Iconic Western Mediterranean

Set out on a guided walk through the heart of the medieval quarter of Monaco, known as The Rock. The Mediterranean will make a spectacular backdrop as you begin your journey on foot with a stroll to the base of The Rock and head uphill with your guide. In the main square, the Place du Palais, see the Prince’s Palace of Monaco, home to the House of Grimaldi since 1297. Then pass St. Nicholas Cathedral—a young church by European standards, it was consecrated in 1875. This is the burial site of the royal family, including American actress-turned-princess Grace Kelly. See the majestic Oceanographic Museum, soaring above the sea on a cliffside, then return to the Place du Palais. Depending on the time of day, you may have the opportunity to watch the daily changing of the guard outside the palace walls. After free time in town to explore more on your own, return to your ship.

Discover local history during a leisurely guided walk through the Rock, Monaco’s medieval quarter. The Mediterranean will make a spectacular backdrop as you begin your journey on foot with a stroll to the base of The Rock and head uphill with your guide at a relaxed pace. In the main square, the Place du Palais, see the Prince’s Palace of Monaco, home to the House of Grimaldi since 1297. Then pass St. Nicholas Cathedral—a young church by European standards, it was consecrated in 1875. This is the burial site of the royal family, including American actress-turned-princess Grace Kelly. See the majestic Oceanographic Museum, soaring above the sea on a cliffside, then return to the Place du Palais. Depending on the time of day, you may have the opportunity to watch the daily changing of the guard outside the palace walls. After free time, return to your ship.

Immerse yourself in history during a visit to one of the French Riviera’s most celebrated Belle Époque estates. From Monte Carlo, board your motor coach and enjoy a scenic drive to the peninsula of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. Upon arrival at the grounds of the Villa and Gardens Ephrussi de Rothschild, you will be greeted by your expert guide. Discover the grandeur of the spectacular villa, which houses a priceless collection that the Baroness Béatrice Ephrussi de Rothschild assembled throughout her life. The decor is inspired by the great Renaissance residences of Venice and Florence, and the property is surrounded by seven gardens of different themes. View an exceptional collection of porcelain, furniture, carpets, tapestries and canvases. Take in the wonderful views of the surrounding riviera and enjoy free time to stroll around the gardens before heading back to your awaiting ship.

Soar over the dramatic landscapes of Monaco and the French Riviera during a flightseeing excursion. After a short drive, you will arrive at the Monaco Heliport to meet your highly experienced pilot and board your helicopter. During your 20 minutes in the air, you will get a true sense of how small Monte Carlo and Monaco are, nestled snugly between limestone cliffs and the waters of the Mediterranean. Take in the views of palatial buildings as you follow the coast to the Bay of Garavan, lapping at the shores of Menton. Fly over the lush gardens of the medieval hill town of Èze and the wide blue bay of Villefranche-sur-Mer. See Cape Ferrat jutting out into the sea, dotted with spectacular villas. Beyond the hills, see the French countryside stretching toward Provence and the French Alps. After your flight, you will return to your awaiting ship via minivan.

Immerse yourself in local culture and cuisine as our Executive Chef leads you on an interactive culinary adventure. Take a walk to the local market to handpick ingredients under the guidance of our Chef. Later this evening, you will dine on regional dishes prepared by our experienced culinary team, using produce from the market. As you and your fellow guests enjoy this delicious creation at The Kitchen Table, you will also observe the art of plating with each dish. From fresh market fare to cooking techniques and elegant presentation, experience firsthand how your ship’s world-class culinary staff brings distinct, local flavors from the market to your taste buds. It is an unforgettable, one-of-a-kind opportunity to shop, interact and dine with the masters.

Enjoy a drive along the Côte d’Azur and take in vistas of the Principality of Monaco. Squeezed into less than a square mile of territory, it is the world’s second smallest country. A magnet for high rollers and famous for its annual Grand Prix motor race, it has been a playground for the rich and famous since the early 20th century. Drive through Monte Carlo, home to the royal Grimaldi family, who have reigned here for more than 700 years. Gaze at the super yachts anchored in the harbor and drive along the Middle Corniche, passing picturesque Èze. Stop at the village of Menton and enjoy a guided orientation walk before free time to explore its pedestrianized streets on your own. Browse the boutique stores, perhaps pausing for refreshments at a pavement café, or enjoy a leisurely stroll to Sablettes Beach. After time for photos, return to your ship.

Admire the lovely ambience of Nice, the capital of the French Riviera that has inspired artists for generations. Join your knowledgeable local guide for a scenic drive by motor coach along the coast, pausing for a photo stop along the way. Enjoy a walking tour of the Old Town, passing through Cours Saleya. You will also see the impressive Opéra de Nice and the Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate de Nice. After having a delightful lunch in Nice, drive up Cimiez Hill to the Marc Chagall National Museum, home to a collection of the painter’s works—especially those inspired by religion. After time to explore, take a short drive to the Franciscan Monastery of Cimiez Hill. Here, you will have an opportunity to stroll the immaculate Italianate gardens and admire the views of Nice and Baie des Anges (Bay of Angels). Your tour will conclude back at your ship.

Immerse yourself in cultural treasures and scenic splendor on this full-day excursion to the French Riviera. With your guide, set out for Menton, often called the “Pearl of France.” Discover its historic center and soak up the beauty of its landscaped gardens, citrus groves and Belle Époque architecture. After free time to explore at your own pace, continue toward the medieval hill town of Èze, perched on a seaside promontory, to walk its cobbled streets and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Continue exploring Èze on your own before returning by coach to Monte Carlo, where you will see the Prince’s Palace and the cathedral. Cap your day with a stroll through Casino Square, home to architectural gems including the Hôtel de Paris, the Monte Carlo Opera House and the famed casino which gave the square its name. Soak up the elegant atmosphere here, then return to your awaiting ship.