Portofino, San Remo & Monte Carlo

Itinerary

Portofino, San Remo & Monte Carlo

Tour Info

Go on...experience the glamour and coastal beauty of the Italian and French Riviera on this ten-day holiday. There's plenty to look forward to: from our sun-kissed base, we set out to explore the sparkling principality of Monaco and the world-renowned resort of Monte Carlo, featuring its iconic casino and opulent waterfront. A scenic boat trip from Rapallo takes us to glitzy Santa Margherita Ligure and picturesque Portofino, a gem of the Italian Riviera with its pastel harbour and exclusive boutiques. With the option to see Nice and Menton too, say yes to swapping the every day for easy Riviera charm.

Portofino, San Remo & Monte Carlo

Day 1

Ferry to Calais and overnight stay in the Reims area on a bed and breakfast basis.

Portofino, San Remo & Monte Carlo

Day 2

We continue our scenic journey through France, stopping along the way in Beaune, a charming town located in the heart of the Burgundy region. Explore its cobblestone streets and vibrant markets, indulge in the region's world-class cuisine and exceptional wines or see the famous Hôtel-Dieu, a medieval hospital with striking colourful tiled roofs, which now houses a museum. 

Portofino, San Remo & Monte Carlo

Day 3

We continue our drive south to reach the Italian Riviera mid-afternoon, with time for a short orientation walk along Diano Marina's seafront promenade – perfect for a taste of Ligurian life.

Portofino, San Remo & Monte Carlo

Day 4

We head to the tiny but dazzling principality of Monaco and its most glamorous quarter, Monte Carlo. Famed for its opulent lifestyle, world-class casinos and jet-set appeal, this coastal gem is a playground for the rich and famous. Admire the sleek yachts in the bustling marina, take in the grandeur of the Prince’s Palace or wander the elegant streets lined with designer boutiques and chic cafés. From the historic Monte Carlo Casino to the breathtaking sea views, Monaco may be less than a square mile in size, but it delivers glamour and beauty in abundance. To find out more, you may wish to join our optional guided city tour of all the highlights.

Portofino, San Remo & Monte Carlo

Day 5

Choose to spend the day at leisure or join our optional excursion to Nice, one of the gems along the French Riviera. Set on a beautiful bay, this lovely resort offers a pretty seafront promenade, atmospheric Old Town with narrow streets, colourful buildings and bustling markets, exceptional museums plus plenty of shops, cafés and restaurants. You may like to try the local delicacy of socca, a thin pancake made with chickpea flour and a variety of toppings available!

Our next stop is Menton, a postcard-perfect town known for its zingy citrus fruits and often referred to as the Pearl of France thanks to its stunning location between the mountains and the sparkling Mediterranean. Highlights here include the Basilica of Saint-Michel-Archange and the stunning gardens like Serre de la Madone and Val Rahmeh.

Portofino, San Remo & Monte Carlo

Day 6Enjoy time at the hotel or a relaxing day exploring the local sights.

Portofino, San Remo & Monte Carlo

Day 7

Today, we embark on a scenic boat trip from Rapallo, gliding along the Ligurian coastline past craggy cliffs, hidden coves and sun-drenched villas. Our first destination is Santa Margherita Ligure, a lovely port town with multi-coloured houses, a castle, 13th-century basilica and palm-lined promenade  – it offers the perfect taste of Riviera life! After some time here, the boat takes us to the picture-perfect harbour of Portofino, where sleek yachts bob beside brightly painted fishing boats in a timeless tableau of Riviera charm. Stroll the cobbled lanes, explore stylish boutiques or simply linger over a coffee at a harbourfront café, soaking in the elegant atmosphere. For those seeking a view from above, a gentle walk to the historic Castello Brown rewards with sweeping vistas of the turquoise bay and surrounding coastline.

Portofino, San Remo & Monte Carlo

Day 8

This morning, we take a leisurely half-day trip to the elegant coastal town of San Remo. Known for its palm-lined promenades, Art Nouveau villas and vibrant flower market, San Remo blends Riviera charm with Italian flair. Enjoy time to explore the Old Town or relax by the sea. This evening, we come together for a farewell dinner featuring delicious Ligurian specialities – a perfect end to our journey.

Portofino, San Remo & Monte Carlo

Day 9

Travel to our overnight hotel in France, with a light evening meal included. 

Portofino, San Remo & Monte Carlo

Day 10

Continue to Calais for our return ferry home.

Portofino, San Remo & Monte Carlo

• Return coach travel & ferry crossings
• First & last night on a bed & breakfast basis in France (last night with a light evening meal)
• Additional overnight stay on the outward journey on a half-board basis in France
• 6 nights at a selected hotel in Diano Marina or San Bartolomeo al Mare (JG3 rating) with dinner & breakfast (includes one four-course Ligurian speciality dinner)
• Porterage
• Free bar (6pm-10pm on local brands (spirits, beer, wine, soft drinks, tea & coffee)
• Excursions to Monaco, Monte Carlo, Santa Margherita Ligure, Portofino & San Remo
• En-route visit to Beaune
• Scenic boat trip from Rapallo to Santa Margherita Ligure & Portofino
• Services of a tour manager

Optional guided city tour of Monaco & Monte Carlo (£19pp)

Optional excursion to Nice & Menton (£25pp)

Portofino, San Remo & Monte Carlo

• Excursions to Monaco, Monte Carlo, Portofino & San Remo
• En-route visit to Dijon
• Scenic boat trip from Rapallo to Portofino

Hotel accessibility information

Your en-route overnight hotels will be confirmed approximately 3 weeks before departure, therefore we cannot guarantee that the hotels will have a lift and/or ground floor rooms and may be unsuitable for those with limited mobility. Back to top

Accommodation

Selected hotels, France / Northern Italy

We’ll stay at comfortable hotels during our outward and return journey. All rooms are en suite and other facilities include a bar and restaurant.

Selected hotel, Diano Marina or San Bartolomeo al Mare JG3

You'll stay at one of three hotels in Diano Marina or San Bartolomeo al Mare (JG3 rating):

Hotel Villa Igea, Diano Marina 
Located in Diano Marina, the charming Hotel Villa Igea is a lovely base for those seeking a relaxing getaway. The charming hotel features well-appointed rooms with air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs, while other hotel facilities include a tranquil garden area, an outdoor pool, Jacuzzi, terrace bar and a restaurant, with easy access to a nearby partner beach.

Hotel Diano Marina
Hotel Diano Marina offers an exceptional blend of comfort, luxury and scenic beauty. Guests can enjoy stunning views of the Ligurian Sea, indulge in delicious local cuisine. Bedrooms are tastefully decorated and equipped with modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and flat-screen TVs.

Hotel Bergamo Mare, San Bartolomeo al Mare
Hotel Bergamo is located close to the beach in the charming coastal town of San Bartolomeo Al Mare on the picturesque Ligurian coastline. All rooms are en-suite with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, furnished balconies and either air conditioning or ceiling fans. Hotel facilities include a restaurant, bar and an outdoor pool.

Hotel Rating

Hotels with a JG3 rating tend to be a more formal style of hotel, often part of a hotel chain, or are very-welcoming family-owned properties. Generally, they offer a greater range of facilities and services, and bedrooms tend to be a little more spacious with additional features. Public areas are larger and include lounge seating, bar and restaurant with good quality food served either buffet style or waiter service.

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