Vallauris is a wonderful place for exploring both the stunning coastlines and its rich artisan traditions. While it’s best known for its ceramics and artistic history, the area also offers a variety of tours that make the most of its natural beauty and cultural charm. Among these, I particularly like the sunset sailing cruises for their relaxing, scenic appeal, and the art and crafts tours that let you dive into local creative spirits. Whether you prefer gliding over the sea or wandering through historic villages, Vallauris has something to suit your taste. To give you a clear idea, I’ve put together a list of the best tours here, with details that will help you choose the right experience.
Quick Overview
This list covers two outdoor sailing adventures that showcase the coastline and islands, perfect for anyone wanting to enjoy the sea, sun, and a bit of snorkeling. It also features an art-focused tour that explores Vallauris’s famous ceramics, Biot’s glass-blowing, and Saint Paul de Vence’s art galleries. Each offers a different way to experience Vallauris’s beauty—whether through the water, history, or local craftsmanship. Now, let’s look at each in detail.
1. Golf Juan: Sunset Sailing Cruise with aperitif at the Island
At number one on our list, the Sunset Sailing Cruise from Golf-Juan offers a memorable way to unwind and enjoy the coast. For around $88 per person, this 3-hour trip takes you around the Lérins Islands or Cap d’Antibes, depending on the weather. What makes this tour stand out is the combination of scenic sailing with a relaxed aperitif as the sun dips over the water—think of it as an elegant, chill way to end your day.
The cruise includes a gourmet aperitif with wine, soda, or water, and the chance to cool off in the clear waters of Sainte-Marguerite Island or Cap d’Antibes. If you’re interested in underwater sights, snorkeling in turquoise waters is included, adding a splash of adventure to the experience. The tour also offers insightful commentary about the area’s history and landscape secrets, making it both relaxing and educational. The itinerary features stops at the Lérins Islands, a photo break at Sainte Marguerite Island, and scenic cruising along the coast. With a 4.8-star rating from 96 reviews, guests praise the friendly crew and the beautiful sunset views.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect if you’re after a laid-back, scenic experience that combines sailing, local history, and a good drink—ideal for a romantic evening or a relaxing day on the water.
2. Golf-Juan : Lérins Islands Sailing Discovery, snorkeling
Coming in at number two, the Lérins Islands Sailing Discovery offers a two-hour longer adventure—about 4 hours for $87 per person. This tour is designed for those who want to actively experience sailing and explore the marine environment around the islands. It ranks high due to its combination of sailing, snorkeling, and history.
The tour begins at CAP SAIL AVENTURES with a focus on hands-on sailing experience. You’ll learn the basics of steering and handling the boat from a passionate skipper, making it a good pick for those who want a bit of practical involvement. The itinerary includes stops at Sainte Marguerite Island for swimming and snorkeling in clear waters, with gear provided, and a visit to the Fort Royal, known for its role in local lore. The tour’s 109 reviews rave about the quality of marine life viewing and the chance to see historic sites from the water. The eco-friendly approach and the chance to sail in comfort make this a favorite among active travelers.
Bottom Line: If you’re interested in sailing, snorkeling, and learning about local history in a more in-depth way, this tour hits the mark. It’s a great option for those who want more time on the water and a hands-on experience.
3. Local art and crafts in our Medieval Villages
Lastly, for those who prefer to stay on land and indulge in culture, the Local art and crafts in our Medieval Villages tour combines art, history, and scenic village strolls. Priced at $632 for up to 8 people, this 5-hour experience dips into the ceramics of Vallauris, a tradition that’s flourished for over 2000 years, and includes visits to Biot’s glass factories and the art galleries of Saint Paul de Vence.
This tour is unique because it offers a behind-the-scenes look at ceramics and glass-blowing, with opportunities to meet artisans and see their craft firsthand. You get to explore Vallauris’s authentic ceramic workshops, which Pablo Picasso himself helped popularize. The visit to Saint Paul de Vence adds a touch of Provence’s artistic soul, with numerous galleries and beautiful streets to wander. The guide’s local knowledge makes this tour especially enriching, giving you insights into the regional art scene.
Bottom Line: Perfect for art lovers and those interested in traditional crafts, this tour provides an immersive exploration of Vallauris’s creative history and scenic villages.
$632 per group up to 8
How to Choose Your Perfect Vallauris Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your interests and the kind of experience you want. If a relaxing sunset sail with a glass of wine sounds appealing, the Golf Juan sunset cruise is hard to beat. For a more active, interactive sailing experience with snorkeling, the Lérins Islands discovery ticks all the boxes. If your passion is art and craftsmanship, then the medieval villages tour offers a deep dive into local culture.
Think about the time you have available—half-day or full-day—and whether you prefer being on the water or on land. For booking, it’s wise to reserve early, especially in high season, to ensure your spot on these popular experiences.
Final Thoughts
Vallauris offers a versatile set of tours that cater to a range of interests—from sailing enthusiasts to art aficionados. The sunset sailing cruise offers a blend of relaxation, scenic beauty, and local flavor, making it ideal for romantic getaways or unwinding after a day of sightseeing. The sailing discovery with snorkeling is perfect if you want a more active day on the water, with plenty of underwater sights and sailing skills. If art and crafts excite you, the medieval villages tour promises a rich culture that you won’t forget.
No matter which you pick, booking early and planning around the weather will help you make the most of your Vallauris adventure. These tours showcase the best of what this charming region has to offer—scenery, history, and art—so go ahead and start planning your trip today.