Turquoise sea, palm-lined coastal promenades, Mediterranean climate, and cities full of both history and luxury – welcome to the Côte d'Azur. This region in southeastern France, also known as the French Riviera, attracts millions of visitors from all over the world every year. It offers a unique blend of picturesque beaches, historic alleys, excellent gastronomy, and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. On this trip, you will visit elegant Nice, the largest city on the French Riviera, as well as nearby Monaco – the second smallest country in the world and one of the most luxurious places on the planet. Although it has an area of just over 2 km², it is famous for its casinos, yachts, glamour, and the Formula 1 Grand Prix.
Today you arrive in Nice. From the airport, head into the city to your accommodation. If you have any energy left, you can go for a walk around town, or leave the sightseeing for tomorrow.
After arriving at Nice airport, head to the exit for the tram stop, where the L2 tram will take you to the city center in half an hour.
You can buy a tram ticket at the machines near the stops (by card or cash). If you want to save money, you can travel for free (transport within the airport area is free) to the Grand Arénas Sud stop, get off, buy a ticket at the standard fare (not the airport fare like at the terminals, which is more expensive), and continue on the same tram line to the city center.
Nice is a picturesque city on the Mediterranean coast that attracts visitors with its pleasant climate, beautiful architecture, and relaxed atmosphere. With over 300 sunny days a year, you have a great chance of enjoying pleasant weather and sunshine. Moreover, the city is very compact, making it perfect for exploring on foot. While walking, you can easily discover its most beautiful corners – from the famous Promenade des Anglais through the historic center to the colorful streets of the old town.
The famous Promenade des Anglais in Nice stretches for nearly 7 kilometers and is one of the most well-known seaside promenades in Europe. The morning is just perfect for a stroll and grabbing a delicious breakfast at one of the many nearby cafes.
Next, head over to the famous flower and farmers' market. Here, you can grab plenty of treats, sweet or savory pastries, and pancakes. Be sure to try Socca, a thin chickpea pancake originally from Nice. You can wander around the beautiful flower stalls, which are bursting with color. The market is only open in the morning.
The historic center is dominated by this beautiful Baroque cathedral. Entry is free.
The historic center of Nice is famous for its pastel-colored houses, narrow streets, and Mediterranean atmosphere.
Then climb to the top, where you'll get the most beautiful view of the city, the harbor, and the French Riviera. There's also an artificial waterfall here. The park is accessible on foot or by a free elevator. The lower elevator station is at the end of the Promenade des Anglais / Quai des États-Unis, across from Castel Plage, near the Bellanda Tower. The entrance is in a tunnel under the staircase.
Head down from the mountain in the opposite direction from which you came, and you'll reach the main port in Nice, where you can admire the beautiful, large yachts anchored there, as well as the nicely restored colorful houses lining the harbor.
Place Masséna is the main square with red-and-white buildings, a fountain, and modern sculptures. You can try one of the many restaurants in or near the square. I recommend, for example, La Café de Nice or La Taverne Masséna. In Nice, apart from fresh seafood or meat, it's worth trying the Salade niçoise, consisting of fresh vegetables, olives, eggs, and fish. It's basically a fresh, light salad.
Today, you'll head by train for a full-day trip to Monaco—the second smallest country in the world, a symbol of luxury, elegance, and rich history. During your visit to Monte Carlo, you'll see the famous hairpin turn of the legendary Formula 1 circuit, which winds directly through the city streets. One of the most famous races in the world is held here every year, turning narrow alleys and coastal roads into a unique racetrack. Another unforgettable spot is the iconic Casino de Monte-Carlo, one of the most well-known luxury casinos in Europe. It opened in the 19th century and played a major role in the development and survival of Monaco's economy. Interestingly, residents of Monaco are legally prohibited from gambling in this casino. Monaco is also a land with a fascinating history—the Grimaldi princely family has ruled here continuously since 1297 and remains a symbol of this small but world-famous country today.
You can easily get to Monaco by train from Nice. Trains run frequently and the journey takes about 25 minutes. It's a good idea to buy tickets online in advance, especially during the peak season when trains can get crowded. The station to get off at is Monaco Monte Carlo.
You can take a train to Monte Carlo, which is the most famous district of Monaco. Monaco is very hilly, so you won't be able to avoid climbing and stairs. At the same time, the train station is at the top, so it pays off to explore the country from top to bottom.
From the train station, walk to Monaco-Ville, the old town of Monaco. This is where you'll find the Prince's Palace, the official residence of the Prince. Every day before noon, you can watch the traditional changing of the guard, a highlight for many visitors. From the palace, you'll also get a stunning view of all of Monaco, the harbor full of luxury yachts, and the surrounding coastline.
Monaco's main cathedral is a beautiful Romanesque building that's free to enter. A fun fact is that the cathedral was the burial site of Grace Kelly, an American actress who became the Princess of Monaco (after marrying the Prince of Monaco) and tragically died in a car accident.
The Oceanographic Museum is one of the most famous spots in Monaco, featuring huge aquariums and a museum of ocean science. You'll see sharks, rays, and all sorts of other fish. An interesting fact is that the museum was founded by Prince Albert I of Monaco himself, who was an oceanographer, so you'll also learn a lot of cool facts about his expeditions, research, and oceanography in general.
The Monaco Grand Prix is one of the most prestigious Formula 1 races in the world. The entire route runs directly through the streets of Monte Carlo and Monaco, and the track is extremely narrow and complex. It even passes by the Monte Carlo Casino.
The Fairmont Hairpin is the most famous turn on the entire course. Interestingly, it is also the slowest corner on any F1 track. You can stop here for a moment to watch the luxury cars of the most prestigious brands, which are in abundance in Monaco, drive by.
Continue on to the Japanese Zen gardens, where you can take a break from the city bustle and recharge your batteries during the day. There are plenty of peaceful green corners, pagodas, and ponds here.
Follow the coast to reach Monaco's only public beach, which is free to access and features full facilities, including restrooms and showers. The beach is man-made, clean, and protected by breakwaters; the sand is regularly replenished and refreshed to keep it in perfect condition.
After relaxing on the beach, head to the iconic 19th-century casino, which is one of the most famous casinos in the world. The area around the casino itself will enchant you with its atmosphere of luxury—you'll find elegant boutiques, a beautiful fountain, and a range of expensive and super sports cars. It's definitely worth paying for a tour of the casino, where you can see the historic halls and foyer—plus, the price includes credit for the slot machines, so you can play and maybe even hit the jackpot! Entry is only possible with a passport/ID card, and a smart casual dress code is enforced—shorts, flip-flops, or sweatpants are not suitable.
In the evening, head back to Nice, where you'll stay overnight. The last train leaves before 10 PM - always check the timetable well in advance and buy your tickets ahead of time on the same site where you bought your tickets from Nice to Monaco.
Today you just head to the airport and fly home
Take the tram to the airport. If you bought more expensive tickets when traveling from the airport at the start of your trip, they are valid for the return journey too.
Don't forget to be at the airport at least 2 hours in advance so you can catch your flight without stress. Have a pleasant flight!
I hope you enjoyed this short trip along the French Riviera and the second smallest country in the world, and that you're heading home full of experiences and maybe even some casino winnings!
Turquoise sea, palm-lined coastal promenades, Mediterranean climate, and cities full of both history and luxury – welcome to the Côte d'Azur. This region in southeastern France, also known as the French Riviera, attracts millions of visitors from all over the world every year. It offers a unique blend of picturesque beaches, historic alleys, excellent gastronomy, and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. On this trip, you will visit elegant Nice, the largest city on the French Riviera, as well as nearby Monaco – the second smallest country in the world and one of the most luxurious places on the planet. Although it has an area of just over 2 km², it is famous for its casinos, yachts, glamour, and the Formula 1 Grand Prix.
Today you arrive in Nice. From the airport, head into the city to your accommodation. If you have any energy left, you can go for a walk around town, or leave the sightseeing for tomorrow.
After arriving at Nice airport, head to the exit for the tram stop, where the L2 tram will take you to the city center in half an hour.
You can buy a tram ticket at the machines near the stops (by card or cash). If you want to save money, you can travel for free (transport within the airport area is free) to the Grand Arénas Sud stop, get off, buy a ticket at the standard fare (not the airport fare like at the terminals, which is more expensive), and continue on the same tram line to the city center.
Nice is a picturesque city on the Mediterranean coast that attracts visitors with its pleasant climate, beautiful architecture, and relaxed atmosphere. With over 300 sunny days a year, you have a great chance of enjoying pleasant weather and sunshine. Moreover, the city is very compact, making it perfect for exploring on foot. While walking, you can easily discover its most beautiful corners – from the famous Promenade des Anglais through the historic center to the colorful streets of the old town.
The famous Promenade des Anglais in Nice stretches for nearly 7 kilometers and is one of the most well-known seaside promenades in Europe. The morning is just perfect for a stroll and grabbing a delicious breakfast at one of the many nearby cafes.
Next, head over to the famous flower and farmers' market. Here, you can grab plenty of treats, sweet or savory pastries, and pancakes. Be sure to try Socca, a thin chickpea pancake originally from Nice. You can wander around the beautiful flower stalls, which are bursting with color. The market is only open in the morning.
The historic center is dominated by this beautiful Baroque cathedral. Entry is free.
The historic center of Nice is famous for its pastel-colored houses, narrow streets, and Mediterranean atmosphere.
Then climb to the top, where you'll get the most beautiful view of the city, the harbor, and the French Riviera. There's also an artificial waterfall here. The park is accessible on foot or by a free elevator. The lower elevator station is at the end of the Promenade des Anglais / Quai des États-Unis, across from Castel Plage, near the Bellanda Tower. The entrance is in a tunnel under the staircase.
Head down from the mountain in the opposite direction from which you came, and you'll reach the main port in Nice, where you can admire the beautiful, large yachts anchored there, as well as the nicely restored colorful houses lining the harbor.
Place Masséna is the main square with red-and-white buildings, a fountain, and modern sculptures. You can try one of the many restaurants in or near the square. I recommend, for example, La Café de Nice or La Taverne Masséna. In Nice, apart from fresh seafood or meat, it's worth trying the Salade niçoise, consisting of fresh vegetables, olives, eggs, and fish. It's basically a fresh, light salad.
Today, you'll head by train for a full-day trip to Monaco—the second smallest country in the world, a symbol of luxury, elegance, and rich history. During your visit to Monte Carlo, you'll see the famous hairpin turn of the legendary Formula 1 circuit, which winds directly through the city streets. One of the most famous races in the world is held here every year, turning narrow alleys and coastal roads into a unique racetrack. Another unforgettable spot is the iconic Casino de Monte-Carlo, one of the most well-known luxury casinos in Europe. It opened in the 19th century and played a major role in the development and survival of Monaco's economy. Interestingly, residents of Monaco are legally prohibited from gambling in this casino. Monaco is also a land with a fascinating history—the Grimaldi princely family has ruled here continuously since 1297 and remains a symbol of this small but world-famous country today.
You can easily get to Monaco by train from Nice. Trains run frequently and the journey takes about 25 minutes. It's a good idea to buy tickets online in advance, especially during the peak season when trains can get crowded. The station to get off at is Monaco Monte Carlo.
You can take a train to Monte Carlo, which is the most famous district of Monaco. Monaco is very hilly, so you won't be able to avoid climbing and stairs. At the same time, the train station is at the top, so it pays off to explore the country from top to bottom.
From the train station, walk to Monaco-Ville, the old town of Monaco. This is where you'll find the Prince's Palace, the official residence of the Prince. Every day before noon, you can watch the traditional changing of the guard, a highlight for many visitors. From the palace, you'll also get a stunning view of all of Monaco, the harbor full of luxury yachts, and the surrounding coastline.
Monaco's main cathedral is a beautiful Romanesque building that's free to enter. A fun fact is that the cathedral was the burial site of Grace Kelly, an American actress who became the Princess of Monaco (after marrying the Prince of Monaco) and tragically died in a car accident.
The Oceanographic Museum is one of the most famous spots in Monaco, featuring huge aquariums and a museum of ocean science. You'll see sharks, rays, and all sorts of other fish. An interesting fact is that the museum was founded by Prince Albert I of Monaco himself, who was an oceanographer, so you'll also learn a lot of cool facts about his expeditions, research, and oceanography in general.
The Monaco Grand Prix is one of the most prestigious Formula 1 races in the world. The entire route runs directly through the streets of Monte Carlo and Monaco, and the track is extremely narrow and complex. It even passes by the Monte Carlo Casino.
The Fairmont Hairpin is the most famous turn on the entire course. Interestingly, it is also the slowest corner on any F1 track. You can stop here for a moment to watch the luxury cars of the most prestigious brands, which are in abundance in Monaco, drive by.
Continue on to the Japanese Zen gardens, where you can take a break from the city bustle and recharge your batteries during the day. There are plenty of peaceful green corners, pagodas, and ponds here.
Follow the coast to reach Monaco's only public beach, which is free to access and features full facilities, including restrooms and showers. The beach is man-made, clean, and protected by breakwaters; the sand is regularly replenished and refreshed to keep it in perfect condition.
After relaxing on the beach, head to the iconic 19th-century casino, which is one of the most famous casinos in the world. The area around the casino itself will enchant you with its atmosphere of luxury—you'll find elegant boutiques, a beautiful fountain, and a range of expensive and super sports cars. It's definitely worth paying for a tour of the casino, where you can see the historic halls and foyer—plus, the price includes credit for the slot machines, so you can play and maybe even hit the jackpot! Entry is only possible with a passport/ID card, and a smart casual dress code is enforced—shorts, flip-flops, or sweatpants are not suitable.
In the evening, head back to Nice, where you'll stay overnight. The last train leaves before 10 PM - always check the timetable well in advance and buy your tickets ahead of time on the same site where you bought your tickets from Nice to Monaco.
Today you just head to the airport and fly home
Take the tram to the airport. If you bought more expensive tickets when traveling from the airport at the start of your trip, they are valid for the return journey too.
Don't forget to be at the airport at least 2 hours in advance so you can catch your flight without stress. Have a pleasant flight!
I hope you enjoyed this short trip along the French Riviera and the second smallest country in the world, and that you're heading home full of experiences and maybe even some casino winnings!
itinerary by Martin Hornak
Turquoise sea, palm-lined coastal promenades, Mediterranean climate, and cities full of both history and luxury – welcome to the Côte d'Azur. This region in southeastern France, also known as the French Riviera, attracts millions of visitors from all over the world every year. It offers a unique blend of picturesque beaches, historic alleys, excellent gastronomy, and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. On this trip, you will visit elegant Nice, the largest city on the French Riviera, as well as nearby Monaco – the second smallest country in the world and one of the most luxurious places on the planet. Although it has an area of just over 2 km², it is famous for its casinos, yachts, glamour, and the Formula 1 Grand Prix.
Today you arrive in Nice. From the airport, head into the city to your accommodation. If you have any energy left, you can go for a walk around town, or leave the sightseeing for tomorrow.
After arriving at Nice airport, head to the exit for the tram stop, where the L2 tram will take you to the city center in half an hour.
You can buy a tram ticket at the machines near the stops (by card or cash). If you want to save money, you can travel for free (transport within the airport area is free) to the Grand Arénas Sud stop, get off, buy a ticket at the standard fare (not the airport fare like at the terminals, which is more expensive), and continue on the same tram line to the city center.
Nice is a picturesque city on the Mediterranean coast that attracts visitors with its pleasant climate, beautiful architecture, and relaxed atmosphere. With over 300 sunny days a year, you have a great chance of enjoying pleasant weather and sunshine. Moreover, the city is very compact, making it perfect for exploring on foot. While walking, you can easily discover its most beautiful corners – from the famous Promenade des Anglais through the historic center to the colorful streets of the old town.
The famous Promenade des Anglais in Nice stretches for nearly 7 kilometers and is one of the most well-known seaside promenades in Europe. The morning is just perfect for a stroll and grabbing a delicious breakfast at one of the many nearby cafes.
Next, head over to the famous flower and farmers' market. Here, you can grab plenty of treats, sweet or savory pastries, and pancakes. Be sure to try Socca, a thin chickpea pancake originally from Nice. You can wander around the beautiful flower stalls, which are bursting with color. The market is only open in the morning.
The historic center is dominated by this beautiful Baroque cathedral. Entry is free.
The historic center of Nice is famous for its pastel-colored houses, narrow streets, and Mediterranean atmosphere.
Then climb to the top, where you'll get the most beautiful view of the city, the harbor, and the French Riviera. There's also an artificial waterfall here. The park is accessible on foot or by a free elevator. The lower elevator station is at the end of the Promenade des Anglais / Quai des États-Unis, across from Castel Plage, near the Bellanda Tower. The entrance is in a tunnel under the staircase.
Head down from the mountain in the opposite direction from which you came, and you'll reach the main port in Nice, where you can admire the beautiful, large yachts anchored there, as well as the nicely restored colorful houses lining the harbor.
Place Masséna is the main square with red-and-white buildings, a fountain, and modern sculptures. You can try one of the many restaurants in or near the square. I recommend, for example, La Café de Nice or La Taverne Masséna. In Nice, apart from fresh seafood or meat, it's worth trying the Salade niçoise, consisting of fresh vegetables, olives, eggs, and fish. It's basically a fresh, light salad.
Today, you'll head by train for a full-day trip to Monaco—the second smallest country in the world, a symbol of luxury, elegance, and rich history. During your visit to Monte Carlo, you'll see the famous hairpin turn of the legendary Formula 1 circuit, which winds directly through the city streets. One of the most famous races in the world is held here every year, turning narrow alleys and coastal roads into a unique racetrack. Another unforgettable spot is the iconic Casino de Monte-Carlo, one of the most well-known luxury casinos in Europe. It opened in the 19th century and played a major role in the development and survival of Monaco's economy. Interestingly, residents of Monaco are legally prohibited from gambling in this casino. Monaco is also a land with a fascinating history—the Grimaldi princely family has ruled here continuously since 1297 and remains a symbol of this small but world-famous country today.
You can easily get to Monaco by train from Nice. Trains run frequently and the journey takes about 25 minutes. It's a good idea to buy tickets online in advance, especially during the peak season when trains can get crowded. The station to get off at is Monaco Monte Carlo.
You can take a train to Monte Carlo, which is the most famous district of Monaco. Monaco is very hilly, so you won't be able to avoid climbing and stairs. At the same time, the train station is at the top, so it pays off to explore the country from top to bottom.
From the train station, walk to Monaco-Ville, the old town of Monaco. This is where you'll find the Prince's Palace, the official residence of the Prince. Every day before noon, you can watch the traditional changing of the guard, a highlight for many visitors. From the palace, you'll also get a stunning view of all of Monaco, the harbor full of luxury yachts, and the surrounding coastline.
Monaco's main cathedral is a beautiful Romanesque building that's free to enter. A fun fact is that the cathedral was the burial site of Grace Kelly, an American actress who became the Princess of Monaco (after marrying the Prince of Monaco) and tragically died in a car accident.
The Oceanographic Museum is one of the most famous spots in Monaco, featuring huge aquariums and a museum of ocean science. You'll see sharks, rays, and all sorts of other fish. An interesting fact is that the museum was founded by Prince Albert I of Monaco himself, who was an oceanographer, so you'll also learn a lot of cool facts about his expeditions, research, and oceanography in general.
The Monaco Grand Prix is one of the most prestigious Formula 1 races in the world. The entire route runs directly through the streets of Monte Carlo and Monaco, and the track is extremely narrow and complex. It even passes by the Monte Carlo Casino.
The Fairmont Hairpin is the most famous turn on the entire course. Interestingly, it is also the slowest corner on any F1 track. You can stop here for a moment to watch the luxury cars of the most prestigious brands, which are in abundance in Monaco, drive by.
Continue on to the Japanese Zen gardens, where you can take a break from the city bustle and recharge your batteries during the day. There are plenty of peaceful green corners, pagodas, and ponds here.
Follow the coast to reach Monaco's only public beach, which is free to access and features full facilities, including restrooms and showers. The beach is man-made, clean, and protected by breakwaters; the sand is regularly replenished and refreshed to keep it in perfect condition.
After relaxing on the beach, head to the iconic 19th-century casino, which is one of the most famous casinos in the world. The area around the casino itself will enchant you with its atmosphere of luxury—you'll find elegant boutiques, a beautiful fountain, and a range of expensive and super sports cars. It's definitely worth paying for a tour of the casino, where you can see the historic halls and foyer—plus, the price includes credit for the slot machines, so you can play and maybe even hit the jackpot! Entry is only possible with a passport/ID card, and a smart casual dress code is enforced—shorts, flip-flops, or sweatpants are not suitable.
In the evening, head back to Nice, where you'll stay overnight. The last train leaves before 10 PM - always check the timetable well in advance and buy your tickets ahead of time on the same site where you bought your tickets from Nice to Monaco.
Today you just head to the airport and fly home
Take the tram to the airport. If you bought more expensive tickets when traveling from the airport at the start of your trip, they are valid for the return journey too.
Don't forget to be at the airport at least 2 hours in advance so you can catch your flight without stress. Have a pleasant flight!
I hope you enjoyed this short trip along the French Riviera and the second smallest country in the world, and that you're heading home full of experiences and maybe even some casino winnings!
Turquoise sea, palm-lined coastal promenades, Mediterranean climate, and cities full of both history and luxury – welcome to the Côte d'Azur. This region in southeastern France, also known as the French Riviera, attracts millions of visitors from all over the world every year. It offers a unique blend of picturesque beaches, historic alleys, excellent gastronomy, and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. On this trip, you will visit elegant Nice, the largest city on the French Riviera, as well as nearby Monaco – the second smallest country in the world and one of the most luxurious places on the planet. Although it has an area of just over 2 km², it is famous for its casinos, yachts, glamour, and the Formula 1 Grand Prix.
Today you arrive in Nice. From the airport, head into the city to your accommodation. If you have any energy left, you can go for a walk around town, or leave the sightseeing for tomorrow.
After arriving at Nice airport, head to the exit for the tram stop, where the L2 tram will take you to the city center in half an hour.
You can buy a tram ticket at the machines near the stops (by card or cash). If you want to save money, you can travel for free (transport within the airport area is free) to the Grand Arénas Sud stop, get off, buy a ticket at the standard fare (not the airport fare like at the terminals, which is more expensive), and continue on the same tram line to the city center.
Nice is a picturesque city on the Mediterranean coast that attracts visitors with its pleasant climate, beautiful architecture, and relaxed atmosphere. With over 300 sunny days a year, you have a great chance of enjoying pleasant weather and sunshine. Moreover, the city is very compact, making it perfect for exploring on foot. While walking, you can easily discover its most beautiful corners – from the famous Promenade des Anglais through the historic center to the colorful streets of the old town.
The famous Promenade des Anglais in Nice stretches for nearly 7 kilometers and is one of the most well-known seaside promenades in Europe. The morning is just perfect for a stroll and grabbing a delicious breakfast at one of the many nearby cafes.
Next, head over to the famous flower and farmers' market. Here, you can grab plenty of treats, sweet or savory pastries, and pancakes. Be sure to try Socca, a thin chickpea pancake originally from Nice. You can wander around the beautiful flower stalls, which are bursting with color. The market is only open in the morning.
The historic center is dominated by this beautiful Baroque cathedral. Entry is free.
The historic center of Nice is famous for its pastel-colored houses, narrow streets, and Mediterranean atmosphere.
Then climb to the top, where you'll get the most beautiful view of the city, the harbor, and the French Riviera. There's also an artificial waterfall here. The park is accessible on foot or by a free elevator. The lower elevator station is at the end of the Promenade des Anglais / Quai des États-Unis, across from Castel Plage, near the Bellanda Tower. The entrance is in a tunnel under the staircase.
Head down from the mountain in the opposite direction from which you came, and you'll reach the main port in Nice, where you can admire the beautiful, large yachts anchored there, as well as the nicely restored colorful houses lining the harbor.
Place Masséna is the main square with red-and-white buildings, a fountain, and modern sculptures. You can try one of the many restaurants in or near the square. I recommend, for example, La Café de Nice or La Taverne Masséna. In Nice, apart from fresh seafood or meat, it's worth trying the Salade niçoise, consisting of fresh vegetables, olives, eggs, and fish. It's basically a fresh, light salad.
Today, you'll head by train for a full-day trip to Monaco—the second smallest country in the world, a symbol of luxury, elegance, and rich history. During your visit to Monte Carlo, you'll see the famous hairpin turn of the legendary Formula 1 circuit, which winds directly through the city streets. One of the most famous races in the world is held here every year, turning narrow alleys and coastal roads into a unique racetrack. Another unforgettable spot is the iconic Casino de Monte-Carlo, one of the most well-known luxury casinos in Europe. It opened in the 19th century and played a major role in the development and survival of Monaco's economy. Interestingly, residents of Monaco are legally prohibited from gambling in this casino. Monaco is also a land with a fascinating history—the Grimaldi princely family has ruled here continuously since 1297 and remains a symbol of this small but world-famous country today.
You can easily get to Monaco by train from Nice. Trains run frequently and the journey takes about 25 minutes. It's a good idea to buy tickets online in advance, especially during the peak season when trains can get crowded. The station to get off at is Monaco Monte Carlo.
You can take a train to Monte Carlo, which is the most famous district of Monaco. Monaco is very hilly, so you won't be able to avoid climbing and stairs. At the same time, the train station is at the top, so it pays off to explore the country from top to bottom.
From the train station, walk to Monaco-Ville, the old town of Monaco. This is where you'll find the Prince's Palace, the official residence of the Prince. Every day before noon, you can watch the traditional changing of the guard, a highlight for many visitors. From the palace, you'll also get a stunning view of all of Monaco, the harbor full of luxury yachts, and the surrounding coastline.
Monaco's main cathedral is a beautiful Romanesque building that's free to enter. A fun fact is that the cathedral was the burial site of Grace Kelly, an American actress who became the Princess of Monaco (after marrying the Prince of Monaco) and tragically died in a car accident.
The Oceanographic Museum is one of the most famous spots in Monaco, featuring huge aquariums and a museum of ocean science. You'll see sharks, rays, and all sorts of other fish. An interesting fact is that the museum was founded by Prince Albert I of Monaco himself, who was an oceanographer, so you'll also learn a lot of cool facts about his expeditions, research, and oceanography in general.
The Monaco Grand Prix is one of the most prestigious Formula 1 races in the world. The entire route runs directly through the streets of Monte Carlo and Monaco, and the track is extremely narrow and complex. It even passes by the Monte Carlo Casino.
The Fairmont Hairpin is the most famous turn on the entire course. Interestingly, it is also the slowest corner on any F1 track. You can stop here for a moment to watch the luxury cars of the most prestigious brands, which are in abundance in Monaco, drive by.
Continue on to the Japanese Zen gardens, where you can take a break from the city bustle and recharge your batteries during the day. There are plenty of peaceful green corners, pagodas, and ponds here.
Follow the coast to reach Monaco's only public beach, which is free to access and features full facilities, including restrooms and showers. The beach is man-made, clean, and protected by breakwaters; the sand is regularly replenished and refreshed to keep it in perfect condition.
After relaxing on the beach, head to the iconic 19th-century casino, which is one of the most famous casinos in the world. The area around the casino itself will enchant you with its atmosphere of luxury—you'll find elegant boutiques, a beautiful fountain, and a range of expensive and super sports cars. It's definitely worth paying for a tour of the casino, where you can see the historic halls and foyer—plus, the price includes credit for the slot machines, so you can play and maybe even hit the jackpot! Entry is only possible with a passport/ID card, and a smart casual dress code is enforced—shorts, flip-flops, or sweatpants are not suitable.
In the evening, head back to Nice, where you'll stay overnight. The last train leaves before 10 PM - always check the timetable well in advance and buy your tickets ahead of time on the same site where you bought your tickets from Nice to Monaco.
Today you just head to the airport and fly home
Take the tram to the airport. If you bought more expensive tickets when traveling from the airport at the start of your trip, they are valid for the return journey too.
Don't forget to be at the airport at least 2 hours in advance so you can catch your flight without stress. Have a pleasant flight!
I hope you enjoyed this short trip along the French Riviera and the second smallest country in the world, and that you're heading home full of experiences and maybe even some casino winnings!
