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Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur• Travel Inspiration
Day Trip to Monaco from Nice: Itinerary, Tips, and What’s Worth Your Time
04/08/2026Monaco is 22 kilometres from Nice and a world apart. In the space of a 24-minute train journey, you go from one of France’s most beautiful cities to one of the world’s smallest and wealthiest states – the Prince’s palace, Formula 1 circuit, superyachts, and a casino designed by the same architect who built the Paris Opera House.
Monaco is worth a day trip, but I wouldn’t stay longer unless you have a specific reason. I visit regularly to see a friend who works there, and that hasn’t changed my opinion.
This guide covers everything you need to know to make the most of a day trip to Monaco from Nice: the itinerary, the practical tips, and the honest opinions on what deserves your time.
Last update: August 2026
Table of Contents:
- Quick Answers – Day Trip from Monaco to Nice
- Is A Day Trip to Monaco Worth It?
- How to Get from Nice to Monaco
- One Day in Monaco – Suggested Itinerary
- Things to Do in Monaco in a Day
- Splurge Experiences – If You Want to Go Beyond Sightseeing
The pictures below were taken on different trips and in different months.
Quick Answers – Day Trip from Monaco to Nice
How long does it take to get from Nice to Monaco? 24 min by train (fastest)
Is Monaco worth visiting? Yes – but it isn’t among my top five day trips from Nice.
Is one day enough? Yes – Monaco is tiny, one day covers the main sights
How much does Monaco cost? Transport is cheap; fancy bars and restaurants are expensive – tips below
Best time to visit? Spring and autumn; avoid Monaco Grand Prix week unless that’s your goal. My friend always says that all the fun ends with the Grand Prix – until next year.
Is A Day Trip to Monaco Worth It?
A day trip to Monaco is very popular, especially among overseas visitors who are keen to add another country to their travel list. I visit Monaco every time I am in Nice because I have a friend who works there. I usually leave early in the morning, spend the day visiting and exploring, and meet him when he finishes his workday.
Is it the best day trip from Nice, in my experience? For me, it isn’t amongst my top five day trips from Nice, but there is more than enough to see and do to enjoy a lovely day there.
Monaco’s Old Town is charming, although you can find similar historic streets and views in other places along the French Riviera. The Aquarium is one of Europe’s most famous, and I would definitely recommend visiting on a first trip. The Monaco Grand Prix is a unique experience and worth planning a day around if you are visiting during the event, thanks to the city’s incredible atmosphere. Outside the Old Town, Monaco is very modern, with high-rise buildings and a lot of concrete.
So, while there are other places I would personally choose first (Menton, Èze, Cannes, and the villages of the arrière-pays come to mind), I have visited Monaco enough times to help you plan a memorable day trip.
How to Get from Nice to Monaco
The Nice to Monaco distance is so short (22 km). Here are the best ways to visit Monaco from Nice:
By Train
A Nice to Monaco day trip by train is very easy to organize. The regional train from Nice to Monaco takes around 24 minutes (no advance booking necessary), although a faster train cuts the journey down to 15 minutes. The train departs from Nice Ville train station and arrives at Monaco – Monte Carlo train station.
Elisa’s Local Tip: sit on the right side of the train heading to Monaco for coastal views.
By Car
Getting from Nice to Monaco is easy if you have a car. It takes about 20 minutes to drive from Nice to Monaco. This option is great if you plan a French Riviera road trip, but I don’t recommend renting a car only for a day trip Nice to Monaco.
If you need to rent a car, check out DiscoverCars.com. This site is great because it takes all of the major rental companies, such as Hertz, Avis, and more, and compares prices for you. This helps to ensure that you get a great price without all the time and work. Read my best tips for renting a car in France.
Free parking in Monaco is extremely limited. Most visitors use one of the principality’s underground public car parks, which are clean, secure, and surprisingly convenient. Rather than hunting for free parking, use one of Monaco’s public underground garages, such as:
- Parking des Pêcheurs (closest to the Old Town)
- Parking du Casino (best for Monte Carlo)
- Parking Grimaldi Forum (good for Larvotto)
My Friend’s Local Tip: Some visitors park in nearby areas such as Beausoleil and walk into Monaco, but free spaces there are also limited and highly competitive. Expect a 10–20 minute walk, depending on where you park.
Bus 600 Nice to Monaco – French Riviera’s Best Kept Secret
The bus from Nice to Monaco #600 (formerly line #100) is one of the most beautiful bus rides in the world, and a real bargain for getting to Monaco. Enjoy some of the most spectacular coastal views in the French Riviera for as little as €2.10 each way when paying by contactless card or phone (€2.50 if paying in cash).
The journey takes one hour, and the bus leaves every 15 minutes during the week and every 20 minutes on Sundays and public holidays.
The most convenient place to catch bus #600 is at Nice Port (tram stop: Port). Go to the right-hand corner of the port and walk half a block inland along Rue Arson. The bus stop (Arson/Fodéré) is just a pole with a sign, but you can recognize it by the line of people already waiting. If you can’t find it, just ask the locals – locals in Nice are nice 🙂
In Monaco, you can stop at Place d’Armes, Sainte-Devote, Montecarlo (Casino), or the Tourism Office.
Elisa’s Local Tip: I like to leave Nice early by bus to enjoy the coastal views and travel back to Nice by train.
One Day in Monaco – Suggested Itinerary
Arrive early, especially if you plan to visit the Musée Océanographique de Monaco. Time the first part of the itinerary around the Changing of the Guard (11:55 am).
- Start at the Port de Fontvieille Viewpoint for one of the best views of Monaco. Morning light is best for photos.
- Visit the Musée Océanographique (allow around 1.5–2 hours).
- Walk to Monaco Cathedral to see the tombs of Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace.
- Continue to the Prince’s Palace for the Changing of the Guard at 11:55 am.
- Spend some time exploring Monaco-Ville (the Old Town) before lunch.
- Lunch: I recommend the Marché de la Condamine, where you can choose from several food stalls and enjoy a good meal without spending a fortune. But there are also many restaurants in the Old Town
- After lunch, walk towards Monte Carlo. Along the way, stop at places that interest you, such as the Private Cars Collection of H.S.H. the Prince of Monaco, Sainte-Dévote Church, or one of the many viewpoints over the Mediterranean.
- Visit Casino Square, admire the Casino de Monte-Carlo and the Opéra de Monte-Carlo, and enjoy the atmosphere.
- If you still have time, relax in the Jardins de la Petite Afrique or visit the Japanese Garden Princess Grace before heading back to Nice.
Things to Do in Monaco in a Day
This is a list of what to see in Monaco in no particular order.
Le Rocher (the Rock)
If you’re exploring Monaco in a day, then you must see the Le Rocher known as the Rock. This rocky headland protrudes out into the Mediterranean Sea and was a shelter and a fortress in ancient days.
Today, the Rock holds Monaco-Ville, where Monaco’s royal family lives. Wandering around its pretty streets and exploring the shops and other historical attractions is one of the best things to do in Monaco.
Palace of Monaco
The Palace of Monaco is a must-see of any day trip from Nice to Monaco. Towering above the peninsula of Le Rocher, the Palais du Prince houses the Grimaldi family, rulers of Monaco since 1160. It offers beautiful views and has been renovated throughout the years into the luxurious palace that you can see today.
The Palace is only open at certain times of the year, so make sure you check whether you can enter the private residence before you go (all the info is here). This attraction is really worth seeing on your Monaco day trip from Nice as you’ll get the chance to explore the sumptuous décor of the State Apartments, the Throne Room, which houses official ceremonies, and the Blue Room, used for official state events.
Oceanographic Museum
With Monaco’s location overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, it’s no surprise that it’s become known for its Oceanographic Museum. Founded in 1910 by Prince Albert I, this museum is a must-see during your day trip to Monaco from Nice.
The museum exhibits are mostly from Prince Albert’s ocean expeditions and include a full whale skeleton and one of the best aquariums in Europe with more than 90 tanks of various ocean species. This museum is great for kids and adults, as the exhibits are interactive and interesting.
Monaco Cathedral
Built in the 19th century in the Neo-Romanesque style on the site of an earlier church, the Cathédrale Notre-Dame-Immaculée de Monaco is one of Monaco’s landmarks. It is closely associated with the Princely Family and hosts the Principality’s major religious ceremonies. The cathedral was also the venue for the wedding of Prince Rainier III and the American actress Grace Kelly (and their funerals).
The cathedral was built using materials sourced from different regions in France, including stone from La Turbie, red and blue porphyry from the Estérel, and green stone and granite from the Vosges. The marble and the granite used for the choir were sourced from Italy. Inside, you can admire the relics of Sainte Dévote, Monaco’s patron saint, as well as the tombs of Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace.
Monaco Old Town (Monaco-Ville)
Monaco’s Old Town, also known as Monaco-Ville, is entirely pedestrian and consists of small squares, winding narrow streets, and colorful buildings. Although compact and home to few major attractions apart from the cathedral, its shady lanes make for a pleasant stroll on a summer day, either before or after visiting the Prince’s Palace.
Along the way, stop by the Chapelle de la Miséricorde on Place de la Mairie to admire the colorful ceiling mural that decorates its single nave. The chapel was founded in the 17th century by the Confrérie des Pénitents Noirs, a historic Catholic lay brotherhood established in Monaco in the 16th century. Dedicated to charity, prayer, and religious traditions, the confraternity remains an important part of the Principality’s cultural and spiritual heritage and continues to take part in major religious ceremonies.
Also in this area, I’ve enjoyed some delicious ice cream, although I can’t remember the names of the shops. My guess is that you can’t go wrong with any of them!
Chapel of Sainte-Dévote
The Chapel of Sainte-Dévote is the kind of sight that is easy to miss, especially if you are short on time, were it not for its great historical and religious significance. Sainte-Dévote is the patron saint of Monaco and the Princely Family. According to tradition, the young Dévote was martyred on the island of Corsica in 304. Her body was then transported by boat by Christians guided by the Holy Spirit, symbolized by a dove, and brought to this location, where she was buried.
The current chapel was built in the 19th century to replace a much older 10th-century oratory. Inside, you can admire three medallions depicting scenes from the life of the saint, while a reliquary containing her remains is displayed on the altar dedicated to her.
Sainte-Dévote’s feast day is celebrated on 27 January and is one of the highlights of Monaco’s annual calendar. On the evening before, the Princely Family and a large crowd gather here to pray and set fire to a replica of the saint’s boat, a tradition symbolizing the burning of the vessel that brought her relics to Monaco. Another tradition linking the Princely Family to Sainte-Dévote is the offering of their bridal bouquets at the chapel. Both Princess Grace and Princess Charlene honored this tradition as a tribute to Monaco’s patron saint.
Monte Carlo Neighborhood
The Monte Carlo neighborhood is simply gorgeous and must be on any list of what to do in Monaco. This neighborhood has all the glitz and glamor you would expect from Monaco, and it overlooks the beautiful bay with the most fabulous views possible.
Monte Carlo is filled with chic areas that offer sublime but expensive shopping to the rich and famous who visit this city. This makes it ideal for people-watching, fine dining, elegant nights at the opera, and spending money at upscale jewelry and clothing boutiques.
If you want to dive deeper into Monaco’s history, this highly rated walking tour starts from Place du Casino in Monte Carlo and blends fascinating historical stories and local legends with some of the country’s most beautiful views.
Casino of Monte Carlo
Monaco is famous for its casino, so a visit is a must-do on a Monaco day trip. Designed by Charles Garnier, the architect of the Garnier Opera House in Paris, the Casino of Monte Carlo is a beaux-arts design that hosts opera and ballet performances.
You’ll probably recognize this building when you see it, as it’s been featured in several movies. It’s a smaller casino than you might expect if you’re used to Las Vegas, but the people-watching and gaming are amazing.
Walk the Legendary Monaco Formula One Circuit
The excitement of the Monaco Grand Prix begins weeks before race day. Transforming the streets of the Principality into one of the world’s most iconic Formula One circuits requires a long and meticulous preparation, as the track winds through the heart of the city.
Whether you visit Monaco during race week, in the days leading up to the Grand Prix, or at any other time of year, you can experience the magic of the circuit on foot.
Join a walking tour of the Monaco Formula One track and follow in the footsteps of racing legends. Discover the most famous corners, hear stories of the masters of the track, relive dramatic crashes, and uncover the history and secrets behind one of Formula One’s greatest races.
Gardens of Monaco
Monaco is home to several beautiful parks and gardens. Scattered throughout the Principality, they offer a welcome respite from the summer heat and the endless concrete that defines much of Monaco.
Perched on the heights of Monaco, the Exotic Garden is the Principality’s most famous botanical attraction. Reopened in March 2026 after several years of renovation (hence the lack of pictures), it is home to more than 1,000 species from around the world, as well as a fascinating underground cave. Access to the cave is only possible on a guided tour, which is included with your visit.
Within the garden, the Botanical Centre houses an extensive collection of rare cacti and other succulent plants. If you have an interest in botany or simply enjoy spending time in nature, this is a worthwhile stop on your day trip from Nice to Monaco.
My favorite, however, is the Japanese Garden. It offers a tranquil retreat where Mediterranean vegetation blends harmoniously with traditional Japanese landscaping. Designed according to Zen principles, it features ponds, waterfalls, stone lanterns, and elegant wooden bridges.
Located between the Cathédrale Notre-Dame-Immaculée and the Oceanographic Museum, the Saint-Martin and Sainte-Barbe Gardens are Monaco’s oldest public garden. Lined with Mediterranean plants, sculptures, and shaded pathways, they invite visitors to enjoy a leisurely stroll while taking in breathtaking views of the sea.
The Princess Grace Rose Garden is another of Monaco’s most beloved landmarks. Located in the landscaped park of Fontvieille, next to the marina, it is home to more than 300 varieties and thousands of rose bushes from around the world. Created in memory of Princess Grace, the garden is a peaceful oasis and hosts the prestigious International New Rose Competition.
Splurge Experiences – If You Want to Go Beyond Sightseeing
Experience the Monaco F1 Circuit on a Ferrari
Have you ever dreamed of cruising along the French Riviera in a stunning Ferrari? Now you can make that dream come true during your day trip to Monaco. Sit back in a Ferrari California as a professional driver takes you along the spectacular roads overlooking Monte Carlo and the Mediterranean, passing through the picturesque hilltop villages of Èze and La Turbie.
This unforgettable ride evokes the glamour of the French Riviera’s golden age, following roads that have appeared in countless films and offering the chance to experience part of the legendary Monaco Formula One circuit. With departures from either Villefranche-sur-Mer or Beaulieu-sur-Mer, this Ferrari driving experience is a unique way to discover the Côte d’Azur in true style.
Cetacean Watching in the Pelagos Sanctuary
Enjoy a unique experience aboard a private boat, combining whale watching with spectacular coastal scenery. Accompanied by a passionate captain and expert on Mediterranean cetaceans, you’ll head out into the open sea in search of dolphins, sea turtles, sperm whales, and other marine wildlife in their natural habitat within the Pelagos Sanctuary.
According to the International Whaling Commission, the best time for whale watching in the Pelagos Sanctuary is from May to October, with June to September offering the highest chances of spotting whales.
Admire Monaco from Another Perspective
After exploring Monaco on foot, discover the Principality from a completely different perspective. From the sky or from the sea, these experiences reveal Monaco’s spectacular setting, where dramatic cliffs, luxury yachts, and iconic landmarks meet the Mediterranean.
Take to the skies on a shared helicopter flight and enjoy a breathtaking 20-minute aerial tour of Monaco and the French Riviera. From above, admire the compact yet spectacular landscape of the Principality, with panoramic views of Monte Carlo, Port Hercule, and the Mediterranean coastline.
Alternatively, hop aboard a panoramic boat cruise and admire Monaco’s landmarks from the water. Sail past the Prince’s Palace, Louis II Stadium, and the Larvotto district while taking in unforgettable views of Monte Carlo and Port Hercule from the sea.
