Exploring the vibrant markets of the Italian Riviera is a captivating experience that can be enjoyed on a small-group day tour from Nice. Travelers will embark on a scenic drive along the French and Italian coastlines, seeing the lively atmosphere of the local markets. Here, they’ll discover an abundance of unique wares, colorful produce, and authentic street food – all while savoring the flavors of the region. The tour’s personalized approach, with a maximum capacity of 8 travelers, ensures a truly memorable experience. But what secrets might these charming markets hold, waiting to be unveiled by the curious explorer?

This experience made our list of the 14 Best Shopping Tours In Nice.

Key Points

Italian Market Shopping Small Group Day Tour From Nice - Key Points

  • Small-group day trip to explore the bustling Italian Riviera markets, with a scenic drive along the French and Italian coast.
  • Two hours of shopping time at vibrant stalls selling unique Italian wares and produce, with a professional driver/guide providing onboard commentary.
  • Opportunity to visit the charming medieval town of Dolceacqua and savor authentic Italian Riviera flavors.
  • Wheelchair and stroller accessibility, with a maximum capacity of 8 travelers for a personalized small-group experience.
  • Complimentary pickup from Nice city center hotels, with a stress-free start and end to the day trip.

Tour Overview

Italian Market Shopping Small Group Day Tour From Nice - Tour Overview

The tour offers a small-group day trip to the Italian Riviera markets of San Remo and Bordighera from Nice, featuring a scenic drive along the French and Italian coast and two hours of shopping at the Italian markets.

Travelers can look forward to browsing the vibrant stalls and discovering unique Italian wares, from fresh produce to handcrafted goods.

The tour also includes a visit to the charming town of Dolceacqua, where guests can enjoy lunch at their own expense and explore the historic architecture and winding streets.

With a professional driver/guide providing onboard commentary, the tour provides a well-rounded experience of the Italian Riviera’s culture and attractions.

Included in the Tour

Italian Market Shopping Small Group Day Tour From Nice - Included in the Tour

This tour includes a professional driver/guide who provides onboard commentary throughout the journey, offering travelers valuable insights into the sights and culture of the Italian Riviera.

Guests will be transported by an 8-seater air-conditioned Mercedes Minivan, ensuring a comfortable and convenient mode of transportation.

The tour is available in both English and French, with other languages available upon request, catering to the needs of diverse travelers. It’s also wheelchair and stroller accessible, with infant seats provided, making it suitable for families and those with accessibility requirements.

The tour provides the opportunity to take in the vibrant Italian markets and explore the picturesque town of Dolceacqua, all while enjoying the scenic drive along the French and Italian coast.

Pickup and Drop-off

Italian Market Shopping Small Group Day Tour From Nice - Pickup and Drop-off

Complimentary pickup from centrally located Nice hotels is provided, though pickup isn’t available from cruise ships.

The tour operator understands that travelers coming off cruise ships may have different schedules and needs, so they’ve opted not to offer pickup from the ports.

Instead, the tour focuses on providing a seamless experience for guests staying in Nice’s city center. Whether you’re at a hotel, Airbnb, or other accommodation, the driver will come to collect you and ensure a stress-free start to your day trip.

Once the tour concludes, you’ll be dropped off back at your original pickup location, making it easy to continue your French Riviera adventures.

Weekly Market Visits

On Tuesdays and Saturdays, the tour takes visitors to the lively market in San Remo, while Thursdays bring a visit to the market in Bordighera, offering ample time to browse the stalls and discover unique Italian goods.

These vibrant markets are filled with:

  • Rows of colorful produce, from juicy tomatoes to fragrant herbs
  • Artisanal crafts, including handmade ceramics and intricate lace
  • Tempting aromas of freshly baked breads and sizzling street food
  • Bustling crowds of locals and travelers alike, creating a lively atmosphere

With two hours to explore these authentic Italian marketplaces, travelers can enjoy the rich culture and find exceptional souvenirs to bring home.

Lunch and Dolceacqua

After exploring the vibrant markets, travelers enjoy a stop for lunch at their own expense. This provides an opportunity to savor the authentic flavors of the Italian Riviera, with local eateries offering an array of regional specialties.

Following the lunch break, the tour continues with a visit to the charming medieval town of Dolceacqua. Set against a backdrop of rolling hills, Dolceacqua’s historic center features a picturesque stone bridge, castle ruins, and winding cobblestone streets.

Visitors can wander through the quaint town, admiring the architecture and soaking in the tranquil atmosphere. This stop offers a chance to take in the rich cultural heritage of the region and provides a delightful contrast to the bustling energy of the outdoor markets.

Accessibility and Capacity

The tour is designed to accommodate travelers with limited mobility, with the minivan offering wheelchair and stroller accessibility. Infant seats are also available to ensure the comfort and safety of younger participants.

However, the tour may not be suitable for cruise ship passengers due to timing constraints.

The tour has a maximum capacity of 8 travelers, ensuring a small-group experience and personalized attention from the driver/guide. The air-conditioned Mercedes Minivan provides a comfortable and scenic drive along the French and Italian coast.

The tour is available in English and French, with other languages available upon request, catering to a diverse audience.

Tour Suitability

Italian Market Shopping Small Group Day Tour From Nice - Tour Suitability

This tour caters to a diverse range of travelers, offering a unique opportunity to explore the vibrant Italian markets and charming coastal towns.

However, it’s important to note that the tour may not be suitable for cruise ship passengers due to the timing constraints.

The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it accessible to a wide range of guests. Infant seats are also available, accommodating families with young children.

With a maximum of 8 travelers, the small-group format ensures a personalized and intimate experience.

Whether you’re seeking a cultural adventure, a day of shopping, or simply a scenic drive along the French and Italian coast, this tour provides a well-rounded and enjoyable experience for those who can participate.

Additional Information

Italian Market Shopping Small Group Day Tour From Nice - Additional Information

Wheelchair and stroller users can access the tour, and infant seats are available to accommodate families with young children.

The small-group format, with a maximum of 8 travelers, ensures a personalized and intimate experience.

The tour isn’t suitable for cruise ship passengers due to the timings, as the markets are visited on specific days of the week.

The scenic drive along the French and Italian coast, the 2-hour shopping experience at the Italian markets, and the visit to the charming town of Dolceacqua all contribute to a well-rounded and enjoyable day trip.

The tour is available in English and French, with other languages available upon request.

  • Wheelchair and stroller accessible
  • Infant seats available
  • Maximum of 8 travelers
  • Not suitable for cruise ship passengers

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time to Arrive at the Markets?

The best time to arrive at the markets is early in the morning, typically around 9 AM. This allows visitors to browse the stalls when they’re fully stocked and crowds are smaller, ensuring the best selection and shopping experience.

Can We Sample Local Foods and Drinks During the Tour?

The tour includes time for travelers to sample local foods and drinks at the markets. While lunch is not included, guests can purchase and taste regional specialties during the 2-hour market visits.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour duration can be extended, but this would need to be arranged in advance with the tour operator. Additional fees may apply for a longer tour. Customers should inquire about extension options when booking the tour.

Do We Get Any Discounts at the Market Stalls?

The tour does not include any discounts at the market stalls. Travelers are free to negotiate prices with individual vendors based on their own bargaining skills. However, the tour itself does not provide any special discounts or deals at the markets.

Can We Make Unscheduled Stops During the Tour?

The tour typically follows a set itinerary, but the guide may accommodate unscheduled stops if time allows and the group agrees. However, any additional stops or requests are at the discretion of the guide and subject to logistics.

Recap

The Italian market shopping tour from Nice offers a unique opportunity to explore the vibrant Italian Riviera.

Travelers can enjoy the lively atmosphere, discover unique wares, and savor the flavors of the region.

The small-group format and air-conditioned transportation ensure a personalized and comfortable experience.

With the charming town of Dolceacqua and ample time for shopping, this tour provides an excellent way to experience the best of the Italian Riviera.