Discover Villefranche-sur-Mer: A Guide for Viking Cruise Passengers

March 31, 2025 Historical insights

Villefranche-sur-Mer, a charming Mediterranean gem on the French Riviera, is a popular stop for Viking Cruises. With its picturesque harbor, colorful old town, and easy access to iconic destinations like Nice, Monaco, and Èze, it’s a perfect place to explore. If you’re arriving on a Viking Ocean Cruise or Viking Neptune, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your shore time.

What to Do in Villefranche-sur-Mer?

Villefranche-sur-Mer is a destination in itself. Here are some top highlights:

Explore the Old Town – Wander through narrow streets filled with quaint shops, cafés, and historic buildings.
Visit the Citadel of Villefranche – A 16th-century fortress with breathtaking sea views.
Relax at Plage des Marinières – A beautiful sandy beach just a short walk from the port.
Discover Rue Obscure – A hidden medieval street that dates back to the 13th century.
Day Trips to Nice, Monaco, or Èze – Venture beyond Villefranche to experience the glamour of the French Riviera.

Best Shore Excursions from Villefranche for Viking Cruise Passengers

At Riviera Shore Excursions, we offer exclusive tours and private transfers tailored for cruise passengers. Avoid crowded group tours and enjoy a personalized experience with our professional bilingual drivers. Some of our most popular options include:

Monaco & Monte Carlo Tour – Visit the famous Monte Carlo Casino, the Prince’s Palace, and the Formula 1 Grand Prix circuit.
Nice & Èze Tour – Discover the vibrant markets of Nice and explore the medieval hilltop village of Èze, home to the famous Fragonard Perfume Factory.
French Riviera Highlights – A scenic drive along the coast covering the best of the Côte d’Azur.

All tours are designed to fit within your cruise schedule, ensuring a stress-free return to your ship.

How to Get from Villefranche Port to Nice, Monaco, or Cannes?

If you prefer a private transfer, we provide reliable services from Villefranche to any destination along the French Riviera. Whether you need a quick ride to Nice, a scenic trip to Monaco, or a comfortable journey to Cannes, our luxury vehicles (sedans for up to 3 passengers and vans for up to 8) ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Why Book with Riviera Shore Excursions?

Local Expertise – We specialize in shore excursions for cruise passengers, ensuring a seamless experience.
Luxury & Comfort – Travel in high-end vehicles with professional, bilingual drivers.
Customizable Itineraries – Tailor your tour to match your interests and schedule.
No Hidden Fees – Transparent pricing with no surprise charges.

Book Your Villefranche Excursion Today!

Make the most of your Viking Cruise stop in Villefranche by booking a private tour or transfer with Riviera Shore Excursions. Whether you’re looking for a cultural experience, a scenic drive, or a luxurious transfer, we have the perfect option for you.

📩 Contact us today to plan your French Riviera adventure!

Discover Cannes: The Jewel of the French Riviera

February 9, 2025 Art & architecture

Cannes, the glamorous heart of the French Riviera, is world-renowned for its prestigious Cannes Film Festival, stunning beaches, and luxurious lifestyle. Whether you’re arriving on a cruise or staying in the region, exploring Cannes is a must for any visitor. At Riviera Shore Excursions, we offer exclusive, tailor-made experiences that allow you to discover the best of Cannes in comfort and style.

Why Visit Cannes?

Cannes is more than just a red carpet destination. It boasts a rich history, charming old town, and breathtaking coastal scenery. Here are some must-visit attractions:

1. La Croisette – The Iconic Seaside Promenade

No visit to Cannes is complete without a stroll along the Boulevard de la Croisette. This famous promenade stretches along the Mediterranean, lined with luxury boutiques, five-star hotels, and upscale restaurants. Capture stunning seaside views and immerse yourself in the elegance of the Riviera.

2. Le Suquet – The Historic Old Town

For a taste of authentic Cannes, head to Le Suquet, the city’s charming old quarter. Wander through its narrow cobbled streets, admire panoramic views from the hilltop, and visit the historic Église Notre-Dame d’Espérance. The local markets and traditional bistros make this area a hidden gem.

3. Palais des Festivals et des Congrès

Film lovers can’t miss the Palais des Festivals, home to the world-famous Cannes Film Festival. Take a photo on the legendary red carpet and see the celebrity handprints scattered around the building.

4. The Lérins Islands – A Tranquil Escape

Just a short boat ride from Cannes, the Îles de Lérins offer a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. Visit Île Sainte-Marguerite, known for its lush nature and the mysterious Fort Royal, or explore Île Saint-Honorat, home to a centuries-old monastery producing exquisite wines.

Cannes Shore Excursions with Riviera Shore Excursions

If you’re arriving on a cruise, our Cannes shore excursions ensure you make the most of your limited time on land. We offer:

Private tours with luxury vehicles (3-person sedans or 8-person vans)
Custom itineraries tailored to your interests
Transfers from Cannes port, Nice airport, and local hotels

Best Time to Visit Cannes

Cannes is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is between April and October, when the weather is warm and sunny. If you want to experience the city’s glitz and glamour, visit in May during the Cannes Film Festival.

Book Your Cannes Excursion Today!

Experience the best of Cannes with Riviera Shore Excursions. Our expert team ensures a seamless, luxurious, and unforgettable journey. Book your private Cannes shore excursion today and explore the French Riviera like never before!

For more details, visit our website or contact us for a customized itinerary.

The Best Local Markets on the French Riviera

February 9, 2025 Culinary delights

The French Riviera is famous for its glamorous lifestyle, but it also boasts some of the most vibrant and authentic local markets in France. From fresh produce to artisan crafts, these markets offer a taste of the region’s rich culture and history. Whether you’re a food lover, a souvenir hunter, or simply looking to soak up the atmosphere, here are the best local markets you shouldn’t miss.

1. Cours Saleya Market – Nice

Located in the heart of Nice’s Old Town, Cours Saleya Market is one of the most famous markets on the Riviera. This bustling open-air market is a paradise for foodies, offering fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and local specialties like socca and pissaladière. On Mondays, the market transforms into an antique fair, where you can find unique vintage treasures.

Best for: Fresh produce, flowers, and antiques
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 6 AM – 1:30 PM (Antiques market on Mondays)

2. Forville Market – Cannes

A must-visit for food enthusiasts, Forville Market in Cannes is a lively hub where local farmers and fishmongers showcase their best products. Expect to find Mediterranean seafood, fragrant herbs, and truffle-infused delicacies. It’s the perfect spot to gather gourmet picnic ingredients before heading to the beach.

Best for: Fresh seafood, charcuterie, and regional delicacies
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 7 AM – 1 PM

3. Marché Provençal – Antibes

Tucked away in the charming streets of Antibes, the Marché Provençal is a quintessential Provençal market. It features fragrant spices, sun-ripened fruits, lavender products, and handmade goods. The atmosphere is lively, with vendors offering free tastings of their best olive oils and tapenades.

Best for: Provençal products, artisanal goods, and spices
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 6 AM – 1 PM

4. Liberation Market – Nice

A local favorite, Liberation Market is less touristy but just as rich in high-quality produce. It’s where Niçois chefs and home cooks come for the freshest seafood, meats, and vegetables. The market is surrounded by charming cafés, perfect for a post-shopping coffee break.

Best for: Authentic local experience, fresh seafood, and meats
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 6 AM – 12:30 PM

5. Ventimiglia Market – Italy (Near Menton)

Just across the border in Italy, the Ventimiglia Market is a great day-trip destination for those on the French Riviera. It offers everything from fresh pasta and Italian cheeses to high-end leather goods and fashion items at unbeatable prices.

Best for: Italian gourmet foods, leather goods, and fashion bargains
Opening hours: Fridays, 8 AM – 5 PM

6. Villefranche-sur-Mer Market

One of the most picturesque markets on the Riviera, Villefranche-sur-Mer Market offers fresh local produce right by the stunning harbor. The market is smaller but provides a charming and authentic experience, with fresh seafood and organic vegetables straight from local farms.

Best for: Local seafood, fresh vegetables, and a scenic experience
Opening hours: Wednesdays and Saturdays, 8 AM – 1 PM

7. Saint-Tropez Market – Place des Lices

Held in the iconic Place des Lices, the Saint-Tropez market is the ultimate blend of luxury and tradition. You’ll find everything from artisanal cheeses and olives to designer clothing and antiques. It’s a favorite among celebrities and locals alike.

Best for: Luxury souvenirs, Provençal products, and antiques
Opening hours: Tuesdays and Saturdays, 8 AM – 1 PM

Experience the Markets with Riviera Shore Excursions

Exploring the local markets is one of the best ways to experience the authentic charm of the French Riviera. At Riviera Shore Excursions, we offer private tours that take you to the region’s best markets, combined with wine tastings, culinary experiences, and scenic drives along the coast.

Book Your Exclusive Market Tour Today!

🚗 Visit our website now to plan your perfect Riviera adventure!