9-Day Scenic Journey Through the French Riviera and Provence: Nice to Lyon

Day 1: Explore Nice & Monaco

Nice and Monaco, France on April 22, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at La Rotonde

Enjoy a traditional French breakfast at La Rotonde, located in Nice’s iconic Hotel Negresco, open from 7am, offering fresh croissants and rich coffee.
EUR25, 1h0m

9:45am

Promenade des Anglais Walk

Take a scenic stroll along Nice’s famous seaside promenade to soak up the Mediterranean views and vibrant atmosphere.
Free, 1h30m

11:30am

Visit Old Town (Vieux Nice)

Explore the narrow streets of Old Town featuring colorful buildings, bustling markets, and the Baroque-style Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate.
Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Cafe de Turin

Savor fresh seafood and oysters at this legendary Nice brasserie, open daily from 11:30am to 11pm.
EUR40, 1h0m

2:30pm

Travel to Monaco

Drive or take the train (approx. 30 mins) along the coast from Nice to Monaco.
EUR10, 0h30m

3:15pm

Visit the Prince's Palace of Monaco

Explore the official residence of the Sovereign Prince of Monaco and enjoy panoramic views of the city, open from 10am to 6pm.
EUR10, 1h0m

4:30pm

Monte Carlo Casino and Gardens

Discover the opulence of the Monte Carlo Casino and stroll the nearby exotic gardens; casino opens at 2pm weekdays for non-members.
EUR17 (casino entry), 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Le Vistamar

Dine on exquisite seafood with views over the Monaco harbor at this Michelin-starred restaurant, open from 7pm; reservations recommended.
Approx. EUR90, 2h0m
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Day 2: Marseille & Saint Tropez

Marseille and Saint Tropez, France on April 23, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at La Caravelle

Enjoy breakfast on the Old Port of Marseille at La Caravelle, serving fresh pastries and coffee from 7am.
EUR20, 1h0m

8:45am

Visit Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde

Visit Marseille’s iconic hilltop basilica for stunning views over the city and harbor; open 7am-7pm.
Free, 1h0m

10:00am

Old Port (Vieux-Port) Walking Tour

Explore the bustling Old Port area with vibrant fish markets and local shops.
Free, 1h0m

11:30am

Drive to Saint Tropez

Scenic 2-hour drive along the coast to Saint Tropez, famed for its luxury yachts and vibrant town center.
EUR30 (fuel tolls), 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Sénéquier

Enjoy a seaside lunch at the iconic red-canopied Sénéquier, open 11:30am–10:30pm, known for fresh seafood and salads.
EUR50, 1h0m

3:00pm

Stroll through Saint Tropez Old Town

Wander through quaint cobblestone streets and visit the Citadel offering panoramic views.
EUR4 (Citadel entry), 1h30m

5:00pm

Relax at Pampelonne Beach

Spend late afternoon relaxing on the famous Pampelonne Beach, accessible until sunset.
Free, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at La Vague d’Or

Savor gourmet Mediterranean cuisine at this 3-Michelin-star restaurant in Saint Tropez; open from 7pm, reservation essential.
Approx. EUR150+, 2h0m
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Day 3: Historic Avignon

Avignon, France on April 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Le Pain Quotidien

Start your day with organic breads and pastries at Le Pain Quotidien, open from 7:30am.
EUR15, 1h0m

9:15am

Palais des Papes Tour

Explore the grand 14th-century Palais des Papes, one of Europe’s largest medieval gothic buildings; open 9am-7pm.
EUR12, 1h30m

11:00am

Pont Saint-Bénézet (Avignon Bridge)

Visit the iconic partially-ruined medieval bridge and learn about its legendary origin.
EUR5, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at La Fourchette

Enjoy classic Provençal dishes in a cozy setting, open from 12pm to 2:30pm.
EUR35, 1h15m

2:00pm

Roam Avignon’s city center

Spend the afternoon exploring charming streets, artisan shops, and the Place de l’Horloge.
Free, 2h0m

4:30pm

Visit the Musée Calvet

Discover fine arts and archaeology collections in this elegant museum; open 2pm-6pm Tue-Sun.
EUR7, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Christian Etienne

Dine on refined local cuisine with a modern twist, open from 7pm; reservations recommended.
EUR60, 2h0m
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Day 4: Lyon Culinary & Culture

Lyon, France on April 25, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Boulangerie du Palais

Sample fresh pastries and coffee at this popular bakery in Lyon’s old town, open from 7am.
EUR12, 0h45m

9:30am

Explore Vieux Lyon

Walk through Lyon’s Renaissance district, visiting narrow traboules alleys and Saint-Jean Cathedral; open all day.
Free, 1h30m

11:15am

Lyon Cathedral visit

Admire the Gothic architecture and famous astronomical clock inside the cathedral.
Free, 0h45m

12:00pm

Lunch at Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse

Taste exceptional local specialties from various vendors at this famous indoor food market, open 7am-4pm.
EUR30, 1h15m

1:30pm

Visit Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon

Explore one of France’s best fine arts museums featuring classical to modern art; open 10am-6pm Tue-Sun.
EUR8, 2h0m

3:45pm

Relax at Parc de la Tête d'Or

Enjoy a peaceful stroll or boat ride in Lyon’s large urban park, open daily from 6am to 10pm.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Café des Fédérations

Savor traditional Lyonnaise cuisine in a convivial atmosphere at this well-known bouchon, open until 11pm.
EUR45, 2h0m
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