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One of the most stunning places in France is the French Riviera. The coast is lined with some of the prettiest towns, including Nice, Cannes, and Monaco.
A great way to experience the towns is to pick one as a base and spend each day traveling to a new destination. A day trip to Monaco is one of the most popular side trips on the riviera.
Monaco is its own country known for high-stakes casinos, luxury yachts, formal dining, and some beautiful old buildings.
However, due to the high price tag associated with Monaco, visiting for the day is a great option that allows you to still experience most of what it has to offer.
Staying in nearby towns like Nice makes it very easy to get to Monaco, and once you are there, you can explore the city on foot. Here is a one-day itinerary to help plan your day trip to Monaco.
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History of Monaco
Monaco was first inhabited by Greeks back in 6 BC when it was called Monoikos. Hercules was said to have come through the area, so a temple was constructed for him.
If you were wondering why the main port of Monaco is named Port Hercules, now you know!
Fast-forward a good 1200 years to when Monaco was a colony of Genoa, Italy. In 1215, they began constructing a large fort on the Rock of Monaco to turn the city into a military base.
They also began giving grants to land and tax exemptions as a way to entice people in the surrounding areas to move there.
In 1297, the Grimaldi family took control of the region by disguising themselves as monks and taking over the fortress. They control the country to this day. However, their rule over the centuries has been challenging.
In 1489, Monaco was given its independence from France by King Charles VIII but was not officially recognized as its own country until 1861.
Over the years, it was annexed by France and shuffled between the protection of France, Sardinia, and Spain. It endured the French Revolution, multiple wars, and many sieges.
Present-day Monaco is associated with glamor, luxury, and wealth. It is home to one of the most famous casinos in the world, Monte Carlo, and a popular tourist destination.
Facts About Monaco
Besides being its own country, there are many exciting things to know about Monaco before you go. Under one square mile in total size, it is the second smallest country in the world, with Vatican City being the smallest.
It is such a unique place and home to some of the wealthiest people in the world, with over 30% of the population being millionaires. However, with only around 40,000 inhabitants, it is also not that large.
Why is Monaco such a hot spot for the wealthy? Besides the year-long warm climate, Monaco does not have an income tax which is part of the draw for many people.
It is also a principality whose head of State is Prince Albert II. Monaco is also known as a city-state. It is divided into four sections: Monte Carlo, Monaco-Ville, La Condamine, and Fontvieille.
The people who live here, known as Monégasque, speak Monégasque, a Ligurian dialect closely related to Italian.
That being said, the official Language is French. Since many inhabitants are not originally from Monaco, most people speak English as well.
When to Visit Monaco
One nice thing about the French Riviera is that it is sunny all year round and temperatures never get too cold. Therefore, deciding when to visit is mainly based on your personal preferences.
For fewer crowds, visiting Monaco during the shoulder months of April, May, September, and October is a good time.
However, due to the climate, these times of the year will still have many tourists. The weather will still be rather warm, and getting in the water may be possible.
TRAVEL TIP: The last few days of May will be extremely busy and pricey due to the Monaco Grand Prix that takes place every year.
The quietest part of the year to visit Monaco is during the winter. The price of accommodations, transportation, and even restaurants will be drastically lower.
The one downfall of visiting during this time of year is that you will not be able to swim in the beautiful Mediterranean water. Winter in Monaco is a great idea if this doesn’t bother you.
The most popular time of the year is during the summer months of June, July and August. The weather is beyond perfect during these months.
So plan for lots of crowds and make reservations in advance wherever you go. There is no better time of the year for soaking up the sun and cruising along the coast.
Day Trip to Monaco From Nice
Several nearby towns make for a great base on the French Riviera. No matter which you pick, the three main transportation options are train, bus, and car.
Nice is the most popular town to use as a base for your French Riviera itinerary. It is much more affordable than places like Monaco and Cannes, has easy access to public transportation, and is located in the middle of several of the prettiest towns on the French Riviera.
Take the Train
The train is a quick form of transportation between Nice and Monaco. For around €4 during peak season, you can get to Monaco in just 20 minutes, with trains coming every half hour.
Hop on the TER train from the Nice Ville Station and ride it into Monaco. Once you get to the train station, it is about a 15-minute walk to the town center.
Ride the Bus
There is also a direct bus to Monaco from Nice. The 100 bus takes you there in around 40 minutes for as little as €3 per person. The bus runs every 15 minutes most days and is a slightly cheaper option than taking the train.
Rent a Car
If you are traveling from town to town, you may have a car at your disposal. Cars will give you the most freedom to come and go as you please and get you to Monaco in about 30 minutes. It is also very scenic as the highway takes you along the coast.
The only downside of renting a car is the limited parking options in some towns. There is plenty of parking in Monaco, though! Unfortunately, although parking is conveniently located in the center of everything, the prices are high.
Join a Tour
If you are interested in visiting multiple cities, you should join a tour. You don’t have to worry about transportation or planning, and you have a guide there to fill you in on the important history and details about the places you visit. If a large group of people is something you don’t mind, then a tour could be a great choice.
Join a Full-Day Tour from Nice to Monaco
How to Get Around Monaco
Once you get to Monaco, the best way to get around is by foot. Surprisingly, the country is relatively small for all the great things to do there.
One nice thing about Monaco is there are escalators all over the city to get from one level to the other.
Wearing comfortable shoes is important because Monaco is built up on the mountain and requires many steps.
There is also a public bus you can hop on for much of the day if you tire of walking. Buses stop at all the main attractions around the principality.
You can purchase a one-way ticket or a 24-hour pass for €6. Check the timetables and maps for more information on where the bus routes go.
Where to Stay in Monaco
There are many great hotels if you decide to stay in Monaco for more than just a day. Just know they are much pricier than most other places, even during the off-season.
Hotel de Paris
One of the most famous hotels in Monaco, the luxurious five-star Hotel de Paris is conveniently located next to the Monte Carlo Casino. Enjoy drinks at the piano bar and an elegant dinner at the 3 Michel Restaurant, Louis XV-Alain Ducasse, before heading over to the casino.
LUXURY HOTEL | Check Rates
Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo
Another popular luxury hotel in Monaco is the Hotel Metropole. From a swimming pool, spacious terrace, Michelin Star restaurant, and extensive garden, you’ll have everything you need for the perfect getaway in Monte Carlo.
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Novotel Monte-Carlo
Although this is technically not a budget hotel by usual standards, Monaco Novotel Monte-Carlo is a steal. You have all the modern amenities for a relaxing stay including a sauna and outdoor pool. Best of all, many rooms have spectacular views of the Mediterranean and Port Hercules.
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Suggested One Day in Monaco Itinerary
There are many great things to do in Monaco, most of which can be seen during a day trip. This sample itinerary breaks down an entire day in Monaco. If you only plan on spending part of the day there, I suggest getting there early in the morning to make the most of your visit.
One Day Monaco Itinerary
- Spend a little time strolling around Port Hercules (30 minutes)
- Grab breakfast near the port or in Old Town (1 hour)
- Take a trip to the Prince’s Palace in Old Town (30 minutes)
- Stop by St. Nicholas Cathedral (30 minutes)
- Visit the Oceanographic Museum or Old Monaco Museum (1 – 1.5 hours)
- Relax at Les Jardins de Saint-Martin (30 minutes)
- Grab lunch in Old Town (1.5 hours)
- Walk to Monte Carlo Casino (1 hour)
- Relax at the Japanese Gardens (1 hour)
Day Trip to Monaco Things to Do
Relax by the Port Hercules
One of the best ways to explore a new place is to walk around. So start your journey around Monaco at its Port Hercules. The medieval Port has been used for thousands of years and is where you will find some of the world’s largest and most luxurious yachts.
Situated on the Mediterranean, it is a picturesque place to start. Grab a coffee or morning pastry and take a quiet stroll along the pier in the fresh morning air before exploring the Old Town of Monaco.
If you rather stop for a bite to eat, Eola is a popular and healthy cafe that is moderately priced. However, if price is not a factor, then Mada One is great. Mada One is the perfect mix of a relaxed setting and elevated breakfast foods.
The second Port is Fontvielle, situated on the other side of Le Rocher, the rocky hill which holds the Old Town of Monaco. This Port is much smaller and is close to Monaco’s residential area.
Get Lost in the Old Town
The most exciting part of Monaco is the Old Town which sits high on a hill overlooking the Port. Known by locals as Le Rocher, the rocky formation is where you will find the oldest district of Monaco.
The climb up to the top is a little tiring, but it is worth the outstanding views of the city below.
Some of the best things to do in Monaco are here, including the Prince’s Palace. The historic area is lined with colorful pastel-toned homes, restaurants, quiet alleyways, and boutique shops.
I highly recommend getting lost for a bit before stopping by the sites. You can spend most of your day in Monaco in the Old Town.
Since the Old Town gets quite busy, especially during peak season, it is best to visit in the early morning. In the heat of the summer where there is little shade, it will be much cooler during this time of day.
Prince’s Palace of Monaco
A must-see while in Monaco, the Prince’s Palace is your first stop in the Old Town. The medieval fortress-turned-mansion was built in the 1100s and is home to the Prince of Monaco.
If you visit at noon, you’ll be able to watch the changing of the guard. It begins at 11:55 am each day in front of the Palace entrance. The traditional uniforms and ritual has remained the same for over 100 years.
Part of the palace is open for visitors between April and October from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. For just €10, you can see the Throne Room, the Palace Chapel, the gallery, and other essential rooms in the palace.
In front of the buildings sits a giant bronze statue of the important figure, François Grimaldi, who was responsible for taking over the land in the 12097. The Grimaldis are still the family who rule over Monaco to this day.
Visit St. Nicholas Cathedral
Your next stop is the St. Nicholas Cathedral, or Monaco Cathedral, which sits just steps from the Prince’s Palace. It is known for hosting several royal weddings and is free to visit between 9:00 am and 6:00 pm daily.
The current cathedral was built to replace the original 14th-century one. It stood in that location for almost 600 before being demolished to make way for the existing structure.
Construction started in 1875 but was completed in the early 20th century. The building is made with white stone from an old hilltop town nearby.
The inside of the church is quite spectacular. The high arched ceilings, stained glass windows, and soft lighting make it one of the prettiest buildings in Monaco.
The Oceanographic Museum of Monaco
If you are interested in visiting museums, the Oceanographic Museum is a fascinating one to see. The museum displays artifacts and exhibits dedicated to aquatics.
The structure itself is stunning. The entire building is built on the cliff’s edge over the Mediterranean.
Ticket prices range depending on what time of the year you visit and are anywhere between €11-€16 for adults.
The museum is open between 9:30 am and 8:00 pm in July and August. At other times of the year, you can visit after 10:00 am and until either 6:00/7:00 pm.
Start off in the aquarium before continuing to the exhibits. Here you can see various sea animals and plants from around the Mediterranean and tropical regions. One unique thing to see is the fluorescent corals that glow in the dark.
The museum also has a beautiful sea turtle sanctuary which teaches visitors the importance of caring for our oceans and the marine life that calls them home.
From there, check out the exhibits, which change frequently. Some items permanently on display include rare archeological finds, scientific instruments, and artifacts related to the ocean.
The Old Monaco Museum
Another exciting place to stop by is the Musée de Vieux Monaco between 11:00 am and 4:00 pm.
Open only on Wednesdays and Fridays between June and September, it is free to enter and holds some historical artifacts from the country.
Here you can see ceramics, paintings, and other items that detail Monaco’s long and regal history.
Les Jardins de Saint-Martin
While you are high up on the hills of Monaco, make a stop at Les Jardins de Saint-Martin for some of the best views of Monaco’s Port de Fontvielle.
The shady park makes for a romantic afternoon stop before heading back down the hill to the city below. There are so many beautiful places to view the Port below from here.
Grab some food to go and have a quiet picnic with a view, or head to the center of Old Town for lunch.
Grab Lunch in Old Town
Old Town is the best place to find a bite to eat. With a large selection of restaurants, cafes, and bars, you have everything you need before descending back to Port Hercules.
The prices in Monaco are overall higher than average, but you can still find some reasonable places to eat.
Le Petit Bar is near the palace square, tucked away in a quiet street. The restaurant’s menu is constantly changing due to the use of only seasonal produce from the surrounding region. To see what is on the current menu, visit their website.
For a more upscale dining experience, try La Montgolfière, Henri Geraci. The Michelin Star restaurant is one of the best in Monaco, and a meal here is much cheaper at lunch.
The chefs have come up with some terrific dishes that combine the influence of Monaco, the Mediterranean, French, and Italian cuisine. However, they get booked very quickly, so reservations are recommended.
Walk the Formula 1 Track
One of the main events hosted in Monaco each year is the Grand Prix. This particular race is interesting because it takes place in the country’s winding streets.
The route of the Grand Prix consists of several different roads and turns. The quickest route is down the main street of Bd Albert 1er . This street will take you straight to Monte Carlo, your next stop.
You can also hop on a bus if you don’t feel like taking the 20-minute walk. There are several stops along the way, and buses run frequently, so you will not have to wait long for one.
Tour the Monte Carlo Casino
If you have time, try to visit the Monte Carlo Casino on the other side of town. The famous casino is only open to visitors and is known for being a filming location for several James Bond films.
The Monte Carlo Casino is one of the most important places in the principality as it generates a large quantity of revenue. But interestingly enough, as popular as the casino is, it is illegal for residents to gamble there.
The architect Charles Garnier designed the casino, the same person who designed the elaborate Palais de Garnier opera house in Paris.
As a result, both the interior and exterior of the casino are breathtaking. In addition, the entire building is adorned with the finest furnishings, artwork, and architectural details.
The casino is open during the day for visitors and tour groups for only €17 between 9:00 am and 1:00 pm. However, there is a dress code for entering, which consists of casual attire.
No ripped jeans, shorts, or flip-flops allowed. During this time, you can visit the different rooms and take pictures, but you cannot gamble.
The actual casino opens at 2:00 pm and stays open until 4:00 am each day. The dress code changes drastically during its official opening times, with formal attire being the norm. You will also need your passport with you.
Relax in the Japanese Gardens
While you are in the Monte Carlo district, stop by the Japanese Gardens. The gardens are a relaxing place to unwind after a busy day exploring the principality.
The unique setting is full of lush plants from around the Mediterranean area, Japanese architecture, small ponds, and bodies of water.
Stroll along the paths and take in the traditional Japanese architecture, a delightful contrast to the rest of Monaco.
There is even a tea house within the gardens if you need some refreshments before heading back to the center of town.
Conclusion
A day trip to Monaco should be on your itinerary when visiting the French Riviera. The luxurious country is full of extraordinary things to do but small enough to see in just one day.
Whether you decide to spend the day visiting Monaco’s sites or rather stroll through the streets and wine and dine at the top restaurants, you really can’t go wrong!
Enjoyed this post? Here are some other popular French destinations!
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Paris Day Trips
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South of France
- 10 Best Towns in Provence, France
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Travel Planning Resources
BOOK YOUR FLIGHT | Skyscanner is the top search engine for finding and booking flights. They price check over 1,200 travel sites to help you find the best prices.
VIEW ACCOMMODATIONS | For booking hotels and vacation rentals Booking.com is a top resource . They offer some of the cheapest rates and different payment options.
PLAN TRANSPORTATION | Discover Cars is my go-to site when booking rentals. They work with hundreds of companies worldwide to help you find the best car for your needs and budget.
SCHEDULE YOUR TOURS | There are many top companies available in Europe. Get Your Guide is one of the best sites for tours, excursions, and activities. Viator is another terrific website for all types of experiences.
GET TRAVEL INSURANCE | Having travel insurance is always a good idea. World Nomads is one of the top travel insurance companies. It will cover you if you must cancel your trip or if something unexpected happens.
Check out the resource page for additional travel planning resources.
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