South of France: Culture, Cuisine and the Riviera

Taste the fine wines and culinary delights of the French Riviera on this walking tour. Set off with your knowledgeable local guide and explore a wonderful array of local specialities. You will gain insights into the history and culture of the region. Retrace the footsteps of artists and intellectuals who walked this path, over the centuries, as you sip on Côtes de Provence wines. Discover interesting facts about French wine and master the nuances of spotting a good one. Pop into local hotspots to sample a range of regional delicacies. Take in the sights and sounds of the bustling streets and mingle with the locals. Step into a family restaurant to have your fill of freshly cooked Niçoise specialties. Enjoy more than 22 tastings and plenty of wine before it’s time to wrap up the tour with a generous helping of artisanal gelato. (Duration: half day; Time: 0945 hrs; Shared activity; Group size: max 12 ppl; No transfers; Meals included: wine and food tastings; Please inform us of any food allergies in advance)

Experience the beauty and architecture of the French Riviera on this guided tour. Begin with a scenic drive along the Mediterranean coastline to Monaco, a bastion of glitz and glamor. Traverse the narrow alleyways of Le Rocher in Old Town and arrive at the Monaco Cathedral. See the Prince’s Palace, which houses a classic car museum and zoological gardens. View the Changing of the Guard Ceremony on Palace Square and cruise along the bay to the 18th-century Fort Antoine. Head out to Place du Casino and wrap up your visit with a ride on the Circuit de Monaco. Next, proceed to the medieval village of Eze, perched in the craggy cliffs high above the sea. Follow your guide through its winding alleyways, passing by well-preserved stone buildings and chapels. After, visit the renowned Fragonard Perfumery that produces cosmetics, perfumes and soaps. See how these luxurious products are made, packaged and stored before wrapping up for the day. (Duration: full day; Seasonal: April-Dec; Time: 0830 hrs; Shared activity; Group size: max 8 ppl; No transfers; Starting point: Maison des Alpes Maritimes, 6 Avenue Max Gallo, Nice; Meals included: no; Fitness level: easy; Not available on May 1, Dec 25 & Jan 1)

Spend an enjoyable day in the picturesque Provence region known for its mountainous scenery and fragrant lavender fields. Drive past the scenic countryside to the hamlet of Roussillon that sits perched atop ochre cliffs with its colorful houses making for a striking contrast. On Thursdays, you could mingle with the locals at the weekly market while browsing through fresh produce and exquisite handicrafts. Stop to take stunning images of the hilltop village of Gordes that is home to houses and buildings made of different varieties of natural stone. Travel on to the picturesque town of Fontaine de Vaucluse for a peek at the cave where the River Sorgues originates. Head on to Pont du Gard, a well-preserved ancient Roman aqueduct bridge and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Afterward, journey to the breathtakingly beautiful Les Baux de Provence to explore its medieval fortress and charming cobblestone streets. You can make a short stop at Antiques in Saint Remy de Provence to photograph the two ancient Roman monuments that occupy pride of place. On Sundays, you can stop by the weekly market in L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue before returning to the city by nightfall. (Full Day; Time: 0830 hrs; Group Size: Max 8 guests; Shared Activity; Fitness Level: Easy.)