It is the excursion every Nice visitor makes — and for good reason. In 22 minutes by TER from Nice-Ville station and for just €3.90 per journey (trains every 15–20 minutes), you cross from France into Monaco and enter the world's second smallest state. A striking contrast with Niçois life, and an incomparable density of experiences in just 2 km².
The Ideal Monaco Day Programme
9am — Arrival and Climb to the Rock
From Monaco-Monte-Carlo station, take the free public lift directly up to Monaco Rock — the medieval upper town where heritage and history concentrate. Begin at Saint-Nicolas Cathedral where Grace Kelly and Prince Rainier III rest — a moving place of contemplation, freely accessible. Then visit the Prince's Palace: the changing of the guard takes place at 11:55am precisely every morning (free spectacle, very popular — arrive 20 minutes early).
11am — Oceanographic Museum
Founded by Prince Albert I in 1910 and built on the cliff dominating the sea at 85 metres height, the Oceanographic Museum is one of Europe's finest aquariums. Allow at least 1.5 hours. Price: €19.
1pm — Lunch on the Rock or Condamine
Descend to the Condamine Market (covered, Place d'Armes) for a sandwich or Monegasque specialities at low prices.
2:30pm — Casino Square and Monte-Carlo
Casino Square is Monaco's most iconic image — the Monte-Carlo Casino (1863, Belle Époque facade by Charles Garnier), the Hôtel de Paris, the Rolls-Royces and Ferraris parked outside. Access to the casino's main hall is free — gaming rooms require an entrance fee (€17, open from 2pm, passport required for non-Europeans).
4pm — Port Hercule and F1
Descend to Port Hercule — the Mediterranean's only deep-water port, with its 50 to 180-metre mega-yachts. Follow the Formula 1 Circuit signs — you are literally walking on the Grand Prix track. The tunnel, the Rascasse corner, the port chicane — mythical locations accessible on foot, for free.
5:30pm — Return to Nice
Direct train from Monaco-Monte-Carlo, 22 minutes. Very frequent departures until midnight. Full day for around €50 (transport + museum + light meal).
