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Villefranche-sur-Mer: Unveiling the U.S. Navy's Legacy in the French Riviera

Highlights

  • Unravel the life of this coastal town during the Cold War with this engaging in-app audio tour
  • Learn how around 300 American families shared a local life on the far side of the Atlantic
  • Hear the touching story of Mom Germaine and find out how she became a heroine of books and movies
  • Discover 240 years of history between Villefranche-sur-Mer and the U.S. Navy
  • Enjoy the careless and generous vibe of the town where 44% of marriages were mixed

What's included

  • Self-guided audio tour for your smartphone on the WeGoTrip app
  • Detailed route from stop to stop with live GPS map on your smartphone
  • Personal memories shared by a granddaughter of the local legend
  • Sightseeing tips, as well as book and movie references

What's not included

  • Headphones — you should bring your own
  • Entrance tickets to attractions — you can visit them on your own
  • Earphones and smartphone are not included – bring your own
  • In-person tour guide

Description

Discover the century-long history between Villefranche-sur-Mer and the U.S. Navy guided by this compelling in-app audio tour!

You will walk around the Old Town in the footsteps of the sailors of the American Sixth Fleet, accompanied by Valérie Blouin, the granddaughter of a local heroine, Mère Germaine, who was called Mom of the Sixth Fleet in the 1950s.

Our walk starts in front of Hotel Welcome, which has been so named in tribute to the British and American allies. You will wander through the narrow streets of the Old Town, passing by bars and restaurants where the sailors loved to sit at the tables on the terraces and enjoy the magnificent view of the harbor.

Our route will then lead us to the Saint-Michael church, where many Franco-American weddings and christenings were celebrated. You will hear some touching stories from the people who fell in love here, and also see their family photos.

You will then go back down towards Quai Courbet, where you’ll see the commemorative plaques for the friendship between the Sixth Fleet and the town. Here, you will discover the story about the legendary Mom Germaine and her famous restaurant, told by her granddaughter.

Walking further along the harbor, you will see the Giant Anchor and explore the maritime heritage of Villefranche. Our tour ends on Place Wilson, where you will find other more recent historical traces of the American presence in this French coastal town. Bon voyage!

Start point

Welcome Hotel - Quai de l'Amiral Courbet, 3

Important information

  • The tour is available only on the WeGoTrip app. This is a different app from the source or app you booked the tour if it's not WeGoTrip site or app
  • To ensure the quality of the download, please remember to do so before your visit
  • Please note that there is no staff at the meeting point or staff on site for this tour. You can start the tour at any time from the meeting point
  • An Android version 7.1+ or an iOS smartphone version 12+ is required for the audio guide. You will need around 100 MB of free space for the download
Price from
$11.16
Sold by wegotrip.com
Check availability and cancellation policies with the seller