While in Nice we decided to take a day trip to Monaco, a city-state located on the French Riviera. It’s the world’s second-smallest country (after Vatican City), with a population of around 36,000 and a land area of just 2.02 km². It’s not part of the EU, but it uses the Euro. Click here for some great hotels in Monaco.
The Views
For some great views of Monaco, head up to Prince’s Palace of Monaco.
Above you can see Port Hercules, Monaco’s only deep-water port. The port has been used since ancient times, but underwent substantial improvements in the 1970s, and can now accommodate around 700 vessels.
Surrounding the port you can see almost the entire city. Real estate here is among the most expensive in the world.
Above is a video of the port and surrounding area.
On the opposite site of Prince’s Palace of Monaco is the neighborhood of Fontvieille.
There is also a port in Fontvieille, but it’s much smaller than Port Hercules.
Above is a video of the Fontvieille area of the city.
Prince’s Palace of Monaco
The Prince’s Palace of Monaco is the official residence of the Prince of Monaco.
As well as being the official residence of the Prince of Monaco, this fortress overlooking the port is also home to numerous souvenir shops, cafes and restaurants. It’s one of the most popular places that tourists visit in Monaco.
Monaco Grand Prix
Monaco is perhaps best known for the annual Formula One Grand Prix. This has take place there since 1929. This year’s Grand Prix was 21-24 May, and when we visited there were still many signs of the race around town, including the Pirelli sign above.
You’ll see lots of Grand Prix related things around the city, such as the circuit map shown above.
Port Hercules
As well as the Grand Prix, Monaco is also know for its yachts. Just head to Port Hercules and you’ll see some of the most expensive yachts in the world.
On the hill behind the port you can see Prince’s Palace of Monaco.
Architecture
Wander around the streets and you’ll come across some beautiful houses.
Sainte-Devote Chapel
The first corner of the Monaco Grand Prix is named after this chapel.
How To Get To Monaco By Train From Nice
Getting from Nice to Monaco by train only takes around 20 minutes. See Nice To Monaco By Train for more details.
Where To Stay In Monaco/Nice
Most visitors to Monaco stay in Nice, as it’s much more affordable. This is also what where we stayed. For our first few nights we stayed at Hotel Star, which is a located in the city center and only around 800 meters from the train station. The room was newly renovated and we had nice views from both the bedroom and bathroom windows. For our final two nights we stayed at Ibis Nice Centre Gare near the train station. For other great hotels in Nice, check out Agoda Nice. For great hotels in Monaco, check out Agoda Monaco.
