monaco tours train

Infos pratiques

Embarquez pour un voyage en Principauté de Monaco ! Ce circuit unique en petit train d’environ 30/40 min parcourt les plus beaux sites de Monaco : le Port de Monaco, le circuit du Grand Prix de Formule 1, le prestigieux quartier de Monte-Carlo avec la Place du Casino et les Hôtels de luxe, le centre ville, le mythique Rocher avec le Palais Princier, la Cathédrale et le Musée océanographique. Monaco Tours, le petit train vous livre les secrets de la Principauté au travers d'une visite guidée proposée en 12 langues (FR-GB-D-I-E-NL-P- Russe-Japonais-Chinois-Arabe-Polonais). Des casques sont offerts à chaque passager pour profiter des commentaires dans la langue de son choix. Équipés de toits panoramiques, pour une découverte de la Principauté de Monaco ludique et agréable, Monaco Tours, le petit train fonctionne tous les jours (selon conditions climatiques et manifestations en Principauté), de mi-février à mi-novembre. Arrêt intermédiaire Monte-Carlo, à proximité du Casino (Cet arrêt peut être temporairement indisponible) Durée Environ 30/40 minutes, départ face au Musée océanographique Tarifs Adulte 12 € Enfant (2 à 10 ans) 6 € Le règlement s'effectue sur place le jour même, par espèces ou carte bleue. Parking Parking des pêcheurs  

Visiter Monaco en un minimum de temps ? Monaco Tours, le petit train est la solution idéale pour découvrir de manière divertissante les plus beaux lieux de la Principauté, en parcourant ses principales rues depuis le Rocher jusqu'au fabuleux quartier de Monte Carlo en passant par le Port et sa grille de départ du circuit du Grand Prix de Formule 1. Trois trains sont disponibles pour accueillir des groupes allant jusqu’à 180 personnes. Tarif groupe Nous consulter Le règlement s'effectue sur place le jour même, par espèces ou carte bleue. Parking autocars Parking des Pêcheurs  

Demande de réservation de groupe

Privatisation

Mariage, baptême, anniversaire… Embarquez vos invités à bord de Monaco Tours, le petit train, pour vous rendre à votre lieu de fête… Une manière pratique, originale et amusante d’offrir à vos convives une véritable attraction ! Un congrès, un transfert de clients, une visite privée ou un tour de ville "by night » ? Monaco Tours, le petit train offre également un moyen de transport insolite et une parenthèse divertissante pour tous vos évènements professionnels. De nombreuses formules sont possibles comme par exemple organiser une navette en petit train du Grimaldi Forum à votre hôtel…. Renseignez-vous par mail.

Demande de privatisation

Par mail : [email protected] ou avec le formulaire ci-dessous  

• Monaco Convention Bureau

• Infinite inspiration
• Ultimate relaxation
• Sensational Food
• Vibrant culture
• Timeless romance
• Top-class sport
• Perfect indulgence
• Amazing entertainment
• Sustainable Tourism
• Next major event of the year
• The Districts
• Trails & Walks
• Surroundings
• Restaurants
• Night Clubs
• Tourist tax
• Getting around in Monaco
• Your Monaco
• People with reduced mobility
• Brochures & Maps
• Interactive map of Monaco
• Carbon Footprint Calculator
• For Children
• Emergency Numbers
• Covid-19 information
• Calculate the carbon footprint of your visit to Monaco!
• A destination with values
• Green access guide to the Principality of Monaco
• A hotel industry committed to responsible tourism
• Responsible Gastronomy
• Responsible Tourism White Paper
• Eco-Responsible Visitor Trail
• Soft Mobility In Monaco
• Objective zero single-use plastic

Monaco tours

Starting and ending across from the Oceanographic Museum, the 30 minute tour includes Monaco's finest sights : Place d'Armes, Port Hercule, the Formula 1 Grand Prix circuit, Monte-Carlo and Casino Square with its luxury hotels, the City Centre, the Old Town with the Ministry of State, the Princely Palace and the Cathedral. Our trains are equipped with panoramic roofs which make the visit even more pleasant and a commentary, simultaneously translated, in 12 languages (FR-GB-D-I-E-NL-P-Russian-Japanese-Chinese-Arab-Polish) is broadcasted on board via headphones. The tickets are on sale at the ticket office "MONACO TOURS" situated opposite the Oceanographic Museum. Payment may be made in cash or by Visa Card. The trains run every day (depending on weather conditions and events in the Principality), from February to Mid-November.

• For Further Information

© Monaco Tours

Le Petit Train de Monaco, Monaco

Guided tour of Monaco on a small tourist train

The Petit Train takes you around the principality of Monaco, to the main tourist sights and attractions, with an added onboard commentary.

Each tour lasts for around 30 minutes and covers the main attractions in the city. It is accompanied by a commentary which is available in twelve languages. The train runs every day from February until mid--November.

You board the train from the parking area opposite the Oceanographic museum.

Worth knowing

You can book the entire train for exceptional events, such as a wedding, birthday, christening...or for transferring clients, congress participants, private visits, night tours. The trains can be decorated, personalised in the colours of the event.

How to get passes

Tickets can be purchased from the Monaco Tours office opposite the Oceanographic museum. There is a reduced rate for large groups of 20 or moe people.

Start Planning

Start Exploring

TTC family of brands

My Trafalgar

Destinations

Get Inspired

866 513 1995

See All Monaco Tours

Trending Monaco tours

Save up to $704

Best of France

18 Locations

2 Countries

Expect only the best on one of our favorite France trips, beginning and ending in Paris. Spend the night as a French lord or lady in an elegant Loire Valley château, be inspired like Cezanne was, by the beauty of Provence and visit the playground of Monaco.

Save up to $455

Mediterranean Highlights

14 Locations

5 Countries

Ease into the local love of life and good food. Sun-kissed days and sizzling nights guide you along this Mediterranean trip through coastal Spain, France and Italy. Enjoy lunch with sisters Sandra and Antonella on their Tuscan agriturismo near Vinci.

Save up to $513

Highlights of France and Barcelona

13 Locations

3 Countries

One of our most popular France and Spain trips, this jam-packed journey from Paris to Barcelona is a feast for every sense, from lunch with locals and elegant châteaux in the Loire Valley, to the buzz of Avignon’s Place de l’Horloge and the irresistible French Riviera.

Save up to $500

Wonderful France

10 Locations

Combine the glamorous French capital with centuries of history and glorious sunsets on the French Riviera. This favorite French tour delivers it all in just nine days, from strolling around the Pont du Gard to soaking up the sun-kissed charm of St. Tropez and Monaco in France's glorious south.

See More Monaco Trips

5 million happy guests and counting

Capital City

Monte Carlo

Good morning

Good evening

"From the fun nights at the Casino de Monte-Carlo to strolls along the luxurious Fontvieille Harbour, the world's second smallest country is definitely worth a visit"

Chris, Travel Director

Visit Cathédrale Notre-Dame-Immaculée

The burial site of the famed Grace Kelly and Prince Rainer III, the magnificent Cathédrale Notre-Dame-Immaculée—also referred to as Saint Nicholas Cathedral of Monaco—sits proudly atop the Rock of Monaco. Take in this symbol of the country’s identity, a famed landmark built using unique white stones from a nearby village that become even brighter in the rain.

Try your luck at Monte Carlo Casino

Rub shoulders with high-rollers at the ritzy Casino Monte-Carlo, Monaco’s place to be and be seen. With many sections open exclusively to high-calibre gamblers, this casino is one of the most exclusive gambling facilities in the world, and the famous film set of the James Bond film, Casino Royale.

Wander around Jardin Exotique

As well as containing over 1,000 species of cacti and succulents, at this three-acre botanical garden, you will find the most magnificent coastal views in the area. Stand atop the landscaped garden and spot the yacht-dotted port, the Rock of Monaco, Monte Carlo casino and even Italy.

Stroll through Monaco Harbour

Perhaps one of the most famous harbors in the world, at Monaco’s Port Hercule you will witness some of the most extravagant water vessels money can buy. Framed by a mountainous backdrop, this natural bay is the postcard of Monte Carlo, attracting all those who visit Monaco.

Watch a race at the Formula One Monaco Grand Prix

Having its very first Formula One Grand Prix in 1929, this highly anticipated annual motor race is running strong in its 90th year. If you're traveling to Monaco in May, you will catch Bugattis and Ferraris zooming through narrow streets while spectators pay no less than 800 euros to soak up the brut of this prestigious automobile race.

Our top 5 things to do in Monaco

Once inside the extravagant walls of the Monte Carlo Casino, it’s hard to drag yourself away. But with the guidance of our expert Local Specialists, with Trafalgar you'll be rewarded with succulent gardens, impressive cathedrals and sunny days by the harbor.

Monaco-Ville

Oceanographic Museum of Monaco

Aptly perched on the waterfront is a planet of marine science, renowned worldwide for its expertise. Evoking an underwater nirvana, the museum-cum-aquarium guides you through more than 6,000 specimens. Setting an international benchmark for ocean awareness and conservation, you will find a new underwater world on the shores of the Mediterranean.

New National Museum of Monaco

Contrary to its old-world Belle Époque exterior, the NMNM showcases contemporary visual art across two locations. Wander the light-soaked halls dotted with abstract sculptures and witness long-standing collections by international photographers. With bi-annual exhibitions dedicated to designers, thinkers and innovators, this museum is a fascinating addition to Monaco travel.

Princess Grace Irish Library

A by-product of a prince’s love for his princess, this 35-year old cultural centre ventures far from the usual tourist tracks. Walk down a side street, ring a bell and be greeted by a wealth of books. Rumored to house almost every Ireland-related book under the sun, the trivial size of the library will quickly be forgotten. Between the covers, you’ll see Monaco in a new light.

Best museums in Monaco

This 200-hectare country epitomizes modernity and glamour more than most countries in Europe. Our trips to Monaco take you beyond the glitz to discover the culture and heritage between the super yachts, the port and the million-dollar cars.

Originating in Monaco, this flaky savory appetizer is a staple food excessively consumed on the country’s national day. A pastry stuffed with Swiss chard and ricotta, this dish has made its way along the French Riviera and across to Italy. But it is best enjoyed here in Monaco.

Found across Mediterranean countries in many different variations, Monaco serves a unique version of this crusty pastry topped with almonds. A practicality transformed into a delicious delicacy, fougasse was traditionally used to check the temperature of a wood-fired oven. Try it once and you'll be hooked.

Pissaladière

A small modified pizza topped with onions, tomatoes and olives, this Monégasque appetizer is said to have originated in Nice. Find it sold at high-end bakeries or daily markets, and see locals snacking on it hot or cold throughout the day. It is the perfect combo of French food with Italian influence.

Best food in Monaco

With Italy and France in such close proximity, Monaco’s food draws upon the best of the Mediterranean diet. Everything we do in Monaco is enjoyed between unforgettable dining experiences.

What to pack for Monaco

Both practical and stylish, a sun-hat is the ideal way to feel immersed in the chic Monaco setting whilst staying protected under the hot Mediterranean sun.

Comfortable flats

A comfortable and practical shoe is crucial for a trip to Monaco. The best way to explore this destination is by foot so you can find yourself comfortable as you explore hidden gems and grand sights of this glamorous nation.

Formal wear

Though there is no written dress code for Casino Monte-Carlo, you may feel out of place without the proper attire for an obligatory evening of rolling dice alongside Monaco’s A-list.

A good camera

Whether you’d like to take an HD photograph, film a continuous movement or snap a picture underwater, a good camera is a necessity for capturing your Monaco travel experiences.

Linen dress or shirt

Linen clothing is a perfect complement for the warmer months in Monaco. Effortlessly go from summer days to balmy nights.

Pack for sustainable travel

Consider your environmental impact when you next take a trip and go single-use-plastic-free by packing a reusable water bottle, a steel straw, your own shopping bags and reusable toiletry bottles.

Our Europe & Britain destinations

Bosnia Herzegovina

Czech Republic

Liechtenstein

North Macedonia

Netherlands

Northern Ireland

Switzerland

Other worldwide regions we visit

Africa the Middle East

Australia and New Zealand

North and Central America

South America

Get your free brochure

Find your next escape with the world's leading travel brand

Request A Brochure

Award winning tours

Every year, we're proud to win some of the most prestigious travel accolades around the world - from the Travel Globes to the Agent's Choice Awards

Search Our Tours

Help & Info

WE MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®

Unedited Reviews

Our Destination Management Companies

Frequently Asked Questions

Travel Updates

Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information

Travel Planning

Get Your Free Brochure

Travel Insurance

Booking Conditions

Trip Deposit Level

Recommendations

Trafalgar Tours Limited is a proud member of  The Travel Corporation  family of companies.

#SimplyTrafalgar

Travel House, Rue du Manoir St Peter Port, Guernsey, GY1 2JH

Selected Region

United States

United Kingdom

New Zealand

South Africa

Copyright 2024 Trafalgar. All rights reserved.

Terms and Conditions

Privacy Policy

Cookie Policy

• Monaco-Ville
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Holiday Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travellers' Choice
• Help Centre

Monaco little train tours - Monaco Tours

• Europe    
• Monaco    
• Monaco-Ville    
• Monaco-Ville - Things to Do    
• Monaco Tours

Monaco little train tours

For 8€ per head it is quite a good tour on one of these little "trains" that you see around most European cities now. http://www.monacotours.mc You cannot get off anywhere in this 40 minute trip with a commentary through a headset. It takes you to all the major sights in Monaco.Grand prix circuit, Casino, Famous hotels and the Palace. Save your legs and do this trip. The tour leaves from and arrives back at the Palace. You can get a number 1 or 2 bus (free) from many places in the town up to the Palace.. otherwise it is a steep walk.

Recently took Monaoco Tour around the city upon arrival. Definitely a good idea as a day trip from NICE with another company showed me very little and this tour allowed me to hop on hop off at all the sites. The price was reasonalbe for 1 or 2 day trip options. With the exception of one driver who said the bus was full despite the front passenger seat being empty I enjoyed the tour. It allowed me to see all the major sites and was very enjoyable.

We arrived by ship and walked up the hill to the Cathederal and the Royal Palace for changing of the guards. After we walked down to the train which is 8 euros/adults,4/children and is simultaneous translated in 12 languages and took a tour of the city which lasted about 40 minutes. Interesting and since we didn't have much time covered a lot of ground quickly. The casino didn't open until 2pm so we were not able to go inside.

The tour takes place in little trains, with audioguides. There are many languages to choose from. We selected the 1,5 h tour, but it was really concentrated the informations provided are very useful - history of royal family, history of the city, economic data, etc. For us, it worth the money !

Monaco...story itself. The second smallest city-state after the Vatican city in the world. But it offers everything what you wish. Principality of Monaco has about 32.000 habitants. The official language is french however you could speak italian and english as well. There is no real distinction between the state and city of Monaco however there are five so called districts: Monaco has five so called districts: Fontvieille (on the west with new port and stadium), Monaco-ville (the most attractive tourist point ¨on the rock¨ cause there are Palace of Prince, Cathedral and oceanographic museum), La Condamine (bussiness heart of Monaco and its Port of Hercule), Larvotto (eastern part with famous beach) and Monte Carlo (with famous Casino de Monte Carlo). There are also Northern area of Monegheti and La Rousse. Monaco has a hospital, heliport, stadium, own police... But you MUST VISIT Prince¨s palace, Oceanographic museum, Cathedral and of course Casino. Prices in Monaco are quite high but if you go just a 50m outside Monaco (and you actually do not realize that you are out of town because the border between France and Monaco is somewhere on the middle of the road) you could get a room for two persons for very very reasonable prices. I slept in the hotel which is by foot 7 minutes away from Casino or Place du Casino for less than 80euros per night. This area is Beausoleil area. I suggest all the turists to look for any hotels in nearby areas. There are also opportunities for some turists who spend holidays in Nice or Menton. Railway connection to Monaco is simply, fast and it takes 20-25 minutes by train. When you are in Monaco you do not need to take bus or taxi. Everything is so close and you can visit everything by foot. Prices around Casino are very high, therefore it is good to look for some food and drinks in Port Hercule for example or in any other areas. However Monaco has a reputation and it is one of the most safiest places in the world. Almost entire city is covered by cameras. In La Condamine area, just where Formula 1 starts, there is an excellent pool and the price very low. So, YES, Monaco you do need to visit. Lovely mediterranean city-country.

Jan 6, 2021 | Countries

Monaco by Train

A Travel Guide For Train Travel In Monaco.

Here you will find information for Monaco about trains, routes, tours, connections, where to buy train tickets, and more.

Useful Information

Population:  38,696

Currency: Euro

Language: French

Capital: Monaco

Country Code: +377

Time Zone: Central European Time (CET)

Train Companies | Tickets | Rail Passes | Train Types | Routes   | Main Stations | Good To Know

Train Companies

The country’s trains are operated by SNCF (French National Railway Company) since Monaco does not operate its own train service. The length of the railway within the principality is 1.7 km (1.1 mi), giving Monaco the third-smallest railway system in the world.

Train Tickets

Buy your train tickets online at OMIO and compare trains, buses & flights.

Rail Passes

Interrail / eurail pass.

Do you want to travel throughout Europe flexibly and comfortably? Then the Interrail Pass is perfect for you. With the Interrail Pass, you can visit 40,000 destinations in 33 countries in Europe. You can travel for up to 3 months by train.

TrAIN tYPES

• Regional Trains
• Night Trains

Regional Trains:

The Marseille – Ventmiglia railway line runs through Monaco with trains running every frequently during daytime peak hours. 

TER (Tren Exprès Regional)

• Connects Monaco to Marseille in France and Ventmiglia in Italy with further connections
• Reservations not required nor possible

There are no night trains from Monte Carlo directly, but see France and Italy for night train routes to Sicily, Amsterdam, and more.

Frequently Travelled Routes From Monaco

International, monaco travel routes, main train stations.

The Principality of Monaco currently has one railway station, Monaco-Monte Carlo.

Good to know

Best time to travel to monaco.

We recommend travelling anytime of the year to Monaco because the weather is fantastic year round, never too hot, never too cold. It’s that perfect Mediterranean climate. Out of high season the room rates are reduced which can be a big difference in a citystate of fame and glamor. Any time of year you’ll be able to find events to watch such as Monaco Rally, F1 Grand Prix, Monaco Yacht Show, as well as the International Equestrian Jumping competition.

Accommodation In Monaco

The best place to find cheap hotels for is to book by www.booking.com . There you will find a large selection of cheap hotels, hostels, and apartments. > BOOK HERE

Hostelworld

If you are looking for a low budget accommodation, then go on www.hostelworld.com . They have the best choice of cheap hostels for backpackers and low budget travelers. > BOOK HERE

Guidebooks For Monaco

Travel with a guidebook ease your journey to find best sights and things to do. Buy it on Amazon.

Back to Top

• Deutsch ( German )

MONACO TOURS - MINI TRAIN

Go there and contact.

In front of the Oceanographic Museum, climb aboard a mini-wagon and learn about the history of Monaco's most important sites in an educational and entertaining way. The tour takes in the Principality's most prestigious sites, such as Casino Square, Port Hercule, the Prince's Palace and the cathedral. Smart tip: park your car at the Pêcheurs parking lot on avenue de la Quarantaine, then take the free elevator to the train departure point.

Opening time and information on MONACO TOURS - MINI TRAIN

Closed from November 15 to January. Small trains operate daily, depending on weather conditions and events in the Principality. Open every day. Duration: approx. 30-40 minutes. Adults: €12. Children (2-10 years): €6. Group rates on request. Payment on site the same day: cash or credit card. Guided tour (available in 12 languages). Privatization available for your events (weddings, birthdays, christenings, customer transfers, etc.).

Owner's Message

Book the best activities with get your guide, members' reviews on monaco tours - mini train.

Monaco (98000)

• The essentials
• When to depart
• Buy the guide
• Featured articles

The best at Monaco and around

Sightseeing, monaco cathedral, find unique stay offers with our partners, share this establishment.

• One Day in Monaco: The Perfect Monaco Day Trip from Nice

The French Riviera is not only an absolute must-visit location, but it’s also a great place to use as a home base while taking day trips to other nearby towns. For instance, you could easily spend one day in Monaco as a day trip from Nice, or any nearby city!

Monaco is known for being glamorous. It’s located right on the water and is its own country, separate from France, despite technically being in a location surrounded by France. It’s filled with fantastic scenery, tropical vibes, and luxury everywhere you look.

While Monaco is exceptionally tiny, it’s filled with tons to do, but you can easily dip your toes into all that it has to offer with just a day in Monaco. Here is how to have a perfect one day in Monaco!

Disclosure: *This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link.*

Table of Contents

Best Day Tours to Monaco

While it’s really easy to get from Nice to Monaco on your own, there are also plenty of day tours available if you prefer a guided experience. Some popular options include:

• From Nice: Full-Day Monaco, Monte-Carlo & Eze Tour : This tour takes you to the best of Monaco, Monte-Carlo, and Eze in just one day. You’ll get to see the Prince’s Palace, the Grand Prix track, and even visit a perfume factory in Eze.
• From Nice: Eze, Monaco, & Monte-Carlo Half-Day Trip : If you’re short on time, this half-day trip is perfect for you. You’ll visit the medieval village of Eze and get to explore Monaco and Monte-Carlo before returning to Nice.
• From Nice: French Riviera in One Day : This tour covers all the highlights of the French Riviera, including Monaco, Nice, Cannes, Antibes, and Saint-Paul-de-Vence. It’s a great option if you want to see multiple towns in one day.

Overview of Your One Day in Monaco Itinerary

For your one day in Monaco, you’ll be hitting all of the absolute can’t-miss attractions.

These are all of the places that you can’t visit Monaco without at least seeing once, so try to take the time to check out these great attractions during your day trip to Monaco.

You’ll start the day down near the port, and then slowly begin to explore other parts of the city that it’s most well-known for, like the casino!

Breakdown of your one day in Monaco

• Getting to Monaco

Stroll around Port Hercules

• Breakfast at Eola
• Explore the Old Town of Monaco (Prince’s Palace, St. Nicholas Cathedral, Oceanographic Museum, Port de Fontvieille Viewpoint)
• Walk along the Formula 1 Track

Monte Carlo Casino

Japanese garden, sunset at tête de chien.

• Getting back to Nice (or wherever you’re staying)

Map for your Monaco itinerary

Below you can find a customized map that includes all the locations you’re going to visit on this one day in Monaco itinerary.

I marked all the attractions with red and I also marked some important bus stations, train stations, and car parks with green that can come in handy for your Monaco day trip from Nice. As a bonus for Formula 1 lovers, I also marked the whole F1 track with blue on the map!

How to use this map: This map is fully interactive, so you can move around, zoom in/zoom out, and click on the icons. If you want to see a larger map, click on the bracket in the upper right corner. To see more details and the different layers, click on the tab in the upper left corner. If you want to save it for later, click on the star icon next to the name of the map. Then simply open Google Maps either on your desktop or phone, go to ‘Saved’/’Maps’, and open the map whenever you need it.

How to Spend One Day in Monaco

Start your day bright and early by heading down to Port Hercules and taking in the beautiful Mediterranean Sea. Port Hercules is the main port in Monaco that has been used for thousands of years.

However, the version of it that stands today was completely redone in the early 20th century. It’s so big that it can hold around 700 different boats if it wanted to!

If you opted for taking the train for your one day in Monaco trip, then you will need to walk around 15 minutes to reach Port Hercules from the train station.

In case you decided to drive to Monaco, you can find 2 big parking lots near Port Hercules (I put both of them on the above map) where you can easily park your car.

Have breakfast at Eola

In case you didn’t have breakfast at your hotel, it’s time to treat your taste buds to some delicious food! On your way to the old town, make sure to stop by Eola , which is a 10-minute walk from Port Hercule.

Eola stands for ‘Eat Organic Live Active’, and as the name suggests, you can find all kinds of healthy dishes here like smoothie bowls, green juices, and avocado toasts.

This lovely little cafe is open from 9 am to 4 pm from Monday to Saturday. Unfortunately, it’s closed on Sunday so if you’re spending your one day in Monaco on a Sunday, you will need to look for another place to have breakfast.

Explore the Old Town of Monaco

Next, head over to Monaco’s Old Town. This is arguably one of the most picturesque parts of the city which is located up on a hill and has really great views of the Mediterranean Sea.

The easiest way to get to the Old Town is to take Rampe de la Major, which starts right after the roundabout by Place d’Armes (2 minutes from Eola). Be prepared that the road is a bit steep so it’s best to wear comfortable walking shoes.

Within 10 minutes, you will reach Place du Palais, the square in front of the Prince’s Palace and you can start exploring the Old Town!

Take some time to walk along the cobblestone streets and pop into any stores or restaurants that interest you that you may come across.

Old Town is the most historical part of the city, so you’ll find some unique architecture here that you won’t find elsewhere in Monaco.

Below you can find some of the must-visit places in the Old Town that you absolutely need to check out on your one day in Monaco.

Prince’s Palace

Opening hours: 10 am – 6 pm between April and mid-October Entrance fee: €10

Your Monaco day trip wouldn’t be complete without seeing where the royalty lives. The Prince’s Palace is located right next to where the Rampe de la Major ends (the road you took up to the Old Town), so you can easily make this your first stop in the Old Town.

The palace was built in the 12th century and is the home of the current prince of Monaco. If you’re lucky, you may even see the changing of the guards, which is an entertaining sight.

Because Monaco is so small and you can get reasonably close to the palace compared to royal palaces in other countries, you may even sneak a peek of the Prince of Monaco.

Although it’s a private residence, the State Apartments are open to visitors from the beginning of April until mid-October.

Inside, you can see the Palace Chapel and many majestic rooms such as the Hercule Gallery, the Throne Room, and Louise XV Bedroom, as well as numerous beautiful frescoes and old furniture.

St. Nicholas Cathedral

Opening hours:  9 am – 6 pm Entrance fee:  Free

St. Nicholas Cathedral, otherwise known as the Monaco Cathedral is one of the most important religious monuments in Monaco. The construction of the cathedral began in 1875 but it was only consecrated in 1911.

The cathedral was home to many royal events such as the wedding of Grace Kelly and Rainier III, the Prince of Monaco and now it houses the tombs of Monaco’s former princes.

The cathedral can be visited for free, which makes it one of the best places to explore if you’re visiting Monaco on a budget . If you want to go inside, make sure to dress respectfully!

Oceanographic Museum

Opening hours:  10 am – 7 pm Entrance fee:  €19

While you may not associate any type of history or museum with Monaco, you must visit this one! The Oceanographic Museum was opened in the 20th century and focuses on everything involving the ocean and marine science.

Inside the museum, you’ll find lots of aquariums, artifacts, and exhibits. Take the time to explore here because you’ll truly learn a lot. It was also founded by a relative of Monaco’s current Prince, so it has an important connection to the country itself.

Port de Fontvieille Viewpoint

Just beside the Oceanographic Museum, you can find a beautiful park called Jardins de Saint-Martin.

The park already offers some incredible views over Port de Fontvieille but if you keep walking to the end of the park, you will find one of the most beautiful viewpoints in Monaco.

I hope you didn’t forget your camera at home because this is truly one of the best views you’ll see during your one day in Monaco!

Walk along the Formula 1 Track

If you’ve finished exploring the Old Town, it’s time to move to the other side of the city. It’s going to be a long walk but on the way to Monte Carlo Casino, you can do a very unique thing that you can only do in Monaco: walking along the Formula 1 Track!

Because Monaco is known worldwide for hosting the Grand Prix, you absolutely must find part of the race track route and walk along it. It’s incredibly cool to think that Formula 1 racing happens here.

To help you plan your route, I marked the entire track with blue on the map I shared above (in the one day in Monaco itinerary overview section).

It takes around 25-30 minutes to get to Monte Carlo Casino from the Old Town on foot.

Alternatively, you can walk back on the Rampe de la Major to Place d’Armes where you can catch bus line nr. 607 or 608.

The bus will drop you off 300 meters (almost 1 mile) from the casino but sadly this way you will miss walking along the F1 track.

Your one day in Monaco itinerary wouldn’t be complete without visiting the famous Monte Carlo Casino. Fun fact: locals aren’t allowed to gamble in the casino, it’s considered to be illegal! Instead, the casino is entirely for visitors to Monaco.

The Monte Carlo Casino is said to be the most popular casino in the entire world. This is most likely because it’s featured in quite a few of the James Bond films, among other pop culture phenomena.

The casino dates back to the 19th century and is absolutely breathtaking on the inside and the outside. One thing to keep in mind when visiting the Monte Carlo Casino is that you do have to be dressed nicely.

This doesn’t mean you need to wear your finest dress or tuxedo, but I wouldn’t suggest trying to enter wearing your favorite leggings and flip-flops.

If you still have some time left in the afternoon, check out a fun zen area in Monaco, the Japanese Garden. This park is near Monaco’s convention center (only a 10-minute walk from the casino) and is often used as a place for meditation and relaxation.

Stroll throughout the garden and take in the luscious greenery throughout. You’ll find that there’s a mix of both Japanese architecture and Mediterranean plant life, which makes for a really unique and uncharacteristic pairing that you’ll only find in Monaco.

Last but not least, head over to one of my favorite viewpoints to see the sunset over Monaco: Tête de Chien!

Unfortunately, this viewpoint is only accessible by car so if you opted to take the train or a bus for your Monaco day trip from Nice, sadly you will have to skip this point.

It takes around 25 minutes to reach the parking lot near the viewpoint from Monaco. Just put Tête de Chien in your Google Maps and you will easily get there!

From the parking lot, you need to do a short but relatively steep hike and in 10-15 minutes you will reach the viewpoint.

From this viewpoint, you will get an incredible panoramic view over the entire coastline and Monaco. Just be careful on the rocks and don’t go too close to the edge. Can you imagine a better way to end your one day in Monaco?

Useful Info for Visiting Monaco in a Day

Where to stay in monaco.

If you want to extend your trip and spend more than one day in Monaco, there are plenty of accommodation options available.

However, keep in mind that Monaco is known for its luxury and expensive prices, so be prepared to splurge a little on your hotel (even on a budget option).

Here are our top hotel recommendations for different budgets:

• Luxury | Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo
• Mid-range | Fairmont Monte Carlo
• Budget | Novotel Monte-Carlo

How to get to Monaco from Nice

Train | The easiest option is to take a speed train from Nice to Monaco. There are frequent departures throughout the day, and the journey only takes about 20 minutes. The train station in Monaco is located just a short walk from the city center.

Bus | Another option is to take a bus from Nice to Monaco. Due to current works, bus nr. 100 that used to run between Nice and Monaco is now divided into two separate routes: nr. 607 goes to Monaco, while nr. 608 goes to Menton. The journey takes around 40 minutes and the bus will drop you off at various stops throughout Monaco.

Car | If you’re planning to do a road trip in the French Riviera , you can easily drive from Nice to Monaco. The journey takes about 30 minutes via the A8 highway. Parking is quite pricy in Monaco, however, all car parks have a daily maximum rate of around €20-30, which is not that bad if you want to spend the full day in Monaco.

Guided tours | As mentioned before, there are also plenty of guided tours available from Nice to Monaco. These usually include transportation and a knowledgeable guide to show you around. This half-day trip is one of the top-rated options!

Best time to visit Monaco

High season | The peak tourist season in Monaco is from June to August when the weather is warm and sunny. This is also when accommodations and activities tend to be more expensive.

F1 Grand Prix | The Formula 1 Grand Prix race takes place in Monaco every year in May. Unless you want to attend the race, it’s best to avoid visiting during this time as the city can get extremely crowded and prices are inflated.

Shoulder seasons | May, September, and October are considered shoulder seasons in Monaco. The weather is still pleasant, but there are fewer tourists, making it a great time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds and save some money.

Low season | The low season in Monaco is from November to April. It may be a bit colder and rainier, but if you don’t mind the weather, this can be a great time to visit as accommodations and activities are significantly cheaper.

How to get around in Monaco

By foot | Monaco is a small city-state, so the easiest way to get around on your one day in Monaco is just by walking. It takes less than one hour to walk across the entire width of Monaco, and it’s a great way to see all the sights.

Public transportation | You can also take buses within Monaco if you don’t feel like walking. The buses are convenient and relatively inexpensive, but be aware that they can get crowded during peak tourist season.

Driving | While getting to Monaco by car is convenient, I would recommend leaving your car parked and exploring the city on foot or by public transportation.

Planning a trip to the French Riviera?

Then you might want to take a look at all our other travel guides about the French Riviera. I promise, they are just as awesome as this article was!

• The Ultimate 10 Day French Riviera Road Trip Itinerary
• One Day in Nice Itinerary You’ll Want to Steal
• Top 13 Best Day Trips from Nice, France
• 17 Amazing Apartment Rentals and Airbnbs in Nice, France

Other Amazing Destinations in France: Alsace | Paris | Provence

Pin It for Later!

4 thoughts on “One Day in Monaco: The Perfect Monaco Day Trip from Nice”

Hi! Is it possible to do Monaco and Menton in one day? If I was to follow your Monaco guide above excluding the Japanese garden and sunset. Thanks

Yes definitely! You’ll have to speed things up a little bit but since they are really close it’s totally possible.

Absolutely stunning with so much details. Very well put together. After reading this, you need nothing else. Thanks for this guide, very helpful.

I’m so happy you found it helpful!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply