Thanks to the central location of your accommodation, you'll be able to enjoy on your own this city. You must visit sites like the Greek quarter (Nice was actually founded by the Ancient Greeks of the Massalia region in 350 BCE), and the Roman remains of an amphitheater and arena in the historic Cimiez neighborhood. This is also the location of two other notable landmarks: the opulent Excelsior Régina Palace, where Queen Victoria of England used to summer on the French Riviera, and the Musée Matisse, a museum showcasing the works of Nice's most famous painter, the expressionist master Henri Matisse. Other highlights of this city are the Promenade des Anglais, Port Lympia, the aforementioned Vieille Ville, and the ornate St Nicholas Russian Orthodox Cathedral. At the end of the day, you'll be back at your accommodation in Nice.

Accommodation:

• Mid-Range Accommodation: Hôtel La Villa Nice Victor Hugo

This morning we promise you an unforgettable gourmet discovery walk in the colorful old city of Nice. Be ready to surprise your palate with flavors that are as amazing as they are delicious! Your professional guide Marion, a native from the region, will guide you through an off-the-beaten-track walk in this charming old city. You will be welcomed as a local person in the shops full of color and whilst, taste sweet and savory symbolic dishes and be told on everything about the history of Nice and its gastronomy. (3h-3h30 walking tour - activity shared with other participants) In the afternoon, drive to the second place of stay in the direction of Antibes and Biot. Well located on the French Riviera, the region offers you a multitude of independent excursions and visits to discover the Western French Riviera: Antibes: An exciting city, full of history with its ramparts and its medieval village. Stroll through its Provencal market and the flowered neighborhood of Le Safranier to finish while dining on the Cours Masséna with its covered market. Cannes: Famous all over the world, its prestigious Promenade de La Croisette will charm you with its palaces in the old town with delicious Provençal accents.

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

• Mid-Range Accommodation: Mas Saint Julien Bed and Breakfast

Today you can drive around and freely follow the Picasso route and that of other artists through different museums and art sites. This is a good option to discover the villages of the region. The Picasso National Museum in Vallauris: "War & Peace" - The two artworks of Picasso are set up in the chapel of the castle of Vallauris since 1959. The old building contributes to providing to the war and peace a sacred and universal attachment, with its obvious references to ancient art. "War and Peace" is the last great political composition of Picasso. The Picasso Museum in Antibes: In 1946, Pablo Picasso stayed at the Château Grimaldi in Antibes for a few months and produced many artworks: paintings, drawings, ceramics. The museum also devotes part of its space to the works of Nicolas de Staël and a collection of modern art and brings together artists belonging to the major art currents of the twentieth century. The Museum of Photography in Mougins: In the heart of the village of Mougins, this museum is devoted to photography and the artist's portrait via the works of its founder, André Villers who photographed for many years Pablo Picasso.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

• Mid-Range Accommodation: Mas Saint Julien Bed and Breakfast

This morning, head to the world capital of perfume for a creative experience! Grasse has managed to make its industry a real art, combining luxury, refinement, and quality of products. An art is perceptible by visiting a perfumery, strolling through the streets of the historic center with your guide, and creating your own perfume during the workshop that we propose. During this workshop (right in the renowned 'Galimard' perfumery), you choose your notes and create your own perfume thanks to a specially designed organ. Your unique formula is registered by Galimard, so you can order your perfume even from home... (2h30 workshop - activity shared with other participants) The region around Grasse is also known for the tiny hill-top villages of Gourdon and Saint Paul de Vence. You have never been as close to the Provençal culture and its culinary specialties: Provencal stew, aioli, anchoïade, herbes de Provence, garlic, basil, olive oil, truffle, figs, honey... and for sure: the wines that have made the big names in the production of Provence! After a tasting in a vineyard (optional) near Saint Paul de Vence, you will end your day with a charming walk in the heart of the old town of Antibes.

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

• Mid-Range Accommodation: Mas Saint Julien Bed and Breakfast

Today is a free day leading to the third destination of your self-drive trip. It is also an ideal way to enjoy the beaches and walk along the Mediterranean shore. With your car, you can go further along the coast to the west of the French Riviera and discover renowned places such as Saint-Tropez, Port-Grimaud, or Sainte-Maxime. Nothing better for your lunch break to find you in Saint-Tropez, at the edge of the marina! You may want to discover the medieval village of Grimaud overlooking the bay of Saint-Tropez. We also suggest you discover Port-Grimaud: a real Provençal Venice! Later in the day, enjoy an off-the-beaten paths drive to the wild coast of Cavalaire-sur-Mer, and take a break in the small village of Ramatuelle before discovering the intimate beaches of Escalet.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

• Mid-Range Accommodation: VILLA MERCEDES

You can rest and spend time at your accommodation today. But also discover the region, as many discoveries await you today! Le Lavandou, a Provencal village by the sea known for its mild climate, makes it an ideal destination for the whole family all year round! Le Lavandou is perfectly located between Hyères les Palmiers with its Presqu'ile and the Gulf of Saint Tropez. You will find occupations such as water sports or hiking, a hectic nightlife ... and you will have the choice among the most beautiful Mediterranean beaches such as Aiguebelle and Saint Clair. Do not miss the big annual events of Lavandou: The Corso Fleuri in March, the New Year's Eve in July, ... Near Le Lavandou, discover Bormes Les Mimosas, a perfect place to rest and enjoy the tranquility. Its old village is one of the most beautiful sites in the region and must be a compulsory stopover for lovers of Provençal towns (typical small streets) during a stay on the Côte d'Azur. Mimosas are in the spotlight at various events throughout the year: Mimosalia in January flowers Carnival in February ... If you want to discover the inland of the Riviera, drive to Pierrefeu du Var: a great invitation to stroll if you are in search of the freshness of fountains and shaded terraces. This village also proudly displays its terroir, its organic market, and its night of rosé wine ... Further to the village of Collobrières, the Verne Charterhouse built-in 1170 embodies the Massif des Maures mountains. Here authenticity has a name: the chestnut festival which attracts a large audience each year. Further outside, the hiking trails branch out and become an offer for all.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

• Mid-Range Accommodation: VILLA MERCEDES

Take off and let you be guided by the waves to the Pelagos Sanctuary, where you'll get to observe some cetaceans if you're lucky! Indeed, the waters of Hyères are getting lost in the Pelagos Sanctuary area, which is a protected maritime zone linking the Presqu'île de Giens, the Fosse Chiarone (to the North of Roma, Italy), and the Sardinia coast. A public boat will take you to Porquerolles (19,50€ per adult, round trip - ticket not included) where you'll enjoy a stroll on the dry land to discover the wildlife and appreciate the wonderful landscapes around. Walking tours from 30 minutes to 3 hours are accessible to all. Enjoy some farniente at Notre Dame beach - elected one of the most beautiful of Europe - for a friendly moment together. From Hyères, you can also choose to reach Port Cros Island where you'll get the chance to enjoy snorkeling. This island has been qualified as a National Park because of its great preserved nature. You'll swim in crystalline waters, following an underwater circuit to discover the magnificence and the richness of the seabeds. To get to the island of Port-Cros, boat shuttles depart all year round from Port Saint-Pierre, the main port of Hyères (28,10€ per adult, round trip - ticket not included). Free parking lots are available. You'll finally be back at Hyères seaport, take your car back and join your accommodation for the night.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

• Mid-Range Accommodation: VILLA MERCEDES

Today, head towards the bright, relaxed, and unpretentious seaside resort of Bandol. Expect miles of beaches, great shopping, and buzzing seafront restaurants and bars - and some excellent rosé and red wines. Bandol is relatively sheltered from the fierce northwest Mistral wind which sweeps at times through Provence. And you will find plenty of ideas for excursions within the region when the beach begins to pall. La Cadière d'Azur is also a go-to destination for visitors eager to experience a typical provençal hilltop village. To the south, this pretty, flower-filled tumble of medieval houses, cobbled streets and steep, secret alleyways looks over vineyards and, in the distance, the Mediterranean sea. To the north is the craggy Sainte Baume mountain ridge, plus the picturesque village of Le Castellet perched on another nearby hill. Then, la route des Crêtes takes you on a magnificent ride between La Ciotat and Cassis, with 360-degree views over some of the most superb scenery in Provence all along the way. As you drive or cycle along the Route des Crêtes, you'll see, to the west, Cassis and the Soubeyran coastal cliffs including the dramatic Cap Canaille, a monumental 394 metres / 1,293-foot high slab of red-ochre rock that's the highest in France. In the distance, pictured, is the lacy fringe of the Calanques along the coast towards Marseille and a scattering of islands, with the glittering Mediterranean as the ever-present backdrop.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

• Mid-Range Accommodation: La Villa D'Orient

From Pointe Rouge near your accommodation in Marseille, you'll board an 8 to the 12-seats vessel for a half-day cruise to visit a series of inlets formed by limestone cliffs, which in turn created a series of beautiful little bays. In fact, the area has a very specific ecosystem that has been protected since 2012 when the entire 20-mile stretch was designated as Calanques National Park. The park's 21,000 acres (8,500 hectares) spans between Marseille, Cassis, and La Ciotat with endless trails and places to explore for every fitness level. It only takes a few minutes to enter the park and glimpse its stunning limestone sea cliffs and hidden coves. The waters in these famous inlets are an irresistible kaleidoscope of blues that become milky turquoise and crystalline the further you get to shore (shared activity with other participants; activity duration: 3 hours, morning). Great comfort on board (8, 10, or 12 spaces) Bathes with palms, masks, and snorkels, stopovers in beautiful places Fresh soft drinks, wetsuits, underwater camera (due to the difficulty of Go Pro maintenance, they are not always available) Finding out unusual anecdotes of the coast Relaxation and leisure activities.

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

• Mid-Range Accommodation: La Villa D'Orient

Explore the city of Marseille on your own.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

• Mid-Range Accommodation: La Villa D'Orient

According to your scheduled flight back home, drop off your rental car at the Marseille-Provence Airport. This the end of your trip to Southern France. A bientôt!

Meals: Breakfast