From its stunning coastline to its luxurious casinos and museums, Monaco is a playground for the rich and famous. But the Principality isn’t just about yachts, high-end shopping, and Formula 1 races; it also boasts some of the most picturesque and historic sites in Europe. Whether you’re planning a day trip from nearby Nice or staying in Monaco, there’s no shortage of incredible sights and adventures to discover. In this post, we’ll explore the three best day trips in Monaco – each one offering something unique, from historic fortresses and lavish villas to stunning beaches and breathtaking gardens. So pack your sunscreen, grab your camera, and let’s hit the road!

The 3 Best Day Trips in Monaco

1. Ville Franche: Private 5-Hour Sightseeing Tour
2. From Nice: Italian Riviera & Monaco/ Monte-Carlo Tour
3. French Riviera Private 8-Hour Tour from Monaco

The 3 Best Day Trips in Monaco

1. Ville Franche: Private 5-Hour Sightseeing Tour

If you’re looking for a private adventure in Monaco, this 5-hour sightseeing tour in Ville Franche is a must-try! Your driver/guide will pick you up from the port of Ville Franche, and you’ll hop aboard a luxurious air-conditioned van seating between 2 to 16 people. Then, you’ll head off to Monaco and explore its Old City with the opportunity to visit the palace (open from June to October), explore the cathedral and witness the changing of the palace guards (around 11:50AM), and enjoy some of the luxurious boutiques and cafes. You’ll even get to drive on the Formula 1 circuit between Monaco and Monte Carlo.

Next, head to the medieval village of Eze and discover the Fragonard Perfumery, where you can uncover a world of senses and flowers. You can also explore the unforgettable village of Eze with its shops carved from the rock. On your way back to the port, you’ll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views over Nice and the bays of Villefranche-sur-Mer and Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. This tour includes pickup and drop-off from the port, a multilingual guide, and bottled water. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, bring your camera, and understand that we require a minimum number of participants to guarantee the tour, and that in case of logistical difficulties or sickness of staff, we may need to reschedule or cancel the tour.

2. From Nice: Italian Riviera & Monaco/ Monte-Carlo Tour

Discover the charm of the Italian Riviera and explore the breathtaking beauty of Monaco/Monte-Carlo. Start your day in the picturesque Italian Riviera where you can enjoy open-air and covered markets filled with leather goods, handbags, and other delightful items. Then, make your way to Menton “the pearl of France,” a city full of vibrant colors that are sure to charm you.

Next, head over to Monaco’s old town and admire the Prince’s Palace and the cathedral on the famous Rock. The Magnificent Exotic Garden with a breathtaking view of the Mediterranean Sea is a must-visit. Finally, take a drive along the Formula I race circuit and reach Monte Carlo with its famous casino and world-known Hotel de Paris.

This shared or private tour, depending on the option you choose, includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation by an air-conditioned vehicle, a professional guide, admission fees, and food and drinks. Don’t forget to bring your passport and prepare for an unforgettable day trip.

3. French Riviera Private 8-Hour Tour from Monaco

Experience the beauty and luxury of the French Riviera on this private 8-hour tour from Monaco. Start your journey by exploring the medieval village of Eze, with a visit to the Fragonard factory to discover the secrets of perfume. Drive through the village of La Turbie to enjoy the panoramic view of the Principality of Monaco, and along the world-famous Formula 1 Grand Prix circuit to reach the famous Casino Square of Monte Carlo. Then, journey through the medieval village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence and the city of Antibes, where Picasso used to live. Finally, arrive in Cannes, where you can admire the beautiful bay, lovely beaches, and famous buildings, including the Carlton, the Majestic Barriere, and the Palais de Festivals and Congresses. This tour includes transportation by air-conditioned Sedan, soft drinks, pick-up and drop-off, and entrance fees for museums and monuments.

Monaco is a gem on the French Riviera with sparkling waterfronts, luxurious casinos, and opulent events. As one of the wealthiest cities in Europe, it is also one of the most desirable destinations for tourists. For many visitors, Monaco is a dream destination, and with so much to see and do, travelers frequently have questions about what to expect on their visit. In this blog post, we will answer the most frequently asked questions about Monaco and offer helpful tips to make your trip a success.

1. What is the best time to visit Monaco?

Monaco is known for its Mediterranean climate, with long, hot summers and mild winters. The best time to visit Monaco is between May and September when the weather is warm and sunny. The peak tourist season in Monaco runs from June to August, so if you want to avoid the crowds, visit during the shoulder season in May, September, or October when the weather is still pleasant and prices are lower.

2. Do I need a visa to visit Monaco?

Monaco is not a part of the Schengen Area, but it has an open border with France. If you are a citizen of one of the 62 visa-exempt countries, you can enter Monaco without a visa for up to 90 days. However, if you are not a citizen of one of these countries, you may need a Schengen visa to enter Monaco.

3. How do I get to Monaco?

Monaco does not have an airport, so the best way to get there is by flying to Nice Côte d’Azur Airport in France and then taking a taxi, bus, or train to Monaco. The trip from the airport to Monaco takes approximately 30 minutes by car, 45 minutes by bus, and 20 minutes by train.

4. Where should I stay in Monaco?

Monaco is a small city-state, and most of its attractions are within walking distance. Therefore, the best place to stay in Monaco is near the center of the city, where you can easily walk to the major sites. The top areas to stay are Monte Carlo, where you will find the famous casinos and luxury hotels, or the old town of Monaco-Ville, with its narrow alleys and historic architecture.

5. What are the must-visit attractions in Monaco?

Monaco is full of iconic landmarks, including the Prince’s Palace, the Monaco Cathedral, the Oceanographic Museum, and the Monte Carlo Casino. These attractions offer breathtaking views, rich history, and an insight into the opulent lifestyle of the rich and famous.

6. What should I wear in Monaco?

Monaco is an elegant and stylish city, and it is expected that visitors dress up for certain occasions, such as going to the casino or attending a formal event. However, during the day, you can dress more casually. Comfortable shoes are a must for walking on the hilly cobblestone streets, and in the summer months, lighter clothing is advisable.

7. How much should I budget for my trip to Monaco?

Monaco is known for being an expensive destination, but there are ways to enjoy the city without breaking the bank. Accommodation prices can vary widely depending on the time of year and location, but on average, a hotel room in central Monaco costs between €150 and €400 per night. Food and drinks can be costly, but there are many affordable restaurants and cafes to choose from. A daily budget of €100 to €200 per person should cover basic expenses.

8. Is Monaco safe for tourists?

Monaco is generally a very safe destination for tourists. The city has a low crime rate and a strong police presence. However, petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur in crowded tourist areas, so it is always advisable to be vigilant and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Conclusion

Monaco is a destination that offers a unique blend of glamour, luxury, and history. By answering these frequently asked questions, we hope we have provided you with a helpful guide for planning your trip to Monaco. From the best time to visit to the must-see attractions, you now have all the information you need to experience this beautiful city-state like a pro. Enjoy your trip!

The 3 Best Day Trips in Monaco: Answering the Most Frequently Asked Questions

Monaco is a tiny principality located in the French Riviera with stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. With a population of just over 39,000 people, the country attracts millions of tourists each year. Monaco is known for its luxurious lifestyle, casinos, and scenic beauty. However, the principality has much more to offer than what meets the eye. In this post, we will be answering the most frequently asked questions about the best day trips in Monaco.

1. What are the three best day trips to take when visiting Monaco?

1.1 The village of Èze

Located just a few kilometers from Monaco, the medieval village of Èze is a beautiful gem worth visiting. Perched at the top of a hill, the village offers its visitors beautiful views of the sparkling Mediterranean sea. Èze is also known for its cobbled streets, historic buildings, and lush gardens. The oldest building in the village is the Church of the Cross, built in the 14th century. After admiring the historic buildings, you can take a stroll through the exotic gardens and explore the works of artisans in the traditional shops.

1.2 Antibes

Antibes, situated 31 km from Monaco, offers a great day trip for tourists. It is an ancient town known for its old architecture and charming streets. One must-visit place is the Picasso Museum with its wonderful collection of Picasso’s works. Other attractions include the chic yachts of billionaires moored in the harbor and the stunning beaches. Take a walk along the Ramparts of Antibes and enjoy panoramic views across the sea.

1.3 Saint-Tropez

Saint-Tropez is situated around 110 km from Monaco, but it is a must-visit destination for those looking for a glamorous day trip. The picturesque town is famous for its glitzy beaches, extravagant yachts, and high-end designer boutiques. If you happen to be in Saint-Tropez on a Tuesday or Saturday, you can visit the lively Provencal market in Place des Lices, where local traders sell handicrafts, fresh flowers, and delicious food.

2. How can I reach these destinations from Monaco?

2.1. By Car

One of the best ways to reach these places is by renting a car. Car rental services are readily available in Monaco. It would take around 20 minutes to reach Èze by car, 40 minutes to reach Antibes, and around two hours to reach Saint-Tropez.

2.2. By Train

Train services are also available, and they are considered cost-effective. The Monaco train station is situated in the heart of the country, and it is easy to reach. To reach Èze, take a TER train and get off at Èze-sur-Mer. It is a ten-minute walk to Èze village. To reach Antibes or Saint-Tropez, take the train from the Monaco Monte-Carlo train station to Cannes and then take a connecting train to either Antibes or Saint-Tropez.

2.3. By Bus

Bus services are also available in Monaco, and they are reasonably-priced. The bus schedules are convenient, and the busses have air conditioning. To reach Èze, take bus number 112 from Monaco. To reach Antibes, take bus number 200, and to reach Saint-Tropez, take bus number 722.

3. What is the best time to take a day trip to these destinations?

3.1. Spring (March – May)

Spring is a great time to visit these places as the weather is mild, and there are fewer crowds. The prices of hotels, restaurants, and other services are also relatively low during this period.

3.2. Summer (June – August)

Summer months are peak tourist season, and the destinations are bustling with tourists. However, the warm weather and events such as music festivals, open-air concerts, and fireworks displays make the ambiance lively and exciting.

3.3. Fall (September – November)

Fall is also an excellent time to visit these places as the weather is mild, and the prices of hotels and other services are relatively low. The fall foliage adds an extra charm to the surroundings, and the scenery is breathtaking.

4. What is the approximate cost of the day trip?

4.1. Èze

The cost of visiting Èze is relatively low. Entrance to the exotic gardens is €6, while the church is free to enter. The prices of restaurants and cafés are also reasonably priced.

4.2. Antibes

The cost of visiting Antibes varies depending on how you wish to explore the town. The Picasso Museum entrance fee is €6, and the prices of restaurants and cafés are relatively high.

4.3. Saint-Tropez

The cost of visiting Saint-Tropez is relatively high due to the glamourous lifestyle that it represents. The prices of restaurants, food, and hotels are quite expensive.

5. How long does it take to explore each destination?

5.1. Èze

It would take around two hours to explore Èze fully.

5.2. Antibes

It would take around four to five hours to explore Antibes fully.

5.3. Saint-Tropez

To explore Saint-Tropez fully, you would need more than a day. It would take around two days to explore Saint-Tropez entirely.

Conclusion

Monaco is much more than its lavish lifestyle, casinos, and scenic beauty. These three-day trips enable tourists to explore the neighboring regions of Monaco, each providing a unique experience of its own. Whether you are looking for a quiet, serene getaway or a vibrant, glitz, and glamourous day, these destinations have something for everyone. We hope you found this guide informative and helpful. Always remember to plan your day trips well in advance to avoid any disappointments or inconvenience.