See all the best sites and highlights of the French Riviera in this full-day Monte Carlo excursion, guided small groups only!
After meeting your English-speaking sightseeing excursion driver/guide on your Monte Carlo cruise ship pier, you will depart Monaco in an exclusive shore excursion group of no more than eight guests, to reach the Medieval hilltop perched town of Eze, approximately 30 minutes away. Here, you will have approximately 20 minutes to take photos of the quaint town or browse the shops at the base. The views from the top are amazing.
Next, a short visit is made at the nearby Fragonard perfume, soap, and cosmetics factory located in Grasse. You will have a short guided walk through and the staff on hand will explain how to choose a fragrance that is right for you.
Your French Riviera cruise excursion will continue through the hills to the village of La Turbie. You will stop for a photo overlooking the town and the ruins of the 6th century BC Tropaeum Alpium, (Trophy of the Alps) which was erected by Roman Emperor Augustus.
The Riviera's lap of luxury, Monaco awaits next. Your first stop will be the Rock, a rocky outcrop where you will have an exterior visit of the Royal Prince Palace. If timing permits, you might see the changing of the guard that occurs at 11:55 AM daily. Guests may choose to view the Cathedral just a few yards away, where those wishing can see the final resting place of Prince Rainier and his Princess Grace.
Up next is a glimpse of the glitz and glamour of Monte Carlo. You will take a quick drive over to Casino Square. There is time for a quick photo of the exterior of the Monte Carlo Casino with the endless lineup of exotic and luxury cars lined up in front, the Hotel de Paris, or the Cafe de Paris.
Exiting the city, you will drive along a portion of the Grand Prix circuit, as you depart Monte Carlo and drive 40 minutes to the artistic town of St. Paul de Vence. In the 1920s, the richness and intensity of the light, colors, and scenery in this area attracted artists, including Signac, Picasso, and Matisse. The film world discovered the village in the 1950s as both a filming location and actor's hideaway. You will have approximately 60 minutes to wander this intriguing maze of pedestrian streets, courtyards and squares dotted with artist's shops and cafes.
Departing the hills, it is approximately a 30-minute drive to the coast and the popular old town of Antibes. Your Monte Carlo and French Riviera excursion guide will drive you along the ancient walls giving you some of the histories of the town. You will also see the scenic harbor or Billionaire's Quay as it is referred to as full of mega yachts. If time and traffic allow, a stop will be made for photos.
From Antibes, it's a short 20-minute drive to Cannes, for a drive along La Croisette, the waterfront boulevard. It is a must-see with the endless beach clubs on one side and the gleaming white Belle Epoque buildings, high-end designer shops, and exclusive hotels on the other.
A photo stop is made outside of the Palais des Festivals building, home each May to the Cannes Film Festival. Pose on the same steps as the stars do each year. From here, it is a 40-minute drive back to your cruise pier in Monte Carlo, Monaco.
Please note: The order of sites visited on this Monte Carlo and French Riviera Sightseeing Excursion may change based on crowds and traffic.
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