Private Tour: Nice City, Monaco, Eze, Villefranche and more

This private tour of Nice, Monaco, Eze, and Villefranche offers a comprehensive day exploring some of the most celebrated spots along France’s famous Riviera. Priced at $856.63 per group (up to 8 people), the tour is designed for those who want an intimate experience with a personal guide and flexible stops. The 9-hour journey includes visits to Nice’s Old Town, castle hill, the Roman remains in Cimiez, and the colorful Villefranche port, followed by a scenic drive into Monaco to see the Prince’s Palace, the Monte Carlo Casino, and the legendary Formula One circuit.

The tour’s highlights include spectacular views of the Bay of Angels and Cap Ferrat, plenty of photo opportunities, and the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. Its small-group format emphasizes personalized attention and allows for more relaxed exploration. While food and drinks are not included, the itinerary offers ample free time at key stops, making it ideal for those who want to see the sights at their own pace.

Key Points

• Private, small-group tour with a maximum of 8 participants for a more personalized experience.
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Nice, simplifying logistics.
• Visiting major Riviera sites such as Nice’s Old Town, Villefranche, Eze, Monaco, and Monte Carlo.
• Spectacular views of the Bay of Angels, Cap Ferrat, and Villefranche.
• The full-day itinerary combines sightseeing, photo stops, and free time at key locations.
• Excludes food and drinks, so plan to bring snacks or eat during free time.

Starting the Day with Scenic Views from Castle Hill

The tour begins with a climb to Castle Hill (Colline du Chateau) in Nice. From this vantage point, travelers enjoy breathtaking views of the Baie des Anges and the French Riviera. This spot offers a perfect introduction to the scenic beauty of Nice, with free admission. The guide leads the group in a relaxed manner, highlighting the city’s geographical charm.

After soaking in the views, the tour proceeds to Cimiez, where the remnants of the Roman town of Cemenelum await. Surrounded by an olive grove, this stop combines history and nature, giving a glimpse of the area’s ancient past. This part of the journey involves 30 minutes of exploration with free admission.

Exploring Nice’s Old Town and the Russian Orthodox Cathedral

Next, the tour visits the Cathedrale Saint-Nicolas in Nice, which is notable as the largest Russian Orthodox cathedral outside of Russia. Visitors spend about 20 minutes here, appreciating the distinct architecture and spiritual ambiance. This stop is particularly appreciated for its cultural significance and visual appeal.

Following this, there’s time allocated for the Marche aux Fleurs Cours Saleya, a lively flower market open from Tuesday to Sunday mornings. During this 1-hour visit, travelers can enjoy the vibrant colors and aromatic displays of local flowers, perfect for photos or just soaking in the local atmosphere.

Coastal Views from Mt Boron and Villefranche-sur-Mer

The journey continues with a scenic drive along Mont Boron, where you’ll get spectacular views of the Bay of Villefranche and Cap Ferrat—some of the most beautiful panoramas in France. This 20-minute stop emphasizes the natural beauty of the Riviera.

Then, the group spends 2 hours in Villefranche-sur-Mer, a charming port town famous for its impressive ramparts and colorful buildings. The free time here allows for a relaxed exploration of the picturesque streets or lunch at local cafes near the port, where self-arranged dining is encouraged.

Discovering Eze’s Medieval Charm and Perfume Secrets

Moving inland, the tour reaches Eze, a medieval village perched like an eagle’s nest. This famous hilltop town offers 45 minutes of free time to explore its narrow streets and visit the exotic garden on the summit for panoramic views. The unique setting and historical buildings make this stop particularly memorable.

Optional visits include the Fragonard perfume factory, where a guided tour (lasting about 45 minutes) reveals the secrets of perfume creation. This free activity provides insight into a traditional craft significant on the Riviera, perfect for those interested in local artisanal products.

Crossing into Monaco: Royal Palaces and Glamour

After Eze, the tour heads into Monaco, where the Prince’s Palace and cathedral stand on the city’s rocky Old Town. In about 1 hour, travelers get a rundown of Monaco’s royal heritage and luxurious architecture. The spectacular views of the city and Bay of Monaco add to the experience.

The visit continues with free time in Monte Carlo, famous for its casino square and luxury hotels. The 1-hour window allows for photographers, window shopping, or simply soaking in the glamour. A highlight is the full tour of the Formula 1 circuit, where the legendary racetrack is accessible for photos and understanding the famous race route.

The Monaco Grand Prix Circuit and Final Highlights

Before concluding, the group passes through the Monte Carlo racing circuit, enjoying a 20-minute drive over the exact route drivers navigate during the annual Formula 1 Grand Prix. This unique experience emphasizes Monaco’s reputation as one of the most glamorous and iconic race tracks in the world.

The tour concludes with drop-off back in Nice, making logistics smooth, thanks to the included hotel pickup and drop-off service.

Logistics and What’s Included

The private driver-guides are a key strength of this tour, providing personalized narration and flexibility. The transport is in a recent, comfortable vehicle, ensuring a smooth ride across the Riviera. The full-day itinerary balances sightseeing with free time, letting guests choose how to explore at their own pace at each stop.

The tour price includes all transportation and guiding, but food and drinks are not included, so travelers should plan to bring snacks or purchase lunch during the Villefranche or Monte Carlo stops. The pickup from most Nice hotels simplifies the experience, especially for visitors unfamiliar with local transportation.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This private, small-group experience is ideal for those seeking an intimate exploration of the Riviera’s highlights. It suits travelers who appreciate spectacular views, cultural stops, and luxury sites like Monte Carlo. The flexible stops and personal guide ensure a tailored experience, perfect for first-time visitors or those who want to avoid large tour groups.

While the tour covers many sites in a single day, it involves some walking at stops like Eze and Villefranche. Visitors should be comfortable moving around medieval streets and hilly terrain at certain stops.

Why This Tour Stands Out on the Riviera

The combination of scenic drives, cultural stops, and luxury highlights makes this tour a comprehensive option. The spectacular views, especially from Castle Hill and Mont Boron, showcase the beauty of the French Riviera. The Queen of stops, Monaco’s Monte Carlo Casino and Grand Prix circuit offer a taste of glamour and racing legend.

The small-group format ensures more personalized attention and the ability to adapt the experience to your interests. The professional guide helps bring each location to life, sharing insights and local stories.

Final Thoughts on the Nice, Monaco, and Eze Private Tour

This 9-hour private tour provides an intimate, flexible way to see the best of the Riviera in one day. The multiple stops offer a blend of natural beauty, historical charm, and modern luxury. The spectacular views, especially from Castle Hill, Mont Boron, and Villefranche, define the experience.

The absence of food and drinks means travelers should plan accordingly, but the hotel pickup, comfortable transport, and personalized guide make for a hassle-free day. This tour suits those who want a comprehensive Riviera experience with the flexibility to explore at their own pace.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes private driver/guide, hotel pickup and drop-off in Nice, and transport in a recent, comfortable vehicle.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or eat during free time at stops like Villefranche or Monte Carlo.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 9 hours, starting at 9:00 am and concluding with drop-off in Nice.

Can I customize the stops?
Since it is a private tour, the guide can adapt the experience within the scheduled stops, and there’s flexibility to spend more or less time at certain locations.

What are the main highlights?
Key sights include Castle Hill views, Roman remains in Cimiez, Russian Orthodox Cathedral, Villefranche port, Eze’s exotic garden, Monaco’s Prince’s Palace, and the Monte Carlo Casino.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but those uncomfortable with walking on uneven or hilly terrain may want to consider their physical comfort.

What is the cancellation policy?
Full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

How far in advance should I book?
The tour is typically booked around 33 days in advance, making it advisable to reserve early to secure preferred dates.

What sets this tour apart from others?
Its small-group size, personalized guide service, and well-curated stops across scenic, cultural, and luxurious sites make it a standout Riviera experience.