Full-Day Riviera Villages: Cannes, Grasse, Gourdon & Saint-Paul-de-Vence
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate: suitable for travelers comfortable with several short walks on uneven surfaces and some uphill cobbles.
Overview
A compact, small-group full-day tour from Nice that stitches together the perfumed lanes of Grasse, the art-drenched ramparts of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, the hilltop views at Gourdon, and a palm-fringed stroll in Cannes. Perfect for travelers who want a curated taste of the Riviera in one efficient day.
Full-Day Riviera Villages: Cannes, Grasse, Gourdon & Saint-Paul-de-Vence
Select participants and date
You step into the minivan in Nice as the coastline slides into a ribbon of blue—olive groves give way to terraces of stone, and the road begins to climb. The guide eases up the Gorges du Loup and the air changes: salt on one shoulder, pine resin on the other. For eight hours the Riviera shows itself as more than beaches and yachts; it becomes a string of fortified hilltops, perfume ateliers, and art-lined alleys that ask you to slow your pace.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Comfortable walking shoes
Cobblestones and short uphill sections in medieval villages make supportive footwear essential.
Bring a refillable water bottle
Stops include viewpoints and short walks where water fountains may be limited—stay hydrated.
Protect against sun and wind
La Croisette and Gourdon offer broad exposure—sunscreen and a light wind shell help you stay comfortable.
Manage your time for shopping
Fragonard’s factory shop and Gourdon’s craft stalls are tempting—build extra time into your schedule if you want to browse.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Peregrine falcons hunting the cliffs
- Occasional sightings of wild boar in the hinterland at dawn
History
Grasse built its reputation in leather tanning and became Europe’s perfume capital in the 18th century; Saint-Paul-de-Vence has attracted artists since the early 20th century.
Conservation
High visitor numbers strain fragile village centers—stay on marked paths, support local craftspeople, and avoid single-use plastics to reduce impact.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Nice
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sturdy walking shoes
Gravel, cobbles and hilltop streets demand good traction and ankle support.
Refillable water bottle
Keeps you hydrated between stops and reduces single-use plastic.
summer specific
Sunscreen and sunglasses
Open viewpoints and the Croisette expose you to strong Mediterranean sun.
summer specific
Light wind jacket or layering piece
Coastal breezes and elevation changes make a light jacket useful year-round.
fall specific