Nice Guide

Nice French Riviera Day Trips

Explore Monaco, Cannes, Antibes, and stunning coastal villages from Nice!

25+ tours
From $65
6-10 hours
Nice French Riviera Day Trips

Discover the legendary French Riviera with unforgettable day trips from Nice to the Côte d'Azur's most glamorous destinations! From the glittering principality of Monaco with its famous casino and royal palace, to Cannes' film festival glory and designer boutiques, to medieval hilltop villages like Èze with breathtaking views - these tours showcase the best of the Mediterranean coast. Experience the artistic charm of Antibes where Picasso worked, explore Saint-Paul-de-Vence's galleries and cobblestone streets, or visit the perfume capital of Grasse. Each destination offers unique attractions, from luxurious yacht harbors to authentic Provençal markets, Belle Époque architecture to contemporary art. Perfect for culture enthusiasts, photography lovers, and anyone wanting to experience the diverse beauty and sophistication of the French Riviera beyond Nice!

Featured French Riviera Day Trips Tours

Discover our top picks for french riviera day trips in Nice

French Riviera Full Day Shared Tour from Nice
💸Special Offer
$112.67From $101.4
Free Cancellation

During this visit, you will discover the best of the French Riviera in comfortable car with private driver. You will have the opportunity to take photos of wonderfull panoramic views.This is a best possibility to discover the best of the French Riviera in just one day. Enjoy the best panoramic view of Villefranche and Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, visit the village of Eze, explore the Monaco, Monte Carlo and visit the Antibes and much more.

4.7(316)
9h
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French Riviera in One Day from Nice shared tour
From $88.95
Free Cancellation

Discover the French Riviera during this guided tour of the Côte d'Azur. Enjoy the best panoramic views of Villefranche and Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, visit the village of Èze, explore Monaco, Monte Carlo and visit Antibes and much more.

4.3(539)
10h
View Details
French Riviera Cannes to Monte-Carlo Discovery Small Group Day Trip from Nice
From $148.25
Free Cancellation

From Monte Carlo to Cannes discover the fabulous towns of the French Riviera on this small-group day trip from Nice. By the seacoast road, join Eze, a medieval village appreciate the view overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. You will discover the secrets of perfumes and its industry from through the visit of a factory. Drive toward the Principality of Monaco to discover the old town, the Prince's Palace and the sumptuous Cathedral. From the starting line of the Grand Prix Formula 1 track, reach Monte Carlo, universe of luxe and elegance around the emblematic Casino. Then, join the West-side of the Riviera. In Cannes, put your hands into celebrities' handprints, encircling the "Film Festival Palace" and its red carpet. Relax and enjoy the panorama along the coastline passing by renowned Cap d'Antibes, residence's place of the wealthiest. Finish by Antibes, walled-city and stroll around the picturesque old town and admire the super yachts magnitudes at the billionaires' quay.

4.6(661)
9h
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French Riviera Villefranche Bay Snorkeling Tour from Nice
From $56.33
Free Cancellation

Come on board from the port of Nice to discover the Mediterranean's marine life & seaside of Villefranche bay, one of the most beautiful bay of the world. After an amazing 20 minutes boat ride, we stop near Saint Jean Cap Ferrat coast in a safe place for more than 1 hour. Briefing about the safety rules and let's go swimming or snorkeling around the boat. Put your face in the water and just open yours eyes ! Of course it's not the Red Sea or the Australian Reef Barrier but it's fun too. Enjoy & relax. If you don't know how to swim or if you are afraid of being in the sea you should stay ashore. 12 years old minimum is required . To know how to swim without life jacket is MANDATORY Full equipment ( mask, fins, snorkel & wetsuit depending of the water temperature ) is provided except of course swimsuit & towel.

4.4(211)
2h
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Private Full-Day Tour on the French Riviera from Nice
From $818.31
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Enjoy the freedom to customize your itinerary with suggestions from your guide. Choose destinations like Monaco, Provence, Italy, and more. For example, drive along the coastal road through the charming old town of Antibes, with its incredible harbor and ramparts. Reach Cannes via the famous Croisette boulevard, pass the film festival Palace, and walk up the iconic steps of the red carpet. Visit the medieval village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, renowned for its cobblestone streets, art galleries, and stunning sea views. On your way to Monaco, stop in Eze to explore its medieval charm and visit the Fragonard perfume factory. Then, drive through La Turbie and arrive in the luxurious Principality of Monaco, where you’ll see the Prince’s Palace, the Cathedral, the Casino, and the famous Formula 1 circuit. For cruisers: A 50% refund will be granted upon request in case of last-minute port call cancellation.

5.0(16)
8h
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French Riviera Private Vintage Car Tour from Nice
From $889.47
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

The most romantic way to discover the Côte d'Azur. Private and exclusive, feel the wind in your hair as you travel in style in this icon of french design, the Citroën Traction. One of only fourteen examples in the world, you'll feel like royalty as you are chauffeured to the finest locations on the French Riviera. The tour description is one suggestion - As the tour is private it can be customized as long as it does remain in the same area (limited mileage)

4.6(14)
8h
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Small Group Full-Day Trip to French Riviera Highlights from Nice
From $148.25
Free Cancellation

You will experience top French Riviera highlights in just one day. In this 9-hour small group tour, discover some of the most beautiful places in the French Riviera from Nice to Monaco and Cannes . See all the main points of interest in a single tour: the medieval villages of Eze and the opulence of Monaco and Cannes and Antibes You will also visit the Fragonard perfume factory in Eze and learn all about fragrances.

4.0(4)
9h
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Small Group Full-Day Trip to Medieval French Riviera Villages from Nice
From $160.11
Free Cancellation

In this 8-hours small-group tour, discover the charming perched villages of the French Riviera. Go to various different medieval cities and feel their associated lifestyles - the perfumes of Grasse, the art of St. Paul de Vence, the violets of Tourrettes-sur-Loup. Stop for lunch in a perched village offering one of the best views over the entire French Riviera coastline. For the almost magical light of this little piece of Provence, for its stunning landscapes overlooking the Mediterranean, Saint-Paul de Vence has always inspired its visitors. Marc Chagall spoke of it as a paradise, which inspired him to “couple above Saint-Paul” in 1968

4.2(17)
9h
View Details
French Riviera Best of Famous Cities & Villages Small Group Day Trip from Nice
From $160.11
Free Cancellation

Enjoy a full day 9-hour tour of the glamorous Côte d'Azur. Visit the highlights of the Blue Coast: Eze, Monaco, Monte-Carlo, Cannes, Antibes in a small-group (no more than 8 participants) to ensure a personal service.

4.2(30)
9h
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Catamaran cruise on the French Riviera
From $189.75
Free CancellationNew

Embark on board the catamaran for a half-day cruise (3 hours) in the morning or afternoon, or 7 hours for the full day , live an unforgettable experience mixing relaxation, discovery of the coast and swimming in crystal clear waters. Aboard a comfortable catamaran and in small group, set sail for about 45 minutes towards the famous Cape of Antibes and Fort Carré, a true jewel of local heritage. We will then anchor in a postcard setting, between Fort Carré and the sumptuous Bay of Billionaires, for a swimming break of about 1h30. At your disposal: paddles, masks and snorkels, fries, buoys... everything is planned to have fun and enjoy the Mediterranean Sea to the full. Want to relax? Sit comfortably on board, sip the captain's cocktail or a soft drink, peak to peak on board for the full days. let yourself be lulled by the lapping of the waves in a peaceful and exclusive atmosphere.

3.0(1)
5h
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Capital City of the French Riviera the overview of Nice
From $343.93
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour🔥Likely to Sell Out

Capital city of the French Riviera – the overview of Nice (Sightseeing tour from Nice city) Your guide will take you for a ride around Nice that takes 4 hours. You will see all major attractions of the city. Still, as that is a private tour, we’ll be happy to adopt it to your individual expectations. It can start whether at 9 am or at 2 pm – that’s what we would recommend.   

3h
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Private Day Trip: The French Riviera by Minivan
From $529.53
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Explore southern France in style on this private 8-hour French Riviera day trip from Nice or Cannes. By the coastal roads, join Eze, a medieval village with lively cobbled streets and appreciate the view from this eagle nest overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. At the bottom, you will discover the secrets of perfumes and its industry. Drive down toward the Principality of Monaco to discover the old town, the Prince’s Palace and the sumptuous Cathedral. From the starting line of the Grand Prix Formula 1 track, reach Monte Carlo. Then, the West-side of the Riviera will dive you in the stars’ scenery. In Cannes, put your hands into celebrities’ handprints, encircling the “Film Festival Palace” and its red carpet. Relax and enjoy the panorama along the coastline passing by renowned Cap d’Antibes. Arrive in Antibes, the “Authentic Provençal”, walled-city and stroll around the picturesque old town and admire the super yachts magnitudes at the billionaires’ quay.

4.8(20)
9h
View Details
The French Riviera
From $791.04
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

It's a private tour so you decide how much time you want to spend in each place, I'll put forward a number of suggestions to match your interests...

5.0(43)
8h
View Details
Private tour of the French Riviera
From $948.77
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Departing from all the cities of the Côte d'Azur, enjoy a day in a private minivan to discover everything you want. We invite you to explore Cannes, Nice, Antibes, Eze, Monaco, Menton, Grasse, ... The choice is yours. Your guide and minivan are at your entire disposal for the duration of the excursion.

4.2(5)
7h
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Private Day Trip to the French Riviera
From $770.88
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Your multilingual driver-guide has a perfect knowledge of the Provence-Alpes region and will help you discover all the pleasures of the French Riviera, namely the best of Cannes, Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Nice, Eze, Monaco, Monte Carlo and many others with its panoramic and extraordinary views.

8h
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Why Choose French Riviera Day Trips in Nice?

Multiple Destinations

Visit several iconic Riviera locations in one day with expert planning and transportation.

World-Famous Sites

Experience Monaco's casino, Cannes' red carpet, and medieval hilltop villages.

Expert Local Guides

Benefit from insider knowledge, skip-the-line access, and fascinating historical insights.

Stunning Scenery

Drive along breathtaking coastal roads with spectacular Mediterranean views.

Types of French Riviera Day Trips in Nice

Monaco & Monte Carlo Tours

Full-day tour to the glamorous principality including Palace, Casino, and old town.

Royal Palace visitMonte Carlo CasinoFormula 1 circuitOceanographic MuseumLuxury harbor views

Three Corniche Tour

Spectacular coastal drive visiting Èze, Monaco, and seaside villages along three scenic routes.

Corniche roads driveÈze medieval villageMonaco visitPanoramic viewpointsPerfumery stop

Cannes & Antibes Tour

Explore Cannes' glamour and Antibes' artistic heritage on this western Riviera tour.

Cannes red carpetDesigner shoppingAntibes old townPicasso MuseumPort viewing

Hilltop Villages Tour

Discover authentic Provence in stunning medieval villages with art galleries and views.

Saint-Paul-de-VenceÈze medieval villageArt galleriesLocal craftsProvençal lunch

What to Expect on Your Nice French Riviera Day Trips

Duration

Full-day tours typically last 6-10 hours with multiple stops and sightseeing.

Multiple Destinations

Visit 2-4 different locations in one day, maximizing your Riviera experience.

Small Group Tours

Intimate groups of 8-15 people ensure personalized attention and flexibility.

Photo Stops

Frequent stops at scenic viewpoints for capturing stunning Riviera landscapes.

Skip-the-Line Access

Many tours include priority entry to popular attractions, saving valuable time.

Comfortable Transportation

Air-conditioned minibuses or coaches with Wi-Fi and knowledgeable drivers.

Expert Tips for the Best Experience

1

Book Monaco tours on days without cruise ships for a less crowded experience.

2

The Middle Corniche offers the best views - request a window seat!

3

Bring your passport if visiting Monaco (though not required for EU/Schengen visitors).

4

Wear comfortable shoes - hilltop villages have steep cobblestone streets.

5

Start early to beat crowds at popular sites like Monaco Palace and Èze village.

6

Wednesday mornings offer the best Antibes market experience - colorful and authentic!

7

Photography is prohibited inside Monaco Casino if you're not gambling.

8

Pack a light jacket - hilltop villages can be breezy even in summer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:How far is Monaco from Nice?

A: Monaco is only 20 kilometers (12 miles) east of Nice - about 25-40 minutes by car depending on traffic. The three scenic coastal roads (corniches) offer different routes: the Lower Corniche is fastest, the Middle Corniche offers best views, and the Upper Corniche provides dramatic vistas. Most day tours take 6-8 hours total to allow time for exploring Monaco's highlights including the Palace, Casino, old town, and harbor. The proximity makes Monaco perfect for a half-day or full-day trip from Nice!

Q:Can I visit Monaco, Èze, and Cannes in one day?

A: Monaco and Èze definitely yes - they're close together and most tours combine them (6-8 hours total). However, adding Cannes (30km west of Nice) would make an extremely long day as it's in the opposite direction. Better to do Monaco-Èze on one day, and Cannes-Antibes on another day. Some tours offer "Grand Tour" options visiting three places in 10+ hours, but it can feel rushed. For quality time at each destination, stick to 2-3 locations. The Riviera is best savored, not rushed!

Q:What is Èze village and why is it special?

A: Èze is a stunning medieval village perched 427 meters (1,400 feet) above the Mediterranean, offering breathtaking panoramic views from Monaco to Nice. This perfectly preserved "village perché" features narrow cobblestone streets, stone houses, artisan shops, and art galleries. The famous Exotic Garden at the summit provides spectacular vistas. Èze also houses the Fragonard perfumery where you can learn about perfume-making. The village appears frozen in time yet offers modern boutiques and restaurants. It's one of the Riviera's most photographed and visited villages - absolutely magical!

Q:What are the Three Corniches?

A: The Three Corniches are three parallel coastal roads between Nice and Monaco, each offering different perspectives and experiences. The Lower Corniche (Basse Corniche) runs along the coast through seaside towns - fastest route. The Middle Corniche (Moyenne Corniche) offers the most spectacular views from mid-height, passing through Èze. The Upper Corniche (Grande Corniche) is the highest and most dramatic, built on an ancient Roman road. Many tours use different corniches going and returning for varied scenery. The views are absolutely spectacular - some of Europe's most scenic drives!

Q:Is it better to take a guided tour or explore independently?

A: Both options work well! Guided tours offer stress-free transportation, insider knowledge, skip-the-line access, and optimal time management - you'll see more in less time. They typically cost €65-120 and handle all logistics. Independent travel offers flexibility and costs less (train to Monaco €5, buses €1.50) but requires planning, navigating parking, and managing your own schedule. For first-time visitors or limited time, guided tours provide excellent value and comprehensive experiences. For flexibility or budget travel, trains and buses connect Riviera destinations frequently. Many visitors do both!

Q:What should I see in Monaco?

A: Don't miss the Prince's Palace (changing of guard at 11:55 AM daily), Monte Carlo Casino and surrounding gardens (dress code if entering), Monaco-Ville old town with narrow streets, Oceanographic Museum with marine exhibits, Formula 1 circuit (you can walk/drive the track!), luxury car spotting around Casino Square, Port Hercule yacht harbor, and Japanese Garden for peaceful beauty. Cathedral de Monaco houses Princess Grace's tomb. Allow 4-6 hours to see highlights comfortably. The palace area and Casino Square are must-sees. Monaco is tiny but packed with attractions!

Q:Are day trips suitable for children?

A: Yes, but choose tours carefully! Monaco's Oceanographic Museum, Formula 1 circuit, and yacht harbor fascinate kids. Èze village has narrow paths and steep drops - keep young children close. Beach breaks and ice cream stops help! Look for family-friendly tours with shorter durations (6 hours vs. 10 hours). Train trips to Monaco can be exciting for children and more flexible than long bus tours. Some companies offer special family tours with child-appropriate content and pacing. Most kids love the glamorous cars and yachts in Monaco!

Q:When is the best time for French Riviera day trips?

A: May-June and September-October offer ideal conditions - pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and better photo light. July-August are beautiful but hot and crowded, especially Monaco and Èze. Spring brings flowers and mild temperatures. Winter (November-March) is quieter with mild weather but some attractions have reduced hours. Avoid Mondays when some museums close. Wednesday mornings are perfect for Antibes market. Check Monaco Grand Prix dates (late May) - exciting but extremely crowded and expensive. The Riviera shines nearly year-round thanks to its Mediterranean climate!

Don't Miss the Perfect Nice Experience

Book your french riviera day trips today - 25+ tours with instant confirmation & best price guarantee!

Why Visit Nice?

Famous Promenade des Anglais along the Mediterranean

Colorful Old Town (Vieux Nice) with authentic charm

Pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters

Exceptional French and Mediterranean cuisine

Gateway to the French Riviera and Monaco

Perfect climate year-round

Best Time to Visit

Weather

Nice enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 50°F (10°C) in winter to 80°F (27°C) in summer.

Best Months

May to June and September to October offer the best weather with warm temperatures, fewer crowds, and perfect conditions for all activities.

Peak Season

July to August brings peak tourist season with hot weather, crowded beaches, and higher prices.

Off Season

November to April offers lower prices and fewer crowds, though with cooler weather and occasional rain.

Plan Your Nice Trip

Transportation Tips

Excellent public transportation with buses and trams. Walking is perfect for exploring the city center, and trains connect to other French Riviera destinations.

Car Rental Deals in Nice

Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.

Where to Stay

Find the perfect accommodation for your Nice adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.

Best Hotel Deals in Nice

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