Grand European Tour - From Eze to Nice: A Scenic Journey Through the Heart of the French Riviera

We had an early start to the morning, the soft golden light of dawn spilling across the Italian Riviera as we loaded our bags onto the bus. The air was crisp, filled with the scent of salt and citrus, and as we traveled northwest, the stunning coastline unfurled before us, a mosaic of shimmering azure and sun-drenched cliffs.

The road wound through quaint villages and vineyards, each turn revealing a new slice of paradise. Our guide shared stories of the region’s rich history, punctuated by the occasional burst of laughter from our group, eager for the adventure that lay ahead.

Our first stop was the enchanting village of Eze, perched high above the sea. There, we visited a renowned perfume workshop nestled among the cobblestone streets. The scent of jasmine and bergamot lingered in the air as we entered, greeted by a charming perfumer who guided us through the intricate process of fragrance creation. We learned about the delicate balance of notes, the art of blending, and even had a chance to craft our own unique scent. My concoction was a mix of citrus and vanilla, a nod to the sunshine we’d soaked up that morning.

After bidding farewell to Eze, we continued our journey along the celebrated Côte d’Azur. The coastline glistened under the midday sun, dotted with yachts and sunbathers, while the sound of waves crashing against the rocks accompanied our laughter and chatter.

Finally, we arrived in Nice, our home for the night. The city’s vibrant atmosphere welcomed us, with its stunning Promenade des Anglais and lively markets. We had some free time to explore before our optional excursion, and I wandered the narrow streets, sampling local delicacies and watching street performers bring the evening to life.

As twilight descended, we gathered once more, excitement buzzing in the air for our Monte Carlo by Night excursion. Dressed in our best, we hopped aboard a sleek coach that whisked us away to the glitzy haven of Monaco. The city sparkled under a canopy of stars, and the iconic Casino de Monte-Carlo stood proudly, its golden facade illuminated against the night sky.

We enjoyed a sumptuous dinner at a charming restaurant overlooking the harbor, where the gentle clink of glasses and the sound of laughter filled the air. The cuisine was exquisite—a delightful medley of flavors that made every bite a celebration. Afterward, we strolled through the glamorous streets, awed by the luxury cars and the opulent yachts that dotted the marina.

As we made our way back to the bus, the thrill of the evening lingered. We shared stories of our favorite moments, each one a piece of the beautiful tapestry we were weaving together. With hearts full of laughter and minds alive with memories, we returned to Nice, ready to dream of our next adventure on this unforgettable journey.

We had an early start to the morning for the journey northwest with views of the Italian Riviera. We continued to France for a visit to a Perfume Workshop in Eze before travelling along the celebrated Cote d'Azur onto an overnighter in Nice.  That night we took an optional Monte Carlo by Night excursion with dinner.

After bidding farewell to Eze, we continued our journey along the celebrated Côte d’Azur. The coastline glistened under the midday sun, dotted with yachts and sunbathers, while the sound of waves crashing against the rocks accompanied our laughter and chatter.

Finally, we arrived in Nice, our home for the night. The city’s vibrant atmosphere welcomed us, with its stunning Promenade des Anglais and lively markets. We had some free time to explore before our optional excursion, and I wandered the narrow streets, sampling local delicacies and watching street performers bring the evening to life.

As twilight descended, we gathered once more, excitement buzzing in the air for our Monte Carlo by Night excursion. Dressed in our best, we hopped aboard a sleek coach that whisked us away to the glitzy haven of Monaco. The city sparkled under a canopy of stars, and the iconic Casino de Monte-Carlo stood proudly, its golden facade illuminated against the night sky.

We enjoyed a sumptuous dinner at a charming restaurant overlooking the harbor, where the gentle clink of glasses and the sound of laughter filled the air. The cuisine was exquisite—a delightful medley of flavors that made every bite a celebration. Afterward, we strolled through the glamorous streets, awed by the luxury cars and the opulent yachts that dotted the marina.

As we made our way back to the bus, the thrill of the evening lingered. We shared stories of our favorite moments, each one a piece of the beautiful tapestry we were weaving together. With hearts full of laughter and minds alive with memories, we returned to Nice, ready to dream of our next adventure on this unforgettable journey.

We started our exploration late in the afternoon, diving into the heart of Monaco’s Old Town, a captivating area where history feels alive. The narrow, well-lit streets, lined with medieval houses, invited us to meander through centuries of stories, each corner revealing a new architectural gem.

As we strolled, the ambiance buzzed with the sounds of laughter and the gentle clinking of glasses from nearby cafés. We passed the quaint Place Saint Nicolas, a charming square filled with locals enjoying their evening. The scent of fresh pastries wafted from a nearby bakery, drawing us in for a moment of indulgence.

Post-dinner, we ventured towards the iconic Prince’s Palace of Monaco, the official residence of the Prince. Even as the evening deepened, the palace stood majestically, its walls steeped in history. We learned that it was also the residence of Princess Grace, and as we admired the grand façade, the romance of the place enveloped us.

 

While we didn’t have the chance to witness the changing of the guard ceremony, held every day at 11:55 a.m. sharp, we were still enchanted by the palace’s allure. The square, lit by soft lights, was bustling with tourists snapping photos and enjoying the ambiance.

 

As we strolled through the cobbled streets back to our accommodations, the laughter and chatter of our group mingled with the gentle sounds of the evening. Monaco, with its blend of history and modernity, had stolen our hearts, leaving us eager to wake up and uncover more of its magic.

After a delightful evening in Old Town, we made our way to Casino Square, where the shimmering lights and elegant architecture set the stage for a new adventure. The air buzzed with excitement as we arrived, the unmistakable glamour of Monaco enveloping us.

In front of the iconic Casino de Monte-Carlo and the lavish Hotel de Paris, a parade of luxury cars gleamed under the soft glow of streetlights. Bentleys, Ferraris, and Lamborghinis formed a dazzling lineup, each more breathtaking than the last. We gathered around, taking pictures and marveling at the craftsmanship and power of these machines. It was like stepping into a scene from a movie, the epitome of opulence and sophistication.

 

After indulging our inner car enthusiasts, we strolled through the lush casino gardens. The vibrant flowers and manicured hedges created a serene escape from the lively atmosphere of the square. We paused by a fountain, its water dancing gracefully in the evening air, and took a moment to breathe in the sweet scent of blooming jasmine.city.

Next, we wandered into the marble alleyways of the Metropole Shopping Centre, where luxury boutiques beckoned us with their glimmering displays. Designer labels lined the halls, and we admired everything from haute couture to exquisite jewelry. The elegance of the marble floors and intricate chandeliers made us feel like we were in a gallery of high fashion rather than a shopping center.

The Mediterranean glistened like a blanket of diamonds, and the hills of Monaco rose majestically behind us, their beauty enhanced by the evening glow. It was a view that captured the essence of this incredible place, a perfect blend of natural beauty and human artistry.

 

As we soaked in the atmosphere, laughter and chatter flowed freely among us, the camaraderie of the group solidifying in that moment. The enchantment of Monaco had woven its spell, and we knew we would carry these memories with us long after the trip ended. With the city aglow around us, we made our way back to Casino Square, our hearts filled with the magic of a night well spent in this jewel of the French Riviera.

As we jumped back on the bus and headed toward our hotel in Nice, the day’s adventures hung in the air like the fading light of the sunset. Kim, exhausted from the whirlwind of sights and sounds, settled into her seat for a well-deserved nap. I, however, felt a different kind of energy bubbling within me—a desire to explore the enchanting city after dark.

 

Once we arrived at the hotel, I quietly slipped out, grabbing my camera and venturing into the night. There’s something magical about wandering the streets of France with a camera in hand, especially in a place as vibrant as Nice. The city seemed to shimmer under the soft glow of streetlights, each corner revealing artistic facades and lush trees illuminated in a way that only the French seem to master.

 

As I walked through the narrow streets of the old town, I marveled at the architecture that carried hints of its Italian past. The pastel colors of the buildings felt warm against the cool evening air, and the bustling atmosphere filled my senses. I paused to snap photos of the intricate ironwork on balconies and the charming shopfronts, each one a small masterpiece in its own right.

 

The scent of freshly baked bread wafted from a nearby boulangerie, tempting me to linger a little longer. I found myself wandering past restaurants where diners enjoyed elegant meals, laughter and clinking glasses creating a symphony of joy that echoed through the streets. I had read about the abundance of great-value eateries in our guidebook, and I made a mental note to explore some of them on my return.

 

As the evening wore on, I captured the essence of Nice—the blend of Italian warmth and French sophistication, the vibrant life that thrummed beneath the surface. Each shot I took felt like a story, and I knew these images would bring me back to this moment long after I had returned home.

 

After a couple of hours of exploration, I felt a sense of fulfillment. I returned to the hotel, content to review the photographs I had taken and replay the night in my mind. Sleep came easily, but my excitement woke me before dawn.

 

Determined to catch the sunrise, I quietly slipped out once more, the early morning air crisp and fresh. The world felt different in the soft light of dawn, the colors of the sky slowly transitioning from deep indigo to shades of pink and gold. I made my way to the Promenade des Anglais, where the Mediterranean stretched out before me, its surface sparkling like a thousand tiny jewels.

 

I set up my camera, capturing the breathtaking moment as the sun crested the horizon, bathing the city in warm light. The beach began to awaken, with early risers strolling along the shore and the faint sound of waves providing a soothing soundtrack. It was a scene of serenity, a perfect contrast to the bustling energy of the previous night.

 

As I returned to the hotel for breakfast, I couldn’t help but feel that I would love to pencil in Nice again. The city had captured my heart with its charm, its artistry, and its vibrant spirit. I knew this was just the beginning of my love affair with the French Riviera, and I would savor every moment until the next adventure awaited.

Check out our tour video here:

https://youtu.be/gDLKmeXYd3g

“Never go on trips with anyone you do not love.”