Italian City, its Market and Menton Private Full Day Tour

A private full-day tour starting from Nice offers a fantastic way to see the French Riviera’s highlights without the hassle of planning or group stress. For around $857 per group (up to 8 people), you’ll spend about nine hours comfortably exploring a mix of Italian towns, quaint villages, and Monaco’s glamorous attractions. The tour is led by a private driver and guide, with pickup and drop-off included — an ideal setup if you prefer a relaxed, personalized experience.

What really makes this tour stand out are the stunning coastal vistas along the Corniche road and the freedom to customize your stops according to your interests. Plus, the chance to explore lesser-known Italian towns like Dolceaqua, with its medieval charm and Monet-painted bridge, adds a special touch.

However, since food and drinks are not included, you’ll want to budget for lunch and snacks. Also, keep in mind that this is a full day of activity, so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and scenic drives. This tour is perfect if you’re keen on a flexible, intimate experience that combines natural beauty, cultural spots, and a touch of Monaco’s luxury.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private guide and vehicle allow you to explore at your own pace.
• Stunning Coastal Views: Drive along the dramatic Corniche road with plenty of photo opportunities.
• Diverse Stops: Italian markets, medieval villages, and Monaco highlights are all included.
• Flexibility: You can customize your itinerary and enjoy a relaxed pace.
• Authentic Local Charm: Visit smaller towns like Bordighera and Dolceaqua for true Italian flavor.
• Cost and Value: The price covers the entire day, with the comfort of a recent vehicle and private guide.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

A full day on the French Riviera with a private guide offers a blend of scenic beauty, local culture, and glamour — all in one package. Starting around 9:00 am, your day begins with a convenient pickup from your Nice hotel, setting a relaxed tone for the hours ahead.

Exploring Italy: Ventimiglia, Bordighera, Sanremo, and Dolceaqua

The journey kicks off with a visit to Ventimiglia, a small Italian city famed for its lively market. Here, you’ll have about two hours to wander among market stalls, soaking up the local flavor. It’s the perfect spot to see Italy’s vibrant street life, buy some local products, or just enjoy the aromas of fresh cuisine — though meals are on your own. The guide can help recommend some authentic restaurants or suggest a later lunch in Dolceaqua, a picturesque medieval village painted by Monet.

Next, you’ll cruise over to Bordighera, a quieter coastal town that feels more like a local hideaway than a tourist hotspot — one of the many small Italian towns where you can feel Italy’s charm without the crowds. An hour here lets you stroll, take photos, or sip an espresso.

Your itinerary includes a stop in Sanremo, a well-known seaside town that’s part of the Italian Riviera’s jewel box. It’s a blend of charming streets, colorful architecture, and relaxing seaside views, perfect for an hour of casual exploration.

The highlight of the Italian leg is Dolceaqua, famous for its medieval streets and Monet’s bridge. Exploring these well-preserved streets gives you a real sense of history, and climbing up to the castle offers panoramic views that make the visit worthwhile. The guide’s commentary, based on reviews, suggests this is a favorite for many travelers, with some quoting the well-maintained medieval ambiance and Monet’s connection making it particularly memorable.

Crossing into France: Menton and the French Riviera

Leaving Italy behind, your journey continues along the beautiful coast toward Menton, often called the “pearl of France.” This colorful town is renowned for its vibrant architecture, lush gardens, and Mediterranean charm. A one-hour walk here allows for photos, casual wandering, or just soaking in the atmosphere.

From Menton, the tour takes you along the Grande Corniche, arguably the most scenic drive of the Riviera. This majestic route offers breathtaking vistas of Monaco, the coastline, and the azure sea below. The guide will likely point out iconic sights and give you opportunities for photos and reflection on the beauty of this region.

The Monaco Experience

While the itinerary focuses on scenic drives and stops, you have the chance to explore Monaco at your leisure. Whether you choose to visit the Monte Carlo Casino, the Prince’s Palace, or walk along the Formula One Grand Prix route, the flexibility is yours. Expect multiple photo stops and views that highlight the area’s reputation for luxury and elegance.

Why Travelers Love This Tour

From the reviews, one standout point is the knowledgeable guide — Nathan, praised for his friendliness and humor, makes the experience enjoyable and informative. The stunning coastal views along the Corniche and the Italian villages seem to be a hit with everyone, capturing the true essence of the Riviera’s charm. The opportunity to taste local specialties and explore small towns at your own pace makes for a personalized adventure that many travelers find rewarding.

Why Choose This Tour?

This private tour offers great value for those who want a flexible, intimate day with a knowledgeable guide. If you enjoy scenic drives, authentic local towns, and the chance to customize your stops, this experience suits you well. It’s particularly appealing for travelers who want to avoid crowded group tours and prefer a tailored itinerary.

The focus on small towns and scenic vistas also makes it ideal for those interested in cultural authenticity rather than just Monaco’s casinos or luxury hotels. Plus, with a dedicated driver-guide, you can relax knowing transportation and logistics are handled smoothly — a significant advantage on a busy day.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a balanced mix of Italian charm, scenic beauty, and Monaco’s glamour, all in one manageable package. The private setup means you get to explore at your own pace, with the flexibility to delve deeper into spots that catch your interest. The guides, praised for their friendliness and knowledge, help make the day both fun and informative, turning a simple sightseeing trip into a memorable experience.

It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate authentic local towns, stunning coastal drives, and the convenience of private transportation. The inclusion of charming villages like Dolceaqua and the scenic Corniche drive ensures that this tour isn’t just about ticking boxes but truly enjoying the region’s highlights.

While the cost might seem high, the private guide, comfortable vehicle, and tailored itinerary add considerable value, especially for those seeking a more personal experience. Just remember, you’ll want to set aside funds for lunch and any additional activities you choose at Monaco.

This tour is a delightful way to see the French and Italian Rivieras without the rush or crowds, making it a worthwhile choice for those who want a relaxed, tailored, and scenic day.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
You’ll have a private driver and guide for the day, pickup and drop-off at your Nice hotel, and transport in a recent, comfortable vehicle.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included. You can choose to dine at Italian towns or in Dolceaqua, but those expenses are on you.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, starting around 9:00 am with flexible stops to suit your pace.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, the tour is private, so you can adjust the itinerary with your guide — perfect if there are specific sights or towns you want to spend more time in.

Is this tour suitable for families or groups?
Absolutely. The cost is for up to 8 people, making it ideal for families or friends who want a personalized experience.

What time does the tour start and end?
It begins at 9:00 am, with pickup at your hotel, and typically concludes in the late afternoon or early evening, depending on your preferences.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, this tour is usually booked about 12 days in advance, which helps ensure availability and allows planning around your schedule.

Is there any opportunity to visit Monaco’s casinos or luxury sites?
While the itinerary mentions Monaco highlights like the Casino or Prince’s Palace as options, the specific stops depend on your interests and time. You can discuss these options with your guide.