Monaco and Monte-Carlo

Monaco is an independent principality on the Mediterranean, about 18 km east of Nice, and one of the densest and most compact places in Europe. The TER Zou train from Nice-Ville reaches Monaco-Monte-Carlo station in about 20-25 minutes; the underground station has lifts up to street level, and it is the recommended way to travel since Monaco parking is expensive. Coastal buses 100 and 602 take 45-60 minutes and are a slower alternative. Because the principality is only about two square kilometres, most sights can be reached on foot with a few steep climbs, and public lifts and escalators connect the districts. A good day starts in Monaco-Ville, the old town on the Rock, with the Prince's Palace, whose changing of the guard takes place around 11:55, and the cathedral, where Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace are buried. The Oceanographic Museum on the cliff face holds an aquarium and exhibitions on marine science. After lunch the arc moves to Monte-Carlo, where the Place du Casino frames the Casino de Monte-Carlo, the Opéra Garnier Monte-Carlo and the Café de Paris. Visitors may enter the casino atrium and gaming rooms for a fee, with ID required and a dress code in the evening. The Jardin Exotique and the harbour of Port Hercule, where superyachts line the quays, are further options, as are the Fontvieille quarter and the Princess Grace Rose Garden. Food stops range from café terraces around the casino square to simple lunches in Monaco-Ville and the covered Marché de la Condamine. Monaco uses the euro and French is the official language. Spring and early autumn are the most comfortable times to visit, while the Grand Prix in May and the Monaco Yacht Show in September bring crowds and higher prices. A full day gives time for the Rock, the casino quarter and a harbour stroll, and returning trains to Nice run late.