From Nice: Nice Old Town, Monaco, Monte-Carlo and Eze tour

Experience the Côte d’Azur with a Full-Day Tour of Nice, Monaco, and Eze

If you’re looking for a way to see some of the most iconic spots along the French Riviera without the hassle of planning every detail yourself, this guided day trip offers a balanced mix of walking, sightseeing, and scenic drives. For $165 per person, you’ll spend about nine hours exploring Nice’s Old Town, Monaco, Monte Carlo, and the enchanting medieval village of Eze. Led by a knowledgeable guide—whose enthusiasm clearly shines through—this tour promises plenty of photo stops, cultural insights, and a taste of local life.

What we love about this experience is how it combines the vibrant street life of Nice with the luxury and glamour of Monaco, all in one day. The visits to Eze’s perfume factory give you a fragrant peek into local craftsmanship, while the panoramic views from La Turbie are stunning—even if you’re not a seasoned photographer, you’ll want to have your camera ready. Plus, the small group size (limited to 8 people) ensures a more personal, flexible experience.

One thing to consider is the potential for traffic, especially during the high season or around major events like the Monaco Grand Prix. The guide will do their best to keep things moving smoothly, but patience might be needed when navigating popular spots. This tour works best for travelers who enjoy a mix of guided walking, scenic drives, and authentic local experiences rather than those seeking a completely independent day.

If you appreciate knowledgeable guides who share local stories, enjoy diverse scenery—from coastal views to charming villages—and want to maximize your time on the Riviera, this tour could be a perfect fit. It’s especially suited for those who want a curated experience without spending hours figuring out logistics themselves.

Key Points

• Balanced Itinerary: Combines walking and driving to cover top sites efficiently.
• Authentic Experiences: Visit a perfume factory and enjoy local tastings.
• Scenic Views: Photostops along the coast and from La Turbie provide memorable vistas.
• Expert Guides: Passionate local guides enhance your understanding and enjoyment.
• Small Group: Limited to 8 participants for a more personal experience.
• Value for Price: Includes transportation, guided tours, and cultural insights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Côte d’Azur Day Trip

What’s Included and How It Adds Value

For $165, this tour offers a lot of value, especially considering the comprehensive nature of the experience. Transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle means you won’t fatigue during the long day, and the small group size ensures you can ask questions and get personalized attention. Your guide is bilingual (English and French), enhancing the storytelling and local insight.

The tour includes a guided visit of Nice’s Old Town and its flower market—two bustling, sensory-rich environments that reveal why Nice is such a magnet for visitors. We loved the way the guide explained the significance of local dialects like Nissart, adding depth to our understanding of the city’s character.

Nice: Urban Charm and Coastal Beauty

Starting in Nice, you’ll spend around two and a half hours exploring on foot. The flower market is a highlight—colorful, fragrant, and lively, it’s a perfect introduction to the city’s vibrant atmosphere. You’ll wander through narrow alleyways, discover iconic squares, and get panoramic views of the Promenade des Anglais and the Bay of Angels from viewpoints along the port.

A quick stop for lunch (about 30 minutes) allows you to sample local cuisine or grab a quick bite—something to keep you energized for the afternoon. Our guide pointed out some of the city’s best vantage points, making it easier to capture memorable photos later.

Driving Along the French Riviera

After lunch, the bus ride takes you along the famous coastal road—think stunning views of the sea, luxurious villas, and charming towns like Villefranche and Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. The stops at Èze and La Turbie are highlights, offering sweeping vistas that make you realize why this stretch of coast is so coveted.

At Èze, you’ll visit the Fragonard Perfume Factory for a guided tour. It’s not just about smelling lovely scents—this visit provides insight into centuries-old craftsmanship. The guide’s detailed explanations made the process much more engaging, and the tasting session in the village adds a tasty local touch.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Charm of Eze and La Turbie

Èze is a medieval village perched atop a hill, with cobbled streets, artisan shops, and breathtaking views. We loved the way the guide narrated stories about its history, making it come alive. The perfume tour is a highlight, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at how fragrances are made—an experience you’ll likely remember long after you return home.

La Turbie offers one of the best photo stops, with incredible views of Monaco and the surrounding coast. Even if you’re not a professional photographer, you’ll appreciate the chance to snap some memorable images from this elevated vantage point.

Monaco and Monte Carlo: Glamour and Culture

Arriving in Monaco, you’ll explore the old town, including the Cathedral—where Grace Kelly is buried—and the Prince’s Palace Square. Walking through Monaco’s narrow streets, you get a sense of its blend of history, royalty, and luxury.

You’ll visit the Place du Casino and the Monte Carlo Casino area—an icon of wealth and glamour. Our guide explained how the Grand Prix circuit weaves through these streets, giving you a glimpse of what it’s like during race season. While you won’t be attending the race, you’ll enjoy seeing where the magic happens.

The visit to the Casino square is about 45 minutes, enough to soak in the atmosphere, snap photos, and understand the city’s reputation for luxury. If your budget allows, you might want to peek inside the casino—though access is restricted.

Summing Up the Experience

Your day concludes with a scenic drive back to Nice, factoring in possible traffic—which can be heavy during peak season. The guide’s effort to keep the journey smooth is appreciated, but flexibility is wise.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a well-organized, informative day exploring some of the most famous spots along the French Riviera. If you enjoy guided walking tours, scenic drives, and authentic local experiences like perfume tasting, you’ll find plenty to love.

It’s particularly suited for those who value small groups for a more intimate experience, and for anyone who appreciates expert guides sharing stories and insights beyond the basic sightseeing.

However, it’s worth noting that the tour involves walking on cobbled streets and some uphill sections in Èze and La Turbie, so it might not be suitable for those with mobility issues. Also, if you prefer to explore independently at your own pace, this guided tour might feel a bit structured.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

If you’re looking for a comprehensive day that covers the highlights of the French Riviera—from the lively streets of Nice to the luxe casinos of Monte Carlo, with a taste of local culture in Èze—this tour offers excellent value. The inclusion of a perfume factory visit and panoramic viewpoints gives you more than just surface-level sightseeing.

The tour’s strength lies in its knowledgeable guide (like Thalis, praised for her friendliness and insights), who makes the experience richer and more engaging. It’s perfect for travelers who want to maximize their time and see the essential spots with ease.

On the flip side, if you’re someone who prefers to explore at your own pace or has specific accessibility needs, you might want to consider alternative options or private tours. But for most visitors seeking a balanced, fun, and informative day along the coast, this trip delivers a memorable glimpse of the Riviera’s charm.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
No, this tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You meet your guide at the designated starting point in Nice.

How long is the walking involved?
You can expect around 2.5 hours of walking in Nice’s Old Town and Èze. Walking on cobbled streets and some uphill areas is part of the experience.

Will I have time for shopping?
Yes, the visit to the Fragonard perfume factory includes shopping time, and the guide may suggest some artisan shops in Èze and Monaco.

Are meals included?
No, the tour provides a 30-minute lunch break, but food and drinks are not included in the price.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and water are recommended for this full-day tour.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is operated for a minimum of 2 passengers and involves walking on cobbled streets, so it may not be suitable for guests with mobility impairments or very young children.

What happens if I book solo?
If you’re the only person booked for a departure, the company will contact you to offer alternatives or a different date. If you decline, you’ll be refunded.

Can I join this tour during the Monaco Grand Prix?
During the event from May 22-25, access to Monaco is restricted, and the tour is replaced with a visit to Menton instead.

This guided day trip along the Riviera offers a delightful balance of sightseeing, culture, and scenic beauty, all wrapped up in a manageable nine hours. Whether you’re marveling at the views from La Turbie, wandering through Èze’s medieval streets, or soaking in Monaco’s glamour, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of this spectacular region.

You can check availability for your dates here: