From Nice Cruise Port to Cannes, Grasse, Gourdon & St Paul de Vence private

French Riviera Hinterland Villages: Private Shore Excursion from Nice

On this full-day shore excursion departing from Nice, discover the stunning landscapes, villages, and towns of the French Riviera hinterland.

Pick up at your cruise ship in Nice

Your day begins with pick up directly at your cruise ship in Nice. You will be welcomed by your English-speaking guide, who will go over the program and itinerary of the day with you. Then board your comfortable, premium air-conditioned vehicle and head toward Cannes, where your first stop is a guided walk through the town.

Walk on the famous Croisette in Cannes

Arrive in Cannes and stroll along the famous Croisette Boulevard, lined with the Film Festival Palace, designer boutiques, and smart sandy beaches. Embellished with palm trees and elegant hotels, stylish cafés, and luxury shops, Cannes has become one of the most iconic cities on the French Riviera. You will see where the world-renowned film festival takes place near the conference center, then enjoy some free time to explore and shop.

Visit the capital of perfumes: Grasse

Your small-group tour then continues to the world-famous town of Grasse, known as the capital of perfume. Situated on a slope in a natural amphitheatre at the foot of the Alps, Grasse is a global leader in the production of natural fragrances for the perfume industry and flavourings for food manufacturers. The perfume industry dominates the local economy, and flowers such as roses, jasmine, and bitter orange blossom are cultivated in the surrounding countryside.

Here you will take part in a guided visit of a perfume factory to discover the secrets behind perfume making, from raw materials to finished scents.

Visit the medieval village of Gourdon

Next, reach the medieval village of Gourdon, perched on the edge of a rocky spur high above the Loup River. The village is dotted with tiny shops and is also home to a famous traditional confectionery workshop. After some free time in the village, you will follow the course of the Loup River through the countryside, discovering peaceful viewpoints and quiet corners of the hinterland.

Admire the Loup Canyon landscape and Tourettes-sur-Loup

Your next stop is Tourettes-sur-Loup, another picturesque village set on a rocky hill between two valleys. Known as the “village of violets,” it enchants visitors with its stone houses, colourful flowers, and narrow lanes. As you wander through the streets, you may want to stop in one of the small artisan shops selling unique local arts and crafts.

End the day in Saint-Paul-de-Vence

In the afternoon, stop in medieval Saint-Paul-de-Vence, sheltered behind its ramparts and filled with art galleries, boutiques, and sidewalk cafés. Dating back to the 11th century, the village still bears many traces of its long history.

Saint-Paul-de-Vence is renowned for its artistic heritage, and the surrounding landscapes have inspired many famous painters. Today, an array of galleries and small museums line the quaint cobbled streets. After your visit, it will be time to make your way back to Nice, where your guide will drop you off at your ship, marking the end of your services for the day.