Wine Tasting, Provencal Market, Cannes and St Paul de Vence

Traveling to the south of France? If you’re craving a blend of glitz, art, scenic coastlines, and authentic local culture, this tour from Nice offers all that in about nine hours. While it’s not a private experience, it balances a well-curated itinerary with personal touches through a small group setting, making it perfect for those who want a taste of the Riviera without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

What we love about this experience is the chance to see iconic spots like Cannes and Antibes in a single day, the inclusion of a Provençal market to soak in local flavors, and a wine tasting at Chateau Cremat where Coco Chanel once sought inspiration. The affordable price point offers good value considering the diverse sights and experiences packed into one trip.

That said, one consideration is the limited time allocated to each stop—if you’re eager to linger longer in St. Paul de Vence or Cannes, you may find it slightly rushed. Still, for a broad overview of the region’s highlights, this tour hits the sweet spot. It suits travelers who want a comprehensive, guided overview of the French Riviera without the hassle of planning or navigating themselves.

Key Points

• Small-group size ensures a more personalized experience.
• The combination of coastal towns, art villages, and wine tasting offers diverse insights into the region.
• Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off save time and effort.
• The cost includes a wine tasting and estate visit—adding a touch of regional flavor.
• The tour’s duration of around 9 hours makes it suitable for those with limited time but wanting a full day of sightseeing.
• Some reviews mention that short stops can feel rushed, especially in Cannes.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

Starting Point: Nice Hotel Pickup

As soon as you’re picked up from your accommodation in Nice, the day begins with a professional driver and guide. Expect a comfortable ride in an 8-seater minivan, which keeps the group intimate and allows for easier conversation and better views. The tour departs at 9:00 am—perfect for those wanting to maximize their daylight hours.

First Stop: Antibes

Your first destination is Antibes, home to the largest marina on the French Riviera. This spot is a magnet for luxury yachts, including those over 100 meters long, making it a sight to behold. The marina is the largest in the region, and even if you don’t step onto a boat, the view of the shimmering yachts and the city’s lively harbor is captivating.

While there’s no admission fee here, expect around 45 minutes to admire the scene, take photos, and soak in the atmosphere. Some reviewers, like Petro_J, highlight how the marina’s size and elegance make it a memorable introduction to the Riviera’s luxury lifestyle.

Provencal Market in Antibes

Next, you’ll visit Marché Provencal in the heart of Old Antibes. Here, the air is filled with the aroma of fresh herbs, baked bread, and local produce. This is a fantastic opportunity to feel like a local—strolling past stalls offering olives, cheeses, and regional specialties.

A reviewer, Elaine_L, appreciated the guide’s storytelling here, noting how well-informed and courteous Laurent was. The market is a lively, colorful snapshot of Provençal life, perfect for snapping photos or picking up a snack to enjoy later.

Cap d’Antibes and Old Town Walk

A brief walk along the fortified ramparts of Antibes’ old town reveals the stunning views of Cap d’Antibes on one side and the snow-capped Alps on the other. This 10-minute stop is mainly for photos—most guests love the scenery, which showcases both ocean and mountain extremes.

La Côte d’Azur Glitz: Cannes

Driving along the coast, you’ll pass through Juan-les-Pins, known for its sandy beaches and vibrant nightlife, before arriving in Cannes, a town synonymous with glamour and the famous film festival. With about an hour here, you’ll get a snapshot of the chic city, including a stroll along Boulevard de la Croisette—lined with luxury boutiques, prestigious hotels, and stunning sea views.

One reviewer noted, “Cannes felt a bit rushed,” which is a fair point; with just 20 minutes on the Croisette and another 20 at the Palais des Festivals, it’s more about catching the essence than exploring every detail.

Cannes’s Iconic Red Carpet

A quick visit to Palais des Festivals gives you the perfect photo op on the legendary red carpet. Many travelers find this a highlight—standing where celebrities have walked during the Cannes Film Festival. However, some, like Noah_W, mention the distance from the van to the red carpet felt far, making it harder to truly soak it in with limited time.

Saint-Paul-de-Vence: Artistic Charm and Lunch Break

One of the tour’s crown jewels is Saint-Paul-de-Vence, perched high above the Mediterranean. This medieval village is a magnet for artists and art lovers, having hosted figures like Matisse, Chagall, and Picasso. With its narrow, flower-filled streets and art galleries, it’s a delightful contrast to the seaside hustle.

You’ll have around 2 hours here, which many find enough to wander, explore galleries, and enjoy a leisurely lunch in a local restaurant. Reviewers like John_C and Linda_P rave about the village’s beauty, wishing they could stay longer.

Wine Tasting at Château de Cremat

A highlight for many is the wine tasting at Château de Cremat. This estate has history—Coco Chanel was known to visit here, and the famous double C is said to have originated from this region. You’ll tour the vineyards, learn about the winemaking process, and sample some of the best regional wines.

The visit lasts approximately 3 hours, with the tasting included. Guests like Dawoowoman mention how much they enjoyed the experience, praising the knowledgeable staff and the chance to taste regional wines in a beautiful setting.

Gairaut Waterfall and Scenic Views

The day winds down with a visit to the Cascade de Gairaut, where panoramic views of Nice await. It’s a short 20-minute stop, but many appreciate ending on a high note—taking in the landscape and reflecting on the day’s adventures.

Return to Nice

After a full day exploring, your driver will drop you off at your hotel, ideally having seen the best of the coastline, art villages, and regional wines—all in a manageable, well-organized package.

What the Experience Means for You

This tour offers a balanced mix of coastal glamour, cultural charm, and authentic Provençal flavor. The vehicle’s small size allows for a more intimate experience, and the driver-guide’s knowledge adds depth to each stop. The inclusion of a wine estate visit elevates it from a simple sightseeing trip to an immersive regional experience.

The price of around $165 is reasonable considering the extensive itinerary, wine tasting, and transportation included. For travelers who want an overview of the French Riviera without the stress of self-driving or multiple bookings, this tour offers good value.

However, the quick stops—especially in Cannes—mean you’ll need to prioritize what interests you most. If you’re a slow traveler or want to really explore each location, it might feel a little rushed. But if your goal is a broad, enjoyable taste of the region in one day, this tour delivers nicely.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers wanting a comprehensive yet relaxed day out—those who appreciate scenic drives, iconic sights, and a taste of regional wines. It’s ideal if you’re short on time but eager to see the highlights of the French Riviera with expert guidance.

If you prefer a more immersive, longer visit to each spot, or are traveling with a small group who can customize the pace, you might find it a tad hurried. Still, the combination of picturesque towns, art villages, and local flavors makes it a well-rounded introduction to the region.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning to Nice later in the afternoon.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off from your accommodation in Nice, making it very convenient.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation in a comfortable 8-seater minivan, a professional driver/guide, and a wine tasting and estate visit at Château de Cremat.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to buy lunch during your free time in Saint-Paul-de-Vence.

How many people are in the group?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues may want to consider the walking involved, especially in Saint-Paul-de-Vence and other stops.

Final Thoughts

This tour provides a solid overview of the French Riviera’s most iconic highlights in a single day. From the luxury yachts of Antibes to the artistic charm of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, combined with a regional wine tasting, it’s a well-rounded experience. The small-group format and knowledgeable guides make it an enjoyable, informative trip that balances sightseeing with relaxation.

While the stops are brief, they give enough time to enjoy the scenery, snap photos, and absorb the local atmosphere. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a taste of everything—coastal glamour, art, history, and local flavors—without the hassle of navigating themselves.

If you prioritize efficiency, comfort, and a guided overview, this tour will be a memorable addition to your French Riviera adventure.

Note: Always check current details with the provider before booking, as schedules and inclusions can change.