The French Riviera is a captivating destination, and Nice is its crown jewel. Nestled along the Mediterranean coast, this vibrant city offers a rich tapestry of history, architecture, and natural beauty. Visitors can explore the Cimiez district‘s Roman ruins, Queen Victoria’s palace, and the Baroque Cimiez Monastery. Beyond the city, the charming village of Villefranche-sur-Mer beckons with its picturesque port and quaint shops. But the true gem of the region may lie in the vineyards, where a visit to the historic Château Crémat promises an immersive wine tasting experience guided by expert sommeliers.
Key Points
- Explore the historical and architectural highlights of Nice, including the Cimiez district, St. Nicholas Cathedral, and the iconic Promenade des Anglais.
- Discover the charming seaside village of Villefranche-sur-Mer with its colorful fishing boats, quaint shops, and picturesque Mediterranean ambiance.
- Indulge in a wine tasting experience at the historic Château Crémat estate, learning about the region’s winemaking traditions.
- Admire the panoramic views of Nice and its waterfall from the tranquil Gairaut Hill, immersed in the city’s natural splendor.
- Enjoy a comprehensive 9-hour private tour that combines the city’s history, renowned wine region, and stunning coastal scenery.
More tours and experiences nearby.
Overview and Highlights
This 9-hour private tour offers guests the opportunity to discover Nice as a local, with a focus on the city’s rich history and renowned wine region.
Highlights include visits to the Cimiez district, home to Roman arenas, Queen Victoria’s palace, and a stunning monastery. Guests will also see the grand St. Nicholas Cathedral, a large Orthodox cathedral, and explore the charming medieval village of Villefranche-sur-Mer and its colorful port.
The tour includes a wine tasting at Château Crémat, where the iconic Coco Chanel once stayed, and a chance to take in the breathtaking views of Nice from Gairaut hill and its picturesque waterfall.
Tour Itinerary
The tour begins at the vibrant Provençal market on Place de la Libération, where guests can enjoy the local culture and browse the array of fresh produce and artisanal goods.
From there, the group will visit the historic Cimiez district, renowned for its Roman arenas, Queen Victoria’s palace, and serene monastery.
Next, they’ll drive along the iconic Promenade des Anglais and the picturesque port of Nice before exploring the medieval village of Villefranche-sur-Mer.
The tour culminates with a visit to Château Crémat for a wine tasting, followed by a breathtaking view of Nice and its waterfall from Gairaut hill.
The key stops on the tour itinerary include:
- Provençal market on Place de la Libération
- Cimiez district
- Promenade des Anglais and the port of Nice
- Villefranche-sur-Mer and Château Crémat wine tasting
Provençal Market and Cimiez
At the vibrant Provençal market on Place de la Libération, guests can enjoy the local culture and browse the array of fresh produce and artisanal goods. From there, the tour continues to the historic Cimiez district, renowned for its Roman arenas, Queen Victoria’s palace, and serene monastery. The district boasts a wealth of history and architectural beauty, captivating visitors with its ancient ruins and elegant landmarks. Guests can explore the Cimiez Monastery, a well-preserved example of Baroque architecture, and gain insights into the area’s rich cultural heritage.
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Roman Arenas | Impressive ancient amphitheaters |
Queen Victoria’s Palace | Elegant 19th-century residence |
Cimiez Monastery | Baroque architectural masterpiece |
Views | Panoramic vistas of the surrounding area |
Promenade Des Anglais and Nice Port
From the historic Cimiez district, the tour now takes guests along the iconic Promenade des Anglais, a legendary seaside avenue that hugs the stunning coastline of Nice. Travelers can admire the grand Belle Époque hotels and chic beach clubs that line this legendary promenade, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of this celebrated French Riviera destination.
Shortly after, the tour explores the charming port of Nice, where rows of colorful fishing boats and yachts bob gently in the calm waters, creating a picturesque scene that’s quintessentially Mediterranean.
The highlights of this section of the tour include:
- Admiring the architectural grandeur of the Promenade des Anglais.
- Observing the lively beach culture and outdoor cafes.
- Exploring the bustling port and its vibrant fishing industry.
- Capturing the quintessential Mediterranean ambiance of Nice.
Villefranche-sur-Mer Exploration
Visitors’ exploration of the medieval village of Villefranche-sur-Mer unveils its picturesque port, where rows of colorful fishing boats and luxury yachts dot the calm, azure waters.
The charming seaside town’s winding cobblestone streets are lined with quaint shops, cafes, and historic buildings. Strolling through the village, one can admire the distinctive terracotta-tiled roofs and pastel-hued facades that give Villefranche-sur-Mer its timeless Mediterranean character.
The tranquil harbor serves as the backdrop for a delightful lunch, providing an opportunity to savor local cuisine and soak in the serene ambiance of this enchanting destination.
With its rich history and picturesque setting, Villefranche-sur-Mer captivates visitors, inviting them to enjoy the authentic charm of the French Riviera.
Château Crémat Wine Tasting
After exploring the charming village of Villefranche-sur-Mer, the tour continues to Château Crémat for a wine tasting experience.
Nestled among the picturesque vineyards of the French Riviera, this historic estate offers visitors the chance to explore the region’s renowned oenological heritage. The tasting allows guests to sample the château’s finest wines, guided by knowledgeable sommeliers who share insights into the winemaking process and the unique terroir.
The experience is further enhanced by the stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the opportunity to learn about the property’s rich history, which includes a connection to the legendary fashion designer Coco Chanel.
The wine tasting at Château Crémat offers:
- Sampling of the château’s premium wines
- Guidance from expert sommeliers
- Insight into the region’s winemaking traditions
- Picturesque setting amidst the French Riviera vineyards
Gairaut Hill and Waterfall
The tour wraps up with a visit to Gairaut hill, which offers a captivating panoramic view of Nice and its stunning natural wonder – a cascading waterfall nestled amidst the lush greenery.
Perched atop the hill, visitors can take in the breathtaking vistas of the city, the azure Mediterranean Sea, and the majestic waterfall that cascades down the rocky cliffs.
The tranquil setting provides a peaceful respite from the bustling city below, allowing travelers to soak in the serene natural beauty that surrounds them.
As the tour comes to a close, this final stop on Gairaut hill leaves a lasting impression, cementing the day’s exploration of Nice and its fascinating blend of history, culture, and natural splendor.
Inclusions and Exclusions
This private tour package includes a knowledgeable driver/guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, and a wine tasting experience at Château Crémat.
However, the cost of food and gratuities are excluded from the tour price.
The tour provides a comprehensive exploration of Nice and its surrounding areas, allowing visitors to discover the city like a local. Highlights include visiting the Cimiez district, exploring the medieval village of Villefranche-sur-Mer, and enjoying the stunning views from Gairaut hill.
While meals aren’t included, the wine tasting at Château Crémat, where Coco Chanel once stayed, offers a unique opportunity to savor the local flavors.
The inclusions and exclusions of this tour ensure a well-balanced experience, catering to the diverse needs and preferences of travelers.
Some key tour inclusions and exclusions are:
-
Inclusions:
- Private driver/guide
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Transportation
- Wine tasting at Château Crémat
-
Exclusions:
- Food
- Gratuities
Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.
- From Nice: Saint-Tropez and Port Grimaud Day Tour
- From Nice: Verdon Gorge Full-Day Tour
- From Nice: Provence and Its Medieval Villages Full-Day Tour
- From Nice: Saint-Tropez and Port Grimaud Full-Day Tour
- From Nice: the Grand Canyon of Europe & Its Lavender Fields
- From Nice: Antibes & St Paul De Vence Tour With Wine Tasting
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Request a Custom Tour Itinerary?
Absolutely, the tour provider offers flexibility to customize the itinerary based on the customer’s interests. They’re happy to accommodate requests and tailor the experience to ensure a memorable and personalized tour.
Do You Accommodate Dietary Restrictions for the Wine Tasting?
The tour provider is able to accommodate dietary restrictions for the wine tasting. They’ll work with guests to ensure their needs are met and they can fully enjoy the wine tasting experience.
Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?
The tour is wheelchair accessible, with provisions for navigating the historic sites and vehicles accommodating mobility needs. However, some areas may have limited accessibility due to the terrain and age of the locations visited.
Can I Book This Tour for a Larger Group?
Yes, the tour can accommodate larger groups. The overview states the tour is available for up to 8 people, so customers can book this private tour for a group size of 9 or more by contacting the tour provider.
What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Reschedule?
The tour has a flexible cancellation policy – guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This allows them to easily reschedule if needed without penalty.
Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby
- Bike and Boat
- Nice: Photoshoot Experience
- Nice: Italian Market, Eze, and Turbie Tour
- Nice: Airport Transfer to Menton
- Nice: Provence Village Tour With Wine and Produce Tasting
- Monaco and Monte Carlo by Night Private Tour
- Nice: Christmas Market Walking Tour
- From Nice: Eze, Monaco, Cap Ferrat, and Villa Rothschild
- Nice: Airport Transfer to Port Grimaud
- Nice: Private Transfer From Nice Airport to Port Hercule
- From Nice: Eze, Monaco & Monte Carlo Half-Day Tour
- Nice Intl Airport (Nce): Private Transfer to Cannes Hotels
- Nice Airport Transfer to Saint-Tropez
- Nice: Iconic Sights Private Photo Walk Tour
- Nice: Private 2-Hour Perfume Creation Experience
Recap
Exploring the captivating city of Nice, the quaint village of Villefranche-sur-Mer, and the historic Château Crémat winery offers a rich tapestry of history, architecture, and natural beauty.
From the Promenade des Anglais to the Provençal Market, visitors can enjoy the vibrant culture of the French Riviera.
This comprehensive tour provides a well-rounded experience, leaving travelers with lasting memories of the region’s charm and elegance.