Welcome to Guided Riviera!

At Guided Riviera, we believe that truly understanding a place means experiencing it through the eyes of someone who calls it home. As the founder of Guided Riviera, I’m Michael Longpre, and I’ve made the enchanting French Riviera my home, sharing its magic with visitors and new residents alike.

Our Story

My journey to becoming your guide on the French Riviera began over a decade ago when I first fell under the spell of this magnificent region. After spending 10 years in publishing and education, and having led tours in Washington D.C., I found myself drawn back to France time and again over the course of 12 years. What started as a love affair with the region eventually led to my decision to make Nice my permanent home.

This unique background – combining years of professional tour guidance with the perspective of someone who has both visited and lived in France – allows me to bridge the gap between tourist highlights and authentic local experiences.

What Sets Us Apart

Deep Local Knowledge

Having made the journey from visitor to resident myself, I understand both perspectives intimately. This dual experience proves invaluable whether I’m guiding tourists through hidden medieval alleys or helping new residents uncover the secrets of their adopted home.

Cultural Immersion

Our tours go beyond the surface-level sightseeing experience. Drawing from my background in education and publishing, I weave together historical narratives, cultural insights, and contemporary context to create rich, meaningful experiences.

Bespoke Experiences

Every Guided Riviera tour is tailored to your interests and needs. Whether you’re a history enthusiast eager to explore ancient Roman ruins, a culture lover seeking to understand Niçois traditions, or a new resident looking to navigate your new life in France, we craft each experience specifically for you.

Our Services

• Historical Walking Tours: Dive deep into Nice’s fascinating past, from its Greek foundations to its Italian heritage and French present
• Cultural Discovery Tours: Experience the authentic rhythm of life on the French Riviera
• New Resident Orientation: Specialized tours and guidance for those making the French Riviera their new home
• Custom Riviera Experiences: Personalized tours throughout the region, from Monaco to Saint-Tropez

Personal Note

There’s something magical about sharing the place you love with others. Every narrow street in Nice’s Old Town, every hidden square, and every local tradition has a story to tell. My greatest joy comes from helping visitors and new residents alike discover these stories and make their own connections to this extraordinary region.

Whether you’re here for a few days or starting a new chapter of your life on the French Riviera, I look forward to sharing my adopted home with you and helping you discover the authentic charm of this remarkable corner of the world.

À bientôt sur la Riviera!
Michael Longpre
Founder, Guided Riviera