Nice isn’t just a pretty face. Its location on the French Riviera makes it an ideal base for full-day tours that combine scenic drives, cultural stops, and luxurious experiences. Whether you’re interested in exploring picturesque villages like Eze, the glitz of Monaco, or the art-filled streets of Saint-Paul de Vence, Nice offers a variety of ways to see the region in a single day. We particularly like tours that balance iconic sights with authentic moments—think visiting a perfume factory or tasting local wines. One standout is the French Riviera Full Day Shared Tour from Nice, which combines many highlights into a well-organized nine-hour experience.
If you’re traveling with family, prefer a small group, or want a personalized route, several options fit the bill. For those with a short port stop or a desire for exclusivity, a private tour like the Full-Day Private Cannes Shore Excursion allows controlling the pace and destinations. From wine tasting in Saint-Paul de Vence to exploring glamorous Monte Carlo, each tour brings something unique to the table. Below, we’ve broken down the best full-day tours in Nice to help you choose the perfect one for your trip.
This French Riviera Full Day Shared Tour from Nice offers a comprehensive look at the region’s top sights in about 9 hours. It’s perfect for travelers who want a guided experience without the hassle of planning every detail. Your day starts with a hotel pickup and a scenic drive along Promenade des Anglais. From there, the itinerary takes you through Villefranche-sur-Mer, a charming seaside town with colorful houses and lovely views over Cap Ferrat, and then to Eze, a medieval village perched on a cliff at 429 meters. Here, you can walk through narrow streets and visit the Fragonard perfume factory, gaining insight into the region’s fragrant crafts.
Next, the tour hits Monaco and Monte Carlo, where you’ll see the famous Casino and the Formula 1 Grand Prix circuit—an adrenaline-pumping highlight. In Cannes, walk the Croisette and imagine the film stars of the Festival, and finally, visit Antibes with its historic ramparts and vibrant markets. The small-group setup and knowledgeable guides make this a solid, value-packed option. Reviewers love the balance of sightseeing and time at each stop, with comments highlighting the smooth organization and engaging guides like Rafael and Sylvie. Expect a full day of scenic beauty, cultural richness, and luxurious sights—perfect for first-time visitors or those with limited time.
Bottom Line: This tour packs in many iconic destinations with expert guidance and all transportation included, making it a carefree way to experience the French Riviera.
2. Full-Day Private Cannes Shore Excursion: Nice, Monaco, Eze, Antibes
For around $1,500, the Full-Day Private Cannes Shore Excursion delivers a tailored experience for groups of up to 8 people. If your cruise only allows a single day in port, this tour is a smart choice. It offers complete flexibility—your driver-guide can customize the itinerary, spending more time at Monaco’s casino or wandering the art market in Saint-Paul de Vence. The private setup means no rushing, and your car is air-conditioned, adding comfort to the long day.
Highlights include walking along Castle Hill in Nice, exploring the Flower Market, and visiting the Prince’s Palace in Monaco. You’ll also see the famous Monte Carlo Casino, and experience the racing vibe of the F1 course. Traveling at your own pace, you can pause for photos or quick shopping in Antibes. The reviews praise the flexibility and knowledgeable guides like Adam, who personalizes the trip and helps you capture memorable moments. This tour is best suited for travelers who prioritize comfort and tailored experiences over a set schedule.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a private, customizable day that maximizes your port time, this private tour offers luxury and flexibility—just be prepared for a higher price.
3. Cannes, Antibes, and St Paul de Vence Full-day from Nice Small-Group Tour
This small-group tour is ideal for travelers who want to experience the glitz of Cannes, the charm of Antibes, and the artistic atmosphere of Saint-Paul de Vence—all in one day. Traveling in an air-conditioned minivan with a small group, you avoid the big bus crowds and enjoy a more intimate feel. The day starts in Cannes, where you explore the famous Boulevard La Croisette and see the Palais des Festivals, where the film stars walk the red carpet during the festival.
From Cannes, you head to Antibes, home to luxurious villas, vibrant markets, and the historic ramparts. Then, the tour takes you to Saint-Paul-de-Vence, a village famed for its painters like Matisse and Picasso. You’ll have time to wander cobbled streets, browse art galleries, and soak up the inspiring atmosphere. From reviews, the guides—like Lucie and Nicholas—are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to make each stop special. The tour’s mix of seaside glamour and artistic charm makes it perfect for first-timers or art lovers.
Bottom Line: Small-group intimacy combined with a well-balanced itinerary makes this a top choice for travelers wanting a personal touch and comprehensive coverage of the region’s highlights.
4. French Riviera Full Day Private Tour
The French Riviera Full Day Private Tour offers a flexible way to explore multiple sites at your own pace. With a private driver-guide, you can skip the large groups and enjoy personalized attention. Your day includes stops at Eze, Monaco, Nice, Cannes, and Antibes, with plenty of time for photos and exploration. The itinerary covers major highlights like the panoramic views from Villefranche-sur-Mer, the perfume factory visit, and the glamour of Monte Carlo.
Reviews highlight the professionalism and knowledge of guides like Denis and Mike, who help tailor the day to your interests. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort, especially during warm months. This tour is ideal for travelers seeking privacy, flexibility, and a curated experience. It’s particularly good if you prefer to spend more time in specific locations or want to visit certain sites not included in larger group tours.
Bottom Line: This is a top option for travelers who value flexibility and privacy, paying a premium for a fully customizable itinerary.
5. Full-day Wine Tour in Bellet & Saint-Paul de Vence from Nice
Wine lovers will find this Full-day Wine Tour in Bellet & Saint-Paul de Vence a delicious way to spend a day. For around $189 per person, you’ll visit three wineries, learn about the region’s unique winemaking traditions, and taste reds, whites, and rosés. The tour includes a visit to the picturesque medieval village of Saint-Paul de Vence, with free time to explore its art galleries and shops.
What makes this experience special is the focus on Bellet, one of France’s smallest wine regions, known for producing high-quality wines in a scenic setting. Your guide, Lara, is praised for her knowledge and friendly approach, making the visit engaging and educational. The wineries vary from family-run to more established, offering a good mix of traditional and modern techniques. Many reviewers note the charming scenery and the opportunity to pair wine tasting with cultural exploration.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for wine enthusiasts wanting to combine tasting with cultural sights, and it offers a relaxed, intimate experience.
6. From Nice: French Riviera Full-Day Tour
This From Nice: French Riviera Full-Day Tour is a straightforward way to see Monaco, Eze, Antibes, and Saint-Paul de Vence in one long day. It’s rated highly for its panoramic views, especially from viewpoints that are tough to find on your own. The guide shares interesting tidbits about perfume production at Fragonard and the secrets of Monaco’s glamorous reputation.
Guests appreciate the long, scenic drives and the ability to visit multiple destinations without the hassle of transfers or logistics. Tour guides like Miriam and Mike are commended for their friendliness and local knowledge. The tour is well-suited for those who want a broad overview of the Riviera’s key spots and don’t mind a full day on the road.
Bottom Line: An efficient, scenic option for travelers who want to tick off many highlights with minimal planning.
How to Choose the Best Full-Day Tour in Nice
If you’re weighing options, consider these factors:
- Budget: Larger group tours like the French Riviera Full Day Shared Tour offer great value, while private options provide tailored experiences at higher prices.
- Interests: Wine lovers should look at the Wine Tour in Bellet & Saint-Paul de Vence, while art aficionados may prefer the Cannes, Antibes, and St Paul de Vence.
- Group size: For more personalized service, the private tours are best. Larger groups are more economical and suit those who don’t mind sharing the experience.
- Time constraints: All tours are around 7-9 hours, so choose based on your preferred pace and whether you want a relaxed or packed day.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred tour and date.
Final Thoughts
Nice offers a wide variety of full-day tours that suit many travel styles and budgets. The guided French Riviera Full Day Shared Tour is great for first-timers wanting a rundown. Meanwhile, the Private Tour appeals to those seeking intimacy and flexibility. Art lovers, wine enthusiasts, and cruise travelers all have dedicated options, ensuring you’ll find a tour that fits your interests perfectly.
No matter which experience you choose, booking in advance will help you make the most of your time on the French Riviera. These tours help you avoid the stress of planning, so you can focus on enjoying the stunning views, delicious local flavors, and vibrant culture of this legendary coast.