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Nice to Monaco: Best ways to travel
Nice to Monaco train, bus, or boat? Explore all transport options with updated prices, travel times, and tips for a seamless journey.
Travelling from Nice to Monaco is one of the most scenic short trips on the French Riviera. Whether you’re landing at Nice Airport, heading straight to the train station, or considering a helicopter transfer, this guide compares the best ways to get from Nice to Monaco quickly, affordably, or in style.
You’ll also find up-to-date information on prices, travel times, and what to expect at each step.
We’ll also share essential tips for staying connected on the move with a Holafly eSIM for Monaco, so you can navigate, book, and explore without roaming fees.
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How far is Nice to Monaco?
Nice and Monaco are just 21 km (13 miles) apart along the French Riviera. The journey typically takes 20 to 40 minutes, depending on your mode of transport.
This makes travelling from Nice to Monaco one of the best day trip options. In fact, many visitors base themselves in Nice and take the trip specifically to watch the F1 Monaco Grand Prix during the Grand Prix weekend.
Can you walk from Nice to Monaco?
Yes, technically, you can walk from Nice to Monaco, and it would take around 5 to 6 hours to reach the principality on foot. However, it’s not recommended.
The route includes steep sections, narrow coastal roads, and steady traffic, making it tiring and potentially unsafe to walk. You might want to choose public transportation or a taxi instead for a quicker and more comfortable journey.
How to get from Nice to Monaco
Getting from Nice to Monaco is quick and straightforward, with options to match every budget and travel style. Here is a quick look at all the transport options:
- Train: Around 20–25 minutes. Fastest and most convenient for most travellers.
- Car or taxi: 30–40 minutes, depending on traffic. Flexible and direct.
- Bus: 40–50 minutes. The cheapest option with scenic coastal views.
- Helicopter: About 7 minutes. The fastest and most luxurious way to arrive.
- Boat or ferry: Seasonal and weather-dependent, but highly scenic.
- Car rental: Ideal if you plan to explore beyond Monaco.
Whether you’re looking for the cheapest route, the fastest transfer, or the most scenic arrival, there’s a clear option for every type of traveller.
Nice to Monaco by train
The Nice to Monaco train is the most common and practical way to travel between the two cities. It’s fast, affordable, and runs throughout the day, making it ideal for day trips and Grand Prix weekends.
- How long is the train from Nice to Monaco? Around 20 to 25 minutes.
- Ticket Price: Train tickets from Nice to Monaco typically cost around €5 to €7 one way, depending on the train service you choose.
- Frequency: Trains from Nice to Monaco usually run every 15 to 30 minutes.
Trains depart mainly from Nice-Ville (central station) and Nice-Riquier, arriving at Monaco–Monte Carlo station, which is centrally located and within walking distance of Port Hercules and Casino Square.
For most travellers, getting from Nice to Monaco by train offers the best balance of speed, price, and convenience.
Nice Airport to Monaco
Travelling from Nice Airport to Monaco is straightforward, with several transfer options depending on your budget, arrival time, and luggage.
You can travel from Nice Airport to Monaco by train:
- How to get to the train station from Nice Airport: There’s no direct train from the airport. First, take Tram Line 2 from the airport to Nice-Ville station, then board a regional TER train to Monaco–Monte Carlo.
- Total travel time: About 45 to 60 minutes
- Best for: Budget travelers and light luggage
This is the most reliable and cheap way to visit Monaco from Nice during peak traffic.
You can also take a Taxi (or Uber) from Nice Airport to Monaco:
- How to take a Taxi from Nice Airport to Monaco: You can ask for an official taxi directly from the airport taxi rank or request a ride through Uber via the app.
- Travel time: 30 to 40 minutes
- Nice Airport to Monaco taxi price: Typically €80 to €120, depending on traffic and time of day
This is a comfortable option after a long flight, especially if you’re carrying luggage.
For a more budget-friendly trip, you can also take an Express bus from Nice Airport to Monaco:
- An express bus from Nice Airport to Monaco runs directly and is more comfortable than local buses.
- Travel time: Around 45 to 60 minutes
- Price: Usually €20 to €25
It’s a good mid-range option with luggage space and fewer stops.
Nice to Monaco by bus
The standard regional bus between Nice and Monaco is Line 600 (Nice–Monaco–Menton) operated by the Zou! regional network. It’s usually the cheapest way to travel between the two cities. It takes longer than the train but offers scenic coastal views along the way.
Buses run from Nice Airport as well as central stops near Nice Port (Port Lympia) and key city hubs.
- Bus name: Zou! Line 600 Nice–Monaco–Menton
- Travel time: 45–60 minutes
- Price: Around €2.50 for a one‑way ticket
- Best for: Budget travelers who are not in a rush
Nice to Monaco by bus is a slower but affordable and surprisingly scenic option to consider.
Nice to Monaco by helicopter
A helicopter from Nice to Monaco is the fastest way to travel between the two cities, taking only 6 to 7 minutes. The flight offers panoramic views of the Riviera coastline and is considered one of the most iconic things to do in Monaco, especially for first-time visitors.
- Flight time: Around 7 minutes
- Price: Typically €150 to €300 per person one way, depending on season and availability
- Departure point: Nice Airport
- Arrival: Monaco Heliport, near Fontvieille
Well-known operators such as Monacair and Blade Europe run scheduled and private transfers. Booking is recommended, especially during peak periods like the Monaco Grand Prix. Luggage is limited due to aircraft weight restrictions, so this option works best for light travellers.
Nice to Monaco by boat or ferry
Travelling from Nice to Monaco by boat is a scenic and memorable option, especially during the warmer months. Seasonal ferry services operate along the Riviera, typically from late spring to early autumn, offering a relaxed coastal journey.
- Travel time: Around 45 to 60 minutes, depending on sea conditions
- Price: Usually €35 to €60 one way for seasonal ferries
- Private boat from Nice to Monaco: Available year-round, with prices varying widely based on boat size and duration
Compared to the train or bus, the boat is slower and more weather-dependent, but the experience is far more scenic. You’ll enjoy open sea views and a unique arrival into Monaco’s harbour.
If you value the journey as much as the destination, taking the ferry from Nice to Monaco can be one of the most enjoyable ways to travel.
Driving from Nice to Monaco
Driving from Nice to Monaco takes about 30 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic. The coastal route is scenic, but delays are common during rush hours and major events.
Parking in Monaco is limited and expensive, especially near Casino Square and Port Hercules. Border congestion and narrow streets can also slow you down.
For short visits or day trips, driving is usually not the most practical option. The train or bus is often faster and less stressful.
Is Monaco worth a day trip from Nice?
Yes, Monaco is absolutely worth a day trip from Nice. In under an hour, you can explore Monaco-Ville, walk around Casino Square, and enjoy local Monaco food and scenic viewpoints.
Border and passport rules between Nice and Monaco
There are no formal border crossing experiences when you travel from Nice to Monaco in most cases.
Is there passport control between Nice and Monaco?
No, there are usually no routine passport checks between Nice and Monaco. Monaco is part of the Schengen Area, so travel between France and Monaco is treated like a domestic journey.
Do you need a passport to go into Monaco?
UK travellers should carry a valid passport when visiting Monaco. While there are no regular border controls, spot checks can happen, and identification may be required for hotels or casinos.
Best way to travel from Nice to Monaco by travel style
The best way to travel from Nice to Monaco depends on your budget, timing, and comfort preferences:
- On a budget? Take the Nice to Monaco bus. It’s the cheapest option and still offers beautiful coastal scenery.
- Short on time? Book a helicopter from Nice to Monaco. In about 7 minutes, you’ll be landing in style.
- Want the easiest option? The Nice to Monaco train is fast, frequent, and stress-free.
- Love scenic experiences? Go from Nice to Monaco by boat and enjoy the Riviera from the sea.
- Arriving at Nice Airport? A taxi or express bus is the most direct and convenient choice, especially with luggage.
For most travellers, the train from Nice to Monaco offers the best balance of price, speed, and simplicity.
Practical travel tips for Nice–Monaco
A few simple tips can make your journey from Nice to Monaco smoother, especially during busy periods.
- Best time to travel: Go early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid commuter traffic and midday crowds. Trains are quieter outside peak hours.
- Ticket validation: If you buy a paper train or bus ticket, validate it in the yellow machines before boarding. Mobile tickets usually don’t need validation.
- Summer & F1 crowds: July, August, and the Monaco Grand Prix weekend are extremely busy. Book train tickets and helicopter transfers in advance where possible.
- Currency: The euro (€) is used in both France and Monaco. Card payments are widely accepted, but it’s useful to carry small change for buses or cafés.
Stay connected while travelling to Monaco
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Formerly a travel journalist turned marketing copywriter, I found my way back to the travel world with Holafly—my dream company that made remote work possible. My motto? “Dream big and make it happen.” I’m passionate about writing, exploring the world, and staying active through walking, running, swimming, and hiking. I also love learning, reflecting, and connecting with inspiring minds.
