From Nice: A Day in Provence

A day trip from Nice to the charming Provençal countryside offers a delightful exploration of quaint towns and stunning landscapes. Visitors can stroll through the winding streets of Antibes, sample luxury along the Croisette in Cannes, and discover the art of perfume-making in Grasse. With convenient transportation and flexibility, this itinerary promises an immersive experience in the heart of southern France’s captivating culture. What unexpected delights await those who venture beyond Nice?

Key Points

• Explore the charming town of Antibes, with its 16th-century ramparts, Provençal market, and yacht-filled harbor showcasing the lifestyles of the rich and famous.
• Stroll through the glamorous seaside town of Cannes, famous for its luxury hotels, boutiques, and the Palais des Festivals, home to the Cannes Film Festival.
• Visit the historic town of Grasse, the perfume capital of the world, and take a guided tour of the Fragonard perfume factory to learn about the perfume production process.
• Discover the charming village of Gourdon, listed among France’s "most beautiful villages," and explore its medieval architecture, local artisan shops, and an 11th-century castle.
• Enjoy the art and culture of Saint-Paul de Vence, a picturesque village known as the "City of Art," with its cobblestone streets, art studios, galleries, and the Fondation Maeght modern art museum.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Antibes

Why start the day’s adventure in Antibes? The charming town offers a glimpse into Provence’s history and culture.

Tour the old town’s winding streets, admire the 16th-century ramparts, and browse the lively Provençal market.

Tour the old town’s winding streets, admire the 16th-century ramparts, and browse the lively Provençal market.

Stroll along the yacht-filled harbor, imagining the lives of the rich and famous who frequent Antibes’ glamorous beaches.

Uncover the town’s artistic side, with galleries and studios showcasing the work of local artisans.

A visit to Antibes whets the appetite for the day’s other Provençal gems, from the glitz of Cannes to the artistry of Saint-Paul de Vence.

Strolling Through Cannes

After exploring the charms of Antibes, the tour moves on to the glamorous seaside town of Cannes.

Guests stroll along the famous Croisette, admiring the luxury hotels and boutiques that line the boulevard. They catch a glimpse of the Palais des Festivals, home to the renowned Cannes Film Festival.

With free time for sightseeing, travelers can relax on the scenic beaches or wander the charming old town. The guide provides insights into Cannes’ history and modern-day status as a hub of wealth and celebrity culture.

The tour continues, exploring the next stop on the Provençal itinerary.

Visiting the Fragonard Perfume Factory in Grasse

The tour then proceeds to the historic town of Grasse, renowned as the perfume capital of the world. Visitors are taken to the Fragonard perfume factory, one of the oldest and most prestigious perfume houses in France. There, they learn about the art of perfume making through an informative guided tour.

| Highlights | Includes | Duration | Cost |

| — | — | — | — |

| – Behind-the-scenes look at perfume production| – Guided tour
– Perfume demonstration
– Free time to browse the factory shop | Approximately 1 hour | Included in the tour price |

The tour provides a fascinating insight into the intricate process of perfume creation, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for the art of fragrance.

Discovering Gourdon

Next, the tour takes visitors to the charming village of Gourdon, one of France’s "most beautiful villages."

Perched atop a rocky outcrop, Gourdon commands panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can wander through the narrow streets, admiring the medieval architecture and stopping to browse the local shops and artisan studios.

The highlight is the 11th-century castle, which offers stunning vistas from its ramparts. Guests can also visit the 17th-century church, with its impressive Baroque façade.

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Taking in the Art of Saint-Paul De Vence

From Gourdon, the tour journeys onward to the picturesque village of Saint-Paul de Vence. Known as the "City of Art," this medieval hilltop town is a hub for artists and galleries.

Visitors can:

• Stroll through the charming cobblestone streets and discover hidden art studios

• Visit the Fondation Maeght, a renowned modern art museum with works by Miró, Chagall, and Giacometti

• Admire the 16th-century ramparts and the Collegiate Church of Saint-Paul-de-Vence

• Enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding countryside and the distant Mediterranean

Saint-Paul de Vence’s rich artistic heritage and enchanting ambiance make it a highlight of the Provence tour.

Capturing the Beauty of Tourettes-sur-Loup

Leaving the artistic enclave of Saint-Paul de Vence, the tour makes a brief stop at the charming town of Tourettes-sur-Loup.

Perched atop a hill, this quaint village captivates visitors with its narrow streets, stone buildings, and floral displays.

The tour guide leads the group through the tranquil lanes, pointing out the distinctive violet-colored doors and shutters that earned Tourettes-sur-Loup the title of "capital of violets."

Tourists snap photos of the picturesque scenery, capturing the essence of this Provençal gem before continuing the journey through the rolling hills of the region.

Convenient Transportation and Flexibility

The day trip from Nice to Provence is designed with convenience and flexibility in mind.

Travelers can choose between hotel, cruise ship, or private address pickup, with an additional fee for locations outside of Nice. The air-conditioned minibus provides round-trip transportation, and the professional guide/driver offers live commentary throughout the journey.

Booking flexibility is also available, allowing travelers to reserve now and pay later. Plus, the tour features:

• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

• Multilingual guides fluent in English, French, and Spanish

• Suitable for various traveler types, including couples, groups, and families

• Not wheelchair accessible

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour is generally suitable for families with children, as it includes stops at picturesque villages and places of interest. However, it may not be appropriate for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

The tour does not allow pets. Pets are not permitted on the tour, as it involves transportation in a minibus and visits to various attractions that may have restrictions on bringing animals. Service animals may be allowed with prior notice.

Are Food and Drinks Included During the Tour?

The tour does not include any food or drinks. Visitors are responsible for their own meals and refreshments during the day. Breaks will be provided, allowing time for participants to purchase food and drinks at their own expense.

Is the Guide Knowledgeable About the Local History?

The guide is knowledgeable about local history, providing live commentary during the tour. They share insights into the cultural and historical significance of the visited sites throughout the day’s activities.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

The maximum group size for the tour isn’t specified. However, the tour is suitable for couples, groups of friends, solo travelers, and families, suggesting it accommodates a range of group sizes without being overly large.

The Sum Up

From Nice, a day in Provence offers a delightful exploration of charming towns and breathtaking landscapes. With convenient transportation and flexibility, visitors can enjoy the art and culture of the region, from the vibrant markets of Antibes to the picturesque villages of Gourdon and Saint-Paul de Vence, all while discovering the art of perfume making in Grasse.

You can check availability for your dates here: