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A lovely day trip from Nice, visiting Monaco allows you to feel the glitz and glamor usually afforded to billionaires. Known for hosting the Grand Prix (which I partially got to see completely by chance), you can also enjoy luxury shopping and fantastic Michelin-star restaurants. Or, if you're on a budget like me, spend the day walking around the small country and enjoying the view of the city against the Mediterranean Sea.
Monaco at a glance, courtesy of Unsplash
Table of Contents
Weather and best time to visit
The best time to visit Monaco is in the Spring with the Monte-Carlo Masters in April and the Grand Prix in May. The weather should be temperate in the 60s - 70s.
Getting around
Getting there
As Monaco is small with accommodation often being more expensive than it's worth, most opt to take a day trip from Nice to explore the country. This is how I visited, and I used my Eurail pass to easily hop onto the train. However, the train is almost always crowded and may be uncomfortable. I visited during the Grand Prix, so I had to wait over an hour for a train back and had the most squished ride in my entire life! Alternatively, you can take a roundtrip ferry from Nice for around €50. While this is much more expensive and about double the time, it will allow you more breathing room and a sea-side view.
Walking
The country is incredibly small, so you can easily walk across the entire area. However, there are some steep hills throughout the area, so you may want to take taxis if you are not up for the hike. Thankfully, Google Maps will know some shortcuts and take you to pedestrian elevators that are basically built into the hills to give your legs a break.
Travel map
If you follow this itinerary the way I did from the train station and back, the total walking time will be about 1.5 hours. The walking map is below.
Itinerary
See Marine Life at The Oceanographic Museum
After taking the train in, start your day at the Oceanographic Museum. While I didn't visit it, this aquarium is supposed to be a great use of €20. It's good for adults and kids with fantastic views on the rooftop terrace.
Admire Monaco Cathedral
This cathedral is beautiful inside and out and is a short detour from the viewpoint. You can walk around the area through the Princess Grace Gardens to continue your morning in zen. Remember to bring a shawl to cover your shoulders if your outfit doesn't do so already. You'll also find Grace Kelly's tomb here under her birth name Gratia Patricia!
Grace with Princess Grace :) The gorgeous cathedral surroundings
Watch the Changing of the Guard at Prince's Palace
Wander through the old town and its many narrow streets to enjoy a morning treat. I couldn't resist the smell of freshly made crepes and made sure to grab one before heading back to the Prince's Palace. The changing of the guard happens here every day at 11:55 am to ensure the safety of the Prince. If you happen to miss it, it's very similar to other changing of the guard ceremonies that happen all over the world, so don't feel like you've missed out on a life-changing experience. I also didn't feel the need to take a tour of the Palace as it's not as grand as some of the other palaces in Europe, but if you're interested you can buy a combined ticket with the Oceanographic Museum below.
Fresh, delicious crepes The changing of the guard Quaint street views
Take in the Sights at Port de Fontvielle Viewpoint
Check out this view!
Lunch at Le Marché de la Condamine
I had definetely worked up an appetite after climbing the hills of Monaco, so I stopped at Le Marché de la Condamine, a cute indoor market next to an outdoor one, and had the freshest pasta I've ever eaten for cheap at Maison des Pâtes Condamine. There are countless fancier restaurants in the area, but this place was 100% worth it.
Test Your Luck at Monte Carlo Casino
End your day at the world-famous Monte Carlo Casino which requires a passport to enter the casino floor. Even if you don't gamble, it's worth taking a step inside like I did to see the beautiful, opulent architecture. You can also walk around the Casino Square and spot some luxury cars. From here, I walked to the peaceful Japanese Garden, although I wouldn't say it's particularly noteworthy.
You can use the rest of the day to walk along the picturesque streets of Monaco, stroll down Port Hercule to see impressive yachts, grab a drink at one of the chic bars in town, or relax at Larvotto Beach. I opted to head back to Nice and enjoy a cheaper dinner in town. Whether you're enamored by the opulence of Monte Carlo or snagged a coveted ticket to the Grand Prix, Monaco offers an unforgettable experience for everyone.
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