Nice is a fantastic base for full-day excursions. Its prime location along the French Riviera gives travelers easy access to mountain vistas, medieval villages, glitzy casinos, and glamorous coastal towns. Whether you want a scenic train ride through the Alps or a luxe tour exploring Monaco’s casinos, Nice offers a variety of options to suit different tastes and energy levels. For instance, the Train Experience Through The Alps lets you ride a historic train through spectacular mountains, perfect for those who love open-air adventure and light hiking. Meanwhile, the French Riviera Private Full-Day Tour offers a personalized look at Monaco, Eze, and Antibes in comfort. Read on to find the perfect full-day experience for your trip.
Quick Overview
Our list features a wide range of full-day tours in Nice, including scenic train journeys, cultural village visits, wine tasting adventures, and luxurious Riviera explorations. You’ll find options suited for active travelers, history enthusiasts, and those simply seeking a relaxing day with stunning scenery. Each tour offers unique highlights, from hiking in the French Alps to exploring medieval villages or discovering the glitz of Monaco. Now, let’s explore these top choices in detail.
1. Train Experience Through The Alps
The Train Experience Through The Alps ranks high for its breathtaking vistas and active pursuits. Starting from Nice, you’ll ride a historic mountain train through canyons, tunnels, and viaducts, with guide-led commentary that makes sense of the stunning scenery. The tour includes visits to two picturesque medieval villages—Annot and Entrevaux—where you’ll stroll cobbled streets, enjoy a local authentic lunch, and hike around the villages. A good fitness level is recommended, as you’ll walk up to 7 miles in total, but the payoff is spectacular views and authentic Alpine charm. Guests particularly enjoy the personal touch of the local guides and the chance to hike with them in the open air. Perfect for active travelers who want a combination of scenic train rides and charming villages, this tour offers an unforgettable day in the mountains.
Bottom Line: The full-day train journey through the Alps offers a rare mix of scenic beauty, cultural charm, and light outdoor activity, making it ideal for adventurous, fit visitors.
2. From Nice: The Best of the French Riviera Full Day Tour
For around $136, the French Riviera Full Day Tour covers the highlights of the Riviera in one action-packed day. Starting with pickup from your hotel, you’ll visit glamorous spots like Cannes, Monaco, Eze, and Antibes. The tour includes walking through Monte Carlo’s casino square, strolling La Croisette in Cannes, and exploring the scenic streets of Eze, with spectacular views from the medieval village. The guide shares interesting historical tidbits as you visit art galleries in Saint-Paul de Vence and learn about the architecture of Antibes. With approximately 10 hours of sightseeing, this tour is perfect for those who want a taste of the Riviera’s glamour without sacrificing comfort. Reviewers love the professional guide, the well-paced itinerary, and the scenic drives.
Bottom Line: This tour provides a balanced, luxurious overview of the Riviera’s top sights, making it ideal for first-timers or those with limited time.
3. Nice: Medieval Villages Full-Day Guided Trip
This 8-hour journey through Provence’s medieval villages explores Grasse, Gourdon, Tourettes-sur-Loup, and Saint-Paul-de-Vence. You’ll encounter the perfume capital of the world in Grasse, touring a Fragonard perfume factory, then continue to Gourdon, perched high above the valley with dramatic views. Tourettes-sur-Loup offers violet-infused treats, and Saint-Paul-de-Vence boasts dozens of art galleries. The guide shares insights into local artisanship and rural life, making it more than just a sightseeing trip. Guests often praise the knowledgeable guide and the picturesque villages. A great fit for those interested in art, perfume, and authentic Provençal towns.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for art lovers, perfume enthusiasts, and those who love quaint, mountain-top villages with a relaxed pace.
4. Nice: Full-Day Côtes de Provence Wine Tour
If wine tasting is your thing, this full-day tour of Côtes de Provence wineries is a real treat. For $186, you’ll visit three award-winning estates, tasting everything from rosé to reds and whites. The tour includes guided vineyard visits and a traditional village lunch, offering a true taste of Provence’s “Art de Vivre”. The guides are wine experts who share insights into wine-making and pairing tips. Guests mention the quality of the wines and the peaceful countryside scenery. It’s well-suited for wine lovers looking for an immersive experience with scenic drives and relaxed tasting sessions.
Bottom Line: The Provence wine tour offers excellent value, especially for those seeking a leisurely, educational day in the vineyards.
5. From Nice: French Riviera Full-Day Tour
Covering even more ground, this full-day tour from Nice takes you to Monaco, Eze, Antibes, Saint-Paul de Vence, and Cannes for just $108. The itinerary includes visits to the Monte Carlo Casino, Fragonard perfume factory, and charming villages, with scenic drives along the coast. The guide’s lively commentary and the well-paced schedule make it a favorite among travelers, with reviews praising the professional guide and the chance to see 13 sites in one day. It’s a good choice for those who want wide coverage and a taste of glamour without the cost of private tours.
Bottom Line: This tour is a great value for travelers wanting to explore the Riviera’s most iconic spots efficiently.
6. From Nice: Provence and its Medieval Villages Full-Day Tour
This 9-hour guided tour takes you into the heart of Provençal life, visiting villages like Violets and Saint-Paul-de-Vence. You’ll learn perfume secrets at Fragonard, enjoy scenic views, and walk through charming streets. The tour appeals to those wanting a deeper cultural experience with a focus on authentic landscapes and artisan crafts. Reviewers mention the friendly guides and the beautiful scenery. It’s ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of culture, scenery, and relaxed exploration.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those seeking a comprehensive yet relaxed day exploring Provençal villages and artisan crafts.
7. From Nice: Provence Wine Full-Day Tour
This 8-hour tour visits three distinguished vineyards, with tastings and a guide who’s a wine expert. For $216, you get to explore Provence’s “Art de Vivre”, tasting wines from different estates, learning about pairing, and enjoying scenic vineyard views. Guests love the depth of wine education and the chance to see how regional wines are crafted. It’s perfect for wine aficionados who want more than just tastings — they want context and stories behind each glass.
Bottom Line: An immersive wine experience that balances education, scenery, and high-quality tastings, suited for connoisseurs.
8. Full day tour Medieval Villages Grasse Gourdon Tourettes St Paul
This 8-hour tour avoids the traffic hassle and packs in four of Provence’s best medieval villages. From the UNESCO-listed perfume town of Grasse to Gourdon’s high-altitude fortress, each spot offers unique history and views. The tour includes a visit to a perfume factory, with the guide sharing in-depth knowledge. Reviewers highlight the well-designed itinerary, the friendly guide, and the beautiful villages. It’s ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive look at Provence’s cultural treasure trove without rushing.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a balanced, well-structured day exploring Provence’s most scenic villages and perfumeries.
9. From Nice: Verdon Gorge Full-Day Tour
For nature lovers, this full-day trip explores France’s “Grand Canyon”, the Verdon Gorge, plus the Lake of Sainte-Croix. Starting from Nice, the tour includes visits to Castellane and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, with stunning viewpoints along the way. The highlight is the spectacular canyon, considered one of France’s most impressive natural sights. Reviewers mention the magnificent panoramic views and the chance to see lavender fields in bloom. Suitable for active travelers who don’t mind a full day on the road, this is a must for landscape photography.
Bottom Line: The Verdon Gorge tour offers breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventure for those eager to see France’s best natural wonders.
10. French Riviera Private Full-Day Tour
For those seeking exclusivity, this private tour explores four Riviera towns plus Monaco in comfort. For $1,312, up to six people can customize the day, visiting Antibes, St Paul de Vence, and Monaco’s Casino Square. The guide shares personalized insights, and all entrance fees are included. Guests love the flexibility, with reviews praising the expert guide and the carefully curated stops. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a tailored, intimate experience with luxury transport.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who want a bespoke, private day exploring the Riviera in style.
How to Choose Your Perfect Full-Day Tour in Nice
When selecting your ideal trip, consider your interests, fitness level, and budget. For active travelers who love hiking and mountain scenery, the Train Experience Through The Alps offers an unforgettable outdoor adventure. If you prefer luxury and comfort, the Private Riviera Tour provides a personalized experience. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the French Riviera Full Day Tour, which covers many top sights at a great price. For wine enthusiasts, the Côtes de Provence Wine Tour combines scenic beauty with tastings.
Think about your pace, whether you want a guided experience or a private custom day, and how much time you want in each location. Booking early is wise, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
Nice is a hub for incredible full-day tours, offering everything from mountain adventures to luxury Riviera excursions and cultural village explorations. If you’re craving mountain air and authentic Alpine villages, the Train Experience Through The Alps is hard to beat. For a taste of the high life, the Private Full-Day Riviera Tour is unmatched. And if exploring charming Provençal villages and sampling regional wines sounds appealing, there are plenty of options to choose from.
No matter your style or budget, these tours allow you to maximize your time and see the very best of what the French Riviera and Provence have to offer. Remember to book early, pack comfortable shoes, and enjoy every moment of your full-day adventure in Nice.