Monaco is considered one of the most luxurious and well-kept destinations and not by chance. Everything is organized with attention to detail, thus creating an atmosphere of absolute perfection. Being an ultra-luxurious state, it is also an expensive destination. But, you can easily visit it as a day trip from any nearby French Riviera city, such as Nice, Cannes or Menton. The principality of Monaco is an independent state located on the French Riviera, right on the water. That’s why it also offers amazing ocean views ! In this article, you will find everything you need to know to spend a full day in Monaco as a day trip.
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Things to know before visiting Monaco
As we said before, Monaco is located in the famous French region of Côte d’Azur, but it is an independent country, separate of France. Although it is a tiny country, it has many things to do and see. Thus, it is the perfect place to visit on your trip to the French Riviera. If you want to spend more than a day in Monaco, you should know that it is an extremely glamorous and expensive destination, as around 30% of the population are millionaires ! It is also the second smallest country in the world, after the Vatican with a small population (about 40.000 people). In case you are traveling solo, Monaco is considered one of the safest places in the world (there are surveillance cameras almost everywhere) ! So, a day trip there is highly recommended for some luxurious and Mediterranean vibes.
How to get to Monaco ?
Due to its geographical location, it is a very convenient destination to visit from nearby French and Italian cities. For example, you can easily access it from Nice or Menton. Many buses and trains run regularly, especially in summer. It will take you less than an hour to get to Monaco from Nice and the tickets are affordable. Another option is to visit Monaco as a day trip from Menton which is only 13km far away.
The best way to enjoy all the amazing places of the French Riviera with total freedom is by car. So you can take a road trip there either with your own car or by renting one. Please note that depending on the day of the week or the season, car hire can be quite expensive on the French Riviera. However, it is totally worth it. Our road trip through the French Riviera is undoubtedly one of the best road trips we have ever taken in Europe. But, if you are looking for a luxury French Riviera vacation, you will have the chance to experience personal transfers without renting a car or using buses and trains. If theses types of services meet your needs, you can book any type of transfer services below. Available in both English and French.
The best time to visit Monaco
Since Monaco is located in the southern part of Europe, it has a Mediterranean climate. So most days, even in winter, it is sunny. You can visit it all year round ! Depending on your budget and needs, the best time to visit Monaco is in the shoulder season, spring or autumn. At these times, the crowd is much less and the prices lower. So you can visit it as a day trip and really enjoy it without hundreds of tourists. Of course, if you want hot summer days or your trip to the French Riviera is in the summer, Monaco is at its bests ! However, it is a very crowded tourist place, especially during the peak season.
If you start your day in Monaco early in the morning, you can enjoy it to the fullest as at that time, it is very peaceful and the morning light makes it prettier. As you may know, every year in Monaco the famous Grand Prix is held. This means that people from all over the world come to visit it. Therefore, we strongly recommend that you book your stay in advance for more and better hotel options !
How to get around Monaco ?
Monaco is a small state that you can explore in a day. The best way to do this is probably on foot. Otherwise, you won’t be able to access many of the attractions. Parking is easy, but not very affordable (around 30€ per day). But it’s worth it, as you can leave the car and then spend the whole day exploring Monaco. There are public lifts that make your walk even easier. So, it’s a walkable place with amazing things to see ! Of course, you can enjoy a relaxing ride on a hop on hop-off bus to see the main tourist attractions of Monte Carlo. Depending on your time and preferences, it is always very pleasant to take a sightseeing trip on these buses.
Best things to do in Monaco (One Day)
1-Stroll around the port Hercules
Monaco is famous for the ultra-luxury yachts that gather in the port. Thus, it is considered one of the main attractions precisely for this reason. Needless to say, the surrounding area and the view of the port are very beautiful. It is, therefore, a real pleasure to stroll along the port with such views. That’s why it is the best way to start your day in Monaco. Plus, it is a great starting point for your visit ! You should know that port Hercules is the main port with a capacity of 700 boats. So, it is very crowded. Better to start your day there so you can enjoy it at the quietest time of the day.
2-Explore the Old Town of Monaco
The next place to visit is undoubtedly the most colorful and picturesque place in Monaco which is the old town. It is located on a hill where you can reach it by walking and climbing a few steps from the port Hercules. In addition to the beautiful historic buildings, souvenir shops, cafés and restaurants, you’ll also have amazing ocean views. Keep in mind that most of the must-see places in Monaco are in the old town !
3-Visit the Prince’s Palace of Monaco
Right in the heart of the old town and more specifically on the Place du Palais (palace square in english), you will find the home of the current Prince of Monaco ! One of the most spectacular moments to witness is the changing of the guards. Since the Prince’s Palace is at the beginning of the old town, we suggest you start there and then continue to explore the rest. The State Apartments are open for visitors from early April to mid-October which is the main tourist season of the year. The entrance costs 10 euros and the opening hours are from 10am to 6pm. It gets very crowded in the summer months, so you need patience to capture it !
4-Visit the Cathedral of Our Lady Immaculate
The Cathedral of Our Lady Immaculate is also called Saint Nicholas Cathedral. It is one of the most important monuments of Monaco. This cathedral is equally beautiful inside and out. You will find it a few meters from the previous location, the Prince’s Palace. It has free entry, so it’s one of the budget-friendly places to visit in Monaco. The surrounding area is very beautiful with palm trees and narrow alleys leading to the old town.
5-Admire the view from the Port de Fontvieille
Just a few steps before reaching the Monaco Cathedral, you will find the best view in Monaco. There is a small park leading up to this best viewpoint that offers some stunning panoramic views over Port de Fontvieille. We both believe that this view is the highlight of our day in Monaco, as you get to admire an amazing view of the colorful buildings while enjoying the vast blue of the Mediterranean Sea !
6-Visit the Monte Carlo casino
We couldn’t complete our list of the best things to do in a day in Monaco without mentioning the most glamorous place. This casino is the most popular in the world ! Its fame is largely due to its appearance in many Hollywood films such as James Bond films. Its architecture is brilliant inside and out. Another reason this casino is such a touristy location is the fact that supercars drive and park right in front of casino. If you love the luxury lifestyle, you will enjoy this supercar spotting.
Bonus Tip :
If you want to enjoy a magical sunset over Monaco, the best location is Tête de Chien. This viewpoint is the best place to enjoy a sunset over the city and the Mediterranean Sea. However, it is only accessible by car. So, if you plan to visit Monaco by train or bus, you cannot visit it. You need about 30 minutes from Monaco and another 15 minutes to reach the exact viewpoint ! The wonderful view will reward your effort. In case you are visiting Monaco with your love, it is also the ultimate romantic way to end your day in Monaco.
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