Did you know that Monaco is the world’s second smallest city-state? (Bonus points for you if you know what the smallest one is!) If you’re travelling to this Mediterranean haven to uncover its wealth of cultural and natural landmarks, it couldn’t be easier: Nice Airport is merely a skip and a jump away.
But while the 32-kilometre journey from Nice to Monaco takes an hour – or more – if you opt for public transportation, a transfer with Shuttle Direct will whisk you to the door of your accommodation in half the time. What’s more, you’re sure to have a much better view from the window of your air-conditioned vehicle, giving you a sneak peek into the surrounding area’s attractions. Here are a few of our favourite spots along the way, whose attractions make for fantastic half- and full-day trips.
1.Nice
Although you may be desperate to get to your accommodation to freshen up after your flight, it’s worth experiencing the hustle and bustle of Nice at some point during your holiday. In addition to soaking up the view from its picturesque harbour and beach, the city is peppered with historic sights that’ll undoubtedly become the highlights of every culture and nature enthusiast’s holiday. While the city whizzes past your window on your transfer from Nice to Monaco, why not ask your driver for advice on the best attractions?
Colline du Chateau: One of our favourite places in Nice is the Colline du Chateau, a castle that dates back to the eleventh century. Although it was destroyed at the hand of French forces in 1706, its ruins are now surrounded by a stunning public park. The best part is that the castle site is situated 92 metres above sea level, offering breathtaking views of the Baie des Anges and the harbour.
Vieux Nice: On a sunny afternoon, a stroll through Nice’s old town is just what the doctor ordered. This part of the city is undoubtedly its most charming, featuring colourful houses, quirky boutiques and daily food and flower markets. If you’d like to put your French to the test, why not sample some French specialities and haggle with the markets’ friendly vendors? Venturing inside the imposing St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Cathedral is also very worthwhile.
Museums: Get excited, museum fanatics! The majority of Nice’s museums are free, and boast a variety of world-class art, ranging from Gallo-Roman to contemporary Asian masterpieces. While all exhibitions promise not to disappoint, we’re particularly fond of the Musée Chagall, which showcases Marc Chagall’s stained glass creations, and the Musée Matisse, which features many of Henri Matisse’s famous paintings, sculptures and sketches.
Recommended Visit Time: Full-Day Visit
2. La Trinité
During your journey from Nice to Monaco, we’ll drive you past La Trinité, a tiny town that’ll take you off the beaten track. While La Trinité is often overshadowed by Monaco, which is only 10 kilometres away, it is home to several attractions that’ll make your jaw drop. And, even better: you’ll be able to stroll through the streets without masses of tourists crowding you off the pavement!
Notre-Dame de Laghet – Although La Trinité’s castle ruins, drawbridge and quaint fountain are worth capturing on camera, the town’s monastery is its true show stopper. Surrounded by olive groves, the monastery was erected in the seventeenth century to commemorate a series of ‘miracles’ that had taken place in its very spot. If you’d like to hear the stories behind these wondrous occurrences, you’ll simply have to pay the site a visit and ask one of the locals.
Sanctuary of La Madone de Laghet – After exploring the monastery, it’s worth making the short trek up to its sanctuary, which consists of a baroque church, statues of the Virgin Mary and a breathtakingly beautiful cloister with 6,000 ex-votos. While most of the area’s other tourists are hitting up the beach, you will have added an exciting cultural edge to your getaway – not to mention that you will have worked off the calories from your last meal.
Recommended Visit Time: Half-Day Trip
3. Cap d’Ail
Right on the doorstep of Monaco, you’ll stumble across every nature lover’s paradise: Cap d’Ail. Thanks to this area’s natural troves, it’s been an official health resort for almost 100 years, and takes R&R to a whole new level. Whether you’re after a serene stroll, a tranquil beach session or picture-perfect views, our transfer from Nice to Monaco will give you a quick glimpse of the wonders that await.
Beaches – Cap d’Ail’s coastline is notoriously tranquil, making it the perfect destination for families in search of a sunny afternoon. Its three beaches have all received Blue Flag Awards for their pristine sand and water, and offer everything from recreational sports to peace and quiet. Water you waiting for?
Coastal Walk – If you’d like to explore the area on foot, there’s nothing more tranquil than taking a walk along the coastline. For some light physical exertion, make your way along the four-kilometre route from Marquet Beach to Mala Beach, which will take you through elevated pinewoods and present you with unparalleled ocean views.
Recommended Visit Time: Half-Day Trip for either a walk or beach time. Full-Day Trip for both.
From Nice to Monaco
While our transfer from Nice to Monaco may feel as short as the blink of an eye, our chosen route offers a spectacular snapshot of the French Riviera’s marvels. As we drive you past Nice, La Trinité and Cap d’Ail, you’re sure to receive some holiday inspiration that’ll take you well beyond the borders of Monaco. Ready, set explore!
About Shuttle Direct
If you’re looking for convenient, reliable and affordable, you’re looking for Shuttle Direct. As the principal airport transfer service in Europe and North Africa, our comfortable and punctual rides will take you right from your airport terminal to the doorstep of your accommodation. It doesn’t get easier – or better – than that! Pre-book our tried and tested transfers on our user-friendly website today.
NB. This route guide has been compiled as an aid to visiting the region. Your airport transfer service from Nice to Monaco does not include stops to these destinations.
