Uncover the chic resorts, sun-soaked beaches and elegant allure that attracts the rich and famous to the exquisite French Riviera. Unpack for a leisurely multi-night stay, embracing the luxury and breathtaking beauty of the French Riviera, or Côte d’Azur. Spend time in the fairy-tale principality of Monaco. Attend one of the world’s oldest and most famous carnivals in Nice. Discover the opulence of Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild and Gardens. Watch artisans create fragrant perfumes. Get a glimpse into the lives of the rich and famous in Cannes. Enjoy leisure time to explore on your own. It’s time you lived a little bit of the good life.
TRAVEL DATE | PRICE | TYPE |
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February 16, 2024 | from $2,999 CAD | Per Person |
DAY | DATE | PLACE |
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1 | Fri Feb 16 | Nice (French Riviera), France - Tour Begins |
2 | Sat Feb 17 | St. Paul de Vence: An Artist’s Haven - Nice: the Flower Parade |
3 | Sun Feb 18 | Nice: the Flower Market & the Local Foodie |
4 | Mon Feb 19 | Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat |
5 | Tue Feb 20 | Glamorous Cannes - Saint-Honorat Island - Nice: Parade of Lights |
6 | Wed Feb 21 | Monaco: Alluring & Royal |
7 | Thu Feb 22 | Hilltop Grasse & Perfume Workshop |
8 | Fri Feb 23 | Nice |
Day 1 – Nice (French Riviera), France – Tour Begins
Your tour commences in the stunning city of Nice, a coastal pearl of the Mediterranean known for its legendary opulence and balmy beaches. With an average of 300 sunny days per year, Nice is a seaside paradise. This evening, join your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner in Vieux Nice featuring Mediterranean-inspired French cuisine.
Day 2 – St. Paul de Vence: An Artist’s Haven – Nice: the Flower Parade
Get acquainted with Nice on a panoramic drive en route to historic St. Paul de Vence. Explore this walled medieval village, remarkably situated atop a hill overlooking the beautiful countryside. Soak in its distinctive light, said to have inspired Matisse, Braque, Chagall and other artists. Back in Nice this afternoon, experience French Carnival traditions by attending the Flower Parade.* While the carnival’s theme changes every year, this event regularly features over 100-thousand flowers, 80% of which are locally grown.
Day 3 – Nice: the Flower Market & the Local Foodie
This morning, get to know Nice with a local expert. Meander through the city’s famed flower market and be enhanced by brightly colored blooms. Then, delve into the Old Town, sampling local delicacies while on a tasting tour. The rest of the day is yours. You might stroll along the lively seafront Promenade des Anglais, set off in search of the whimsical architecture of St. Nicholas’ cathedral, or visit one of Nice’s world-class art galleries, such as the Chagall or the Matisse Museums.
Day 4 – Once Upon a Villa
Head to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, referred to as the crown jewel of the French Riviera, where you’ll visit the impressive Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild. Uncover the lush gardens replete with jaw-dropping views of the Mediterranean Sea. Your visit to the villa is complete with lunch served in the charming tearoom overlooking the Bay of Villefranche. Back in Nice, enjoy free time to relax and take in the laid-back atmosphere along the Riviera. Perhaps you’ll join an optional excursion to a petanque lesson and tournament, including an open bar and some tasty snacks.
Day 5 – Glamorous Cannes – Saint-Honorat Island – Nice: Parade of Lights
Journey to Cannes and rub elbows with Europe’s elite. Walk in the footsteps of celebrities when you see the Film Festival Palace and the iconic red carpet featured during the Cannes Film Festival. During free time, explore the cobbled lanes of the Le Suquet neighborhood or the lively Forville farmer’s market. Then, sail** across the Bay of Cannes to the tiny island of Saint-Honorat, belonging to the monks of Lérins Abbey. Pause for a taste of the locally produced wine before returning to Nice in the late afternoon. This evening attend one of the world’s oldest and most famous carnivals.* Dating back to the middle ages, the Nice Carnival is a party not to be missed. Mingle with locals and travelers alike as you take in the many sights and sounds of the Parade of Lights.
Day 6 – Monaco: Alluring & Royal
Travel along the spectacular Corniche coastal road to the Principality of Monaco. On a walking tour, view the changing of the guards and visit the Cathedral of Monaco – the permanent resting place of Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace. Then it’s your choice! Explore the tiny Principality on a panoramic Little Train tour*** taking you across to Monte Carlo for views of its famous Casino -OR- visit the Oceanographic Museum, perusing its aquarium and the collection of fossils and skeletons amassed by the great researcher Jacques Cousteau. This evening, savor a wine-paired tasting menu highlighting the delights of the South of France.
Day 7 – Hilltop Grasse & Perfume Workshop
Today, learn the secrets of perfume making during a hands-on workshop and tour of the Fragonard Perfumery, where fragrant formulations have been prepared since 1782. Spend time soaking up the atmosphere of this charming Provençal hill town before returning to Nice in the late afternoon. This evening, join your fellow travelers for a farewell dinner in Vieux Nice celebrating the end of an unforgettable trip.
Day 8 – Nice – Tour Ends
Depart for home with many wonderful memories of your journey through the Cote d’Azur.
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