Nice Pre-Cruise Sparked Our AmaWaterways Adventure
- Michelle Cypher
- Jul 18
- 3 min read
Riviera Rhapsody:
How a Nice Pre-Cruise Sparked Our AmaWaterways Adventure
Last November, before embarking on our AmaWaterways "Essence of Burgundy & Provence" river cruise, we kicked off our journey with a delightful three-day pre-cruise experience in Nice. It was the perfect introduction to the sun-kissed glamour of the French Riviera and truly set the tone for an incredible European adventure, perfectly embodying our belief in "Taking Dreams and Returning Memories."
Nice: The Côte d'Azur's Vibrant Heart
Even in November, Nice radiated a captivating charm. The weather was pleasantly mild, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in this beautiful city. Our days unfolded beautifully, combining iconic sights with authentic local experiences:
Promenade des Anglais: We spent hours strolling along the famous Promenade des Anglais, taking in the iconic azure waters of the Baie des Anges. The sea air was invigorating, and we loved watching the world go by from one of the quintessential blue chairs.
Vieux Nice (Old Town): The narrow, winding streets of Old Nice were endlessly fascinating. We got lost (in the best way!) amidst the colorful buildings, bustling squares, and vibrant markets. The Cours Saleya flower market was still a feast for the senses, even in the autumn, brimming with fresh produce and fragrant blooms. We savored traditional Niçoise cuisine, from the savory socca (chickpea pancake) to fresh seafood, truly engaging our Wine/Culinary senses.
Castle Hill: A short climb (or elevator ride!) up Castle Hill (Colline du Château) rewarded us with panoramic views of the city, the port, and the entire coastline. The cascading waterfall and the peaceful gardens at the top provided a serene escape.
Exploring the Glitz and Glamour of the Riviera
With three days at our disposal, we also ventured beyond Nice to discover some of the Côte d'Azur's legendary neighboring towns:
Eze Village: This stunning medieval hilltop village was a particular highlight. Perched dramatically on a cliff, its cobblestone paths wound past ancient stone houses and artisan shops. The exotic garden at the very top offered breathtaking views that stretched for miles along the coastline. We also enjoyed a fascinating stop at a local Fragonard perfume factory, learning about the art of fragrance creation.
Monaco & Monte Carlo: We couldn't visit the Riviera without experiencing the unparalleled glamour of Monaco and Monte Carlo. We took in the opulent Casino de Monte-Carlo, admired the luxury yachts in the harbor, and even caught a glimpse of the Prince's Palace. It was a dazzling contrast to the rustic charm of Eze.
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The Perfect Prelude to Our River Cruise
This three-day pre-cruise in Nice was more than just sightseeing; it was an essential part of our overall travel experience. It allowed us to:
Acclimatize Gracefully: Shaking off any lingering jet lag in the relaxed, beautiful setting of Nice meant we arrived at our AmaWaterways ship refreshed and ready for adventure.
Deepen Our Immersion: We gained a valuable understanding of the Provence region's coastal influences and its distinctive culture before delving into the vineyards and Roman history along the Rhône. It truly made the entire "Essence of Burgundy & Provence" cruise feel more connected and comprehensive.
Create Diverse Memories: The combination of coastal beauty, medieval villages, and city sophistication created a diverse tapestry of memories that perfectly complemented the river cruise portion of our trip.
Our Nice pre-cruise perfectly exemplified our commitment to designing and curating customized independent travel experiences. It's these thoughtful additions that transform a wonderful trip into an unforgettable journey.
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Who Am I
I'm your guide to unforgettable European voyages, curated for wine connoisseurs, food enthusiasts, golfers and culture aficionados, ensuring each journey is a masterpiece of taste, history, and connection.
Michelle Wicks Cypher
425-361-5212
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