From Nice: Historic Train Ride & Alps Villages
Alpes-Maritimes, French Riviera
Fall in love with our day tour through the Alps by unique railway from Nice by the river. Explore picturesque villages (labeled "nicest in France"), a Castle, inspiring unspoiled nature & restaurant.
Royal Baroque Route & Salt Roads Train Tour in the Alps
This full-day tour departs from Nice and suits travelers in good physical condition who want to explore Alpine villages and heritage sites by historic train.
Highlights
- Board a historic mountain train for a scenic ride through the Alps
- Experience authentic local culture in two Alpine villages with crafts and traditions
- Enjoy lunch at a traditional village restaurant offering local or classic meals
- Discover Baroque art, medieval architecture, and early 20th-century engineering
- Visit a unique Franciscan Monastery and learn the legend of Saint Francis of Assisi
Description
The Royal Baroque Route & Salt Roads Train Tour offers a rare experience aboard a restored early 20th-century train through valleys, mountains, and canyons along the French-Italian border.
The journey combines comfortable scenic train travel with guided walking tours in two medieval villages known for their Baroque heritage, chapels, cathedrals, and monasteries. A private shuttle connects the villages along mountain roads, allowing access to hidden local treasures.
Your professional guide will share insights about one of France’s most remarkable railway lines, including its majestic viaducts and tunnels. The tour includes a guided climb to the Franciscan Monastery, located on a steep path, with an option to skip the ascent and enjoy free time in the village.
Depending on the day, the second village visit will include either a museum showcasing Bronze Age Alpine rock engravings or a short hike to explore additional Baroque monuments and medieval castle ruins.
Return to Nice by train at 7:00 PM. The itinerary may change due to weather or transport conditions.
Includes
- Roundtrip train tickets and shuttle bus rides
- Lunch at a restaurant or picnic (depending on selected option)
- Professional tour guide
- Onboard and walking tour commentary
- Entrance fees for monastery and monuments
Excludes
- Breakfast
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
Important Information
- Tour includes 4 to 10 kilometers of walking with some steep sections; good physical condition required
- Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes and dress according to the weather
- Bring a towel and swimsuit if you want to swim in the river; notify in advance to adapt the itinerary (summer only)
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.