While neighbours Cannes, Saint Tropez and Monaco regularly turn more heads and headlines across the world, it is Nice, the unofficial capital along the fabled Cote d’Azur and perhaps the only one with a real city grit that truly commands a more than skin-deep sparkle than your glittering beach resorts. For a real taste of the French Riviera, Nice is your perfect starting point with its easy access and mixture of old-world opulence, modern exuberance and bewitching architecture. Hail the Queen of the Riviera today with a customised Nice tour package from Chan Brothers Travel Private Tours and succumb to her glory of year-round sunshine, azure waters and the coveted French Riviera way of life.
A nice soakWhile the Bay of Angels is stunningly beautiful, the main pebbled beaches along its coastline can be too busy for your liking if you are those sorts that prefer a little respite when soaking in the rays. Tucked in amongst the rocks and feeling like an almost tropical heaven, Coco Beach that is the preferred sunbathing spot amongst locals and vastly unknown by travellers could be your own little hidden discovery away from the hordes. Snorkel and explore local marine life, climb a cliff, dive off it and work out a healthy sweat, enjoy a nice soak in clear turquoise waters or simply lay your towel on one of the numerous flat rocks in the enclosed beach area and idle your afternoon away.
A Riviera day trip
Day trip options along this splendid coast are aplenty but perhaps nearby Monaco, its capital Monte Carlo, its ornate palace and the world-famous circuit of the Formula One Grand Prix can be too strong a pull for you to resist. Immerse yourself in a delightful day trip in which your personalised guide would bring you on a whirlwind tour of these rich sights of Monaco and more. Add in a sidetrack to Eze, a medieval village perched high on a cliff, for a few sniffs of the most resplendent of French perfumes, and not forgetting the chance to marvel at the incredibly scenic views of the French Riviera at any given point throughout your commute.
The chocolate treatment
Well known for its wide range of luxurious treatments using high-quality French products and amenities, La Bulle D’Isis is a top-notch French spa, but for a truly unique experience, skip the usual and go straight in for the decadent “chococooning” treatment where you will truly by cocooned from head to toe in a tub of ganache and melted chocolate. We know that eating chocolate can be a form of stress relief but this is indulgence of another level indeed.
For more fascinating destinations in France, see:
If you are searching for a holiday along southeastern France’s stunning coastline, a customised Nice tour package from Chan Brothers Travel Private Tours will not disappoint. Call 6212 9935 or email privatetours@chanbrothers.com.sg to find out more.
Highlights
Every itinerary can be fully customised according to needs, special interests, personal preferences and defining style of just about anyone who wants to travel privately and exclusively.
Assemble at Singapore Changi Airport for your flight to Nice. Upon arrival at the airport, meet your driver and enjoy a private airport transfer to your hotel.
Today, visit Cours Saleya at the heart of the old town. Bask in the vibrant ambience of its colourful market square, where you can score the freshest fruits, vegetables and local produce. Venture on to Palais Lascaris, where the grandeur of former nobility lives on, from decadent tapestries, frescoes and magnificent staircases to the largest collection of historical musical instruments. After lunch, proceed to Parc de la Colline du Chateau, where the Nikaia was founded by ancient Greeks. Spend the rest of the day at leisure. You may wish to climb the steps from Rue de la Providence or Montee du Chateau, or simply enjoy the fabulous city views.
Market Square
Today, gear up for a half-day tour of Eze, Monaco and Monte-Carlo, where spectacular views of Nice, Cap Ferrat and the Mediterranean await. Visit the medieval village of Eze, discover Fragonard’s iconic perfumes, soak up the charms of Monaco and see its princely palace and casino square. Then, gear up for a thrilling ride along the tracks of Monaco Grand Prix through the winding roads of Monaco.
Medieval Village of Eze
This morning, head to St Tropez. Visit Citadel of St-Tropez and its maritime history museum before proceeding to Toulon, where you can stroll around the old town and savour a delectable lunch at your own leisure. Venture on to bustling Rue d’Alger before visiting Place Puget to get a glimpse of Fontaine des Trois Dauphins. Arrive in Marseille for your overnight stay.
Fontaine des Trois Dauphins
Embark on a guided tour of Provence, including stops at the famous hilltop villages of Luberon, Roussillon and Lourmarin. Soak up panoramic views before stopping at Plateau de Claparedes, famed for its gorgeous lavender fields, when in season.
Lavender Fields
This morning, depart for the quaint village of Mougins, regarded as the region’s capital of gastronomy and lifestyle. Next, proceed to Le Suquet, the old town of Cannes. Visit the 11th-century watchtower of Tour Du Mont Chevalier and relish a delightful dinner before you return to Nice for your overnight stay.
Le Suquet
Enjoy a private airport transfer from your hotel to the airport for your flight home.