Cannes is more than just a glamorous film festival city — it’s a perfect starting point for exploring the stunning French Riviera. Its proximity to towns like Monaco, Eze, Nice, and Antibes makes it ideal for shore excursions tailored to a variety of interests. Whether you’re craving a luxurious private day trip to Monaco, a scenic drive along the coast, or a full-day tailored adventure, Cannes offers options that fit all budgets and time frames. We especially like the private tours, which allow you to skip the crowds and enjoy a personalized experience, like the Cannes Shore Excursion: Private Day Trip to Monaco and Eze, rated 5.0/5 with glowing reviews. For a rundown, we’ll walk you through the best choices available, helping you pick the perfect adventure for your trip.
Quick Overview
Our list includes private half-day and full-day tours, customizable excursions, and small-group experiences. These range from options that focus on just Monaco and Eze to those that include multiple towns such as Nice, Antibes, and Saint-Paul-de-Vence (see all tours here). Many feature luxury transportation, expert guides, and unique experiences like perfume factory visits or drives along the Formula One circuit. Now, let’s dive into each of these top-rated excursions.
1. Cannes Shore Excursion: Private Day Trip to Monaco and Eze
This fully private, 8-hour trip is perfect if you want to combine luxury, flexibility, and insider knowledge. Your driver/guide will take you from the port straight into the heart of the French Riviera, with free time to explore Monaco’s Old Town and Royal Palace, or stroll around Casino Square. The highlight is following the Formula One Grand Prix lap in Monte Carlo, plus a scenic coastal drive along the Corniche. An optional visit to the Parfumerie Fragonard in Eze adds aromatic charm to your day. It’s ideal for those who want a personalized experience without the hassle of planning, and with an average rating of 5.0/5 from 55 reviews, it’s highly recommended.
Bottom line: If you want a luxurious, customizable day with plenty of free time and insider insights, this tour delivers.
2. Cannes: 6-Hour Private French Riviera Shore Excursion
For around $569 per group, this half-day private tour covers the highlights of the French Riviera with a professional guide, making sure you see the most iconic spots. Guests rave about guide Cristian, who is praised for patience and personalized recommendations, like a visit to a local bakery. The itinerary includes Nice, Monte Carlo, and scenic drives along the coast, perfect for travelers wanting a compact but comprehensive experience. The tour is flexible and offers high-quality service, making it suitable for those with limited time but a desire to see the main sights.
Bottom line: Excellent for travelers who want a well-organized, efficient overview of the Riviera without sacrificing comfort.
3. Best of Riviera Shore Excursion from Villefranche, Nice, Cannes
Rated 5.0/5 from 18 reviews, this full-day private tour combines luxury and variety, covering Nice, Eze, Monaco, Antibes, and Cannes. It’s perfect if you want to see a wide array of highlights in one day, including secret spots and landmarks like the Prince’s Palace and the famous Monte Carlo Casino. The flexible itinerary allows for customization — whether you want more time in a specific town or to skip certain stops. Guests love the personalized attention and the ability to explore at their own pace.
Bottom line: Best for those with a full day to maximize their Riviera experience, especially if you appreciate tailored itineraries.
4. Full-Day Private Custom-Made Cannes Shore Excursion
Costing about $1,364, this full-day private tour is ideal for travelers wanting total control over their itinerary. Your guide can craft a route that includes Nice, Eze, Monaco, or villages and beaches you’re eager to visit. It offers port pickup and private transport, making logistics easy. Reviewers mention how helpful and attentive guides like Franck and Dorothee make the day memorable, with flexibility to include lunch stops or special interests. If you’re unsure what to see, this customized experience ensures no time is wasted.
Bottom line: Perfect for autonomous travelers or groups with specific interests wanting a completely personalized day.
5. Shore excursion to Eze, Monaco and Monte Carlo from Cannes
At just over $785 for a small group, this 7-hour tour combines all the Riviera staples with a private driver. Explore the medieval Eze village, visit a perfume factory, then stroll Monaco’s old town and the glittering Monte Carlo. It’s especially praised for panoramic views and smooth logistics. Guests love the balanced mix of sightseeing and leisure, with flexible stops and a focus on photo opportunities. It offers a personalized touch without the higher price of fully private tours.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for travelers wanting a comprehensive, comfortable overview of the coast’s highlights.
6. Full-Day Private Cannes Shore Excursion: Eze & Monaco
This $1,306 tour offers a luxurious full-day experience with customizable stops in Eze, Monaco, and Monte Carlo. Designed for those who want a seamless, private day, it features stops at the Palais des Festivals, Prince’s Palace, and a drive along the Formula One track. Guests appreciate the flexibility and the chance to skip busy tourist areas when desired. Highly rated with 14 reviews, it’s a good fit for first-time visitors or those seeking a luxury, hassle-free experience.
Bottom line: If you want a tailored, exclusive day with plenty of iconic sights, this tour is a top contender.
7. The best French Riviera Full-Day from Cannes Small-Group Shore Excursion
For only about $153 per person, this small-group tour emphasizes personalized attention and a diverse itinerary. Limited to 8 people, it visits Cannes Film Festival sites, Antibes, Eze, and Monaco, with stops at Billionaire’s Quay and the F1 circuit. Guests value the informative guides like Xavier and Reuben, who share hidden gems and local insights. It’s ideal if you prefer a more intimate experience and want to see many highlights in one day.
Bottom line: Great for travelers who enjoy small-group intimacy and a wide-ranging tour.
8. Cannes Shore Excursion: Private Tour of the French Riviera
This 8-hour private tour costs about $929 and offers total flexibility. Your guide will craft a route based on your interests, including Cannes, Eze, Monaco, and Saint-Paul-de-Vence. Guests love the personalized itinerary and the luxury transportation, ensuring you see what matters most. Whether it’s famous film sites, scenic villages, or glamorous casinos, this tour adapts to your desires.
Bottom line: Best for travelers wanting full customization and a private, premium experience.
9. From the port of Cannes Private shore excursion customized
Rated 4.5/5 from 21 reviews, this bespoke tour allows you to design your perfect day. Whether it’s visiting villages, exploring Monaco, or stopping at perfumeries, your guide will tailor the route to your wishes. The port pickup and private transport makes logistics effortless. Many reviewers highlight guides like Pierre and Steph, who are praised for their flexibility and local knowledge.
Bottom line: Ideal for groups who want a completely personalized day with expert guidance.
10. Cannes: French Riviera Private Sightseeing Shore Excursion
This private half-day, at around $740 for a group, is perfect if you want to see the key sights without a full-day commitment. It covers Nice, Monaco, and smaller towns like Saint-Paul-de-Vence, with customizable stops. Guests rave about guide Nicole’s knowledge and driving skills, making the day both informative and relaxed.
Bottom line: A flexible options for those short on time but eager to cover major highlights.
11. Cannes Large Group Shore Excursion with a Minibus
For larger groups, this 15-seater minibus tour at $2,373 offers tailored itineraries for up to 15 people. It’s perfect for families or groups wanting to see multiple destinations like Nice, Antibes, Monaco, and Eze. The custom route and dedicated driver mean everyone can choose what they want to focus on, whether it’s luxury shopping or cultural sights. Guests find the seamless logistics and personalized service invaluable.
Bottom line: The best pick for large groups seeking an all-in-one French Riviera experience.
12. From the ports of The French Riviera Private Shore Excursion
Rated 5.0/5 from 3 reviews, this custom day tour features private transportation and flexible scheduling. It’s perfect for tailoring your itinerary—whether you want to focus on Monaco, Eze, or Antibes. Reviewers like Kevin and Reuben praise the personalized service and expert guidance.
Bottom line: Best suited for small groups or families looking for a bespoke, efficient day.
13. Cannes Shore Excursion: Grasse, Gourdon & St Paul de Vence
Rated 5.0/5 from 3 reviews, this 8-hour journey takes you to the perfume capital of Grasse, the charming village of Gourdon, and the art-filled streets of Saint-Paul-de-Vence. It’s perfect if you’re after authentic artisan experiences and scenic mountain views. Reviewers mention how Rolf’s local knowledge made the trip special, with plenty of photo stops and cultural insights.
Bottom line: Ideal for those who want a mix of perfume history, mountain scenery, and art.
14. Shore Excursion Private Half Day: Cannes, Antibes, Juan les Pins
At just 4 hours for about $588, this half-day tour is perfect if you want a quick but rich taste of Cannes, Antibes, and Juan les Pins. It’s great for families or groups wanting to enjoy beach time and sightseeing. Guests appreciate the comfortable private vehicle and the informative driver who makes the most of limited time.
Bottom line: Best for short but comprehensive excursions.
15. Cannes shore excursion with a private tour guide
Rated 5.0/5 from 1 review, this customized private tour offers a personal guide for a full 8-hour exploration. It’s perfect if you want an expert to tailor every moment, from Cannes to nearby towns. Reviewers highlight the friendly, knowledgeable guide who makes the day memorable.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want deep, personalized insights on the French Riviera.
$1,279.92 per group (up to 7)
How to Choose Your Perfect Shore Excursion
Picking the right tour depends on your budget, timing, and interests. If you want a luxurious, private experience with full customization, go for one of the private full-day tours. For a shorter, focused visit, the half-day private options offer great value. If large groups or families are involved, the large-group minibus ensures everyone gets to see the highlights comfortably.
Consider your interest in specific towns — for example, the Grasse, Gourdon & Saint-Paul de Vence tour is perfect for art and perfume lovers, while the private day trip to Monaco and Eze offers a taste of luxury and Formula One excitement. Booking early is advisable, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred date and tour.
Cannes provides an excellent launchpad for exploring the best of the French Riviera. From luxury private trips to small-group adventures, there’s an option for every traveler. Whether you’re seeking glamour, cultural sights, or scenic drives, these tours promise a memorable experience. For a first-timer, the full-day private tour or the comprehensive Riviera itinerary are standouts. For those on a tighter schedule, the half-day options still pack a punch. Whatever your choice, early booking will ensure you don’t miss out on these exceptional excursions.