Monaco, Monte Carlo, Eze Day from Villefranche Small-Group and Shore Excursion

While in Villefranche, enjoy a full-day shore excursion with a guide who will introduce you to the glamorous Monaco and the medieval village of Eze. Start with a scenic drive along the coast to Eze, a charming hilltop village offering spectacular Mediterranean views. You can climb a few steps to reach the top and take in the breathtaking scenery. Explore the art of perfume making at the famous Fragonard perfumery before continuing through La Turbie, home to the Trophy of the Alps. Then, head to Monaco, where you’ll discover the Cathedral and enjoy an exterior visit to the Prince’s Palace. Don’t miss the Changing of the Guards at 11:55 am. Experience the famous Formula 1 circuit and make your way to the iconic Monte-Carlo Casino Square. During the tour, your guide will provide insightful commentary, giving you free time to explore on your own. For cruisers: In case of last-minute port call cancellation, a 50% refund will be granted upon request.

Itinerary

1. Your full-day tour begins with pickup from your Monaco hotel in the morning by luxury 8-person minivan. Soak up views as you drive along the Mediterranean coast over Monaco, Nice and Villefranche on your way to Eze. Located on a hill approximately 1,400 feet (427 meters) high, Eze offers breathtaking views of the Côte d'Azur. (40 min)
2. The picturesque medieval village is known for its traditional perfumery, Fragonard. Take a guided tour of Fragonard to learn about the process of perfume-making, an exquisite French art, and enjoy browsing its charming artisan shops along the way. (35 min)
3. On your journey back to Monaco, drive through the village of La Turbie, known as the 'Terrace of Monaco.' See the Trophy of the Alps (Trophée des Alpes), an impressive Roman monument built by Emperor Augustus 2,000 years ago.
4. In front of the Palais du Prince, you will discover the Changing of the Guard at 11:55, you will notice the Carabinieri Barracks . Created on the 8th of December 1817, the Carabinieri have for main missions to ensure the safety of the Royal Family as well as maintain public order. If you like, you have visit the inside of the Prince's Palace (8€/adult, 4€/child) (20 min)
5. See the historic Monaco Cathedral (sometimes referred to as the Saint Nicholas Cathedral), the resting place of Prince Rainier and Princess Grace featuring fine Roman-Byzantine architecture. (15 min)
6. Next, cruise down the Circuit de Monaco, the street used as the racetrack in the world-famous Formula One Grand Prix race.
7. Arrive back in Monaco for a sightseeing tour. This glitzy principality – technically the second-smallest country in the world behind the Vatican – will enchant you with its beguiling ambiance, chic boutiques, yacht-filled harbor and typical Mediterranean landscape. Exploring Monaco, your guide will take you to the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Prince’s Palace (Palais Princier) and through the surrounding medieval village of Monaco-Ville, also known as ‘Le Rocher’ or ‘The Rock.’ Here, you’ll have some free time to have lunch on your own and enjoy sweeping views over the Monaco Port, Monte Carlo and the sparkling sea in the distance. (1h 30min)
8. You could visit the Oceanographic Museum (own expense) (1h 30min)
9. Take a stroll around Casino Square and make a photo stop outside of the Casino of Monte Carlo, facing the Hotel de Paris, Café de Paris and numerous deluxe boutiques. (20 min)