-Loup, and Grasse—with stops for photos, art, and of course, perfume and violet products. The tour offers both morning and afternoon options, which helps fit it into different schedules.
The highlight is the chance to shop for violet items, walk through art galleries, and tour the Fragonard perfume factory. Many reviews mention how your guide—like Sylvie—makes the trip engaging, blending local stories with hands-on experiences. It’s suited for travelers who appreciate good food, local crafts, and scenic villages.
While some find the pace a bit rushed, the focus on Provence’s flavors and sights makes it a worthwhile snapshot. The small group size ensures an intimate experience.
Bottom Line: For a taste-focused half-day exploring Provence’s villages, art, and perfumes, this tour offers a flavorful experience.
How to Choose Your Perfect 2-Day Tour in Nice
Picking the right tour depends on your interests, budget, and how much time you want to spend. If you love flexibility and sightseeing at your own pace, the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour is ideal. Want a personalized experience? Consider the private Riviera excursion. Interested in Provence’s villages and perfumes? The half-day private tour or the Flavors & Tastes of Provence are perfect. For luxury and glamour in Monaco and Eze, the guided half-day tour is a good bet.
Consider your budget and physical activity level—some tours involve walking, others are more relaxed. Check the reviews for insight into guide quality and itinerary details. Booking early is wise, especially in peak season, to ensure availability.
Final Thoughts
Nice offers a wonderful palette of 2-day tour options—from budget-friendly hop-on-hop-off rides to deeply personal private tours that explore art, fragrance, and luxury. For travelers craving flexibility, the bus tour is a smart choice. For those wanting a more tailored experience, private excursions to Provence or the Riviera’s highlights deliver a richer, more personalized taste.
If you’re interested in art, history, or food, there’s a tour designed for you. The key is to match your interests with your pace and budget. Many tours are well-reviewed and offer a good balance of value and experience, so don’t wait too long—these fill up quickly in high season. Happy exploring!
