From Cannes or Nice | French Riviera Day Trip Driving a vintage car

If you’re dreaming of cruising along the iconic Côte d’Azur in a classic car, this guided day trip offers an enticing way to experience the French Riviera’s charm. From the luxurious glamour of Cannes to the artistic streets of Saint-Paul de Vence, you’ll enjoy picturesque scenery, authentic stops, and the thrill of driving a vintage vehicle.

What makes this experience stand out? We love the personalized small-group setting, the opportunity to drive (if you wish), and the chance to explore lesser-known but captivating towns like Grasse and Antibes. Plus, the scenic drives through Provence provide some of the most beautiful views you can imagine.

However, it’s worth considering that the tour does not include lunch or hotel transfers, so you’ll want to plan accordingly. Perfect for those who adore scenic drives, vintage cars, or simply want a more intimate tour of the French Riviera’s highlights, this trip offers a distinctive blend of adventure and authenticity.

Good To Know

• Authentic Vintage Car Experience: Drive your own classic vehicle if comfortable, or relax as a passenger.
• Scenic and Cultural Stops: Explore Grasse, Saint-Paul de Vence, and Antibes with plenty of photo opportunities.
• Small Group Setting: Limited to six participants for a more personalized experience.
• Flexibility and Comfort: Equipped with heating and a roof to handle weather changes.
• Ideal for Scenic Lovers: Perfect for travelers wanting a relaxed yet picturesque exploration.
• No Lunch Included: Plan for your own meals, but the stops offer some delightful local options.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An Authentic French Riviera Adventure in a Classic Car

Craving a different way to experience the French Riviera? This vintage car tour from Cannes or Nice offers a blend of scenic driving, charming stops, and the chance to indulge your love for classic vehicles. It’s a fantastic alternative to typical sightseeing tours because it combines the thrill of driving with the pleasure of discovering Provence’s most beautiful spots.

What we liked most about this experience is the personalized small-group format. With a limit of just six participants, the tour feels intimate, allowing your guide to give more tailored insights and answer all your questions. Plus, the option to drive the vintage car yourself — if you hold a valid EU driver’s license and are comfortable with manual transmissions — makes it extra memorable.

A notable highlight is the well-planned itinerary, which balances scenic drives with immersive stops. While it’s a six-hour experience, the pace is relaxed, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each location without feeling rushed. The tour’s flexibility with weather, thanks to a roof and heating system, ensures a comfortable ride no matter the forecast.

Itinerary Breakdown: What You Can Expect

Departure from Cannes or Nice

The tour starts conveniently in Cannes, a city synonymous with glitz and glamour. From there, a scenic drive takes you through some of Provence’s most picturesque landscapes before reaching your first stop.

Stop 1: Grasse (2 hours)

Known globally as the perfume capital, Grasse offers more than just fragrant scents. Here, you’ll visit the town center and learn what makes its perfume industry so special. The highlight is the photo stop, where the charming streets and colorful buildings create picture-perfect memories. Visitors have noted that the scents and sights of Grasse really set the tone for the day.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Stop 2: Saint-Paul de Vence (2 hours)

This hilltop village is famous for its art galleries, cobblestone streets, and medieval ramparts. Visitors say that walking the narrow alleys feels like stepping back in time, with plenty of spots to snap photos. After a walk through the historic center, enjoy a leisurely French lunch at a traditional brasserie, sampling local cuisine in a cozy setting.

Stop 3: Antibes (2 hours)

Antibes’ lively streets and harbor-side views make for an excellent afternoon break. It’s a place where you can soak in the maritime atmosphere, explore characteristic streets, and perhaps visit local artisan shops. Reviewers mention that Antibes offers a perfect blend of culture and relaxation, making it a great spot for a break and some memorable photos.

Return to Cannes

The scenic drive back along the coast offers more stunning views, rounding out a full and satisfying day of exploring.

Vehicle and Comfort

The vintage cars are a key part of the charm — equipped with both soft and hard tops, so you’re covered in case of rain or chilly weather. The cars also feature heating, ensuring comfort during cooler days. For those who want to drive, the manual transmission adds an authentic touch, and it’s only available if you hold a valid EU license. Otherwise, the experienced guide will take the wheel, allowing you to sit back and relax.

Practical Tips

• Remember to bring sunscreen, a hat, or scarf for sunny days.
• Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking in towns with cobblestone streets.
• While lunch isn’t included, the stops offer various dining options, from casual cafés to more refined eateries.

Value and Booking Insights

Considering the price includes car rental, a tour leader, fuel, and taxes, it offers good value for a customized experience in a small group setting. The limited group size makes it more personal than larger bus tours, and the option to drive adds an element of fun not often found elsewhere.

Many travelers have praised the guide — Lorenzo, in particular, received glowing reviews for his friendliness, patience, and willingness to answer questions. One reviewer shared that Lorenzo made sure everyone felt comfortable and well cared for, which adds a lot to the overall enjoyment.

Since the tour is flexible, you can reserve with confidence, knowing you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Plus, booking now and paying later allows more flexibility in planning your trip.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for car enthusiasts, scenery lovers, and those who prefer small, personalized tours. If you’re eager to combine driving a vintage vehicle with sightseeing in charming towns, this is ideal. It’s also suitable for travelers who appreciate authentic local atmospheres more than just visiting the usual tourist spots.

While it’s not a full-day affair, the mix of driving, exploring, and relaxing makes it a well-rounded, memorable experience suited for couples, small groups, or solo travelers seeking a touch of adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation provided from the hotel?
No, hotel pick-up and drop-off are not included. You’ll meet at the designated starting point in Cannes or Nice.

Can I drive the vintage car myself?
Yes, if you have a valid EU driver’s license and are comfortable driving a manual transmission, you can drive the car.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking around towns. Sunscreen, a hat, or scarf is also advised for sunny days.

How long is each stop?
Each main stop—Grasse, Saint-Paul de Vence, and Antibes—is around two hours, providing enough time to explore and take photos.

Is this experience suitable for families?
While the experience is mainly geared toward adults and those comfortable with driving, families with older children might enjoy it, especially if they like scenic drives and exploring quaint towns.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers the car rental, tour leader, fuel, and taxes. Lunch, gratuities, and hotel transfers are not included.

Final Thoughts

This vintage car day trip along the French Riviera offers a distinctive way to explore some of Provence’s most beloved spots. The combination of scenic drives, charming villages, and the thrill of driving a classic vehicle creates a memorable experience. The small-group setting means plenty of personalized attention and opportunities to ask questions, making it ideal for curious travelers.

The stops at Grasse, Saint-Paul de Vence, and Antibes deliver a perfect mix of fragrant, artistic, and seaside atmospheres. Plus, the flexibility in driving options and weather protection adds to the appeal. If you’re looking for an authentic, stylish, and intimate way to see the French Riviera, this tour ticks all the boxes.

This experience best suits those who crave scenic beauty, enjoy driving, or want a unique twist on traditional sightseeing. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone looking to make their French Riviera visit a little more special, memorable, and fun.

You can check if your dates are available here: