Rothschild’s Legacy Greek Elegance and Perfume Secrets of Eze

Departing from Cannes, this private half-day tour takes you through Nice’s most picturesque sights, all in comfort and style. Begin with a scenic drive along the coastal highway, arriving in Nice near the airport to start the tour along the famed Promenade des Anglais. Here, you’ll witness Nice’s elegant waterfront boulevard, lined with classic Belle Époque architecture and offering stunning sea views.

Our tour then takes you through Nice towards the majestic hill of Mont Boron. Here, you’ll enjoy an unforgettable photo opportunity. As we ascend, you’ll encounter a 15th-century stronghold that once protected the Bay of Villefranche. The views over the bay, the quaint village, and the surrounding hills are breathtaking. From the opposite side of Mont Boron, enjoy a panoramic view of Nice itself, offering a bird’s-eye view of this beautiful city—an experience you won’t want to miss. Our journey continues with a stop at the Mont Alban Fortress observation deck, where your guide will share fascinating insights about the Bay of Villefranche-sur-Mer and the Bay of Angels. Marvel at the sweeping coastal views: to the east, spot Cap Ferrat, Cap d'Ail, Cape Bordighera, and Mount Dog’s Head, while to the west lies the Bay of Angels. Don’t forget to capture the beauty of this unforgettable landscape—an experience that will remain with you long after the tour ends!

Our next stop is the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, located in the stunning surroundings of Cap Ferrat. This Italian-style palace was constructed in 1905 by Béatrice Ephrussi de Rothschild. With your guide and an excellent audio guide, you’ll have the chance to explore this villa and admire an extraordinary collection of nearly 5,000 art pieces, including mosaics, Flemish tapestries, porcelain, and exquisite furniture. The villa is surrounded by lush gardens that offer breathtaking views of Villefranche on one side and Beaulieu on the other. You’ll also have some free time to wander through the magnificent gardens that encircle the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, spanning over seven hectares, and enjoy the serene beauty of the estate at your own pace.

Our next stop, just a short distance away, takes us to Beaulieu-sur-Mer and its remarkable time capsule: Villa Kerylos. Built in 1902 on a site that evokes the beauty of the Aegean coast, this villa was meticulously designed by archaeologist Theodor Reinach, a passionate scholar of ancient Greek culture. Villa Kerylos offers an extraordinary recreation of life during the Greek Empire, providing an unparalleled glimpse into the civilization and nobility of ancient Greece. As you explore the interior, you'll encounter original artifacts alongside exquisitely crafted replicas of furniture, frescoes, and classical Greek statues housed in the Antique Gallery beneath the villa. Today, Villa Kerylos is managed by the Institut de France, preserving its legacy as a tribute to the grandeur of ancient Greek heritage.

Our next stop is Eze Village, a medieval town perched on a rocky hill that still echoes with memories of the Roman Empire. Positioned like an eagle’s nest at nearly 430 meters above sea level, Eze Village transports visitors back to the 13th century and beyond. Its narrow, picturesque streets, facades softened by Mediterranean vegetation, and ancient architecture make it one of the most captivating destinations in France. From the exotic gardens atop the hill, you’ll take in stunning views that promise unforgettable memories. This enchanting place even left an impression on Friedrich Nietzsche, the influential 19th-century German philosopher who lived in Eze and left a profound mark on Western thought. Encircled by ancient defensive walls, sheer cliffs, and houses seemingly carved from the rock, Eze’s medieval charm offers unmatched views of the sea, the French Riviera, and even glimpses of distant Corsica on clear days.

While in Eze Village, make sure to visit the renowned French perfume house, Fragonard. Located just at the entrance of the village, Fragonard offers an immersive experience where you’ll discover the secrets behind crafting fine perfumes and cosmetics. On a complimentary guided tour available in multiple languages, you'll learn about the fascinating role of the "nose" (the master perfumer) and witness firsthand how traditional methods are blended with modern expertise. To top it off, you'll have the unique opportunity to purchase exquisite fragrances, soaps, and cosmetics directly from the source—at exclusive factory prices.

After visiting the French perfume house, Fragonard, our guide will escort you back to Cannes, but the adventure doesn’t end there! La Turbie awaits you, a charming old town that you might not yet know, but it's sure to leave you in awe. Here, you can marvel at the monumental Trophy of the Alps, a stunning 2,000-year-old structure erected by Roman Emperor Augustus. This remarkable piece of history is just one of the treasures you’ll discover in La Turbie. As you explore, you'll also learn about the enduring legacy of Princess Grace of Monaco and be treated to breathtaking views of Monaco itself from this high vantage point. The picturesque scenery and fascinating stories promise to captivate you. And there’s more! Our guide has an additional surprise in store for you once you arrive, making this stop in La Turbie an unforgettable highlight before we continue our journey back to Cannes.