Exploring the medieval villages of Nice is a captivating experience. The full-day guided tour takes visitors through charming landscapes, immersing them in the region’s rich history and culture. From the perfume capital of Grasse to the artistic haven of Saint-Paul de Vence, the tour promises stunning vistas, delectable cuisine, and a glimpse into the heritage that has shaped these enchanting villages. With convenient transportation and expert guidance, the excursion offers exceptional value for those seeking an immersive journey through southern France’s picturesque past.
Key Points
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This guided tour offers a full-day (8-hour) trip to four medieval villages near Nice, France, including Grasse, Gourdon, Tourrettes-sur-Loup, and Saint-Paul de Vence.
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The tour includes transportation, free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and pickup from 14 location options, making it a convenient and flexible option.
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Highlights of the tour include visiting the Fragonard perfume museum in Grasse, exploring the medieval fortress and Sarazin castle in Gourdon, and wandering through the charming streets of Tourrettes-sur-Loup and Saint-Paul de Vence.
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The tour is highly rated, with an average of 4.8/5 stars based on 186 reviews, and the guide, Laurence, is praised for her knowledge and friendliness.
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The tour offers excellent value for money, with a starting price of €135.00 per person, and provides a unique opportunity to immerse in the history, culture, and scenic beauty of the medieval villages near Nice.
Tour Overview
The "Nice: Medieval Villages Full-Day Guided Trip" offers an 8-hour excursion with a starting price of €135.00 per person.
The tour’s availability is limited, and customers should check for starting times. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Limited tour availability, so check start times. Cancel 24 hours early for full refund.
Pickup is included, with 14 location options, and travelers should wait in their hotel lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup.
The tour explores four medieval villages – Grasse, Gourdon, Tourrettes-sur-Loup, and Saint-Paul de Vence – with transportation provided by van between destinations.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Nice.
Itinerary Highlights
Grasse, the UNESCO-listed village known for its perfume industry, kicks off the tour with a 1.5-hour visit to the Fragonard museum and exploration of the medieval streets.
Next, the group heads to Gourdon, a scenic village at 758 meters high, to see the medieval fortress and Sarazin castle over 1.5 hours.
In Tourrettes-sur-Loup, visitors explore the streets, ramparts, and admire the village’s emblematic violet flower for another 1.5 hours.
The final stop is Saint-Paul de Vence, a creative village with art galleries, historic sites, and the famous La Colombe d’Or Inn showcasing works by renowned artists.
Grasse: Perfume Capital of the World
As the UNESCO-listed village renowned for its thriving perfume industry, Grasse kickstarts the day’s journey.
Visitors explore the Fragonard museum, learning about the centuries-old craft of perfume-making. Strolling medieval streets, they soak in the quaint atmosphere and charming architecture. The scent of flowers fills the air, a testament to Grasse’s status as the "Perfume Capital of the World".
With 1.5 hours allotted, guests have ample time to enjoy the village’s rich history and vibrant culture, laying the foundation for an unforgettable day discovering the region’s enchanting medieval gems.
Gourdon: Perched Medieval Village
After departing the perfume capital of Grasse, the tour continues its journey to the scenic village of Gourdon, perched at an impressive altitude of 758 meters.
Visitors can:
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Explore the medieval fortress and Sarazin castle, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
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Wander through the charming medieval streets, taking in the quaint architecture and atmosphere.
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Stop for a leisurely lunch at one of the local restaurants, sampling the region’s delicious cuisine.
With its picturesque setting and historical significance, Gourdon is a highlight of the day’s excursion.
More Great Tours NearbyTourrettes-sur-Loup: The Violet Village
The tour now heads to Tourrettes-sur-Loup, a picturesque village known for its emblematic violet flower.
Visitors can explore the medieval streets, ramparts, and admire the charming village. Tourrettes-sur-Loup sits at an elevation of 700 meters, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Visitors can explore the medieval streets, ramparts, and admire the charming village perched at an elevation of 700 meters with stunning countryside views.
The tour spends approximately 1.5 hours here, allowing ample time to wander the historic center and soak in the village’s tranquil ambiance.
With its narrow lanes, stone buildings, and vibrant violet blooms, Tourrettes-sur-Loup enchants visitors seeking an authentic medieval experience in the French Riviera.
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Saint-Paul De Vence: Artists’ Haven
Saint-Paul de Vence’s reputation as an artists’ haven draws visitors seeking to explore its storied cultural legacy.
This medieval village is home to:
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Renowned art galleries that showcase the works of celebrated painters like Picasso, Matisse, and Miró.
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The famous La Colombe d’Or Inn, which has a long history of hosting renowned artists and intellectuals.
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Charming streets lined with historic sites and opportunities to take in the village’s vibrant creative atmosphere.
With its unique blend of art, history, and natural beauty, Saint-Paul de Vence offers a captivating glimpse into the Côte d’Azur’s artistic heritage.
Transportation and Travel Times
The tour provides van transport between the various medieval villages on the itinerary.
Travel times range from 30-40 minutes between stops. This allows guests ample time to explore each picturesque village thoroughly before moving on to the next destination.
The comfortable vans ensure a smooth and efficient journey, enabling travelers to make the most of their day exploring the region’s historic charms.
With convenient pickup locations and reliable transportation, the tour logistics are designed to provide a seamless and hassle-free experience for all participants.
Customer Reviews and Highlights
What do the tour’s customer reviews reveal about the overall experience?
The 4.8/5 star rating based on 186 reviews suggests this is a highly satisfactory tour. Customers praise the knowledgeable and friendly guide Laurence, giving her a 5/5 rating. The transportation also receives high marks at 4.9/5.
Reviewers highlight several aspects:
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Excellent views, interesting villages, and great food.
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Enough time at each stop to explore.
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Laurence’s friendliness and informative commentary.
The reviews indicate this tour offers tremendous value for the money, with a 4.6/5 rating in this category.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
You can’t bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The tour provides transportation between destinations, but doesn’t include any meals or refreshments. It’s best to buy what you need along the way or pack a small snack.
Are There Any Restroom Breaks or Opportunities to Purchase Snacks?
The tour offers periodic restroom breaks and opportunities to purchase snacks and drinks during the stops at the different villages. Travelers can expect to have time to explore the local shops and cafes at their own pace.
How Much Free Time Is Allotted at Each Village Stop?
The tour allocates around 1.5 hours at each village stop, providing ample time for visitors to explore the medieval streets, historic sites, and local shops at their own pace. The schedule allows for a balanced mix of guided touring and independent exploration.
Is the Tour Wheelchair/Stroller Accessible?
The tour is not explicitly mentioned as wheelchair or stroller accessible. Visitors with mobility concerns should contact the tour provider to inquire about accessibility accommodations before booking. The itinerary may involve uneven terrain and stairs at the medieval villages.
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Casual, weather-appropriate attire that allows easy movement is best to fully enjoy the medieval villages on the guided trip.
The Wrap Up
The "Nice: Medieval Villages Full-Day Guided Trip" offers an exceptional value for €135.00. Participants can enjoy the rich history, charming streets, and local culture of four enchanting medieval villages. With expert guidance, convenient transportation, stunning views, and delightful regional cuisine, this tour provides an unforgettable experience and has received rave reviews for its exceptional service.
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