As part of your Essence of Burgundy & Provence river cruise, you can add bonus time in France within Nice and Monaco! Make the most of your international airfare and indulge your wanderlust by exploring these beautiful destinations. Whether you’re interested in the lifestyles of the rich and famous or simply wish to extend your journey, our optional 3-night land package in the French Riviera, which includes visits to Aix-en-Provence, Éze, Monaco-Ville and Monte Carlo, is sure to inspire you.
The Heart of the French Riviera
From as far back as the 18th century, the elite have placed Nice at the top of their list of travel destinations. Nicknamed Nice la Belle, meaning Nice the Beautiful, this city truly deserves its name. From the deep blue waters of the Côte d’Azur to breathtaking city views from Castle Hill and strolls along the iconic waterfront Promenade des Anglais, it’s no wonder Nice attracts over four million visitors a year.
Just a mere 14 km from sophisticated Monaco and 24 km away from the excitement of Monte Carlo’s casino, this coastal city in the French Rivera is famous for its blue waters. But don’t expect the soft sand beaches found on the Caribbean. Here, you’ll discover pebble-covered plages. The staircases along the Promenade des Anglais divide the beaches by name, with public spots interspersed between private seasonal beach bars and restaurants, open from April to October. In true Riviera fashion, visitors can often be found sipping rosé on a sunbed by the sea.
Your Stroll Through Town
As part of your optional French Riviera land package, you will take a guided walking tour through Nice, admiring the colorful facades on your way to Cours Saleya where the local market and flower markets are held. You will continue past the historic Opera de Nice. Made of gleaming white stone, the opera house also offers ballet and classical concerts. Although it was built in 1885, there has been a theatre at the same seaside location for more than 240 years.
Your guide will also lead you to the picturesque Palais de la Préfecture, also known as the Palace of the Dukes of Savory, which has played a leading role in the administrative and political history of the city since the early 17th century. It served as a hospital during the French Revolution and has undergone several renovations over the centuries. Today, it is the home of the Préfet of the Alpes-Maritimes department and remains an essential landmark of Old Nice that you will learn more about from your knowledgeable guide.
Éze, Monaco-Ville and Monte Carlo
While there is so much to experience in Nice, we would be remiss to welcome our guests to a destination so close to additional fascinating sites without visiting them. With this in mind, we specially curated an excursion to three sought-after sites nearby. First, you will venture to the hilltop town of Éze, renowned for its stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. There you will take a scenic walking tour along its charming cobblestone streets that will take you back to historic times. Later, explore intimate Monaco-Ville, a sleepy medieval village, before taking in the luxury and beauty of Monte Carlo, famous for its opulent casino and its glamorous shopping center found right in the heart of the town. It is also renowned for hosting the annual Monaco Grand Prix, a Formula One motor racing event in late spring.
A Nod to Art History
Nice’s clear air and soft light particularly appealed to notable painters such as Henri Matisse, Niki de Saint Phalle, Arman and Marc Chagall. The nearby town of Aix-en-Provence was also the birthplace of renowned painter Paul Cézanne. We have included a stop in Aix-en-Provence, known for its provincial markets, as you transfer from Nice to your river cruise ship in Arles (or vice versa) for your Essence of Burgundy & Provence river cruise.
What’s Included in Your Optional French Riviera Land Package
- 3 nights hotel in Nice at Le Meridien (or similar)
- Daily breakfast at the hotel
- Convenient transfers between your hotel and river cruise ship
- Guided tours through Nice, Aix-en-Provence, Éze, Monaco-Ville and Monte Carlo
- The services of one of our wonderful Cruise Managers – unique in the industry
Contact your preferred travel advisor to extend your Essence of Burgundy & Provence journey into the French Riviera today!