Villefranche-sur-Mer (Nice), France

A Villefranche-sur-Mer (Nice) cruise delivers passengers to a dreamy French town curved around a cerulean bay. Only a ten-minute ride from Nice, cruise passengers can easily explore two French Riviera cruise ports in one day. It is immediately obvious why Villefranche was chosen as the location of Villa Leopolda, the second most valuable house in the world. Life here is good. Take a dip in crystalline waters or laze in the sun at Plage de la Marinière. Amble twisting staircases to postcard panoramas of colorful buildings from centuries ago. Walk the walls of Citadelle Saint-Elme, a fortress overlooking the shimmering sea. Step back in time to the Belle Époque with a visit to nearby Nice. A long-time inspiration of many painters and sculptors, Nice has three renowned art museums: Musée Matisse, Musée Marc Chagall, and d’Art Moderne. Top off your cruise to Nice and Villefranche-sur-Mer with niçoise gastronomy, known for fresh, artfully arranged ingredients. The delectable niçoise salad is just the beginning. Chickpea pancakes (socca), pan bagnat, and calisson, a confectionary are other must-try regional dishes.