Nice in 1 Day for Couples - Panoramic bay view from Fort du Mont Alban (Villefranche)
In Collaboration with Riviera Star Tours. Updated on January 30, 2026.
A private 9-hour chauffeured day from Nice visiting the most beautiful perched villages: Fort du Mont Alban viewpoint over Villefranche, medieval Èze with its exotic garden, the art-filled Saint-Paul-de-Vence, the violet‑scented Tourrettes‑sur‑Loup, the wild Saut du Loup waterfall and the hilltop village of Gourdon — curated for couples with relaxed pacing and a dedicated 'special moment' at Gourd
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Riviera Star Tours, inspired by the tour The Best Perched Villages on the French Riviera Private Tour. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Panoramic bay view from Fort du Mont Alban (Villefranche)
- Jardin Exotique d'Èze and medieval lanes
- Lunch & galleries in Saint‑Paul‑de‑Vence (La Colombe d'Or option)
- Violet tastings in Tourrettes‑sur‑Loup
- Cascade du Saut du Loup natural stop
- Sunset-style romantic viewpoint & toast in Gourdon
Itinerary
Day 1
Private full‑day chauffeured tour starting from your accommodation in Nice. Gentle pacing, scenic stops and a romantic 'special moment' at Gourdon. Weather in May is mild and flowery — bring a light layer for higher villages.
Pickup at your accommodation in Nice
Your professional driver/guide will meet you at your hotel or private address in Nice and brief you on the day's flow. Vehicle and pickup are private and comfortable.
Tips from local experts:
- Have your accommodation address and a mobile contact number ready for the driver to avoid delays.
- May mornings are pleasantly cool — keep a light wrap for the first transfer.
- If you prefer an earlier or later pickup (within booking limits), tell your guide when they arrive.
Drive to Fort du Mont Alban viewpoint (short transfer)
Scenic coastal drive to a classic viewpoint overlooking Villefranche bay and Cap Ferrat — a great first-shot panorama to set the tone.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask the driver to stop briefly at an overlook for uninterrupted photos of the bay.
- Bring sunglasses for the sea glare and a light windbreaker for the exposed lookout.
- If you're celebrating a special occasion, tell the guide and they can suggest a discreet photo moment.
Fort du Mont Alban — panoramic viewpoint over Villefranche & Cap Ferrat
Short walk to the fort ramparts for sweeping views of the Mediterranean and the curve of Villefranche‑sur‑Mer — perfect for couple photos early in the day before crowds.
Tips from local experts:
- The best photos have the sun behind you in the morning — arrive early for softer light.
- There are some uneven paths; wear comfortable shoes for the short walk up to the ramparts.
- If you want a quiet moment, request a 2‑minute private pause for a champagne toast from your guide.
Transfer to Èze village
Coastal drive along the Moyenne Corniche to the medieval hilltop village of Èze — short, scenic transfer with hillside views.
Tips from local experts:
- Sit on the seaward side of the vehicle for the best coastal views while driving.
- Your guide can point out the best photo spots to remember for later.
- Use the transfer time to reapply sunscreen before walking the stone streets of Èze.
Jardin Exotique d'Èze & medieval lanes — garden visit + coffee
Explore the exotic garden perched at the highest point of Èze with its cacti, sculptures and one of the region's best lookout points. Then wander the narrow medieval lanes with time for coffee at a tucked‑away café.
Tips from local experts:
- The Jardin Exotique is exposed and breezy — take a light layer and step carefully on gravel paths.
- For a romantic photo, walk to the garden terrace overlooking the sea and ask the guide to frame you against the bay.
- Try a café terrace on Rue de la Pise for a quiet coffee away from the main tourist drag.
Transfer to Saint‑Paul‑de‑Vence
Drive inland toward the Provençal hills and the artist village of Saint‑Paul‑de‑Vence — enjoy changing landscapes as you rise from the coast.
Tips from local experts:
- May brings wildflowers — keep your camera ready on the approach to the village.
- If you'd like a different lunch pace (longer or quicker), inform your guide during this transfer.
- The driver can reroute to avoid village parking jams if roads are busy.
Lunch at La Colombe d'Or (or a recommended village bistro)
Enjoy a romantic lunch — La Colombe d'Or is an iconic choice (reservations recommended) or your guide will suggest a quieter local bistro. Lunch is not included by default.
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve La Colombe d'Or ahead for the best tables; ask the guide to arrange it the morning of the tour.
- Opt for local rosé or a bottle to share — it pairs beautifully with Provençal dishes.
- If you prefer a lighter meal, ask for a shared starter and dessert to sample more local flavors together.
Stroll Saint‑Paul‑de‑Vence galleries & lanes
After lunch wander the cobbled streets, small galleries and the historic ramparts. Your guide will point out artists' haunts and the best intimate viewpoints.
Tips from local experts:
- Skip the busiest galleries and ask your guide for a lesser‑known atelier that welcomes visitors.
- Wear comfortable shoes: streets are cobblestone and slightly uneven but very romantic.
- If you collect art, the guide can help arrange private viewings if requested ahead of time.
Transfer to Tourrettes‑sur‑Loup
Short drive to the violet village — enjoy Provençal hill country scenery en route.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask the driver to take the scenic route if you prefer more countryside views.
- May is perfect for violets and spring blooms — allow a few minutes to photograph roadside wildflowers.
- Keep a small snack handy for a quick taste stop without delaying the schedule.
Stroll Tourrettes‑sur‑Loup & violet specialties
Wander the flower‑framed streets, visit local shops offering violet confectionery and enjoy a tasting of violet ice‑cream or sweets.
Tips from local experts:
- Try violet ice cream or confiserie — a signature local treat ideal to share.
- Most shops are small; buy a boxed souvenir of candied violets for a delicate keepsake.
- The main lanes are compact and scenic — pick a quiet terrace to sit and enjoy the village atmosphere.
Transfer to Cascade du Saut du Loup (waterfall stop)
Short drive into the Gorges du Loup area to see the waterfall — a refreshing natural contrast to the hilltop villages.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear shoes with good grip for the waterfall paths; parts can be damp and a little slippery.
- May water levels are usually pleasant for photos but bring a small towel or protective cover for cameras if you get close.
- This is a quiet, naturally romantic spot — the guide can find a secluded bench for you both to relax.
Cascade du Saut du Loup — waterfall visit
Short walk to admire the falls and the mossy gorge — a natural interlude to enjoy together.
Tips from local experts:
- The walk from the parking area is short but uneven; easy pace works best for a relaxed visit.
- Bring a lightweight waterproof layer if you plan to linger near the cascade spray.
- Ask your guide for a 5‑minute private moment by the water for photos and quiet reflection.
Transfer to Gourdon (perched village)
Brief scenic drive to Gourdon — one of the highest perched villages with incredible outlooks over the Alpes‑Maritimes and the Mediterranean.
Tips from local experts:
- Sit on the left side of the vehicle (depending on route) for sweeping countryside views toward the sea.
- May evenings are mild; a light jacket will be handy for the higher altitude at Gourdon.
- Ask the guide for a quiet stopping place in the lower village to avoid the busiest viewpoints.
Gourdon — village viewpoint & romantic 'special moment' toast
Explore Gourdon's narrow streets and take a seat at a lookout for a private toast/photo session — a curated 'special moment' especially for couples.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask your guide to arrange a small local prosecco or sparkling water for a private toast at the viewpoint.
- The viewpoint is exposed; arrive a little before to secure a quieter spot away from the small tourist groups.
- Plan one memory photo here with the sea in the background — this is one of the Riviera's most dramatic panoramas.
Return transfer to Nice and drop‑off at your accommodation
Comfortable drive back to Nice with relaxed arrival and a short debrief from your guide. Drop‑off at your accommodation completes the private tour.
Tips from local experts:
- If you'd like a dinner recommendation in Nice, ask your guide during the return — they'll suggest a romantic spot nearby.
- Use the drive back to rest or to ask the guide about any art or wine contacts you liked during the day.
- Confirm with your driver the exact drop‑off spot (hotel reception or a convenient street) to ensure smooth arrival.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 6 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | 7 |
| Restaurants | 1 |
| Total Activities | 8 |
| Total Places | 8 |
| Activities Types | Hotel, Transfer, Attraction, Meal, Culture, Outdoor |
