3 Countries in 1 day with Tour Company recommended by Rick Steves

Discovering Three Countries in One Day with Kultours – A Detailed Review

Exploring multiple countries in a single day might sound ambitious, but with the right guide and itinerary, it becomes an achievable and unforgettable experience. This private tour from Nice, recommended by Rick Steves, promises just that—visiting France, Italy, and Monaco with a personalized touch. Led by the owner of Kultours herself, Ingrid, the trip offers a combination of scenic drives, charming villages, and glamorous cityscapes, all tailored to your pace.

What we love about this experience is the intimacy and flexibility of a private guide—no rushing through crowds or sticking to a rigid schedule. Plus, the stops at Eze, Dolceacqua, and Monte Carlo are curated for their beauty and authenticity. On the flip side, the price tag of just over $1,000 for a group of six might seem steep, but considering transportation, private guiding, and tailored experiences, many find it a good value. This tour is best suited for travelers seeking a luxury, personalized day trip that maximizes time and comfort while exploring iconic spots.

Key Points

• Private and Personalized: You’re the only group, ensuring a flexible and relaxed pace.
• Expert Guide: Ingrid, the owner, is praised for her local knowledge and friendly personality.
• Efficient Itinerary: Covers scenic villages, the Italian coast, and Monaco in roughly 8 hours.
• Comfortable Transport: Air-conditioned vehicle with bottled water included.
• Authentic Experiences: Visits to Eze and Dolceacqua offer genuine charm without the crowds.
• Flexible and Customizable: The tour can adapt to your interests and pace, avoiding rushed feeling.

An In-Depth Look at the 3 Countries in 1 Day Tour

The Charm of Eze

Your day begins with a stop at Eze, a picturesque village perched high on the French Riviera. The guided walking tour takes about two hours, and from the outset, you’ll notice Ingrid’s knack for highlighting hidden gems—like charming alleyways, views over the coast, and local spots that most travelers might miss. Expect to see the most picturesque corners of Eze, a place that exudes old-world charm with its cobblestone streets and artisan shops.

Reviewers often mention how Ingrid makes the tour feel like a friendly exploration rather than a typical guide-led city walk. One reviewer described it as “like touring with a friend who is a local,” emphasizing how Ingrid’s personal touch enhances the experience. You won’t need to pay for extra tickets here—entry is free, so your time is spent soaking in the scenery and hearing stories about the village’s history and culture.

Italy’s Dolceacqua

Next, the group heads eastward into Italy, making a stop at Dolceaqua, a small medieval town loved for its authentic Ligurian atmosphere. The two-hour visit allows for wandering through its narrow alleys, exploring ancient stone houses, and soaking in views that Monet himself painted.

One of the highlights at Dolceacqua is the chance to enjoy a typical Italian lunch—a chance to savor local flavors and perhaps toast with a glass of regional wine. Reviewers have expressed how this stop provides a genuine taste of Italy, away from overly touristy spots. The town’s medieval bridge and castle ruins are picture-perfect backdrops, ideal for photos or quiet reflection.

The Glitz of Monte Carlo

The final leg of the journey takes you to Monte Carlo, with a panoramic drive that showcases the grandeur of Monaco. You’ll have about an hour here, with a stop at Casino Square, home to luxury cars and elegant architecture. While the tour doesn’t include entry to the casino, you’ll get free time to stroll the glamorous streets, take photos of the yachts, or simply enjoy the luxury vibe.

Many reviews mention how this part of the tour offers a taste of Monaco’s opulence without the crowds. It’s a quick stop but enough to appreciate the city-state’s unique blend of glamour and sophistication. From the guide’s commentary, you’ll learn about Monaco’s culture, geography, and what makes it so distinctive compared to neighboring France and Italy.

What’s Included and What to Consider

Included:
– Private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle
– Bottled water for the journey
– Pickup from your location (if arranged)

Not Included:
– Lunch—though the Italian stop includes a meal, the tour price does not cover it, so you’ll want to budget for that separately.

Transport and Timing:
The private vehicle ensures comfort and flexibility, avoiding the hassle of group tours or public transport. The itinerary is designed to maximize your time at each stop, with clear schedules that allow for sightseeing, photos, and leisurely exploration. Ingrid’s personalized approach means the pace can be adjusted if you prefer more time at certain spots.

Cost and Value:
At $1,018 for a group of six, the cost breaks down to roughly $170 per person, which includes exclusive private transport and a personal guide. While this might seem high, many travelers find the experience worth the investment, especially given the convenience, comfort, and insider knowledge. Reviews are glowing, emphasizing how Ingrid’s local insights and friendly demeanor make the trip feel like visiting with a friend rather than a tour guide.

Authenticity and Personal Touch

One of the standout features of this tour is the personal connection Ingrid fosters. Several reviewers praise her for her personality, knowledge, and genuine love for her region. One reviewer mentioned how Ingrid’s love for her part of the world “exudes,” and that her storytelling brings each location to life.

The tour’s flexibility is appreciated—reviews highlight how Ingrid adapts the pace to suit the group, avoiding the rushed feeling common in larger bus tours. The fact that it’s a private experience means you can prioritize what interests you most and take your time at each site, making it ideal for travelers who dislike feeling hurried.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a luxurious, tailored day exploring the French Riviera, Italy, and Monaco without the stress of coordinating transportation or navigating unfamiliar roads. It suits those who value authentic experiences over cookie-cutter sightseeing, and who appreciate a local guide’s insights. It’s also great for groups or families looking for a flexible, private adventure.

If you’re a person who enjoys scenic drives, charming villages, and glamorous cities, this tour offers a balanced mix. However, if budget is a concern, or if you prefer a more independent style without guided commentary, you might find other options more suitable.

Final Thoughts

This 3 Countries in 1 Day tour from Nice offers a thoughtfully curated experience that balances comfort, authenticity, and personal attention. It’s a fantastic way to tick off three countries in a single day, especially if you’re short on time but want to see a variety of landscapes, towns, and cultures.

The private nature of the tour, led by Ingrid, ensures a relaxed, tailored experience—a refreshing change from crowded group excursions. The stops at Eze, Dolceacqua, and Monte Carlo are each uniquely captivating, providing a well-rounded snapshot of the region’s diverse appeal.

While the price may seem high, the value lies in the personalized guide service, private transport, and the chance to discover hidden spots that larger tours often overlook. This trip is particularly suited for travelers keen on experiencing the authentic charm of the French Riviera and its neighbors, without feeling hurried or overwhelmed.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate. It’s designed to be flexible and comfortable, suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace.

Does the tour include entry fees?
No, entry fees are not included. However, the stops like Eze and Dolceacqua are free to explore, and the Italian lunch is part of your experience at Dolceacqua.

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, pickup is available, making it more convenient, especially if you’re staying somewhere central in Nice.

How long does each stop last?
Eze is around two hours, Dolceacqua also about two hours, and Monaco about an hour, including a drive-by and free time at Casino Square.

Can the itinerary be customized?
Since it’s a private tour, Ingrid is flexible and can tailor the pace or focus on particular interests if desired.

What’s the best time to book?
The tour operates year-round, with availability from April through June 2026, and runs daily from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM.

Is this tour recommended by Rick Steves?
Yes, it is explicitly recommended, which adds a layer of trust for those familiar with his travel philosophy.

To sum it up, if you’re after a luxurious, authentic, and flexible way to see three different countries in one day, this private tour from Nice hits all the right notes. It combines insider knowledge, stunning scenery, and the convenience of private transport, making it an ideal choice for those who want to experience the region’s highlights comfortably and personally.