Pre / Post Cruise Extentions: The Ultimate Provence & French Riviera Experience

Bienvenue to Nice!

Upon arrival at Nice Côte d’Azur Airport or Nice train station, you’ll be met by your private driver and transferred to your chosen hotel in the heart of this elegant Mediterranean city.

The remainder of the day is yours to begin discovering why Nice has captivated artists, writers and travellers for generations.

Take a leisurely stroll along the famous Promenade des Anglais, wander through the colourful lanes of Vieux Nice (Old Town), browse local boutiques, or simply relax with a glass of Provençal rosé overlooking the sparkling Mediterranean Sea.

Your accommodation has been carefully selected for its comfort and excellent location, allowing you to explore the city at your own pace.

A day of spectacular coastal scenery, medieval villages and Riviera glamour.

After breakfast, meet your local English-speaking guide and set off on one of the most scenic drives in France along the legendary Côte d’Azur.

Your first stop is the enchanting hilltop village of Èze, one of the Riviera’s most beautiful medieval villages. Perched high above the Mediterranean, its narrow cobbled streets, stone houses, artisan boutiques and breathtaking panoramic views make it an unforgettable experience.

While in Èze, you’ll also discover the fascinating world of French fragrance during a guided visit to the renowned Fragonard Perfume Factory, where you’ll learn how traditional perfumes are crafted using techniques perfected over generations.

From here, continue into the Principality of Monaco, the world’s second-smallest country and home to the Grimaldi family for more than 700 years.

Explore the charming streets of Monaco’s Old Town, admire the Prince’s Palace, visit Monaco Cathedral where Princess Grace Kelly rests, and soak up the unique atmosphere of this remarkable principality.

The afternoon is dedicated to glamorous Monte Carlo, famous for its elegant casino, luxury boutiques, magnificent hotels and world-famous Formula One Grand Prix circuit. You’ll even follow sections of the legendary race track as you drive through the city.

After an unforgettable day discovering the jewels of the French Riviera, return to Nice.

Discover the authentic heart of the Côte d’Azur.

Today’s journey combines glamour, perfume, spectacular scenery and some of France’s most beautiful villages.

Begin in the famous seaside resort of Cannes, internationally known for its prestigious Film Festival. Stroll along the elegant Boulevard de la Croisette, admire the luxury yachts, boutique shopping and magnificent Belle Époque hotels that have made Cannes synonymous with Riviera sophistication.

Next, travel inland to Grasse, recognised as the perfume capital of France. During a guided visit to the historic Fragonard Perfume Factory, discover the secrets behind French perfume making before enjoying free time to explore this charming Provençal town.

Continue through the spectacular countryside to the hilltop village of Gourdon, dramatically perched above the Loup Valley. Wander its picturesque streets, admire breathtaking views across the mountains and Mediterranean coastline, and browse artisan shops showcasing local crafts and delicacies.

Your final stop is the magnificent medieval village of Saint-Paul de Vence, widely regarded as one of the most beautiful villages in France. Surrounded by ancient ramparts, this artistic haven has inspired renowned painters including Chagall, Matisse and Picasso. Explore its charming cobblestone streets lined with galleries, cafés and boutique shops before returning to Nice.

Leave the French Riviera behind and travel into the heart of Provence. Sit back and enjoy the changing landscapes as the coastline gives way to vineyards, olive groves and picturesque countryside before arriving in elegant Aix-en-Provence, your base for the next stage of your Provençal journey.

Spend the day in one of France’s most celebrated wine regions.

Your private guide will take you towards Châteauneuf-du-Pape for visits and tastings at selected wineries. Learn about the region’s historic vineyards, its connection with the Avignon papacy and the distinctive character of its red and white wines.

Lunch is at leisure, with the option for France Travel Solutions to assist with a restaurant recommendation or reservation, subject to the day’s routing.

Enjoy a full day at leisure in Aix-en-Provence. Today is Market Day! The historic streets and squares come alive with colourful stalls selling fresh local produce, artisan cheeses, olives, lavender, flowers, fabrics and handcrafted goods. Wander through the bustling markets, relax at a café beneath the plane trees of the Cours Mirabeau, discover boutique shops and art galleries, or simply soak up the relaxed Provençal atmosphere at your own pace. This is the perfect opportunity to experience everyday life in Provence and enjoy the town exactly as the locals do.

Today is a day of sea air, limestone cliffs and Provençal coastal charm.

Visit Cassis, a picturesque fishing village known for its harbour, markets, boutiques and access to the Calanques. A boat ride offers views of the famous inlets and turquoise waters, followed by time for lunch at leisure.

In the afternoon, continue via the dramatic coastal scenery around Cap Canaille before enjoying a wine tasting in the Côtes de Provence Sainte-Victoire area.

Bid farewell to Aix-en-Provence and travel through the heart of Provence, stopping to explore two of its most iconic villages. Discover the charming streets and Provençal atmosphere of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, before continuing to the spectacular hilltop village of Les Baux-de-Provence, renowned for its medieval heritage and breathtaking views.

Later in the day, continue to Sète to embark on MS Anne-Marie, where your exclusive gastronomic cruise through Southern France begins.