The quiet side of the Italian Riviera

This private day trip is designed for cruise passengers who want to see a different Italy. Instead of the crowded markets of Ventimiglia or the busy streets of San Remo, we take you to medieval valleys and old coastal towns that inspired painters like Claude Monet.

Dolceacqua and Bordighera

• Dolceacqua: cross the 15th-century humpback bridge, then wander the carrugi, cool and winding stone lanes full of artisan workshops below the ruins of the Doria Castle. Monet painted the village and called it a « jewel of lightness ».
• Bordighera: once a winter retreat for European royalty, with elegant gardens, palm-lined promenades and colorful Belle Époque architecture.
• Between the stops: the road runs through hills covered in olive groves and old vineyards, with views over the Mediterranean.

Optional tasting: local Rossese wine and traditional Ligurian digestifs in a Dolceacqua cellar.

The way back: Menton and the Grande Corniche

We skip the highway and make the return part of the tour.

1. Menton, the lemon city: a colorful French town known for its citrus and its pastel Old Town. A good place for a last Italian-style gelato.
2. The Grande Corniche: the highest coastal road in France, with 180° views over Monaco, Eze and Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat far below.

Back on board on time

We follow your ship’s schedule throughout the day. Our private tours are planned to bring you back to the pier at least 1 hour before « All Aboard », so you can enjoy the day without watching the clock.

Want to see the Italian Riviera from the inside? Contact us with your cruise date and port, and we will plan your day.

Guy Alfonsi. Born in Nice, 20+ years of guiding. TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence since 2014.