Yes, Monaco is absolutely worth a day trip from Nice. Whether you’re drawn to luxury, royal history, iconic architecture, or breathtaking Mediterranean views, this glamorous principality delivers a remarkable experience in just one day. And at just 30 minutes from Nice, it’s one of the easiest and most satisfying cross-border day trips in Europe. The best part? You get to soak in the essence of Monaco without paying its famously high accommodation prices.
That said, how you organise your visit makes all the difference. With smart planning—and especially by booking a chauffeur from Nice to Monaco—you can unlock far more than just a few quick stops. Here’s how to make your Monaco day trip truly unforgettable.
Monaco is tiny, just over 2 km² in area, yet packed with iconic sights and upscale ambiance. A single day allows you to walk its main neighbourhoods, take in historic landmarks, visit cultural sites, and enjoy the coastal scenery, all at a relaxed pace. Visitors often come to Monaco expecting luxury—and they won’t be disappointed—but they’re also surprised by how accessible and walkable the city-state is.
What You Can See in One Day
A typical day begins at Port Hercule, where you’ll be greeted by superyachts and palm-lined promenades. From there, it’s a short uphill walk or ride to Monaco-Ville, the old town perched on “Le Rocher.” This area is home to:
- The Prince’s Palace, official residence of the Grimaldi family (palais.mc)
- The Monaco Cathedral, where Princess Grace and Prince Rainier are buried
- Charming, colourful alleyways filled with cafés and local shops
- The Changing of the Guard ceremony at 11:55 AM in front of the palace
As you descend from the Rock, stroll through the Jardins Saint-Martin, with statues of historic figures and scenic coastal paths. Just beyond lies the Oceanographic Museum, a majestic structure embedded in the cliffs, offering both marine science exhibits and panoramic views (oceano.mc).
For lunch, choose between street food at La Condamine Market or a scenic terrace by the harbour. Either way, Monaco offers premium settings for a memorable meal.
Afternoon in Monte Carlo
The afternoon is your chance to discover Monaco’s legendary side. In Monte Carlo, don’t miss:
- The Casino de Monte-Carlo, a world-famous Belle Époque building
- The Princess Grace Japanese Garden, a peaceful retreat
- Key sections of the Formula One Grand Prix circuit, including:
- The Fairmont Hairpin
- The Larvotto Tunnel
- The Start/Finish line near the port
If time allows, car enthusiasts should stop at the Prince’s Car Collection, showcasing vintage sports cars, Formula 1 legends, and royal limousines.
Getting There: Train vs Chauffeur
Most tourists take the train, which departs every 20–30 minutes and takes about 22 minutes from Nice-Ville station. While budget-friendly, trains can be crowded, and Monaco’s steep terrain means uphill walks from the station.
A private chauffeur service offers a far smoother experience:
- Door-to-door pick-up and drop-off
- No waiting or walking uphill
- Option to add scenic stops like Èze, Cap d’Ail, or Villefranche-sur-Mer
- Luxurious ride with a local, bilingual driver
Should You Stay Overnight?
Monaco is magical at night—but pricey. Staying longer gives you time to:
- Experience rooftop dining or cocktails
- Attend live music or cultural performances
- Explore the city without the daytime crowds
However, with luxury hotels averaging over €300/night, most travellers return to Nice after sunset, especially with a chauffeured return booked.
Final Verdict: Is Monaco Worth the Trip?
Absolutely. In just one day, you can:
- Visit another country
- See the Prince’s Palace and Monte Carlo Casino
- Explore coastal views and royal gardens
- Walk part of the world’s most famous race circuit
And you’ll do it all with elegance, ease, and style—especially if you book with Luxotica.
Whether it’s your first time on the Riviera or your fifth, a Monaco day trip will always feel extraordinary. Let us handle the journey—so you can focus on the experience.