Call us: (910) 742-5324
Call us: (910) 742-5324
It’s time to live the good life and embark on a getaway to the fabulous French Riviera, or Côte d’Azur. With its elegant coastal resorts, superb eateries, chic boutiques and captivating museums, it’s the ultimate retreat for the elite. You’ll only need to unpack your bags once as we stay at a single hotel for our entire adventure!
And….we’re going to Carnaval de Nice!
A perfect blend of tradition, celebration, and fun, attend one of the most famous carnivals in the world. Hundreds of thousands of people flock to the French Riviera to witness this spectacle of festivity and joy. The Nice Carnival dates back to the 13th century. With a different theme every year, each carnival brings a unique twist to the holiday and is unlike the last. Watch as the night is transformed by dazzling colors and towering floats during the Parade of Lights. From vibrant dancers to costumed performers, take in all the humming energy and exciting festivity in the air because you’ll be right there in the middle of all of the festivities!
Don’t miss your opportunity to join Sisterhood Travels for this incredible women-only once-in-a-lifetime trip. We promise you lots of fun, laughs, spectacular sightseeing and most of all….the magic of Sisterhood!
Once you pass through immigration and customs, your driver will be waiting for you to whisk you away to Hotel Massena. You’ll have time to relax, rejuvenate and explore at your leisure before we officially start our tour tomorrow. Our hotel is exceptionally located and you’ll be close to everything!
Our tour begins in the stunning city of Nice, a coastal pearl of the Mediterranean known for its legendary opulence and balmy beaches. With an average of 300 sunny days per year, Nice is a seaside paradise. This evening, join your fellow Sisters for a Welcome Dinner in Vieux Nice featuring Mediterranean-inspired French cuisine. (B, D)
Today we’ll get to know Nice with a local expert as we meander through the city’s famed flower market to see brightly colored blooms. Then, we’ll delve into the Old Town, sampling local delicacies while on a tasting tour. This afternoon, we’ll experience French Carnaval traditions by attending the Flower Parade. While the Carnaval’s theme changes every year, this event regularly features over 100 thousand flowers, 80% of which are locally grown. (B, L)
This morning we’ll travel along the spectacular Corniche coastal road to the Principality of Monaco. On a walking tour, you’ll be able to view the changing of the guards and visit the Cathedral of Monaco – the permanent resting place of Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace. Then you have a choice! Explore the tiny Principality on a panoramic Little Train tour taking you across to Monte Carlo for views of its famous Casino -OR – visit the Oceanographic Museum, perusing its aquarium and the collection of fossils and skeletons amassed by the great researcher Jacques Cousteau. (B)
Today we’ll be heading to Cannes to rub elbows with Europe’s elite. Walk in the footsteps of celebrities when you see the Film Festival Palace and the iconic red carpet featured during the Cannes Film Festival. During your free time with your Sisters, explore the cobbled lanes of the Le Suquet neighborhood or the scenic Croisette waterfront promenade. Then, we’ll sail (weather permitting) across the Bay of Cannes to the tiny island of Saint-Honorat, belonging to the monks of Lérins Abbey. We’ll pause to taste the locally produced wine before returning to Nice in the late afternoon. This evening, we’ll dine together as we savor a wine-paired tasting menu highlighting the delights of the South of France. (B, D)
Today, we’ll journey to Grasse where we’ll learn the secrets of perfume making during a hands-on workshop and tour of the Fragonard Perfumery, where fragrant formulations have been prepared since 1782. Spend time soaking up the atmosphere of this charming Provençal hill town before returning to Nice in the late afternoon. This evening we’ll attend one of the world’s oldest and most famous carnivals. Dating back to the middle ages, the Nice Carnaval is a party not to be missed! Mingle with locals and travelers alike as you take in the many sights and sounds of the Parade of Lights. (B)
This morning we’ll head to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, referred to as the crown jewel of the French Riviera, where we’ll visit the impressive Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild. You’ll have time to uncover the lush gardens replete with jaw-dropping views of the Mediterranean Sea. Our visit to the villa is complete with lunch served in the charming tearoom overlooking the Bay of Villefranche. Back in Nice, you’ll feel like a local when you try your hand at petanque – a beloved game in the south of France. Similar to the Italian bocce, wind up and aim your throwing ball toward a smaller target ball. You’ll be a pro in no time! As you learn and play, enjoy some tasty snacks. Munch on some toasted bread sticks, sun-dried tomato paste, olive tapenade, an onion tart, and more and, its all paired with an open bar, where you’ll be able to sip rosé wine, mineral water, soda, and juice. (B, L)
This morning, we’ll venture to historic St. Paul de Vence, situated atop a hill overlooking the beautiful countryside of Provence. We’ll explore this walled medieval village, soaking in its distinctive light said to have inspired Matisse, Braque, Chagall, and other artists. This evening, we’ll join together for a Farewell Dinner celebrating the end of an unforgettable Sisterhood experience. (B, D)
Sadly, today we depart for home, but we’ll take with us many wonderful memories of our journey together through the Cote d’Azur. (B)
This is a leisurely paced itinerary and is full of cultural and interesting sightseeing and some free time to relax. Some excursion days may include reasonably early starts, some longer coach travel and possibly walking over uneven terrain. Guests should have reasonable health and mobility.
