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

A Private Day Trip Through the Heart of the French Riviera

Imagine a day where you can see Nice, with its lively flower market and Roman ruins; Monaco, with its regal palace and glitzy casinos; the medieval village of Eze perched high above the coast; and the charming port of Villefranche with its colorful buildings and historic ramparts. For about $1,059 per group up to 8 people, you get a full 9-hour private tour led by a knowledgeable driver and guide, well-equipped with a recent, comfortable vehicle.

What we love about this experience is the personalized attention—a private guide means you can tailor the stops, ask as many questions as you like, and enjoy a more relaxed way to take in these iconic sights. The stunning views of the Bay of Nice and Villefranche are spectacular, and the visit to Eze offers a perfect blend of nature and history. Another plus: the chance to explore Monaco’s luxurious streets and maybe even peek inside the famous Casino Square.

One potential consideration is that this is a full-day tour, so it’s best suited for those who are comfortable with a packed schedule. If you dislike long drives or want to spend more time at each site, this might feel a bit rushed. It’s ideal for travelers who want a rundown without the hassle of navigating on their own and who appreciate the convenience of door-to-door service.

This tour is perfect for those who want to maximize their time on the French Riviera without sacrificing comfort or authenticity. It appeals especially to travelers eager for stunning panoramic views, a taste of local history and culture, and a dash of glamour—all in one seamless day.

Key Points

Private, personalized experience for up to 8 people with a dedicated guide and driver.
Variety of stops including Nice’s flower market, Roman ruins, Eze’s medieval village, and Monaco’s famous sights.
Stunning coastal views from hilltop vantage points that highlight the natural beauty of the Riviera.
Flexible itinerary, with optional visits such as a perfume factory or additional time in Monaco.
Comfortable transportation in a recent vehicle designed for smooth sightseeing.
Rich authenticity — explore both busy city markets and quiet mountain villages.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

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Nice: A Blend of Charm and History

Your day begins with a pick-up from your accommodation, whisked away in a recent, comfortable vehicle, ready to tackle the winding roads of the Riviera. The first stop is Nice, a city that balances vibrant street life with historic sites. We loved the way our guide led us through the flower market, bursting with colors and fragrances, offering a genuine taste of local life. The market operates Tuesday through Sunday mornings, so if you’re arriving on a Monday, your guide will substitute this stop with another gem.

Next, we visited the ruins of Cimiez, the site of an ancient Roman town called Cemenelum. Walking among the stone remnants set amidst olive groves, we appreciated how these relics anchor Nice’s history. The Russian Orthodox Cathedral was another highlight—its striking architecture and serene interior make it a must-see.

The Coastline and Villefranche

Leaving Nice, you’ll enjoy scenic drives along the Mont Boron, offering breathtaking vistas of Villefranche Bay and the luxurious Cap Ferrat peninsula. It’s some of the most photogenic scenery along the coast, and your guide will point out notable spots.

Once at Villefranche, you’ll stroll through a picture-perfect port, with its colorful buildings and well-preserved ramparts. It’s a peaceful yet lively place, where you might want to stop for a seafood lunch at one of the waterfront restaurants—your guide can suggest options. This stop offers a relaxed contrast to the busy markets and city streets.

The Medieval Charm of Eze

Next, the journey takes you into Eze, a village perched high above the coast, often called the “eagle’s nest.” This medieval village, with its cobbled streets and stone buildings, exudes old-world charm. We appreciated the free time to explore the narrow alleys, visit artisan shops, or hike up to the summit to enjoy panoramic views.

A visit to the exotic garden at the top provides some of the best photo opportunities on the tour, with views stretching across the Riviera. If you’re interested in scents and craftsmanship, your guide can arrange a stop at the Fragonard perfume factory—a fascinating peek into a traditional craft that’s central to the region’s identity.

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Monaco: A Glimpse of Royalty and Wealth

The final leg of the journey whisks you to Monaco, where you can explore the Old Town, see the prince’s palace, and admire the cathedral. Our guide pointed out the royal residences and shared stories about the principality’s history.

You’ll also have time to stroll around Monte Carlo’s Casino Square, soaking in the glamour and luxury of the area. For those interested, there’s an opportunity for free time to experience the plush surroundings or perhaps do some high-end shopping.

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The Formula 1 Circuit

A unique feature of this tour is the full drive around the Monaco F1 circuit, exactly where the world’s top drivers race each year. It’s an adrenaline rush just imagining those cars screaming past, and a highlight for motorsport fans.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This private day trip is ideal for independent travelers or small groups who want a personalized experience with the flexibility to customize stops. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors eager to see the highlights without the stress of planning or navigating public transport. The stunning vistas and historical sites appeal to those who want a mix of scenic beauty and cultural insights.

Travelers who dislike rushing or prefer a more leisurely pace might find this a bit full-on, but for most, the balance of sightseeing and free time works well. Also, if luxury and comfort are priorities—think recent vehicle, door-to-door pickup—this tour hits all those marks.

Cost and Value Analysis

At just over a thousand dollars for a group of up to eight, this tour offers good value considering the personalized guide, private transport, and comprehensive itinerary. The cost may seem high, but it covers a full day of tailored sightseeing—a convenience that saves you time and effort. For travelers who want to maximize their Riviera experience without the hassle of self-driving or navigating public transportation, this is a solid choice.

Final Thoughts

This private tour combines the best of coastal scenery, historic towns, and luxurious experiences into one manageable day. You’ll love the stunning views from Eze and the chance to see Monaco’s splendor firsthand. The personalized guide ensures your day is tailored to your interests, making it more than just a typical sightseeing trip.

While it’s a full schedule, the comfort of private transport and the flexibility of stops make it worthwhile for those who want an all-in-one experience without the stress. If you’re looking for a balanced blend of history, scenery, and glamour on the French Riviera, this tour offers a memorable way to enjoy it all.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers a private driver/guide, pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation, and transport in a recent, comfortable vehicle.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included. However, your guide can suggest nice places for lunch, especially at Villefranche or Monaco.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the guide can adjust the stops depending on your interests, such as visiting the perfume factory or spending more time in Monaco.

What if I want to visit the perfume factory?
Your guide can show you the Fragonard perfume factory if that interests you, adding an aromatic touch to your day.

How long is the drive between stops?
The total tour duration is 9 hours, including the drives, which are part of the experience. The scenic routes along the coast are a highlight in themselves.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
Yes, as long as your group is comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and some walking in villages like Eze. The vehicle is recent and comfortable.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking in villages, sun protection, and a camera for those breathtaking views.

This private tour offers an excellent way to soak in the Riviera’s most iconic sights with ease and comfort. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, the combination of scenic drives, historic sites, and luxurious touches makes it a memorable addition to your French Riviera adventure.