Tour description
Southern France & Northern Italy Tour
DAY 1 LUBERON
Upon arrival at Marseille Provence Airport, you are warmly welcomed by your private chauffeur-guide and begin your journey inland toward the Luberon, one of Provence’s most treasured rural regions. As the Mediterranean coastline fades, the scenery transitions into vineyards, olive groves, lavender fields, and pale limestone hills that define this UNESCO-listed landscape. Depending on arrival time, a leisurely stop at a village café or family-run auberge introduces you to Provençal flavors. You settle into a charming boutique hotel surrounded by vineyards, embracing the slower, sun-washed rhythm of southern France.
DAY 2 LUBERON
Today is devoted to discovering the celebrated hilltop villages of the Luberon Regional Natural Park, shaped by centuries of farming, stone craftsmanship, and Provençal traditions. With your knowledgeable local chauffeur, you will explore Gordes, dramatically perched above the valley, and Roussillon, famous for its striking ochre cliffs and warm-hued houses. You will also visit Sénanque Abbey, nestled among lavender fields, or villages such as Ménerbes and Lacoste, known for artisans and vineyard views. Lunch at a local bistro will highlight seasonal ingredients, olive oil, and regional wines, offering an authentic taste of village life.
DAY 3 SAINT REMY
You will journey into the Alpilles, a rugged landscape of limestone ridges, olive groves, and Roman heritage. In Les Baux-de-Provence, you will walk through a dramatic medieval village set atop a rocky spur, once a strategic stronghold commanding the plains below. You will then continue to Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, where Roman ruins, shaded squares, and refined boutiques reflect centuries of history. Lunch will feature classic Provençal dishes rooted in local market traditions. The afternoon will be free to browse galleries, enjoy café culture, or simply absorb the town’s elegant yet relaxed atmosphere.
DAY 4 AVIGNON
Today you will travel north into the Rhône Valley, arriving in the legendary vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Visits to carefully selected wineries will introduce the region’s distinctive terroir, including galets roulés stones, mistral winds, and Grenache-led blends shaped by centuries of winemaking tradition. A wine-paired lunch will deepen your appreciation of Rhône gastronomy before continuing to Avignon. Here, you will explore the historic center, viewing the Palais des Papes and medieval ramparts that recall the city’s time as the seat of papal power in the 14th century.
DAY 5 LUBERON
Today will be dedicated to savoring Provence at your own pace. You may choose to visit one of the region’s beloved Provençal markets in Gordes, Apt, or Lourmarin, where local producers will offer cheeses, olives, herbs, and sun-ripened fruits. Alternatively, you may relax at your hotel or explore nearby villages independently. Optional experiences such as a hands-on cooking class, olive oil tasting, or private vineyard visit will be arranged upon request. The emphasis will remain on everyday Provençal life, guided by thoughtful local recommendations rather than fixed schedules.
DAY 6 AIX EN PROVENCE
After breakfast, you will travel south toward the Mediterranean, stopping in Aix-en-Provence, an elegant university town known for its fountains, plane-tree-lined streets, and artistic heritage. You will stroll along the Cours Mirabeau, passing historic cafés and learning about the city’s connection to Paul Cézanne. Following a relaxed lunch, the journey will continue toward the Côte d’Azur. Upon arrival in Nice, you will check into your boutique hotel and enjoy your first evening by the sea, perhaps with a seaside aperitif as the light softens over the Baie des Anges.
DAY 7 NICE
With your engaging local guide, you will explore Nice’s Old Town, where Italian and French influences will blend through architecture, cuisine, and daily life. You will wander the lively Cours Saleya market, admire Baroque churches, and stroll along the Promenade des Anglais overlooking the Mediterranean. Along the way, tastings of local specialties such as socca and pissaladière will offer insight into Niçois culinary traditions. The experience will balance history, gastronomy, and relaxed coastal elegance.
DAY 8 EZE & MONACO
Today you will follow the spectacular Moyenne Corniche, one of the Riviera’s most scenic routes, with sweeping views over the Mediterranean. In Èze, a medieval village perched high above the coast, you will explore winding stone lanes and panoramic gardens overlooking the sea. Continuing to Monaco, you will pass Monte-Carlo’s harbor, the Prince’s Palace, and historic quarters reflecting the principality’s unique identity. The route will continue through Roquebrune-Cap-Martin and Menton, near the Italian border. Lunch will be enjoyed at a carefully chosen Riviera restaurant highlighting refined coastal cuisine.
DAY 9 ANTIBES & CANNES
Today you will discover three distinctive towns along the French Riviera. In Saint-Paul-de-Vence, you will walk through a beautifully preserved hilltop village long associated with artists and writers. In Antibes, you will explore the old town near the Picasso Museum, followed by a seafood-focused lunch overlooking the harbor. The day will conclude in Cannes, where a stroll along La Croisette will reveal Belle Époque hotels and beaches, offering a deeper understanding beyond the city’s film-festival image.
DAY 10 MENTON
This full free day will allow you to enjoy Nice according to your personal interests. You may choose to relax on the pebble beaches, visit museums such as the Matisse or Chagall, shop in the city center, or enjoy a long seaside lunch. Optional excursions to nearby destinations including Villefranche-sur-Mer, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, or Menton will be available. The day will remain intentionally unstructured, encouraging a relaxed immersion into Riviera life.
DAY 11 SAN REMO
You will depart the French Riviera and travel along the Ligurian coast into Italy. A stop in Sanremo will introduce you to Belle Époque architecture, palm-lined promenades, and the historic old town of La Pigna. After time to explore and enjoy lunch, the journey will continue inland as coastal scenery gives way to rolling hills and vineyards. Your arrival in Piedmont will mark the beginning of Italy’s celebrated food and wine heartland, known for its elegance and deep-rooted traditions.
DAY 12 BAROLO
Today you will explore Piedmont’s most important wine villages with a knowledgeable private wine guide. You will visit Barolo and Barbaresco, tasting Nebbiolo-based wines at carefully selected wineries while learning about terroir, aging, and regional traditions. A wine-paired lunch will feature classic Piedmontese dishes. Scenic drives through La Morra and Neive will offer views of vineyard-covered hills and historic villages that define this UNESCO-recognized landscape
DAY 13 BAROLO
In the morning, you will join a trusted local truffaiolo and his trained dogs in the countryside near Alba, learning about the traditions behind Piedmont’s prized truffles, season permitting. You will discover how landscape, weather, and patience shape this centuries-old practice. In the evening, you will participate in a hands-on cooking class with a local chef, preparing traditional Piedmontese recipes using regional ingredients and paired with excellent local wines.
DAY 14 TURIN
You will travel north toward Lake Como, stopping in Turin for a privately guided visit. Once the capital of the House of Savoy, Turin will reveal elegant piazzas, arcaded streets, and Baroque architecture. You will visit a Savoy residence and enjoy a chocolate tasting at a historic café, reflecting the city’s culinary heritage, followed by a light lunch. You will then continue to Lake Como and check into your centrally located lakeside hotel.
DAY 15 LAKE COMO
This morning, you will board a classic wooden boat for a private cruise on Lake Como with a charming local skipper. From the water, you will admire iconic villas such as Villa Oleandra, Villa Fontanelle, and Comacina Island, while hearing local stories and insights. The afternoon will be free for lakeside dining, village strolls, or relaxing at your hotel, enjoying the refined calm and timeless beauty of the lake.
DAY 16 LAKE COMO
Today you will join a small-group boat excursion to explore Lake Como’s most celebrated villas. From the water, you will admire historic residences including Villa Carlotta and Villa Melzi. You will disembark at Villa del Balbianello for a guided interior visit, followed by free time to explore its terraced gardens independently. The day will balance cultural discovery with relaxed enjoyment of the lake and its landscapes.
DAY 17 LAKE COMO
Today will be a free day to enjoy Lake Como according to your interests. You may choose to visit Como town and its historic silk artisans, explore the village of Bellano, hike along lakeside trails, venture into the Lugano area in Switzerland, or discover the vineyards of Valtellina. Alternatively, you may prefer to simply relax by the water, embracing the slower pace of lake life
DAY 18 MILAN
After breakfast, your private chauffeur will transfer you to Milan. You will check into your boutique hotel in the Quadrilatero fashion district before meeting your private guide. During a guided walk, you will visit the Duomo Cathedral, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and historic streets that reflect Milan’s commercial and cultural importance. Tastings of local specialties will be included along the way.
DAY 19 MILAN
Your final full day will allow you to experience Milan at your own pace. You may wander the Navigli canals, enjoy last-minute shopping, visit museums, or linger over an aperitivo while observing daily life. Milan will reveal itself through neighborhoods, cafés, and quiet moments as much as through its celebrated landmarks.
DAY 20 DEPARTURE
Today your journey will come to an end. After breakfast, your private chauffeur will transfer you to Milan Airport for your onward flight. You will depart with a deeper understanding of Southern France and Northern Italy, shaped by local encounters, regional cuisine, and a thoughtfully paced journey grounded in authenticity and human connection.
Tour quotation
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Tour in a Nutshell
Southern France and Northern Italy, thoughtfully paced and immersive
Private guides, chauffeur-driven travel, and local expert encounters
Regional cuisine, fine wines, truffles, and hands-on cooking
Iconic landmarks balanced with authentic village and local life
Scenic coastlines, countryside drives, and private Lake Como boating
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