Hello guys this is your captain Simon speaking! Today your mission, if you choose to accept it: escape the coastline and discover the hidden soul of the French Riviera.
Welcome to the Riviera countryside — where medieval villages perch above the sea, stone houses glow under the southern sun, and Provence slowly replaces the glamour of the coast.
Far from yachts and casinos, today is all about panoramic views, local traditions, art, nature, and timeless villages suspended between mountains and Mediterranean landscapes.
From artists’ hideaways to eagle-nest villages overlooking the Riviera, this journey reveals a more authentic and secret side of the Côte d’Azur.
So get ready, fasten your seat belt, and let’s uncover the Secret Riviera together.
Our first stop takes us to Saint-Paul-de-Vence, one of the most famous and beautiful medieval villages in the South of France.
Hidden behind ancient ramparts, this hilltop village became a true paradise for artists, writers, and celebrities over the years. Painters like Marc Chagall found inspiration in its unique light and peaceful atmosphere.
As we wander through narrow cobbled streets, discover art galleries, shaded squares, fountains, and spectacular views stretching all the way to the Mediterranean Sea.
Every corner feels like a postcard — elegant, artistic, and timeless.
For art lovers, there is also the possibility to visit the beautiful Folon Chapel or the famous Maeght Foundation, home to works by Chagall, Miró, Giacometti, and many other major modern artists.
Along the way, we will also pass through the charming town of Vence, famous for its artistic heritage and authentic Provençal atmosphere. For those interested, there is the possibility to visit the extraordinary Matisse Chapel, designed by Henri Matisse himself and considered one of his artistic masterpieces.
Next, we head to the charming village of Tourrettes-sur-Loup, famous for its violet flowers, authentic atmosphere, and traditional Provençal character.
Built directly into the rock, this medieval village offers beautiful stone streets, artisan workshops, flower-covered houses, and quiet little squares away from the Riviera crowds.
Here, life moves slower. It’s the perfect place to enjoy the relaxed rhythm of southern France and discover a more local, hidden side of the Côte d’Azur.
You will also enjoy free time for lunch in the village, with the opportunity to relax on a sunny terrace overlooking the surrounding hills and countryside.
Final stop: Gourdon, often called the “Balcony of the French Riviera.”
Perched dramatically on a cliff over 700 meters above sea level, this spectacular medieval village offers breathtaking panoramic views stretching from the mountains all the way to the Mediterranean Sea.
Walk through tiny stone streets, artisan boutiques, and scenic viewpoints that make Gourdon one of the most impressive hilltop villages in France.
Between nature, history, and unforgettable scenery, Gourdon offers the perfect grand finale to this Riviera countryside escape.
Where will your next journey take you? Find your dream destination with Simon Says Tours! Explore More Destinations
We focus on the details that make a private day feel easy, polished, and truly personal.
Excellent rating
Based on 33 reviewsTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Our family (4 adults and 2 children, ages 11 through 80) had a wonderful tour from Cassis through Aix-en-Provence, a winery lunch and the adorable village of Lourmarin. Simon was knowledgeable and friendly, and provided just the right amount of history and detail. And he was flexible with our schedule (including adding a stop on the way home for the best baguettes of our trip). Definitely recommend to any group. Trina HamiltonTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Simon is an incredible guide! We had great communication, and he picked us up on time in a spacious van. He took us to all of the specified spots in the Provence region. He went out of his way to make us comfortable and customized to what we needed. He offers many tours from lavender to cityscapes and wine. He is truly an expert in travel and France. Bradley and Anne WhiteTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Stop searching and book Simon right now! We had an unforgettable day exploring all that Provence has to offer, and Simon was the perfect guide to make it happen. He’s the kind of guide you’d hope to find in your own hometown—the one who knows the scenic back roads, has the best table waiting at a local restaurant, and greets everyone like an old friend. Simon catered to our specific request to introduce my sisters and niece to their first French experience, and for us, this was a special day with our Dad. From our first email exchange, Simon was genuinely interested in what we wanted and customized the entire experience just for us. We asked to find and photograph a lavender field, enjoy an incredible lunch featuring Provençal cuisine, let our artist shop for pigments in Roussillon, and soak in the countryside at a leisurely pace. Simon made all of that happen, and somehow it never felt rushed. He entertained us with stories of his home, graciously joined us (at our invitation) for the most memorable lunch, and ensured we were back to our ship with plenty of time to spare. His humor and the care he showed for our Dad made it feel like we were with family. C'est magnifique, Simon! Sarah PlaskyTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Our tour with Simon was perfect, highly recommend! He was a great communicator in planning our trip before we arrived, very responsive. He took us everywhere we wanted to visit, suggested other locations that were spectacular, and just made our trip stress free and very relaxing. Simon is professional, funny and very informative, and his beautiful new van has great AC (perfect for hot Provence days). Highly recommend Simon Says Provence Tours, you will not regret! Timarie ThompsonTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Thank you Simon for a wonderful half day tour of Aix en Provence. We were 4 couples from the UK celebrating my wife's 50th birthday in the South of France. From the first moment we connected on WhatsApp, you were super responsive and accommodating for our requirements - even our last minute changes when England reached the Euro football quarter finals. We loved the walking tour of Aix - such a beautiful town with so much history and character! And the vineyard tour with not just goats cheese and wine tasting... but we got to see the goats too!! All of us loved your passion, enthusiasm and knowledge of the region. We will be sure to connect with you again on our next trip... Thank you Vish Vish MehtaTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had a beautiful day exploring the countryside of Provence with Simon. He confirmed details prior to our tour day and was promptly waiting for us as we excited our cruise ship. His kindness, patience and professionalism was appreciated. Simon filled the car with laughter and new friendship as he efficiently navigated our day together. We left with many great memories. Thank you Simon!! T. KennyTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Highly recommend using Simon anytime when in the south of France. This is my second time using Simon as our guide for the day when we arrived in Cannes. We opted for a day tour in Monaco, and we're not disappointed. We were taken to every site we wanted to see in Monaco and even someone's we were not familiar with. He even arranged for a beautiful, cliffside lunch Overlooking the Mediterranean, in Eze. I've done both the group and private tours with Simon, both are excellent. However, I do recommend the private tours, which allow you so much more time for things of your interest. Simon is the only tour guide. I will use when in the region. Lori StewartTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Simon was so lovely! He made our wine tour experience in Provence smooth and enjoyable. I would highly recommend Simon if you’re traveling to Provence! Ash AlbTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Simone was extremely professional and friendly and will recommend everyone who plans to visit South of France. He was very prompt and his English speaking skills helped us to understand the culture of france eveb better. Murali RaghavanTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had an amazing holiday in Provence & the rest of South of France & our dear friendly guide Simon turned it into a very memorable & pleasurable tour, taking us through the various histories, interesting stories & kept up a friendly banter through out the trip which all of us enjoyed. He has this knack of reading the pulse of the the group & tailoring the tour as per our interest. He is very well versed with the area, the food, the wine & the passion with which he shows you around makes it very endearing! Highly recommendable for touring this area with Simon! akhila prasad
Still Have Questions? We’re Here to Help! Contact Us
We book online in minutes. Choose your tour, select your date, and confirm your details. We then follow up with a clear recap.
Yes. We can adjust the pace, stops, and focus to match your interests, within the tour duration.
For peak season and weekends, we recommend booking early as availability is limited.
We arrange pick up in Provence and nearby areas depending on your location and the tour selected.
Yes. For more than 8 guests, we organise a private minibus option and coordinate details with you.
Payment is completed online at the time of booking to secure your date.
Refunds depend on the cancellation window of your booking. We always share the policy clearly before confirmation.
When availability allows, we can move your booking to another date. The sooner you contact us, the more options we can offer.
The price shown is the price you pay. If any additional costs apply, we confirm them in advance.
Some experiences are optional. We can recommend and reserve tastings or tickets, and we confirm what is included before your tour.
Comfortable shoes are recommended. Bring sunglasses and a light layer, especially for coastal or evening tours.
Yes. We welcome families and can tailor stops and pacing to make the day comfortable for everyone.
Some villages have stairs and uneven streets. Tell us your needs and we will recommend the best route and stops.
No special documents are required for the tour itself. If you are a cruise guest, carry your usual ID and ship information.
We adapt. We can adjust the route for comfort and safety while keeping the experience enjoyable.
All tours are private, designed for your group only.
We plan routes to keep drives comfortable and well balanced with time on location.
Yes. We build flexibility into the day for viewpoints, photos, and short stops.
Yes. We plan a proper lunch moment and can suggest or reserve restaurants on request.
We combine tailored planning, smooth logistics, refined pacing, and local insight, so the day feels effortless and personal.
We craft your itinerary, handle the timing, and keep everything effortless from pick up to drop off. Book online in minutes and secure your preferred date.