Embark on a journey that blends the rustic charm of Italian markets with the elegance of the French Riviera. With Tpo.Travel’s Visit Italian Market, Menton and La Turbie Tour, you’ll experience a day that is as colorful and lively as the markets themselves. From the bustling stalls of Italy to the serene beauty of medieval villages in France, every moment is crafted to offer an authentic, unforgettable taste of the Mediterranean lifestyle.
A Day of Markets and Mediterranean Magic
Your adventure begins with the promise of discovery as you leave the sophisticated city of Nice behind. Our tour invites you to explore some of the most famous markets in Italy, depending on the day you join:
- Tuesdays and Saturdays: the vibrant San Remo market awaits.
- Thursdays: the charming Bordighera market.
- Fridays: the bustling Vintimille market.
Each market offers its own unique personality, but all are united by the warmth of Italian hospitality and the joyful energy of daily life.
San Remo: The City of Flowers and Markets
On Tuesdays and Saturdays, the tour takes you to the elegant seaside town of San Remo, often called the “City of Flowers.” San Remo’s market is a feast for the senses: colorful stalls spill over with fresh produce, local cheeses, cured meats, and, of course, the region’s famous flowers.
As you wander through the market, you’ll find everything from traditional Italian pasta to handmade crafts—perfect souvenirs of your time in Italy. The atmosphere is lively and inviting, with vendors calling out their daily specials and locals filling their baskets with fresh ingredients. Don’t miss the chance to sample some of the local delicacies: sun-ripened olives, freshly baked focaccia, and sweet cannoli that melt in your mouth.
Beyond the market, San Remo itself is worth exploring. Known for its elegant Belle Époque architecture and palm-lined promenades, it’s a town where old-world charm meets vibrant coastal life. Take a stroll along the seafront, breathe in the salty air, and soak up the quintessential Italian Riviera vibe.
Bordighera: A Coastal Haven with Character
On Thursdays, the tour heads to Bordighera, a delightful seaside town that has long enchanted artists and writers. The Bordighera market is set against a backdrop of shimmering Mediterranean waters and lush palm groves, creating a picture-perfect scene.
Here, you’ll discover a market that feels like a step back in time. Vendors proudly display their fresh fruit and vegetables, local cheeses, and handmade textiles. The market is also a wonderful place to pick up Italian leather goods, jewelry, and unique artisan pieces. Bordighera itself is a town of tranquil beauty, with quiet streets, historic villas, and stunning sea views.
Vintimille: A Crossroads of Cultures
Fridays bring us to Vintimille (Ventimiglia in Italian), a vibrant market town that sits right on the Italian-French border. The Vintimille market is one of the largest and most diverse in the region, attracting visitors from both sides of the Riviera.
Here, you’ll find an intoxicating mix of French and Italian influences, from Provençal tablecloths to Italian espresso machines. Fresh seafood, seasonal fruits, locally made wines, and an array of leather goods make it a paradise for shoppers and food lovers alike.
As you stroll through the maze of stalls, you’ll feel the pulse of local life—merchants exchanging stories, neighbors catching up over coffee, and the air filled with the promise of culinary delights. Vintimille’s market is a true celebration of cross-cultural exchange, where the best of Italy and France come together.
Menton: The Lemon-Scented Jewel of the Riviera
After the hustle and bustle of the market, we turn our sights back to France with a visit to Menton, a charming town renowned for its mild climate and lemon groves. Often called the “Pearl of France,” Menton boasts a unique blend of French elegance and Italian flair.
The old town of Menton is a delight to explore. Its pastel-hued houses, winding alleys, and vibrant gardens create a postcard-perfect setting. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Jean Cocteau Museum, which pays homage to the legendary artist’s ties to the town.
Menton’s Mediterranean gardens are another highlight, offering serene escapes filled with exotic plants and panoramic sea views. And of course, no visit to Menton is complete without sampling its famous lemon-based treats—try the tangy lemon tart or the zesty limoncello for a true taste of the Riviera.
La Turbie: A Step into Roman History
Our final stop is La Turbie, a picturesque hilltop village perched high above Monaco. Dominated by the imposing Trophy of Augustus, a Roman monument dating back to 6 BC, La Turbie offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s ancient past.
Wander the narrow, cobbled streets of this medieval village and you’ll find a place that seems frozen in time. From its charming stone houses to its panoramic views of the sparkling Mediterranean below, La Turbie is a hidden gem that captures the soul of Provence.
Tpo.Travel: Bringing Your Journey to Life
Throughout your day, Tpo.Travel ensures that every detail is seamlessly orchestrated to create an enriching and comfortable experience. From the moment you’re picked up in Nice in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle, you can simply sit back, relax, and soak in the sights.
Our professional drivers—fluent in English, Spanish, Italian, German, Russian, and French—ensure that language is never a barrier. Meanwhile, your knowledgeable guide, speaking English, Spanish, or French, brings each destination to life with captivating stories and local insights.
With Tpo.Travel, you’re not just visiting markets—you’re stepping into the vibrant rhythm of Mediterranean life. The smells of fresh basil and roasted coffee, the laughter of vendors, and the sun-kissed glow of historic towns all become part of your travel story.
Beyond the Markets: Tpo.Travel’s Signature Services
As with all of Tpo.Travel’s expertly curated tours, your adventure doesn’t end when the day is over. Our comprehensive travel services include:
Worldwide Hotel Bookings: Let Tpo.Travel arrange accommodations that perfectly match your style and budget, anywhere your journey takes you.
European Transportation Solutions: From private transfers to luxury vehicles, Tpo.Travel ensures you travel in comfort throughout Europe.
Bespoke Sightseeing Tours: Beyond markets and medieval villages, Tpo.Travel crafts immersive experiences that reveal the heart of each destination.
Conclusion: A Market Day to Remember
The Visit Italian Market, Menton and La Turbie Tour is more than just shopping—it’s an invitation to connect with the authentic rhythms of daily life along the Italian-French border. From the vibrant stalls of San Remo, Bordighera, and Vintimille to the pastel streets of Menton and the ancient stones of La Turbie, every stop reveals a new layer of Mediterranean magic.
With Tpo.Travel as your trusted guide, you’ll experience not just the sights, but the soul of this enchanting region. So come, let your senses be your guide, and discover a day that’s as rich and colorful as the markets themselves.