Nice is one of the few French cities with a wine appellation inside its own limits: AOC Bellet, a handful of family estates on the hills west of the centre, around 20 minutes' drive away. Its whites are made mainly from Rolle (Vermentino), alongside rare local grapes such as Braquet and Folle Noire that you'll hardly find anywhere else.
For a full day out, tours from Nice also head west into the Var to the rosé estates of the Côtes de Provence, often combined with a hilltop village such as Saint-Paul-de-Vence. Most include hotel pickup, so you can taste freely.
Wine tours: frequently asked questions
Which wine regions can I visit from the French Riviera?
The closest is Bellet, a small appellation on the hills just west of Nice. About an hour west of Cannes lie the rosé estates of the Côtes de Provence, around Les Arcs-sur-Argens, Lorgues and the Saint-Tropez peninsula. Some full-day tours go further, to Bandol near Toulon, known for its Mourvèdre-based reds.
What kind of wine will I taste?
Mostly rosé — it's by far the main colour of the Côtes de Provence. Expect crisp whites from Rolle (Vermentino) too, and structured reds in Bandol and Bellet. A typical estate visit includes a tasting of three to five wines.
How much does a wine tour on the Riviera cost?
Tasting workshops and shared small-group tours start at around €100 per person. Private day tours with your own driver-guide typically cost €400–650 or more, often priced per group rather than per person. Current prices are shown on each tour.
Do I need a car?
No. Most tours include transport and pickup from your hotel, the port or a central meeting point, so everyone can taste. France's drink-driving limit is 0.5 g/l — lower than in the UK or the US — so a tour with a driver is the sensible choice.
When is the best time for a wine tour?
Estates welcome visitors year-round, but spring to autumn is the liveliest period, with the harvest from late August into September. Many smaller estates close on Sundays and some reduce their hours in winter, so check each tour's availability.
How do I book, and can I cancel?
Tours are booked on Viator, which handles payment and confirmation. Many offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start — check the policy on each listing before you book.