Full-Day Private Tour to St-Tropez and Port Grimaud from Nice

Exploring the Best of the French Riviera: A Private Day Trip to St-Tropez and Port Grimaud

Imagine a day spent cruising along the beautiful coastline of Nice, visiting two iconic spots: the picturesque Port Grimaud and the glamorous St-Tropez fishing village. This private tour, priced at a little over $1,000 for up to 8 people, offers around 8 hours of personalized exploration, with the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. Led by a knowledgeable guide, this experience promises a relaxed, flexible way to enjoy some of the most photogenic and celeb-loved locations on France’s Côte d’Azur.

What we particularly like about this tour is how it combines stunning scenery and cultural charm with a flexible itinerary. We love the opportunity to customize your day—your guide can tailor the stops and pace based on your interests, whether that’s shopping, sightseeing, or just soaking up the vibes. Plus, the tour includes a scenic drive along the coast, with impressive viewpoints of the Esterel red rocks—a highlight for nature lovers.

However, one point to keep in mind is that, due to traffic or busy periods, some parts—like St-Tropez—may require extra planning, such as taking a ferry for more time in town. This can add a small fee, but it’s worth considering if time is tight. This tour suits travelers who value personalized experiences, comfort, and insider access to some of the Riviera’s most glamorous spots.

If you’re someone who enjoys beautiful scenery, celebrity spotting, and a flexible, private experience, this tour could be a great fit. It’s especially suitable for those who prefer to avoid large groups and want the chance to explore at their own pace, with a guide to share local insights along the way.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience with hotel pickup and drop-off in Nice.
• Flexible itinerary to suit your interests, whether shopping, sightseeing, or relaxing.
• Visit Port Grimaud, known as “Little Venice,” with its charming waterways and Provencal colors.
• Explore St-Tropez, the glamorous village favored by celebrities, with options to walk the marina or enjoy local cafes.
• Scenic coastal drive along the Esterel red rocks provides breathtaking views.
• Optional ferry ride can extend your time in St-Tropez for a small fee.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Off: From Nice to the Riviera

Your day begins with a hotel pickup in Nice—a straightforward way to start without the hassle of navigating public transport or rental cars. As your guide, possibly multilingual, takes the wheel, you’ll enjoy a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan that makes the roughly hour-long drive pleasant.

The drive along the Promenade des Anglais sets the tone, offering glimpses of the Mediterranean and bustling Nice’s iconic waterfront. Then, your route takes you past the Esterel red rocks, a striking natural formation that makes the landscape truly distinctive. The scenic viewpoints here are perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the rugged beauty of the coast.

Port Grimaud: The “Little Venice”

First stop is Port Grimaud, often called “Little Venice” thanks to its labyrinth of waterways and pastel-colored buildings. With about 35 minutes here, you’ll get to stroll along the canals, enjoy the vibrant Provencal palette, and perhaps visit some charming shops—though you’ll need to pay for souvenirs yourself.

The reviews highlight this stop’s charm: “We loved the waterways and canals,” one traveler shared. It’s a modern yet picturesque town that feels like stepping into a painting. Its narrow streets and alleyways invite exploration, and the peaceful waterways offer a relaxing contrast to the busy tourist spots.

The Attraction of St-Tropez

Next, you’ll head to St-Tropez, a famous fishing village turned celebrity hotspot. The trip here can be optimized by taking a ferry across the Bay of St-Tropez—an option that, for a small fee, gives you an extra hour in town. This is especially valuable, as the town’s narrow streets, luxury yachts, and lively marina are the main attractions.

In the reviews, many mention how guides are knowledgeable and eager to share insider tips, making the visit much richer. One traveler said, “The guide was very knowledgeable, friendly, and spoke English,” which helps make the day more engaging and informative.

Once in town, you’re free to explore on your own or follow your guide’s suggestions. You might walk along the marina, where luxury yachts dot the water, or stop at a café for some local cuisine or tapas—though meals are on your own tab.

Flexibility and Personalization

Since this is a private tour, you can choose how to spend your time in each location. Do you want to spend more time shopping in high-end boutiques or just enjoy the scenery and take photos? Your guide will help you maximize your visit.

One reviewer appreciated the flexibility: “The guide knew how to save time by driving on the interstate and then along the coast,” allowing more time to enjoy the sights. The ability to customize your day is a major plus, especially if you’re traveling with specific interests or just want a relaxed pace.

Returning to Nice

After a full day of sightseeing, your guide will drive you back along the coast, giving you additional scenic views. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures a comfortable ride back to your hotel, leaving you with great memories and perhaps some new favorites from the Riviera.

Making Sense of the Cost and Value

At $1,046.04 for up to 8 travelers, this tour is not the cheapest option, but it offers several advantages. The private nature means no waiting for others or following a large group’s pace. The convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off saves time and hassle, especially if you’re staying outside the city center.

The value lies in the personalized experience, scenic drives, and insider tips. For travelers who appreciate flexibility and comfort—and who want to tailor the day to their own interests—this tour can be well worth the price. Plus, the inclusion of transportation and a knowledgeable guide means you won’t need to worry about navigating unfamiliar roads or missing key sights.

What’s the Experience Really Like?

The reviews reveal a generally positive experience. One traveler raved about the “breathtaking views” and how the guide made the trip enjoyable, saving time with efficient driving. Another appreciated the shopping opportunities and high-end shops in Port Giraud and St-Tropez.

Not everyone was completely satisfied, with one reviewer feeling the tour lacked enough storytelling or historical context. This suggests if you’re seeking a deep dive into local history rather than just scenic stops, you might want to prep some questions or explore additional options.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private tour is ideal for those who want a stress-free day exploring the Riviera’s highlights with a flexible schedule. It’s perfect if you’re traveling with a small group or family, and you value being able to customize your experience. It suits travelers who love beautiful coastal scenery, celebrity culture, and quaint villages.

It’s also suitable for those who prefer comfortable transportation and don’t want to deal with public transit or large tour groups. Keep in mind, since the trip involves some optional ferrying and walking, it’s best for those comfortable with moderate activity and small group exploration.

FAQs

How long is the trip from Nice to Port Giraud and St-Tropez?
The drive takes about an hour along scenic routes, including views of the Esterel red rocks. The total tour duration is approximately 8 hours, including stops and travel.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Nice, making it very convenient.

Can I customize my itinerary?
Absolutely. As a private tour, you can work with your guide to focus on your interests, whether that’s shopping, sightseeing, or just relaxing.

What are the main sights at Port Giraud?
You’ll see waterways, colorful buildings, and quaint alleyways. It’s a modern town with a charming, Provencal vibe, perfect for a relaxed stroll.

Is there an option to spend more time in St-Tropez?
Yes, taking a ferry across the bay costs a small fee but grants you an extra hour in town, giving you more time for sightseeing, shopping, or enjoying a café.

What’s included in the tour?
A local guide, private transportation in an air-conditioned minivan, and hotel pickup and drop-off. Food, drinks, and souvenirs are not included.

Final Thoughts

This private day trip from Nice to St-Tropez and Port Giraud offers a relaxed, customizable, and beautifully scenic experience of the French Riviera. It’s best suited for travelers who want the convenience of door-to-door service and the chance to shape their day around their interests. The scenic drives, charming villages, and potential celebrity sightings make it an appealing option for those eager to see the Riviera without the fuss of large tour groups.

While the price might be on the higher side, the value lies in the personalized attention, comfortable transportation, and flexibility it affords. Whether you’re into glamorous yachts, colorful canals, or simply want to enjoy the stunning coastal views with expert guidance, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of the Côte d’Azur.

If your goal is to experience the essence of French Riviera’s charm with a private touch, this tour is definitely worth considering. Just remember to specify your interests beforehand to make the most of this personalized journey.