Shore Excursion: Day In Eze, Monaco & Monte Carlo

If you’re visiting the French Riviera and want a comprehensive, personalized experience of Monaco, Eze, and Nice, this private shore excursion offers what you need. Priced at $472.78 per person and lasting around 8 hours, this tour is ideal for those who appreciate comfort, expert guidance, and the chance to explore at their own pace. The tour departs from Villefranche-sur-Mer with pickup included, and it guarantees a small-group atmosphere that allows for a more tailored experience. With top reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, this is a highly recommended option, especially for travelers seeking a flexible, engaging day on the French Riviera.

While the tour provides plenty of free time at key sites, it’s worth noting that the stops are carefully chosen to maximize sightseeing without feeling rushed. The experience suits visitors who enjoy detailed commentary from knowledgeable guides, scenic drives along the coast, and opportunities for shopping and leisure in Monaco and Nice.

Key Points

• Private, customizable shore excursion from Villefranche-sur-Mer to Monaco, Eze, and Nice
• 8-hour tour with pickup included, led by expert guides fluent in English and French
• Visit Monaco’s Old Town, Palace, and Cathedral, with free time to shop at Casino Square
• Follow a lap of the Formula One Monaco Grand Prix circuit in Monte Carlo
• Explore the Medieval village of Eze, including a guided tour of a perfumery and breathtaking views
• Travel along the scenic Corniche road, enjoying stunning coastal vistas

How the Tour Starts at Gare Maritime in Villefranche-sur-Mer

The journey begins right at Gare Maritime (9 Pl. Wilson) in Villefranche-sur-Mer, where your guide waits for you at 9:00 am. This central location makes it easy to meet after disembarking from your cruise ship. The group size is kept small thanks to the private nature of the tour, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility.

Onboarding takes place in a luxurious Mercedes minivan that is air-conditioned and designed for comfort. The tour promises a seamless start, with your guide ready to share insights about the day ahead and tailored to meet your interests and preferences.

Visiting the Rolling Hills and Scenic Views at Mont Boron

Your first stop is a photo-worthy viewpoint at Mont Boron, where you’ll enjoy a 15-minute break to take photos of the sweeping coast and the Mediterranean. This spot offers a perfect introduction to the area’s beauty, with free admission. The guide shares interesting details about the landscape and history, setting the tone for the day.

This quick visit ensures you get a taste of Monaco’s spectacular scenery early on, all while keeping the schedule relaxed enough to savor each moment. Expect your guide to highlight notable features and suggest the best angles for photos.

Exploring Eze Village’s Unique Charm and Views

Next, the tour heads up into the hills to the medieval village of Eze for about 1 hour of exploration. Eze is famous for its breathtaking vistas over the Mediterranean and its authentic cobblestone streets. Visitors can wander through craft shops, admire panoramic views, and soak in the timeless atmosphere.

A highlight here is a guided tour of a traditional perfumery, the Parfumerie Fragonard – Usine Laboratoire de Èze, which takes around 35 minutes. The visit is optional, giving you the flexibility to explore the village independently or join the perfumery tour. The perfumery offers insights into fragrance-making, and the guided component is always appreciated for its expert explanations.

In Eze, the focus is on capturing memorable photos, browsing artisan shops, and enjoying the peaceful, historic surroundings.

Discovering Monaco-Ville’s Royal Sites and City Charm

Your next destination is Monaco-Ville, the heart of Monaco, for approximately 2 hours. Here, you’ll find the Prince’s Palace, the monumental cathedral, and the Old Town’s narrow, picturesque streets. Tour highlights include free time to wander, soak in regal architecture, and appreciate the area’s luxurious ambiance.

Part of the experience involves getting a lap of the Monaco Grand Prix circuit in Monte Carlo, a highlight for many visitors. The guide provides commentary on Monaco’s racing history and connects the scenic drive to the famous race.

You also have time to browse the shops around Casino Square or relax in the manicured gardens. Monaco-Ville’s blend of regal splendor and lively street life makes it a captivating stop.

Walking Around Monte Carlo’s Legendary Casino Square

In Monte Carlo, your guide leads a 40-minute walk around Casino Square, arguably the most iconic spot in Monaco. You see the grand casino building, luxury hotels, and stylish boutiques. Free time here allows guests to indulge in some window shopping, take photos, or enjoy a coffee at a nearby café.

The lively energy of Casino Square, combined with its surroundings of yachts and designer storefronts, creates an unmistakable sense of glamour. The guide shares stories about Monaco’s glamorous reputation and racing traditions, enriching your visit.

Scenic Drive Along Monaco’s Corniche Road

Throughout the day, the scenic coastal drive along the Corniche road offers some of the most stunning views on the Riviera. Your guide points out notable landmarks, luxurious estates, and picturesque bays, making this drive a highlight for lovers of coastal scenery.

This drive-through section adds a relaxed, sightseeing element to the tour, giving you plenty of opportunities to admire the coastline that has inspired countless artists and travelers.

Free Time and Optional Activities in Monaco and Eze

The tour’s design emphasizes free time in Monaco and Eze, allowing for personal exploration. Visitors can browse high-end shops, relax at cafes, or take additional photos. The optional perfume factory tour in Eze lasts about 35 minutes and offers a behind-the-scenes look at fragrance creation, often appreciated by those interested in local crafts.

This flexibility is a key advantage of the private tour, letting you customize your experience without feeling rushed.

Visiting Nice’s Old Town and Market Scene

The last stop on the tour is Nice, reached via the Middle Corniche road, which provides spectacular coastal views along the way. In Nice, the focus is on the Old Town, with highlights including Place Garibaldi and the vibrant Cours Saleya flower market.

You’ll find about 1 hour to explore the colorful streets, enjoy the lively market atmosphere, and perhaps grab a quick snack or souvenir before heading back to your ship.

Logistics, Comfort, and Group Experience

This private tour guarantees exclusivity and comfort, with onboard commentary from a professional guide. The vehicle is an 8-seater luxury Mercedes minivan, ensuring a smooth, comfortable ride with climate control.

The tour is suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness, as some walking and hill climbing are involved, especially in Eze. Children and families are accommodated with complimentary booster or baby seats available upon request.

Final Thoughts: An Elegant and Personalized French Riviera Day

This 8-hour private shore excursion from Villefranche-sur-Mer offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, scenic drives, and leisure time, making it ideal for those who want a flexible, in-depth experience of Monaco, Eze, and Nice. Its high ratings reflect the professionalism of guides, the quality of the vehicle, and the carefully curated stops.

While the itinerary covers many highlights, the most compelling aspect remains the personalized service, allowing visitors to explore more deeply and comfortably. It’s best suited for travelers who value expert commentary, scenic coastal drives, and relaxed pacing.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, engaging day trip that combines iconic sites with authentic local experiences, this tour from Tour Azur delivers on that promise.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes professional driver/guide, transport by luxury Mercedes minivan, and onboard commentary in English and French. Food, drinks, and entrance fees are not included.

What are the stops and how long do they last?
Stops include Mont Boron (15 minutes), Eze Village (1 hour), perfume factory (optional, 35 minutes), Monaco-Ville (2 hours), and Casino Square in Monte Carlo (40 minutes). Nice’s Old Town is also part of the schedule with about 1 hour for exploration.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
Yes, complimentary booster or baby seats are available upon request, but some walking and hill climbing are involved, so moderate physical fitness is recommended.

Can I customize the itinerary?
As a private tour, it offers flexibility to adjust stops or timing according to your preferences, within the scheduled 8 hours.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour start time for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance are not refundable.

How do I book this tour?
Reservations can be made through the provider, Tour Azur. Contact details and further information are available on the booking site.