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Provence & Riviera Coastal Drive
Discover the sun-drenched elegance of southern France on this private 9-day coastal journey at a relaxed pace. Winding from Nice through Monaco's glamorous casino district, the medieval hilltop village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, and Cannes' legendary waterfront, this tour blends iconic Riviera landmarks with intimate local experiences. Perfect for travelers seeking Mediterranean sophistication, scenic drives, and unhurried exploration of French and Monégasque culture.
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Nice, France
3 days
Arrival to Nice
Bienvenue and welcome to the beautiful capital of the French Riviera — Nice! Known for its Mediterranean charm, colorful old town, and elegant seaside promenade, Nice is the perfect gateway to explore the Côte d’Azur.
Upon arrival, check in at your centrally located hotel. The rest of the day is free to begin discovering the lively streets of Vieux Nice, enjoy a walk along the famous Promenade des Anglais, dine in a local restaurant, or simply relax in the comfort of your room.
What’s Included:
Your program features carefully selected accommodations with daily breakfast and curated guided excursions as outlined in the itinerary.
As this is a self-drive journey, car rental is tailored to your preferred vehicle category and travel dates and is added to the final package price upon confirmation.
You may also enhance your experience with optional add-on activities and private local guide services available throughout your trip.
Free Day in Nice
Today you have the day free to continue enjoying Nice on your own or join one of our carefully planned optional tours.
- Optional tour: Nice Guided City Tour
Drive from Nice to Monaco via the Coastline & Hills
Depart Nice along the sparkling Mediterranean coast, taking in cliffside views, charming villages, and luxury harbors.
Scenic stops en route:
- Villefranche-sur-Mer – wander the colorful old town and scenic harbor.
- Eze – visit the medieval hilltop village and its exotic botanical garden, offering stunning Riviera panoramas.
- La Turbie – stop at the Roman Trophy of Augustus for sweeping views toward Monaco.
- Tête de Chien – dramatic cliff viewpoint above Monaco, perfect for photos.
Driving distance: approx. 20 miles / 32 km
Estimated time: 1 hour (excluding stops)
Car from Nice to Monaco
Monaco, Monaco
3 days
Arrival to Monaco
Welcome to Monaco, the glamorous principality on the French Riviera known for its luxury marina, elegant architecture, and Mediterranean scenery.
After checking in at your hotel, enjoy time to explore the Monaco-Ville with the Prince’s Palace and the harbor, then visit Monte Carlo to see the Casino and Place du Casino. Stroll along the marina, and consider an early evening stop at the Oceanographic Museum with its marine exhibits and cliffside views. End the day with dinner in Monaco-Ville or Monte Carlo, enjoying local cuisine and the Riviera atmosphere.
Day Visit from Monaco
Take a scenic loop around the Riviera or a short inland drive to experience nearby gems.
Recommended day-trip options:
- Beaulieu-sur-Mer – enjoy quiet beaches and seaside promenades.
- Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat – coastal walks and Villa Ephrussi gardens.
- Roquebrune-Cap-Martin – medieval village charm and cliffside views.
- Menton – colorful streets, gardens, and citrus orchards, near the Italian border.
Return to Monaco in the evening to enjoy its nightlife or a sunset harbor walk.
Monaco to Saint-Paul-de-Vence ride
Head west from Monaco along the coast, then inland through rolling hills and picturesque villages, ending in the artistic town of Saint-Paul-de-Vence.
Scenic stops en route:
- Tourrettes-sur-Loup – medieval hilltop village known for violet cultivation and artisan shops.
- Vence – historic town with cobbled streets, chapels, and galleries, ideal for a lunch or coffee stop.
- Aspremont – a small hilltop village with panoramic views of the Riviera, winding medieval streets, and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for a short walk or coffee break.
Driving distance: approx. 35 miles / 55 km
Estimated time: 1 hour 15 minutes (excluding stops)
Car from Monaco to Saint-Paul-de-Vence
Saint-Paul-de-Vence, France
2 days
Arrival to Saint-Paul-de-Vence
Welcome to Saint-Paul-de-Vence, one of the Riviera’s most beautiful hill villages, known for its medieval walls, art galleries, and sweeping views across the countryside.
Drive from Saint-Paul-de-Vence to Cannes
Drive through rolling hills and charming villages before descending to the glamorous Mediterranean coastline.
Scenic stops en route:
- Grasse – The perfume capital of France where visitors can explore historic perfume houses and fragrant gardens.
- Valbonne – A picturesque village built around a central square filled with cafés and traditional stone houses.
- Mougins – A hilltop village famous for its gastronomy, art galleries, and panoramic views.
- Château de Bellet – Enjoy a wine tasting at this historic vineyard producing distinctive Riviera wines.
Driving distance: approx. 20 miles / 32 km
Estimated time: approx. 50 minutes (excluding scenic stops)
Car from Saint-Paul-de-Vence to Cannes
Cannes, France
3 days
Arrival to Cannes
Welcome to Cannes, a glamorous Riviera city known for the Cannes Film Festival, its palm-lined boulevard Boulevard de la Croisette, and golden beaches.
Free Day in Cannes
Today you have the day free to continue enjoying Cannes on your own or join one of our carefully planned optional tours.
- Optional tour: Boat Tour of the French Riviera
Drive from Cannes to Antibes
Follow the coastal road along the Côte d’Azur between sandy beaches, marinas, and classic Riviera towns.
Scenic stops en route:
- Vallauris – A traditional pottery town once home to Pablo Picasso.
- Golfe-Juan – A peaceful harbor town with sandy beaches and seaside cafés.
- Juan-les-Pins – A lively seaside resort known for beaches and relaxed Riviera atmosphere.
Driving distance: approx. 7 miles / 11 km
Estimated time: approx. 25 minutes (excluding scenic stops)
Car from Cannes to Antibes
Antibes, France
2 days
Arrival to Antibes
Welcome to Antibes, a historic coastal town known for its fortified old town, lively markets, and the marina Port Vauban.
Drive from Antibes to Nice
Enjoy a relaxed drive back along the Riviera coast, passing elegant seaside towns and beautiful beaches.
Scenic stops en route:
- Cagnes-sur-Mer – Visit the hilltop district Haut-de-Cagnes overlooking the coast.
- Saint-Laurent-du-Var – A lively marina town perfect for a seaside stroll or lunch.
- Saint-Tropez – If extending the journey, consider a longer scenic excursion to this iconic Riviera village known for its harbor, beaches, and Mediterranean charm.
Driving distance: approx. 13 miles / 21 km
Estimated time: approx. 35 minutes (excluding scenic stops)
Car from Antibes to Nice
Nice, France
1 day
Departure
Return to Nice, concluding your French Riviera journey with memories of scenic coastal drives, charming hilltop villages, and the Mediterranean’s elegant seaside towns.
Upon arrival, proceed to the airport for your flight back home
What's included

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