Touring from Monte Carlo and Monaco
Monaco is the second-smallest country in the world — less than one square mile — yet it packs in more glamour per metre than anywhere on the French Riviera. Cruise ships dock at or anchor near Port Hercule, the yacht-filled harbour at the foot of the Rock of Monaco. From here, your private driver-guide can show you the entire principality in a morning: the Monte Carlo Casino and its manicured gardens, the Prince's Palace with the daily Changing of the Guard at 11:55 am, Monaco Cathedral where Princess Grace is laid to rest, the Océanographic Museum perched on the cliff edge, and a lap of the Formula One Grand Prix street circuit.
Beyond Monaco, the Côte d'Azur stretches in both directions. The medieval hilltop village of Èze is about 15 minutes west along the Grande Corniche — one of the most dramatic coastal drives in Europe — and includes the Exotic Garden with panoramic views and the Fragonard perfume factory. Nice is about 30 minutes west with its Promenade des Anglais, Vieille Ville and the Cours Saleya flower market. For guests with a full port day, Cannes, the perfume capital of Grasse, and the walled artists' village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence are all within easy reach.