Italian City, its Market and Menton Private Full Day Tour

Explore the Italian Market and French Riviera on a Private Day Trip from Monaco

The Italian City, its Market and Menton Private Full Day Tour offers a seamless blend of Italian and French cultural experiences. Starting from La Condamine, Monaco, this 9-hour journey is priced at $1,070 per group up to 8. It’s designed for those who want a personalized, in-depth look at some of the most picturesque spots along the Riviera, with a private guide leading the way.

This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a mix of vibrant local markets, historic villages, and stunning coastal views. The trip’s flexibility allows for exploring Italian towns like Ventimiglia, San Remo, or Bordighera, and enjoying a traditional Italian lunch at your preferred restaurant—although lunch expenses are not included. One notable highlight is the chance to walk through well-preserved medieval streets and enjoy breathtaking panoramas along the upper corniche.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Private Full-Day Tour: Led by a knowledgeable guide with pickup and drop-off at your accommodation.
• Authentic Italian Market: Experience local folklore, products, and cuisine at a lively outdoor market.
• Visit Dolceaqua: Explore this charming medieval village, famed for Monet’s painting of its bridge.
• Colorful Menton: Admire the pearl of France, known for its vibrant colors and scenic coastal setting.
• Scenic Coastal Drive: The journey along the upper corniche offers remarkable views of Monaco and the Riviera.
• Flexible Lunch Options: Choose to dine at an Italian restaurant or enjoy a meal later in Dolceaqua.

Starting in La Condamine, Monaco’s Vibrant Hub

The tour begins with pickup at your Monaco accommodation, ensuring a comfortable start to the day. With a recent and comfortable vehicle, the private guide takes you on a relaxing drive towards Italy, where the first stop is an authentic Italian market. This market bursts with local folklore and specialties, providing a lively introduction to Italy’s culinary and cultural richness.

The guide leads you through this bustling market, explaining the significance of various products and local customs. Visitors get free time to browse stalls, purchasing souvenirs or sampling regional delights. This vibrant scene is an ideal way to dive into Italy’s lively street life and local flavors.

Visiting Dolceaqua: Italy’s Medieval Treasure

After soaking in the market atmosphere, the journey continues to Dolceaqua, a picturesque Italian village renowned for its medieval charm. The village is famous for its stone bridge, famously painted by Claude Monet, adding a painterly touch to its historic streets.

In Dolceaqua, you can stroll through well-preserved medieval streets, appreciating the quaint architecture and peaceful ambiance. Visiting the medieval castle offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and coast. The village’s traditional atmosphere makes it a perfect spot to enjoy a relaxed exploration or take photographs of its charming facades.

Scenic Drive Along the Upper Corniche

The tour then follows the upper corniche, one of the most scenic coastal roads on the Riviera. This route offers breathtaking views of Monaco and stretches along the coast, revealing the dramatic cliffs and azure waters that define the region. The drive itself becomes a memorable part of the experience, showcasing the Riviera’s natural beauty.

Traveling along this route provides ample opportunities for photos and soaking in the landscape’s splendor. The guide shares insights into local geography and points out notable sights along the way.

More Great Tours Nearby

Discovering Menton, the Pearl of France

The journey concludes in Menton, a lively town at the French-Italian border known as the “pearl of France.” Famous for its colorful buildings and fragrant gardens, Menton exudes charm and warmth. Its streets are filled with pastel-colored facades, and the town’s ambiance reflects its provincial character.

Here, visitors enjoy free time to explore the town’s narrow streets, visit local shops, or simply relax while taking in the vibrant setting. The town’s scenic location and cheerful colors make it a favorite stop on this itinerary.

Lunch Options and Cultural Flexibility

While lunch is not included in the tour price, travelers have the freedom to select a local Italian restaurant in the town of their choice or opt to dine later in Dolceaqua. This flexibility allows for a personalized dining experience, whether you prefer a casual trattoria or a more formal setting. The guide can suggest options, and you can tailor your meal to your preferences.

Returning via the Magnificent Haute Corniche Road

After a full day of exploring, the return trip follows the Haute Corniche, the most picturesque coastal road on the French Riviera. This route offers sweeping views of Monaco, the coast, and the surrounding landscape, providing a scenic and fitting end to the tour.

The drive along this road allows travelers to appreciate the Riviera’s dramatic scenery at a leisurely pace, with many opportunities to stop for photos or brief looks at the stunning vistas.

Logistics and Guide Service

The private driver/guide provides a personalized experience throughout the day, with pickup and drop-off included at your accommodation. The vehicle used is recent and comfortable, ensuring a smooth ride. The tour supports multiple languages—including Spanish, English, French, Portuguese, and German—making it accessible to diverse travelers.

The small-group size up to 8 people creates an intimate atmosphere, and the flexibility in scheduling makes it easy to plan your day. Cancellation is simple, with a full refund available when canceled 24 hours in advance.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

This tour excels in providing a private, flexible experience with a focus on authentic local culture and scenic beauty. Its stops at Dolceaqua and Menton combine historic charm with picturesque coastal scenery. The scenic coastal drive along the upper corniche is a highlight, offering some of the most stunning views on the Riviera.

The tour’s personalized approach, with a dedicated guide and the ability to choose your lunch spot, makes it ideal for those seeking a tailored, relaxed day away from busy group tours. The inclusion of a lively Italian market and a well-preserved medieval village offers an authentic taste of Italy, while the visit to Menton provides a vibrant French touch.

Considerations and Limitations

While the tour offers a comprehensive and charming experience, lunch is not included, so travelers should plan accordingly. The tour’s duration is 9 hours, which may be long for those with limited mobility or tight schedules. The timing depends on availability, so checking in advance is recommended.

This experience is best suited for those who enjoy scenic drives, historical sites, and exploring charming towns at a leisurely pace. It provides a rich cultural experience but requires some walking, especially in Dolceaqua and Menton.

Final Thoughts on the Italian City, its Market and Menton Private Tour

This private tour from Monaco offers an engaging way to experience the Italian and French Riviera in one day. The combination of local markets, medieval villages, and scenic coastal drives makes it a compelling choice for travelers who want depth and personalization.

Its strengths lie in the flexibility, authentic cultural stops, and breathtaking views. The guide’s attentiveness and the comfort of a private vehicle contribute to a smooth, enjoyable day. However, travelers should be prepared for a full day of exploration and plan their meals ahead of time.

The Italian City, its Market and Menton Tour stands out as a well-rounded, scenic, and culturally rich experience, best suited for curious travelers eager to see the Riviera’s best without the crowd or rush of larger tours.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of this tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours.

Where does the tour start and end?
It departs from and returns to La Condamine, Monaco, with pickup and drop-off at your accommodation.

How many people can join this tour?
It is designed for a private group of up to 8 people.

Is lunch included in the price?
No, lunch expenses are not included. You can choose your preferred Italian restaurant or dine later in Dolceaqua.

What languages does the guide speak?
The guide can communicate in Spanish, English, French, Portuguese, and German.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What scenic routes are included?
The return journey follows the Haute Corniche, offering spectacular views of Monaco and the Riviera.

What are the main stops on this tour?
Stops include an authentic Italian market, the medieval village of Dolceaqua, and Menton, known as the pearl of France.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
While the tour is flexible and scenic, some walking in Dolceaqua and Menton might be required, so consider mobility needs accordingly.

How do I book this tour?
Reservations can be made through GetYourGuide, with options to book now and pay later.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby