Private Full-day French Riviera and Hilltop Villages Tour

Explore the French Riviera’s Hilltop Villages with a Private Guide

The Private Full-day French Riviera and Hilltop Villages Tour offers an intimate way to experience some of the region’s most picturesque spots. For $920.29 per group, up to 8 people can enjoy a carefully curated itinerary that highlights breathtaking views, medieval architecture, and local flavors. The tour lasts approximately 8 hours and 15 minutes, making it a well-paced journey through Provençal beauty.

Led by a knowledgeable private guide, this tour includes pickup and transportation, ensuring convenience and comfort. While lunch and drinks are not included, the stops at Mougins, Grasse, Gourdon, and St-Paul-de-Vence promise plenty of opportunities for sightseeing, photography, and soaking in local culture. This experience suits those who appreciate art, history, scenic vistas, and authentic village atmospheres.

Key Points

• Private guided tour designed for up to 8 guests
• Duration of 8 hours and 15 minutes, with flexible timing
• Visits to Mougins, Grasse, Gourdon, and St-Paul-de-Vence
• Stunning panoramic views from Gourdon and St-Paul-de-Vence
• Free admission to all four villages; lunch and drinks are separate
• Pickup included, making logistics simple and stress-free

Starting Point: A Personalized Pickup in Nice

The tour departs directly from Nice, France, with pickup offered. This arrangement means you avoid the hassle of navigating public transport and begin your day with an easy start. The private transportation provided ensures a smooth transfer between each of the four stops, giving you more time to enjoy the scenery and the villages themselves.

The mobile ticket system adds convenience, allowing you to carry your booking details digitally. The tour’s flexibility makes it suitable for most travelers, with most being able to participate comfortably.

Discovering Mougins’ Artistic Charm

The first stop is Mougins, a village famous for its spiral layout and flowered streets. From its peak, Mougins offers spectacular views over the bay of Cannes, the Lerins Islands, and neighboring villages. The guide leads a guided tour of the old village, highlighting beautiful old houses, tastefully restored stones, and artistic doors.

At Mougins, the charm lies in its carefully maintained medieval streets, filled with artistic details and historical architecture. The village’s ambiance has attracted many artists and celebrities, drawn to its harmony of colors, light, and preserved past. Admission to Mougins is free, and the walk through its streets promises a visual feast.

Exploring Grasse’s Perfume Heritage

Next, the tour visits Grasse, known globally as the perfume capital since the 17th century. The guided tour explores the village’s winding alleys, staircase streets, and historic squares. Notable sights include the Sarrasin tower, remnants of 16th-century ramparts, and the episcopal town hall housed in an old palace.

In Grasse, visitors enjoy quaint squares, singing fountains, and vaulted passageways. The village’s artisans and perfume makers create a sensory-rich environment, perfect for those interested in fragrance and craftsmanship. Admission is free, and the village’s vivid red ocher buildings add to the visual appeal.

Gourdon’s Panoramic Views and Medieval Charm

The highlight of Gourdon is its spectacular position overlooking the Valley of the Wolf. Recognized as one of France’s most beautiful villages, Gourdon features medieval architecture including a 9th-century castle and a Romanesque church from the 12th century. Its Place Victoria offers views extending over 80 km of coastline, from Nice to Theoule.

The village’s lively streets, Provencal houses, and craft shops make Gourdon a busy hub of local artisans and craftsmen. After a lunch break in the village, the tour continues with a visit to a lavender field, adding a dash of color and scent to the day. The free admission to Gourdon’s attractions makes this stop both scenic and accessible.

St-Paul-de-Vence: The Artistic Heart of Provence

The final stop, St-Paul-de-Vence, is celebrated for its well-preserved medieval walls and artistic legacy. The village’s 16th-century stone walls enclose a network of narrow streets lined with over 40 art galleries and souvenir shops. Its reputation as an artistic hub comes from its history of inspiring painters, writers, and poets thanks to its exceptional light.

Visitors often stroll through picturesque streets, stopping at art galleries and enjoying stunning views of the Alps. The small cemetery at the end of the village is the resting place of Marc Chagall, adding a touch of artistic history. The tour spends about 75 minutes here, with free admission to the village itself.

The Logistics and Comfort of This Private Tour

With private transportation included, the tour offers a relaxed pace across the four villages. The group size of up to 8 ensures a comfortable experience, allowing the guide to provide personalized insights. Mineral water is provided throughout the day, helping you stay refreshed during the excursions.

Since lunch and additional food or drinks are not included, travelers can plan a meal at their discretion in Gourdon or St-Paul-de-Vence. The tour’s flexible timing and free cancellation policy—up to 24 hours in advance—add to its convenience.

Why This Tour Stands Out

What makes this tour special is the combination of scenic views, charming villages, and expert guiding. The private guide’s knowledge promises a personalized experience, and the free admission to all four villages means you can explore at your own pace without additional entrance fees.

The highlighted stops like Gourdon’s panoramic outlook and St-Paul-de-Vence’s artistic atmosphere are especially praised. The tour provides a balance of cultural sights, natural beauty, and authentic Provençal ambiance.

Who Will Enjoy This Experience Most

This private tour is perfect for small groups seeking an intimate, flexible, and enriching day on the French Riviera. It’s ideal for those interested in medieval architecture, scenic vistas, and local artisan crafts. Travelers who appreciate art, history, and picturesque landscapes will find this tour particularly rewarding.

While lunch is not included, the stops at notable villages allow for personal dining options, making it suitable for food lovers as well. Its 8-hour duration suits those wanting a comprehensive yet relaxed exploration of the region’s hilltop villages.

Authentic and Personalized Experience of the French Riviera

This full-day private tour provides a genuine taste of the Provençal lifestyle, history, and stunning scenery. The combination of expert guiding, scenic stops, and flexibility makes it an excellent choice for visitors wanting to escape the busier tourist spots in Nice and discover the region’s hidden charm.

The cost per group ensures a personalized experience, with the opportunity to ask questions and explore each village at your own pace. The free admission to all villages further enhances the value, making this a well-rounded option for those seeking cultural richness and scenic beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in this tour?
The tour includes private transportation, a private guide, and mineral water. Admission to the villages is free, but lunch and other food or drinks are not included.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours and 15 minutes, giving ample time to explore each village comfortably.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, as the tour is designed to be accessible and relaxing, with no strenuous activity explicitly mentioned.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations made less than that are not eligible for a refund.

What makes this tour different from other French Riviera excursions?
This tour’s private nature and focus on hilltop villages like Mougins, Grasse, Gourdon, and St-Paul-de-Vence provide a more personalized and in-depth experience compared to larger group tours.

Are meals included?
No, lunch and drinks are not included, but you will have opportunities to dine during your stops in Gourdon and St-Paul-de-Vence.

What are the main highlights of the villages visited?
Expect picturesque streets, panoramic views, medieval architecture, art galleries, and artistic history, especially at St-Paul-de-Vence and Gourdon.

Is the tour customizable?
Being a private tour, it allows some flexibility, particularly with timing and stops, but specifics depend on the guide’s arrangements.

How do I book this tour?
Reservations can be made online through the booking platform, with confirmation provided immediately after booking.

Who is the provider?
The tour is operated by Riviera Together Tours, known for personalized experiences across the French Riviera.

This full-day private tour offers a thorough, scenic, and culturally rich exploration of France’s hilltop villages, ideal for those seeking a personalized, relaxed experience full of historical charm and stunning vistas.