French Riviera: Historical Antibes, Artistic St Paul de Vence and Magnetic Nice

Explore the French Riviera with a private tour that takes you to historical Antibes, artistic St Paul de Vence, and magnetic Nice. Customize your itinerary and discover the rich history and beauty of these charming towns.

Duration: 7 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights

• Formerly known as Antipolis, this town remains impressive with its Fort Carré – massive fortifications overlooking the harbor and a beautiful marina. The castle in the old town now houses the Picasso Museum, and the large yard in front transforms into a Provençal market every morning, filled with thousands of scents and colors. It’s no wonder so many people seek an escape in this town, the third largest in the French Riviera today.

• The next stop is a must-see: the village of artists hidden in the hills – Saint Paul de Vence. This medieval town, enclosed by 14th-century ramparts, was once called the Royal City. Over 100 years ago, it became a true mecca for artists – young painters, sculptors, and modern designers. The trend began when Picasso, Chagall, Matisse, and many others came here for inspiration – and you’ll easily see why. Even today, many emerging artists find their home here, creating a unique blend of medieval narrow streets with galleries, ateliers, and shop windows full of modern art. If you are interested in contemporary art, the world’s largest collection is also located in St. Paul at the prestigious Maeght Foundation.

• After a short ride along Nice’s main street, Promenade des Anglais, we’ll continue to the Old Town, stopping at the vibrant Massena Square next to the statue of Apollo. From there, you can enjoy walking around the heart of Old Nice. Must-see spots include Cours Saleya – an incredible flower market that transforms into a Mediterranean food court in the evenings, and the surrounding baroque streets next to the Opera building, which are reflected in the paintings of Matisse and still proudly hold the mood of the Napoleonic era. The splendid example of Nice’s Neoclassical heritage, the Palace of Justice, and the square with its charming fountain and souvenir boutiques will capture your full attention.

• From Old Nice, you will continue by car to the historical district of Nice – Cimiez. Famous not only for the monumental Winter Palace of British Queen Victoria but also for its proximity to the ruins of the ancient Roman city of Cemenelum – an archaeological site that tells you more about Nice from the early days of our era, surrounded by olive gardens.

• Our last stop will be in front of St. Nicholas Orthodox Cathedral – the largest Eastern Orthodox cathedral in Western Europe, opened in 1912 to serve the large Russian community that had settled in Nice by the end of the 19th century. Its Byzantine style and beautiful gardens tell another story of the city and its connection to the times of the Tsars.

• On our way back to Cannes, we will drive along the motorway.

Points of Interest

  • La Croisette

  • Musée Picasso

  • Promenade des Anglais

  • Cathédrale Saint-Nicolas à Nice

  • Place Massena

  • Fondation Maeght

  • Marché aux Fleurs Cours Saleya

  • Office de Tourisme de Saint-Paul de Vence

  • Fort Carré

  • Sophie Tour

What's Included
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Private tour
  • Driver/guide
  • Transport by private vehicle
What's Not Included
  • Food and drinks
Additional Information

Your expert guide will rendezvous with you at the predetermined location in Cannes, commencing your care-filled journey for the next 7 hours. Since this is an exclusive tour, your itinerary is flexible and open to spontaneous changes, and the guide will happily tailor the tour according to your interests. You’ll be exploring three unique cities, the historical and naval Antibes, the artistic St Paul de Vence, and the enticing Nice. Starting from the heart of Cannes - the glamorous Promenade des Croisette, we’ll venture towards Antibes - the first city to be established on the Cote d’Azur by the Greeks and strategically located between Marseille and Italy.

  • Children must be accompanied by an adult
Location
La Croisette
Promenade de la Croisette
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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up to 8 guests
1
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October 2024
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