Day Trip from Nice to Monaco: Perfect One-Day Monaco Itinerary

Are you visiting the French Riviera and wondering if you should do a day trip from Nice to Monaco?

The answer is YES!

As a playground for the rich and famous, Monaco is one of the most luxurious countries in the world and is bound to make anyone who visits feel like a star, even just for a couple of hours. Luckily, Monaco is extremely close to Nice and makes for a perfect day trip!

In this guide, I cover everything you need to know about doing a day trip from Nice to Monaco. This includes the best ways to get from Nice to Monaco, what to do when you arrive in Monaco, and more!

So keep reading if you are looking to experience the glamour of Monaco during your trip to Nice!

The Perfect Monaco Day Trip From Nice: A Detailed Guide on How to Get There, Things to Do, and More

When planning a visit to the French Riviera, Nice often steals the spotlight with its beaches and charming old town. But just a short journey away lies a world of glamour waiting to be explored – Monaco.

Monaco stands tall as its own sovereign state, renowned for its wealth, luxury, and Mediterranean views. Luckily, Nice and Monaco are extremely close to one another, so you can visit both in one vacation!

A day trip from Nice to Monaco offers a glimpse into this miniature kingdom, where every corner exudes elegance and style. Below, I’ll give a quick overview of both cities before I jump into the details of how to have the perfect day trip!

Nice, France Overview

Imagine walking through a city where the sun is almost always shining, the sea is a beautiful shade of blue, and the air is filled with the scent of fresh flowers. That’s Nice for you!

It’s most famous for its stunning beaches, where you can relax under the warm sun or take a dip in the Mediterranean. But Nice isn’t just about the beach; and there’s a lot more than meets the eye!

You can explore the Old Town, known as Vieux Nice, and discover treasures like cafes and bustling squares. And don’t forget to visit the Promenade des Anglais, a waterfront boulevard perfect for an evening walk or a bike ride. Nice is all about enjoying the good life, French Riviera style!

Monaco Overview

Now, picture a tiny country that packs a big punch of glamour and excitement – that’s Monaco!

Despite its small size, Monaco is known for its glitzy casinos, luxurious yachts, and extravagant events like the Formula One Grand Prix. You can also explore the historic Rock of Monaco, where the royal palace sits, or wander through the gardens filled with colorful blooms.

And don’t forget to visit the famous Monte Carlo Casino, where you can try your luck at the tables or soak in the glamorous atmosphere. In Monaco, every corner is filled with elegance and excitement!

With its close proximity to Nice, this miniature country proves to be the perfect addition to any Nice itinerary, inviting travelers to experience the epitome of luxury on the French Riviera.

A day trip from Nice to Monaco is the perfect introduction to the flashy city and an ideal way to explore more of the southern coastline of France. So let’s get into the details!

When is the Best Time to Visit Monaco?

Generally, the prime time to visit this glamorous principality is during the spring and fall seasons. April to May is like Monaco’s own grand opening party. The weather is just right, and flowers bloom everywhere, making Monaco feel like a giant botanical garden.

Plus, the end of springtime brings one of Monaco’s biggest events – the Monaco Grand Prix! The streets transform into a racetrack, and you can feel the excitement in the air as cars zoom past. This event is typically held at the end of May.

Fall, from September to October, is another great time to visit. The summer heat starts to cool down, making it more comfortable to explore. There are also fewer crowds this time of year, giving you more space to enjoy the city without feeling crowded. 

While summer (June through August) may seem tempting, with its warm weather and vacation vibes, it’s also when Monaco is at its busiest and most expensive. Hotels fill up quickly, and the streets can feel overcrowded, so plan accordingly!

How to Get From Nice to Monaco

There are various transportation options when taking a day trip from Nice to Monaco. Whether you want the freedom of a car, views from a train, the affordability of a bus, or the adventure of a ferry, the options are abundant when it comes to getting from Nice to Monaco. 

Below is an overview of each option to help you see which better suits your trip style and personal preference!

Nice to Monaco by Bus (Cheapest Option)

Taking a bus from Nice to Monaco is a convenient and budget-friendly option for travelers. The journey takes around 30 to 50 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Tickets typically cost $3.

Buses depart from various locations in Nice. The most popular bus route is operated by Lignes d’Azur. You can take Route #607 from the Nice Port to multiple spots in Monaco!

This bus service offers frequent departures throughout the day, providing flexibility for travelers. Tickets can be purchased directly from the driver or at designated station ticket counters. 

Nice to Monaco by Train (Preferred Option)

Traveling from Nice to Monaco by train is the fastest and most efficient option, while also offering great views of the French Riviera coastline along the way. Going by train typically takes around 15 to 25 minutes, with frequent departures (usually every 30 minutes) from the Nice-Ville train station.

The regional TER trains operated by SNCF serve this route, providing reliable transportation. Travelers can purchase tickets from the train station ticket counters or through automated ticket machines. Tickets typically cost between $5 and $10.

It’s advisable to check the train schedule in advance, as there may be variations in departure times throughout the day. Be sure to check online ahead of time in case of train and transportation strikes that often happen in France, which can delay or alter your trip. 

In addition, expect crowds on the trains back to Nice in the late afternoon. Many people live in Nice and work in Monaco, so 5pm can be “rush hour” on the train!

Nice to Monaco by Car

If you are seeking flexibility and independence, driving from Nice to Monaco is a great option. Driving will likely take around 30 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic and the stops you make along the way (there are a lot of cute coastal villages and towns along the route).

From Nice, you can follow the A8 motorway towards Monaco. Or, you can take the Moyenne Corniche or the Inférieure Corniche (Corniche means “cliff road”). Both routes offer beautiful seaside views, so be sure to have your camera ready and take some extra time to stop and admire the view!

It’s important to note that traffic congestion can occur, especially during peak hours or special events such as the Monaco Grand Prix. Additionally, parking in Monaco can be limited and expensive, so it’s advisable to research parking options in advance.

Nice to Monaco by Boat/Ferry

If you want to experience a super picturesque journey to Monaco, try cruising along the French Riviera by ferry! Tickets start at $53 for a roundtrip ticket – perfect for a day trip from Nice.

The ferry will depart from Nice Port at 9:30 a.m and takes around 45 minutes to get to Monaco. On the way, you will see all the coastal towns between Nice and Monaco.

After having the entire day to explore, the ferry will then depart from Monaco at 17:00; be sure to arrive at least 15 minutes before your departure time!

While this is a great option, the ferry only runs during the summer months on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.

Nice to Monaco by Organized Tour

Last but not least, you can also go on an organized tour for your day trip from Nice to Monaco! This is great for those who don’t want to do any planning and be guided by a local.

However, you will have less flexibility with this option, as you have to stick to the schedule of the tour. This means you may have less time to explore than if you ventured out on own!

How to Get Around Monaco

Getting around Monaco is a breeze! With its compact size, you can explore most places on foot. Monaco’s well-maintained sidewalks make walking a pleasure, allowing you to soak in the charm and views of the Mediterranean Sea comfortably and at your own pace. 

If walking isn’t your cup of tea or you’re feeling adventurous, hop on one of the efficient and frequent bus services that crisscross the principality, offering easy access to all major attractions. The bus system is simple to navigate, with clear route maps and schedules available at bus stops.

How to Spend One Day in Monaco: Perfect Monaco Itinerary

While Monaco may be small in size, it’s filled with many things to see and do, which is another reason why it’s the ideal place for a day trip from Nice.

To ensure that you make the most of the short amount of time you have in the city, it’s essential to do some research and be aware of what you want to see, where they are in the city, and other tips that may be needed.

Here are some recommendations for a perfect day in Monaco!

Morning

Departure from Nice: To begin your day trip to Monaco from Nice, wake up early to catch a morning train. On your way, you can enjoy scenic views of the French Riviera coastline. The first train to Monaco leaves at 05:20 am. 

Monaco-Ville (Old Town): Upon arriving in Monaco, head straight to Monaco-Ville, the old town. You can get here by walking or taking a cab! Explore its alleys and visit the Prince’s Palace, where you can witness the changing of the guards and enjoy views of the Mediterranean. If you’re interested, you can also go on a tour inside the Palace and learn more about the Grimaldi family!

Oceanographic Museum: After exploring Old Town, visit the Oceanographic Museum. Dive into the world of marine life and enjoy watching all of the colorful coral reefs and exotic sea creatures. Right outside the museum is the beautiful Jardins Saint-Martin. This is great garden to walk around and enjoy the weather.

Lunch: After all that exploring, you have surely worked up an appetite by now. Take a break to have lunch at one of Monaco’s chic cafes or restaurants, like La Tavernetta.

Afternoon

Explore Port Hercules: After lunch, wander along Port Hercules on your way to the casino, which is lined with luxurious yachts and bustling with activity. Take in the atmosphere and snap some photos of the breathtaking views and luxurious lifestyles all around you. 

Monte Carlo Casino: It’s time to hit the famous Monte Carlo Casino! Try your luck at the tables and gamble alongside the wealthy. Keep in mind that visiting the Monte Carlo casino is going to be expensive, so it’s essential to watch your budget. You must be at least 18 years of age, have a photo ID present, and must be aware of the dress code. (Bermuda shorts and T-shirts are tolerated during the day but not in the evenings, as it is more upscale and classy).

Tip for Photographers: The Monte Carlo Casino has a strict No Photos policy, and you must obtain permission to shoot before taking photos within the facility. 

Evening

Return to Nice: As the day comes to an end, it’s time to catch the train back to Nice. The last train out of the city leaves at 23:20. If you plan on taking the last train out, it’s better to buy your tickets in advance to make sure the train doesn’t fill up and leave you stuck in the city overnight (or taking an expensive taxi ride!).

If you aren’t too keen on some of these activities or are looking to skip the casino to save some money, here is a list of alternative sights and attractions to see on a day trip from Nice to Monaco: 

Jardin Exotique de Monaco (Exotic Garden of Monaco): The Exotic Garden is a diverse collection of succulent plants accompanied by panoramic views of Monaco.

Monaco Grand Prix Circuit: The famous Formula 1 race is held on the streets of this city every year. Walk or drive along the famous race track and imagine the excitement of the annual Monaco Grand Prix.

Larvotto Beach: If you want to relax in luxury, head to the sandy shores of Larvotto Beach and soak up the Mediterranean sun in style.

Monaco Cathedral: Lastly, for the history and cultural buffs, tour and admire the beautiful architecture of Monaco Cathedral and pay homage to the final resting place of Princess Grace.

FAQ About a Day Trip From Nice to Monaco

Final Thoughts

As you can see, a day trip from Nice to Monaco promises an unforgettable journey into a world of indulgence and sophistication.

Whether you’re watching the super yachts in the harbor, trying your luck at the roulette tables, or soaking in the Mediterranean sunshine, Monaco offers a glimpse into a lifestyle that is as alluring as it is exclusive!

I hope this guide has inspired you to make time during your trip to Nice to do a day trip to Monaco as well!

Besides Monaco, there are many other day trips from Nice, including Cannes, Eze Village, Antibes, or Grasse.

If you are planning to visit other areas of France, make sure to check out my other blog posts, like How to Spend 3 Days in Paris, 10 Things You Need to Know Before Visiting Paris, and my 7 Day France Itinerary!

Don’t forget to pin this post for future planning!