Antibes/Cannes/St Paul de Vence Half-day excursion with car & guide

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Exploring the South of France: A Private Half-Day Tour of Antibes, Cannes, and Saint-Paul de Vence

If you’re dreaming of soaking up the glamour and authentic charm of the South of France, a private half-day tour like this one offers a fantastic way to do so without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, Alex, this experience promises a personalized journey through three of the region’s most iconic spots—Antibes, Cannes, and Saint-Paul de Vence.

What really stands out? The flexibility to customize your itinerary, the ease of transportation with a private driver, and the insider tips that make each stop special. That said, it’s worth noting that this is a half-day adventure, so if you’re craving a deep dive into each location, you might find it somewhat brief. Still, it’s an excellent choice for those who want a taste of the French Riviera’s highlights in a relaxed, curated setting. Perfect for travelers who value local insight, comfort, and a tailored experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Personalized experience with a private guide and driver
Flexible itinerary tailored to your interests
Visiting Antibes, Cannes, and Saint-Paul de Vence in a single half-day
Luxury transportation for comfort and convenience
Authentic insights from local expert Alex
Suitable for up to 4 people for an intimate, focused tour

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Cannes

What to Expect from This Tour

This half-day adventure is designed to balance iconic sights with authentic moments, all wrapped in the comfort of a private vehicle and guided by someone who knows the region inside and out. The tour is fully customizable, so whether you’re eager to focus on art, luxury, or local cuisine, Alex can adapt the plan to match your interests.

Starting Point: Your Chosen Location

One of the biggest perks is that pickup and drop-off is at your preferred spot, whether that’s your hotel, a cruise port, or another convenient location. This means no wasted time or unnecessary travel, allowing you to maximize your experience.

The Journey with Alex

Alex, your local guide, is known for sharing helpful anecdotes and addressing your questions with genuine enthusiasm. You’ll appreciate the relaxed pace, making it easy to soak in each city without feeling rushed. The private car and driver ensure a smooth ride, giving you the comfort to sit back and enjoy the scenery.

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Visiting Antibes: Historical Charm and Glamour

Antibes is the first stop, and it’s a perfect blend of history, luxury, and lively local culture. The tour typically starts with a walk along the ramparts, which provides remarkable views of the Mediterranean and the famous billionaires’ quay.

Many reviewers highlight the charm of the old town, with its narrow streets, colorful markets, and quaint cafes. The market is a highlight, with fresh Provençal produce, local cheeses, and artisanal goods—ideal for a quick browse or a snack if you wish to add a meal later.

Antibes’ marina is a sight to behold, often packed with luxury yachts, and you’ll understand why this town has long attracted the wealthy. One reviewer shared that “The guide pointed out the most glamorous yachts and told stories about the billionaires who dock their boats here,” adding a layer of exclusive luxury to the experience.

Tip: If you’re a fan of art, check out the Picasso Museum housed in a medieval chateau—it’s a quick addition if Alex is able to customize your visit.

Enjoying having a local guide? These other guided experiences in Cannes might interest you

Cannes: The Epitome of Glamour and the Film Festival

Next, Cannes invites you to stroll along the Croisette, the legendary boulevard lined with designer boutiques, luxury hotels, and bustling cafes. It’s impossible not to imagine the glitz of the Cannes Film Festival when climbing the famous red carpet stairs, even if only in spirit.

Many guests appreciate the opportunity to see the iconic Palais des Festivals, where the world’s most glamorous film stars have made their debut. The tour highlights the prestigious hotels and luxury boutiques—you’ll love the views of the Mediterranean, especially from the seaside.

The experience is about feeling the essence of Cannes’ elegance, but Alex also shares stories about its history, making the walk much more interesting than just window shopping. One review mentions, “We enjoyed hearing about Cannes’ transformation from a quiet fishing village to a global entertainment capital.”

Note: If you’re a movie buff, this stop is a must-visit, and your guide can tailor the visit to emphasize the film festival or the town’s luxury side.

Saint-Paul de Vence: Artistic Charm and Provençal Atmosphere

The final stop is Saint-Paul de Vence, a hilltop village famed for its artistic heritage. This picturesque village has been a magnet for painters, writers, and celebrities for decades. Its cobbled streets, art galleries, and charming squares evoke a real sense of Provençal authenticity.

Many visitors comment on the village’s ambiance, describing it as “a fairy-tale setting where every corner is picture-perfect.” You can browse art galleries, visit historic monuments, or simply sit in a café soaking up the Provençal atmosphere.

One reviewer appreciated the fact that Alex suggested visiting specific art galleries and shared stories about the artists who favored this village. It adds a layer of cultural insight that makes the visit more meaningful.

Tip: Don’t miss the chance to buy local crafts or artworks—many shops feature pieces created by regional artists.

Customization and Flexibility

The real strength of this tour is its flexibility. If you’re particularly drawn to one place, Alex can extend your time there or suggest alternative stops like nearby vineyards or beaches. The itinerary is designed to be shaped around your interests, making it a personalized experience.

Practical Details and Value

For $575 for a group of up to four people, you get a private guide, luxury transportation, and a tailored itinerary. Considering the personalized service and the convenience of door-to-door pickup and drop-off, this tour offers excellent value for those seeking a hassle-free way to see three of the region’s most famous spots.

The tour doesn’t include meals or activities that incur extra costs, so you’ll want to plan for lunch or snacks at your discretion. The timing is flexible, but since it’s a half-day, most travelers find the balance between sightseeing and relaxed enjoyment just right.

Booking is flexible—you can reserve now and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a personalized, hassle-free day exploring the South of France’s highlights. It suits those with a curious mind, eager to learn local stories and enjoy authentic moments without large tour groups. It’s also perfect for couples or small groups wanting a very intimate, tailored experience.

If you prefer exploring at your own pace with a knowledgeable guide, and value comfort and exclusivity, this tour checks all those boxes.

The Sum Up

This Antibes, Cannes, and Saint-Paul de Vence private tour offers a wonderful way to enjoy the best of the French Riviera in a half-day, with the added bonus of customization and insider insights. It strikes a balance between sightseeing and authentic storytelling, making it a great pick for those who want an elegant, relaxed, and deeply personal experience.

The private guide, Alex, is key—his local knowledge, storytelling, and flexibility help craft a memorable day that feels tailored just for you. While it’s a brief visit, the combination of history, glamour, and Provençal charm ensures you’ll come away with a genuine appreciation for this stunning stretch of coastline.

For travelers craving a seamless, insightful, and beautifully curated introduction to the region, this tour delivers on all fronts—especially if you’re traveling with a small group and want to avoid the crowds and rigid schedules of larger tours.

FAQ

Can I start the tour from any location?
Yes, you can choose your pickup and drop-off points, whether that’s your hotel, a cruise port, or another nearby location.

What languages does the guide speak?
The guide, Alex, is fluent in French, English, and Spanish, ensuring clear communication and engaging storytelling.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While primarily designed for small groups or couples, the relaxed pace and flexibility make it suitable for families eager to explore the region comfortably.

How long do I have at each stop?
Since this is a half-day tour, time at each location is limited but enough to enjoy key sights and soak up the atmosphere, especially with the guide’s insights.

Can the itinerary be adapted?
Absolutely. The tour is 100% customizable based on your interests, whether you want more art, history, shopping, or relaxation.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the private car, local guide, and transportation, with pickup and drop-off at your chosen location.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, so you might want to plan for lunch or snacks during the day.

How far in advance should I book?
It’s recommended to book as early as possible to secure your preferred date, but you can reserve and pay later, with flexible cancellation up to 24 hours before.

In essence, this tour offers a well-rounded, comfortable, and personalized way to experience the essence of the South of France—perfect for those seeking a curated introduction to its most charming and glamorous spots.