From Villefranche to Eze, Monaco & Monte-Carlo shore excursion private

Private Shore Excursion from Villefranche-sur-Mer to Eze, Monaco & Monte Carlo

Meet your English-speaking local guide

Today, we will pick you up directly at your cruise ship in Villefranche-sur-Mer. Meet your English-speaking tour guide, who will go over the itinerary and program of the day with you. Then board your premium air-conditioned vehicle and begin your private tour, following the stunning coastal road toward the French Riviera and the principality of Monaco.

Visit the village of Eze

Perched high above the sea, the medieval village of Eze has retained all its charm throughout the centuries. From the ruins of its ancient fortress to its narrow, winding streets, this small village now attracts a multitude of artisans and artists.

Many of their workshops are set in what used to be barns or sheepfolds, adding to the authentic, peaceful ambiance of the area. Celebrated for its calm and its breathtaking panoramic views, Eze has also inspired numerous writers, one of the most famous being Nietzsche, who is said to have worked on “Thus Spoke Zarathustra” here. Visit the village at your own pace and then discover the nearby Fragonard perfume factory.

Optional visit of a perfume factory

The famous perfume company Fragonard was established in 1926 by Eugène Fuchs, who named his company after an 18th-century French painter as a tribute to the perfume-making town of Grasse. During your guided visit, discover the manufacturing secrets behind perfumes, soaps, and cosmetics developed from the finest raw materials, using an expertise that combines traditional methods and modern techniques.

A bit of history about Monaco

Historically, Monaco was once part of the French sphere, but in 1215 it became a colony of Genoa (Italy) through a land grant from Emperor Henry VI. The Grimaldi family settled in Monaco in 1297, and their descendants have controlled the principality for more than seven centuries.

Over the years, Monaco came under Spanish, Italian, and Sardinian protection. In 1793, French revolutionary troops captured Monaco and held it until 1814, when the Grimaldi family returned to power. Today, Monaco is governed as a constitutional monarchy while maintaining a special relationship with France.

In 1949, Prince Rainier III ascended the throne and, in 1956, married the American actress Grace Kelly. He played a key role in bringing economic prosperity to Monaco, while she helped promote the arts and added international glamour to the small nation. Together they had three children: Caroline, Albert, and Stéphanie.

Reach Monaco

After your visit of Eze, head toward Monaco and stroll through the small streets of the Old Town. On morning departures, your tour can include watching the changing of the guards in front of the Prince’s Palace just before midday. You will also have the opportunity to visit the Neo-Romanesque Cathedral and see the memorial dedicated to Princess Grace and Prince Rainier.

End the tour in Monte Carlo

Finally, end your tour in Monte Carlo. Here you will discover the famous Old Monte Carlo Casino, the Hôtel de Paris and Café de Paris, beautiful gardens, and a selection of deluxe boutiques. Upon arrival or departure, you may also have the opportunity to drive along part of the Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix race track. The drive back toward Villefranche-sur-Mer follows the scenic low coastal road, offering one last chance to enjoy the spectacular Riviera coastline before returning to your cruise ship.