Antibes, Cannes, 3 medieval villages in the hinterland Private Tour

A Day of Scenic Beauty and Medieval Charm: Antibes, Cannes, and three Hidden Villages

This private tour from Nice offers an inviting taste of the French Riviera’s highlights, with a well-balanced mix of glamorous coastal towns and peaceful, time-worn medieval villages. For around $791 for your group of up to eight people, you’ll spend roughly eight hours exploring Antibes’ historic harbor, the glitzy Croisette in Cannes, and then venturing inland to picturesque villages like Gourdon, Tourrettes-sur-Loup, and Saint-Paul de Vence.

What we love most about this experience is how it combines the stunning coastline with the authentic charm of medieval architecture and local crafts—all in a relaxed, private setting that avoids the crowds and rush of larger tours. Plus, the inclusion of a visit to the renowned Fragonard perfume factory in Grasse is a fragrant highlight that adds cultural depth to the day.

One potential drawback is that the tour is not guided at the site visits, which might be a missed opportunity if you’re eager for detailed historical insights at each stop. Plus, with no included lunch, you’ll need to plan ahead for a picnic or a meal on your own, though this allows flexibility to enjoy local eateries or bring a packed lunch.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate scenic drives, authentic local experiences, and a flexible schedule. It’s especially ideal if you prefer a personalized, stress-free day rather than a large bus excursion, and if you love mingling coastal glamour with medieval history.

Key Points

• Private and comfortable: Up to 8 guests, ensuring a personalized experience.
• Diverse stops: Coastal towns, medieval villages, and a perfume factory.
• Flexible itinerary: Not guided at each site, allowing for personal exploration.
• Beautiful scenery: From yacht-filled Antibes to scenic hilltop villages.
• Good value for the price: Includes all entrance tickets and transportation.
• Ideal for relaxed travelers: Those wanting to avoid crowds and enjoy authentic sites.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Antibes: A Historic Coastal Treasure

Your day begins with a departure from Nice around 8:30 AM, heading toward Antibes, a city with roots dating back to Roman times. Known today for its luxury yachts and bustling old town, Antibes offers a perfect blend of history and modern glamour. The Provencal covered market and narrow streets are captivating, giving you a taste of local life and flavor.

We loved the way Antibes combines its fishing port heritage with recent wealth, exemplified by the “billionaire quay”. Our guide, Philippe, was praised for his objective insights and his company, making the exploration more engaging. You get about 30 minutes here, enough time to stroll, snap photos, and soak in the atmosphere.

Cannes: The Glamourous Film Festival City

Next, the tour takes you to Cannes, just a short drive away. The highlight here is the Palais des Festivals, where you can stand on the famous red carpet steps and imagine the glitz of the Film Festival. We appreciated the free time to walk along the Croisette, the boulevard lined with luxury hotels and high-end shops—ideal for a quick browse or a leisurely photo session.

While the tour doesn’t include entry to the Palais, the photo opportunity alone makes this stop worthwhile. The timing (~30 minutes) is tight but sufficient for many travelers to enjoy the iconic scenery.

Grasse: The Perfume Capital

Heading inland, the tour visits Grasse, renowned as the world’s perfume capital. Here, you’ll visit the Fragonard factory with an experienced guide, gaining insight into the centuries-old tradition of perfume making. This free tour offers an aromatic glimpse into the artistic craft of fragrances, which has made Grasse famous.

Many travelers, including our reviewee Halimah, appreciated this stop, noting the “superb” lunch recommendation made by Philippe. The perfume factory visit, lasting about 30 minutes, adds a fragrant, sensory dimension to your day that’s a break from sightseeing but equally enriching.

Gourdon: Medieval Fortress and Mountain Views

Perched at 720 meters altitude, Gourdon is a quintessential medieval village with breathtaking views of the Riviera. The castle and artisan shops, including glassblowing artists, make this a vibrant stop. We enjoyed the perspective of Gourdon’s history and its lively artisan scene, which feels both timeless and alive.

At around 30 minutes, this stop offers plenty of opportunity for photos and wandering. The panoramic vistas are a highlight, especially if you’re a fan of spectacular scenery.

Tourrettes-sur-Loup: The Violet Village

Known as the “city of violets,” Tourrettes-sur-Loup charms with its tightly winding, labyrinthine streets. It’s a place to meander, enjoy local violet-flavored ice cream, and explore artisan shops. The 30-minute visit allows for a quick but immersive experience into this peaceful village’s floral heritage.

Saint-Paul de Vence: The Artistic Hub

The final stop, Saint-Paul de Vence, is perhaps the most famous. Once a haven for impressionist painters like Chagall and Matisse, it’s now a bustling art village. Wandering its narrow streets, you’ll encounter galleries and cafés—perfect for soaking in local culture. The 45-minute visit is the longest, giving you time to explore at your own pace.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who want diversity—coastal glamour, medieval charm, and artistic heritage—without the hassle of planning each stop. The private setting makes it ideal for couples, families, or small groups seeking a personalized adventure. Reviewers have praised the knowledgeable guides and stunning views, making this a memorable way to see the Riviera with minimal stress.

It’s particularly good for those who appreciate authentic local experiences—from wandering markets to artisan shops—and value flexibility in their sightseeing.

How the Price Reflects the Experience

At $790.94 per group, this tour offers a significant amount of value. All entrance tickets are included, ensuring no hidden fees at sites like Antibes and Gourdon. The vehicle is air-conditioned, and the private format guarantees a relaxed pace and personal attention from your guide. You’ll also benefit from a customized experience, unlike larger, more rigid bus excursions.

While the tour doesn’t include meals or guided commentary at every stop, the flexibility allows you to tailor your visit—whether that’s enjoying a picnic, grabbing a local snack, or just soaking in the scenery.

Final Thoughts

For those craving an authentic, well-rounded day on the French Riviera, this private tour hits many of the right notes. You’ll enjoy stunning views, learn about local crafts and history, and explore charming villages at a comfortable pace. The inclusion of a perfume factory and visits to both coastal and mountain villages ensures a varied and engaging experience.

If you’re someone who values knowledgeable guides, scenic stops, and private transportation, this tour truly delivers. It suits travelers who prefer a personalized, flexible day rather than a large group or guided tour with a fixed schedule.

FAQs

Is lunch included in this tour?
No, lunch is not included, so you might want to bring a picnic or plan to eat at one of the villages or towns during free time.

How long is each stop?
Most stops are approximately 30 minutes, with Saint-Paul de Vence being slightly longer at 45 minutes. This allows for quick exploration but not deep dives at each site.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort throughout the day.

Is this tour guided at each site?
No, the site visits are not guided; you explore independently after brief introductions. Your guide, Philippe, provides insights during transit and at select points.

What kind of physical fitness is needed?
A moderate level of physical fitness is recommended, as some walking and uneven streets are involved, especially in medieval villages.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, allowing flexibility if your plans change.

This private tour offers a well-crafted balance of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and relaxed exploration—perfect for small groups eager to savor the authentic charms of the French Riviera.