During our stay in Cannes, we seized the opportunity to venture to Monaco, a mere hour away by train, at the cost of just $13. It was a convenient and affordable journey that allowed us to explore the glitz and glamour of Monaco's iconic attractions.
Here's an affordable one-day itinerary around Monaco:
Morning:
- Explore Monaco-Ville (Old Town):
- Begin your day by exploring Monaco's historic Old Town, Monaco-Ville.
- Wander through the charming narrow streets, lined with colorful buildings and boutiques.
- Visit the Prince's Palace and witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony at 11:55 AM (free of charge).
- Saint Nicholas Cathedral:
- Head to Saint Nicholas Cathedral, where you can admire its impressive architecture and pay respects at the gravesite of Princess Grace.
Midday:
- Lunch in a Local Eatery:
- Enjoy a budget-friendly lunch at one of the local cafes or bistros in Monaco-Ville or nearby Condamine.
- Look for daily specials or opt for a traditional Niçoise salad or panini.
Afternoon:
- Oceanographic Museum and Aquarium:
- Spend the afternoon at the Oceanographic Museum and Aquarium.
- Explore the fascinating marine exhibits, including a shark lagoon and a turtle island.
- Enjoy discounted admission with a student ID or look for online deals in advance.
- Stroll along Port Hercules:
- Take a leisurely stroll along Port Hercules, admiring the luxury yachts and soaking in the glamorous atmosphere.
- Relax on one of the public benches and enjoy views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Monaco at Night
Evening:
- Japanese Garden:
- Visit the Japanese Garden, a tranquil oasis offering beautiful scenery and peaceful surroundings.
- Entrance is free, making it a budget-friendly option for a relaxing evening stroll.
- Dinner in Condamine:
- Head to the Condamine district for dinner, where you'll find a variety of affordable dining options.
- Look for local restaurants serving traditional Monegasque cuisine or international fare at reasonable prices.
- Evening Promenade:
- Take a final evening promenade along the waterfront promenade, enjoying the views of the illuminated city skyline.
- Capture memorable photos of Monaco's iconic landmarks before concluding your affordable day in the principality.
By following this itinerary, you can experience the highlights of Monaco on a budget while still enjoying its charm, culture, and stunning views.
Train from Cannes to Monaco
To ensure a full day in Monaco from Cannes, you'll want to plan your train journey accordingly. Here's the best way to book your train tickets:
- Online Booking: Visit the official website of the French railway company, SNCF (https://www.sncf.com/en). You can search for train schedules from Cannes to Monaco and book your tickets online. Make sure to select a departure time early enough in the morning to maximize your time in Monaco.
- Mobile Apps: Use mobile apps like Trainline or SNCF's mobile app to easily book your train tickets on the go. These apps provide real-time schedules and allow you to purchase tickets with ease.
- Ticket Counters: If you prefer to book in person, you can visit the train station in Cannes and purchase your tickets directly from the ticket counters or self-service machines.
- Flexible Tickets: Opt for flexible tickets or open return tickets if you're unsure about your exact return time from Monaco. This gives you the flexibility to return to Cannes at your convenience.
- Check Return Schedules: Before booking, make sure to check the last train back to Cannes from Monaco to ensure you don't miss it. Plan your day in Monaco accordingly to catch the return train.
By booking your train tickets in advance and planning your schedule wisely, you can enjoy a full day exploring Monaco from dawn till dusk.
