4.9(2,282 Reviews)

Private Full-Day Tour: Italian Market, Dolceaqua & Menton

  • 9hDuration
  • Max 12 peopleGroup Size
  • German, English, Spanish, French, PortugueseSpeaking Guide
  • Mobile ticketAccepted

About this experience

Duration9 Hours
Group SizePrivate
Starts AtNice
LanguagesGerman, English, Spanish, French, Portuguese
Private Full-Day Tour

Italian City, its Market and Menton Private Full Day Tour

From the bustle of an Italian market to the colorful charm of the pearl of France, all in one unforgettable day.


This private full-day tour along the Italian and French Riviera takes you through some of the most distinctive destinations on the Mediterranean coast, from a lively Italian morning market to the medieval village of Dolceaqua and the pastel-fronted streets of Menton. A professional driver-guide collects you directly from your accommodation and returns you at the end of the day. All itinerary elements can be adjusted to match your interests and pace.

The journey begins in the Italian coastal town of Ventimiglia, where a vibrant local market sets the tone for the day. You will find fresh produce, regional specialties, and the kind of everyday Italian atmosphere that no curated attraction can replicate. From there, the route moves through Bordighera and San Remo, each offering its own distinct character along the Ligurian shoreline.

The medieval village of Dolceaqua stands as one of the most rewarding stops of the day. Narrow stone lanes wind upward toward a well-preserved castle, and the arched bridge spanning the Nervia river was famously painted by Claude Monet in the late nineteenth century. The village offers a genuine sense of history without the crowds common to better-known sites.

The final destination is Menton, situated just inside the French border and widely regarded as one of the most beautiful small towns on the Riviera. The return journey follows the Haute Corniche, a scenic mountain road offering sweeping views over Monaco and the coastline stretching in both directions.

Tour Highlights

Explore a traditional Italian market with local produce, regional cuisine, and authentic everyday culture.

Walk through the seaside towns of Ventimiglia, Bordighera, and San Remo along the Italian Riviera.

Visit the medieval village of Dolceaqua, with its castle, stone bridge, and connection to the painter Claude Monet.

Cross the French border to discover Menton, a colorful coastal town known as the pearl of France.

Return along the legendary Haute Corniche road, with panoramic views of Monaco and the full Riviera coastline.

Travel with a dedicated professional driver-guide throughout the entire day in a comfortable, modern vehicle.

Customize the program to suit your preferences, with flexible stops and personalized suggestions from your guide.

Itinerary

1
Morning Pickup and Italian Market

Your guide collects you from your accommodation and heads to the Italian market, where you can browse local produce, taste regional specialties, and experience authentic daily life in the Italian Riviera.

2
Ventimiglia, Bordighera and San Remo

The route passes through three distinct Italian coastal towns. Bordighera offers a quiet, residential charm, while San Remo is one of the most prominent cities in the Imperia province, known for its seafront promenade and historic old town.

3
Dolceaqua Medieval Village

Venture inland to Dolceaqua, a remarkably preserved medieval village built along the Nervia valley. Explore the narrow cobbled streets, climb toward the ancient castle for elevated views, and see the bridge that inspired Monet. Lunch can be taken here at a local restaurant of your choice, at your own expense.

4
Menton, the Pearl of France

Cross into France and arrive in Menton, celebrated for its colorful architecture, fragrant lemon groves, and relaxed coastal ambiance. The old town, market halls, and beachfront promenade are all within easy walking distance.

5
Return via the Haute Corniche

The journey back follows the Haute Corniche, one of the most scenic roads on the entire French Riviera. The elevated route provides commanding views over Monaco, Cap Martin, and the Mediterranean coastline before you are returned to your accommodation.

What Is Included

Included

  • Private professional driver-guide for the full day
  • Hotel or accommodation pickup and drop-off
  • Transportation in a comfortable, modern private vehicle
  • Guided visit to the Italian market
  • Visits to Ventimiglia, Bordighera, San Remo, Dolceaqua, and Menton
  • Scenic return along the Haute Corniche

Not Included

  • Lunch and all meals
  • Personal expenses and shopping
  • Entry fees to paid attractions or museums
  • Gratuities for the guide

Important Information

This is a private tour. All itinerary stops can be adapted to your preferences. Speak with your guide at the start of the day to customize the program.
Duration
Approximately 9 hours from pickup to drop-off. Actual timing may vary based on stops chosen and traffic conditions.
What to Bring
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially for the cobbled lanes of Dolceaqua. Bring sunscreen, water, and a light layer for the return drive along the Corniche.
Cancellation
Please refer to the cancellation policy displayed at checkout. Private tours may have specific terms that differ from group bookings.
Accessibility
This tour is rated Easy overall. Note that Dolceaqua involves uphill walking on uneven cobblestones. Guests with mobility concerns should inform the operator in advance.
Age Range
Suitable for all ages. The flexible private format makes it adaptable for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

Reserve Your Private Riviera Day Tour

Secure your spot on this private full-day journey across the Italian and French Riviera. Pickup from your accommodation, a flexible itinerary, and a knowledgeable guide are all included.

Book Now

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour truly private, or will we share with other travelers?▼
This is a fully private tour. Your vehicle and guide are exclusively reserved for your group throughout the entire day.
Can we change the itinerary or skip certain stops?▼
Yes. All stops are flexible and can be modified, extended, or replaced based on your preferences. Discuss your wishes with the guide at the beginning of the tour.
Is lunch included in the tour price?▼
Lunch is not included. You can choose to eat in one of the Italian coastal towns or in Dolceaqua, where local restaurants serve traditional Ligurian specialties.
Where exactly does the tour start and end?▼
Your driver-guide will pick you up and drop you off directly at your accommodation. The exact pickup address is confirmed after booking.
What is the best time of year to take this tour?▼
The tour operates throughout the year. Spring and early autumn tend to offer the most comfortable temperatures and lighter crowds, particularly at the Italian market and in Dolceaqua.
Do we need to cross a border during the tour?▼
Yes. The tour crosses from Italy into France to visit Menton. Ensure all passengers carry valid identification or a passport, as border checks may occasionally be in place.
Private TourFrench RivieraItalian RivieraMentonDolceaquaSan RemoBordigheraItalian MarketHaute CornicheMedieval VillageFull Day TourCote d Azur
Last updated: 2025-07-14 | Product ID: TX-RIVIERA-MENTON-FULLDAY

Departure area

The exact meeting point is on your voucher.

Activity Site

Where the experience takes place.

Reviews

Share this experience

Gift more than a trip

Extraordinary experiences,
beautifully gifted

Give the joy of travel with a ToursXplorer Gift Card. Perfect for every occasion.

Offer a Gift Card
  • Instant Delivery
  • Perfect for Any Occasion
  • Give the Joy of Travel
Extraordinary experiences, beautifully gifted

Experiences make the best gifts

More products from this Operator

You might also like

Nearby Icon