Nice Art Tour: Chagall Museum, Matisse Museum and the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild

So many artists over the years have made the French Riviera their home, drawn by the azure-blue sea, vibrant colors and fabled clear light for which the region is so famous. No surprise then that the cosmopolitan city of Nice boasts museums-a-plenty, with artwork from different eras lurking ‘round every corner.

After pickup from your central Nice hotel, head straight to the leafy Cimiez neighborhood with your guide for your first Nice museum visit of the day -- the Chagall Museum. Dedicated to the lifeworks of Mark Chagall, a revolutionary artist influenced by the movements of Expressionism, Cubism and more, the museum’s main draw is his collection of famous biblical paintings, which you’ll see while exploring with your audio guide.

The Matisse Museum is nearby on Cimiez Hill, and this is the next museum on your day’s list. The museum is housed in a distinctive red Genoese villa that dates back to the 17th century, with architecture that is arguably every bit as fascinating as the artwork housed within. Step inside and let the bright colors that exemplified Henri Matisse’s artwork inspire your own creative thinking as you wander around and explore independently.

After discovering these extraordinary museums, hop back on board your luxury minivan for a scenic coastal drive to the peninsula town of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat.

Built on the narrowest part of the peninsula is the lavish Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, surrounded by approximately 17 acres (7 hectares) of gorgeous gardens. The apartments that comprise this stunning Italian-style palace are a delight to explore, and you’ll do just that on a comprehensive tour of the grounds. Admire the apartments of Madame Ephrussi with their ornate furnishings, before strolling through the gardens.