Monaco: Day Trip from Nice
If you’re spending time in Nice, a day trip to Monaco is an easy option and offers a fancy French neighbor vibe.
We opted for a mid-morning Uber to take us to the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild which is about halfway between Nice and Monaco. Once we arrived, although it’s probably beautiful when it’s in full bloom, we opted to not spend the €15 to see the interior of the Villa.
We enjoyed a 15 minute downhill walk to check out Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. among what I assume is some serious wealth but, due to some enormous hedges, we can’t be sure that there are ritzy chateaus hiding behind.
Eventually we run into a path that runs along the water with danger and caution signs posted. I’m nervous to take the path but then I saw two woman walk down with their little wiener dogs so I figure it’s safe. Spoiler: I survived.
Views are beautiful. Path is rocky. Wear sneakers. I tried to be cute and wear suede booties. They are shredded. Saw people diving for sea urchins. There are sea urchins galore here.
We ended our hike at the Grand Hotel Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat but sadly it was closed for the season. If it’s open when you’re there though, please go and tell me how it is.
Next we Ubered to Monaco to have lunch at Quai des Artistes. I suggest you order everything: Urchins, escargots, oysters, seafood platter, and a rack of lamb with spicy mustard. Wash it all down with 1664 or a Sancerre. The table next to us inspired us to get soufflé's. Scrumptious. Bonus: Eye candy may include women of a certain age dressed to the 9’s.
Post-lunch the weather took a significant turn. It went from “I’m comfortable in long sleeves and leather jacket” to “I wish I had a scarf and a raincoat”. I don’t know if this is the norm but perhaps learn from my mistake and layer up if you visit in March.
Headed up the hill to Hotel de Paris. Peeped the amazing interior of Le Casino Monte Carlo but decided against buying memberships to get in. At Hotel de Paris we had the most outrageously expensive cocktails. We did get a great table by the window which took a tiny edge off of the €25-30 per drink. The cloth coasters were so fancy, one could fold it and use it as a pocket square. And one did.
Tipsy and penniless, we took the SNCF back to Nice. It was the most crowded train ever, but luckily it was a very quick and easy ride.
We definitely need to hit up Monaco again and do it right. I did not see the Monaco Cathedral, nor did I see nearly enough tributes to Grace Kelly. Next time I will sure use one of these self-guided walking tour from gpsmycity.com.
THE LOGISTICS
Travel Date | February 2020
Transportation |
Ubers are available
SNCF is a great option
Pro Tips |
The drive from Nice to Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild is hilly and windy so If you get carsick (or if you’re hungover like I was) this ride may be a challenge.
Monte Carlo Casino requires a paid membership to enter
Bring layers if you go in March
#195Postcards
