Villefranche sur Mer is the perfect starting point for exploring the French Riviera. Its convenient cruise port location puts you just minutes from iconic spots like Monaco, Nice, and Eze. What makes Villefranche unique is its charming harbor, colorful buildings, and proximity to some of the most luxurious and picturesque villages and cities in the region. Whether you want a quick half-day tour or a full-day adventure, there are options suited to every interest and schedule. We’re especially fond of tours like the Day In Eze, Monaco & Monte Carlo for its perfect mix of scenery, history, and glamour—plus the flexibility of a private experience.
For those who want a more personalized experience, private tours like the Private Day Trip to Nice Eze Villefranche La Turbie and Monaco let you customize your itinerary and spend more time in your favorite spots. Alternatively, if you’re on a tight schedule but still want to see the highlights, the Half-Day in Monaco, Monte Carlo & Eze offers a quick but thorough overview. Keep reading for detailed descriptions of each tour, so you can decide which best fits your plans.
1. Shore Excursion: Day In Eze, Monaco & Monte Carlo
At number 1, this private 8-hour tour hits all the highlights of the French Riviera—perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive experience in one day. Starting from Villefranche-sur-Mer, your guide takes you to the medieval village of Eze, where breathtaking views and artisan shops await. The tour continues to Monaco, where you can stroll Casino Square, relax at Casino de Monte Carlo, and follow the famous Formula One Grand Prix circuit. The itinerary includes free time in Monaco for shopping, sightseeing, or simply soaking up the glamour. Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and flexible schedule, with reviews like “Thierry was exceptional… showed us all the highlights” and “Made our day so memorable.”
This tour is ideal if you want a well-rounded trip that combines scenic drives, culture, and luxury. The private format ensures a relaxed pace and personalized attention. For around $472, this is an excellent value for a full day of exploring some of Europe’s most famous sites. Bottom line: a perfect choice for first-time visitors eager to see everything without feeling rushed.
2. Villefranche Shore Excursion: Private Day Trip to Nice Eze Villefranche La Turbie and Monaco
At number 2, this private 7-hour tour provides an in-depth, customizable experience of the eastern French Riviera. The advantage here is flexibility—your guide can tailor the stops based on your interests. You’ll start with the Vieux Port of Nice, then visit the hilltop village of Eze with its stunning Mediterranean views. You’ll also explore La Turbie, famous for its Roman monument, and get an authentic taste of Monaco’s Old Town and Monte Carlo. Guests love how the private format allows more time in each spot, with reviews mentioning “we enjoyed it very much… took us to all the highlights at our own pace.”
This tour is best suited for travelers who want a personalized experience and the ability to linger longer in favorite locations. The price of $1,722.78 covers up to 8 people, making it a good deal for families or groups. Bottom line: ideal for those seeking a flexible, private adventure with time to explore without a rush.
3. Shore Excursion: Half-Day In Monaco, Monte Carlo & Eze
Coming in at number 3, this 4-hour tour offers a quick yet comprehensive look at Monaco and Eze. Starting from Villefranche, you’ll visit Eze village to take in panoramic views and explore art galleries. Then, it’s a short drive to Monaco, where you’ll see the Prince’s Palace and Casino Square. The highlight is following the Formula One Grand Prix circuit, which guests find especially thrilling. This tour is perfect for those with limited time but wanting a taste of luxury, history, and scenic beauty.
Guests rave about the guides’ knowledge and the smooth logistics, with reviews like “our guide was very informative and made sure we saw what we wanted.” For just over $300, you get an efficient, well-organized experience. Bottom line: a good pick for travelers who want a structured overview without sacrificing key sites.
4. Title: Shore excursion to Nice Eze Monaco Monte Carlo from Villefranche
At number 4, this 6-hour group tour covers the essentials of the French Riviera with a focus on Eze, Monaco, and Monte Carlo. It features visits to the Perfumerie Fragonard, the Prince’s Palace, and a photo stop at Monte Carlo’s Casino. The tour includes scenic drives along the coast and stops at iconic landmarks. Reviewers mention how guides like Elizabeth and Mario made the experience particularly enriching, emphasizing the ability to see Monaco before the crowds arrive.
Priced at $714.70 for groups up to 8, this tour offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, shopping, and photo opportunities. It’s best for travelers wanting a guided experience with a good overview of major sites. Bottom line: a solid, value-packed choice for those who want guided insight with some free time to explore.
5. Monaco, Monte Carlo, Eze Day from Villefranche Small-Group and Shore Excursion
Number 5 offers a 7-hour small-group experience, perfect for travelers who prefer intimacy and tailored attention. The tour visits Eze’s perfumery, Monaco’s Old Town, and Monte Carlo’s Casino. Guests love the personal touches, with reviews praising guides like Bello and Milena who share insider insights and ensure you see the highlights at your own pace. The small group size means more flexibility and fewer crowds.
Priced at $122.64 per person, this is excellent value for a full day of sightseeing with a personal touch. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy engaging guides and want to avoid large bus crowds. Bottom line: an intimate, flexible way to experience the Riviera.
6. From the port of Villefranche Private shore excursion customized
Number 6, a private 4-7 hour tour for up to 8 people, offers maximum flexibility. Your guide can craft a personalized itinerary based on your interests—be it visiting Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Antibes, or more time in Monaco. Highlights include exploring villages, beaches, or cultural sites at your preferred pace. Guests appreciate how the driver/guide manages logistics smoothly, with one review calling it a “great value and very flexible.”
This tour is ideal if you have specific sites in mind or want a more relaxed, tailor-made experience. The cost varies based on duration, making it suitable for different budgets. Bottom line: the best choice for travelers who want full control over their day.
7. Villefranche: Shore Excursion to Eze, Monaco, & Monte-Carlo
Coming in at number 7, this 6-hour private tour focuses on Eze, Monaco, and Monte Carlo. It features a visit to the perfumery, Prince’s Palace, and a drive along the F1 race circuit. Travelers praise guides like Juliana for their patience and local knowledge, especially handling street closures during events like the Grand Prix. It’s a good option for those who want a personalized, comprehensive experience in a shorter timeframe.
Priced at $706 for up to 8 people, it balances cost and content well, especially for those who want to see key attractions without a long day. Bottom line: a flexible, guided option for a full Riviera experience.
8. The best French Riviera Full-day from Villefranche Small-Group Shore Excursion
Number 8 offers a 9-hour small-group tour designed to maximize your time at port. It hits Cannes’ Palais des Festivals, Antibes’ Billionaire’s Quay, Eze’s perfume factory, and Monaco’s Monte Carlo. The guided commentary and scenic drives are highly praised, with reviews highlighting how the small group size makes the experience more engaging. Guests appreciate the detailed itinerary and the chance to see famous film festival venues.
Costing around $133 per person, it’s an accessible way to see a wide swath of the Riviera in one day. Best suited for travelers wanting a deep dive into the region’s highlights without feeling rushed.
9. Villefranche Shore Excursion: 6 hrs Private Tour Eze and Monaco
At number 9, this 6-hour private tour offers a customizable itinerary with stops at Eze, Monte Carlo, and Monaco. Guides like Denis and Jamel are praised for their patience and knowledge, making it easier to see princes’ palaces and race circuits. It’s perfect for travelers who want a flexible, stress-free day with personalized attention.
For $914.51 for up to 8 people, it provides an intimate experience tailored to your schedule. Bottom line: an excellent option for those wanting a private, adjustable day.
10. Villefranche private Shore Excursion with Monaco
Number 10 is a full-day, private custom tour that can be tailored to include Nice, Eze, Monaco, or Saint-Paul-de-Vence. The guide works with you to decide the route, whether it’s a long lunch, village visits, or sightseeing. Guests love how the driver manages logistics, with reviews mentioning “professional and personable guides.” It’s suited for travelers who want full control and a personalized experience.
At $1,272.50 for groups up to 8, it’s a flexible and comprehensive way to explore at your own pace. Bottom line: best for travelers who prefer a bespoke day with personal guidance.
11. Villefranche: Shore Excursion to Eze, Monaco, & Monte-Carlo
Number 11 offers a 6-hour private tour focusing on Eze and Monaco. The guide makes an extra effort to accommodate street closures, and reviews reflect satisfied travelers like one who said, “Juliana made our day so special.” It includes visits to the perfume factory, the Prince’s Palace, and the race circuit.
Priced at $706 for groups up to 8, this is a good value for those wanting a guided, flexible experience. Bottom line: a personalized, efficient tour for those who want to see the highlights with ease.
12. The best French Riviera Full-day from Villefranche Small-Group Shore Excursion
This 9-hour, small-group tour is perfect for travelers aiming to maximize their port time. It covers Cannes’ Palais des Festivals, Antibes’ Billionaire’s Quay, Eze’s perfumery, and Monaco’s Monte Carlo. Reviewers mention the engaging guide and intimate atmosphere, making it easier to connect with the scenery and history. It’s priced at about $133 per person, making it a great value.
Ideal for those who want a deep, guided experience with room to ask questions and enjoy the scenery.
13. Shore excursion to Nice Grasse St Paul de Vence from Villefranche
Closing our list at number 13, this tour combines Nice, Grasse (famous for perfumes), and Saint-Paul-de-Vence. It’s perfect for art lovers and fragrance aficionados alike. The tour includes a visit to the Fragonard perfume factory, plus a walk through one of the oldest medieval villages. Reviewers recommend Denis for his professionalism and the beautiful art galleries of Saint-Paul-de-Vence.
With a 7-hour duration and a focus on culture and scent-making, it’s well suited for travelers want to combine sightseeing with a sensory experience. Price is $773.49 per group.
$773.49 per group (up to 8)
How to Choose
When selecting a shore excursion in Villefranche, consider your budget, how much time you want to spend ashore, and your interest level in history, luxury, or relaxation. For a comprehensive full-day experience, options like the French Riviera Full-day or the Day In Eze, Monaco & Monte Carlo give you the most coverage. If you prefer a tailor-made experience, private tours like Customized Private Tour or Villefranche with Monaco let you decide the pace and destinations.
Budget-conscious travelers might opt for the small-group tours or the half-day trips, which still pack a punch. For families or groups wanting maximum flexibility, private options are best, especially those that include custom routes or multiple stops.
When booking, think about the time of year—spring and fall are less crowded—and book early to secure your preferred date. Consider your fitness level too; tours that involve walking in villages like Eze or Saint-Paul-de-Vence can include steep streets and steps.
In summary, Villefranche sur Mer offers a fantastic launchpad to explore the French Riviera’s most iconic spots. Whether you choose a private, customizable day exploring Monaco and Eze, or a guided group tour that hits all the highlights in a shorter time, you’ll leave with unforgettable memories. For travelers who want to indulge in the glamour of Monte Carlo or soak up the charm of a hilltop village, booking early ensures you get the experience that best matches your interests. Happy exploring!