South of France: Culture, Cuisine and the Riviera
South of France: Culture, Cuisine and the Riviera
Explore the dreamy Côte d’Azur or French Riviera, from sun-soaked Nice to ruins and medieval villages. Travel inland to discover the lavender landscapes of Provence and the old town of Avignon. In Bordeaux, see historic monuments and sample famous wine at verdant vineyards. End your journey in Lyon, the gastronomic capital of France, with a unique culinary tour of the Old Town.
Itinerary Summary
| 1 – 4 | Nice | Gorgeous Beachside Town, Old Town Market, Castle of Nice | Hotel Monsigny Nice, Le Suisse |
| 4 – 6 | Avignon | Pont d’Avignon, Avignon Cathedral, Palais des Papes | Hotel Bristol Avignon, Hotel de l’Horloge |
| 6 – 8 | Bordeaux | Place de la Bourse, Bordeaux Cathedral, Museums & Architecture, Wines | Le Burdigala Hotel Bordeaux, InterContinental Bordeaux Le Grand Hotel |
| 8 – 9 | Lyon | Gastronomy, Renaissance Architecture, Fashion & Nightlife | Le Phénix Hôtel, InterContinental Lyon – Hotel Dieu |
| 9 – 10 | Nice | Gorgeous Beachside Town, Old Town Market, Castle of Nice | Hotel Monsigny Nice, Splendid Hotel & Spa Nice |
Ideal For
Itinerary Details
You will be transferred from Nice airport to your hotel in a private vehicle
A Mediterranean seaside with palm trees, sunny days and balmy nights, a grand boulevard and the old-world opulence of the South of France – that’s Nice for you in a nutshell. The glittering queen of the French Riviera, Nice has attracted the bold and the bountiful to its sunny shores along the Cote d’Azur for ages.
Highlights of Nice on Foot
Arrive at the picturesque waterfront Promenade des Anglais and its iconic Beau Rivage beach to begin exploring the several landmarks and attractions in the heart of Nice, on foot. Pass by the belle epoque Opéra de Nice, and head to the atmospheric Masséna Square framed by myriad neo-classical structures. Continue onward to the lush and fountained Paillon Promenade. Following your local insider’s live commentary amid whiffs of lavender, learn about the history of the French Riviera. Making your way through the bustling Old Town, take in the fantastic architecture of pastel-colored buildings that fringe the narrow streets. Amble about Cours Saleya – a lively and colorful open-air market retailing a variety of produce from across Provence. Admire the ornate 17th-century Sainte-Répérate Cathedral and the bevy of modern urban installations at the Promenade des Arts. Finally, relax in the botanic gardens of Castle Hill, and take in panoramic vistas of the city and beyond! (Duration: 3 hrs; Times: 0930/1430 hrs; Private Activity & Transfer; Group size: Max 8 guests; Pick-up & Drop-off at central hotel; Fitness level: Easy; Please wear comfortable walking shoes).
Explore Nice on Your Own
Uncover the secrets of this sunny coastal town on the French Riviera in this self-guided tour. Begin your exploration with a trip to the vibrant Cours Saleya which hosts four different markets. Browse through the staggering displays of fresh flowers, exotic produce, local snacks, and even antiques on some days. Afterward, you could soak up the sun on one of the spectacular beaches along the long coastline and indulge in water activities ranging from kayaking to swimming. Or, you could stroll down the narrow alleyways to marvel at the eclectic mix of architectural styles that can be seen around the city. Keep your camera ready to click great pictures of the Mediterranean rooftops with their distinctive orange color, the stately buildings in Place Garibaldi, and ornate churches. Having worked up an appetite, tingle your taste buds with local specialties such as socca or chickpea pancakes, ratatouille the popular vegetable stew, and pissaladière or caramelized onion tarts at one of the cozy bistros in town. Top it off with an ice cream or a sweet treat and excellent wine before you make your way back to the hotel. (Half Day; Self-guided Activity & Transfers; Fitness Level: Easy. It is recommended that you wear comfortable shoes as there may be a fair bit of walking involved.)
Cooking with a Niçoise Masterchef
Sign up for a Masterchef class, learning how to turn out the perfect Niçoise style gourmet feast during this private cooking class. Meet your home chef at the popular Massena Square Fountain, well in time for your culinary lesson. Head to the local market where you will pick up the day’s freshest catch and seasonal produce from the region. Walk down to your chef’s home kitchen to cook up the day’s menu, an elegant luncheon spread. Watch, learn and assist your chef as a gourmet repast is prepared and shared around your host’s table, accompanied by aperitifs, laughter and anecdotes. Gather around the table to enjoy your hard work, before returning to your hotel after a most satisfying lunch. (Half Day; Time: 0830 hrs; Private Activity: Group size: Max 7 guests; Lunch included; Fitness level: Easy; Please inform ahead of food allergies, if any).