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Why Nice Is the Perfect Base for a Monaco Day Trip
Planning a day trip to Monaco from Nice in 2026? You’re in good company. Nice offers a fantastic mix of city energy, beach relaxation, and easy access to the glamour of Monaco. The train from Nice-Ville to Monaco-Monte-Carlo takes just 20–30 minutes, with departures every 15–30 minutes. Buses and even boat transfers are also available. Choosing the right hotel in Nice can make your day trip smoother and more enjoyable. This guide covers the best hotels for location, transport links, comfort, and value—so you can maximize your time exploring Monaco’s casinos, gardens, and harbor.
What to Look for in a Hotel for a Monaco Day Trip
Not all hotels in Nice are equally convenient for a Monaco day trip. Here’s what matters:
- Proximity to Nice-Ville train station – The quickest way to Monaco is by train. Hotels near the station save you 10–15 minutes each way.
- Access to bus lines 100 or 607 – These buses run along the coast to Monaco and offer scenic views. They’re slower but cheaper.
- Location near Jean Médecin or the Promenade des Anglais – These areas have the best transport connections and dining options.
- Early breakfast availability – A 7:00 a.m. breakfast lets you catch an early train and beat the crowds.
- Flexible cancellation policy – Weather or plans can change. Look for free cancellation up to 24–48 hours.
Top Hotels Near Nice-Ville Train Station
These hotels put you steps from the station, so you can be on a Monaco-bound train in minutes.
1. Hôtel Nice Excelsior
Located directly across from Nice-Ville station, this 3-star hotel offers clean, soundproofed rooms and a 24-hour front desk. It’s ideal for early departures. The train to Monaco leaves every 15 minutes, and you’ll be at the station in under 2 minutes. Rates start around €80–€120 per night. Book early for 2026 as summer fills up fast.
2. Hôtel Vendôme – Nice Gare
A 4-star boutique hotel a 3-minute walk from the station. Rooms are elegantly decorated, and the breakfast buffet includes fresh pastries and eggs. They offer early breakfast upon request. The train to Monaco takes 22 minutes. Prices range from €100 to €160 per night.
3. Aparthotel Adagio Nice Centre
Perfect for families or longer stays. This 4-star aparthotel is a 5-minute walk from the station and provides kitchenettes. You can prepare a quick breakfast before heading out. Monaco is a 25-minute train ride away. Studios start at €90 per night.
Best Hotels on the Promenade des Anglais
If you want sea views and beach access without sacrificing transport convenience, these hotels are your best bet.
4. Hôtel Negresco
The iconic 5-star Negresco is a landmark on the Promenade. While it’s a 15-minute walk (or short tram ride) to the station, the experience is unmatched. The hotel offers a concierge who can arrange private car transfers to Monaco. Room rates start at €400 per night. Perfect for a splurge.
5. Hôtel de la Mer
A 3-star hotel right on the Promenade with direct access to the beach. The tram stop (Jean Médecin) is a 5-minute walk, and from there you can reach the station in 10 minutes. Rooms are simple but comfortable. Prices from €70–€100 per night. Great value for budget-conscious travelers.
6. Le Méridien Nice
A 4-star hotel with a rooftop pool and panoramic sea views. It’s a 10-minute walk to the station, but the hotel offers a shuttle to the port for Monaco boat trips. Room rates start at €150 per night. Ideal for couples.
Hotels in Nice’s City Center (Jean Médecin Area)
The city center is packed with shops, restaurants, and tram stops. The train station is a short tram or bus ride away.
7. Hôtel Aston La Scala
This 4-star hotel is on Avenue Félix Faure, a 5-minute tram ride from the station. Rooms are modern, and the rooftop terrace offers views of the sea and city. Breakfast is served from 6:30 a.m. Rates from €110 per night.
8. Hôtel Suisse Nice
A charming 3-star hotel near the Old Town and Castle Hill. It’s a 10-minute walk to the tram stop, and the station is 15 minutes away by tram. The hotel’s rooftop bar has stunning views. Prices from €85 per night.
Budget-Friendly Options
Traveling on a tight budget? These hotels keep costs low without sacrificing location.
9. B&B Hôtel Nice Centre Gare
A 2-star hotel just a 2-minute walk from the station. Rooms are basic but clean. Free Wi-Fi and breakfast available for an extra fee. Rates from €50 per night. Ideal for solo travelers.
10. Hôtel Victor Hugo Nice
A 3-star hotel in the city center, a 10-minute walk from the station. It offers a budget-friendly rate (€60–€80) and a simple breakfast. The tram stop is nearby.
Comparison Table: Hotels at a Glance
| Hotel | Star Rating | Distance to Station | Approx. Nightly Rate (€) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nice Excelsior | 3 | 1 min walk | 80–120 | Speed & convenience |
| Vendôme – Nice Gare | 4 | 3 min walk | 100–160 | Comfort & style |
| Adagio Nice Centre | 4 | 5 min walk | 90–130 | Families & self-catering |
| Negresco | 5 | 15 min walk (tram) | 400+ | Luxury & history |
| Hôtel de la Mer | 3 | 10 min tram | 70–100 | Beach & budget |
| Le Méridien Nice | 4 | 10 min walk | 150–250 | Sea views & rooftop |
| Aston La Scala | 4 | 5 min tram | 110–160 | City center & rooftop |
| Hôtel Suisse Nice | 3 | 15 min tram | 85–120 | Old Town charm |
| B&B Nice Centre Gare | 2 | 2 min walk | 50–70 | Budget solo |
| Hôtel Victor Hugo Nice | 3 | 10 min walk | 60–80 | Value & location |
How to Get from Your Hotel to Monaco
Once you’ve chosen your hotel, plan your transfer. Here are the main options:
- Train (TER) – From Nice-Ville to Monaco-Monte-Carlo. €4.10 one-way, 20–30 minutes. Trains run every 15–30 minutes from 5:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Buy tickets at the station or via SNCF app.
- Bus (Lignes d’Azur 100/607) – From Nice bus station (Gare Routière) to Monaco. €1.50 one-way, 45–60 minutes. The bus is slower but offers coastal views. It’s less frequent on Sundays.
- Boat (Trans Côte d’Azur) – Seasonal service from Nice Port to Monaco. €25–€30 one-way, 45 minutes. Operates from May to September. A scenic but pricier option.
- Car or Taxi – 30 minutes by car, but parking in Monaco is expensive (€20–€40 per day). Taxi costs around €80–€100 one-way.
Day Trip Itinerary from Nice to Monaco
To make the most of your day, follow this efficient plan:
- 8:00 a.m. – Breakfast at your hotel. If your hotel doesn’t serve early, grab a croissant at a nearby café.
- 8:30 a.m. – Walk to Nice-Ville station (if your hotel is nearby) or take the tram.
- 9:00 a.m. – Arrive in Monaco. Start at the Prince’s Palace for the changing of the guard (11:55 a.m.).
- 12:30 p.m. – Lunch at a café near the port. Try local socca or seafood.
- 2:00 p.m. – Visit the Oceanographic Museum or wander through the Exotic Garden.
- 4:00 p.m. – Explore Monte Carlo Casino and the luxury boutiques (no shorts or flip-flops inside).
- 6:00 p.m. – Take the train back to Nice. Arrive in time for dinner.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Booking
- Choosing a hotel far from transport – Adds 30+ minutes each way. Stick to the areas listed above.
- Not checking breakfast hours – Some hotels serve breakfast from 7:30 a.m., which may be too late for early trains. Confirm in advance.
- Forgetting to book train tickets in advance – While not required, buying a multi-trip card (Zou! card) saves time and money if you plan multiple trips.
- Assuming all hotels have air conditioning – Nice summers are hot. Many budget hotels lack A/C. Check before booking.
- Overlooking the tram – The tram line T1 connects the city center to the station. Hotels near tram stops are still convenient.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best hotel in Nice for a day trip to Monaco?
Hôtel Nice Excelsior is the most convenient due to its location directly across from the train station. For a balance of comfort and location, Hôtel Vendôme – Nice Gare is excellent.
How far is Monaco from Nice by train?
The train from Nice-Ville to Monaco-Monte-Carlo takes 20–30 minutes. Trains run frequently from early morning until late evening.
Can I visit Monaco and return to Nice in one day?
Yes, absolutely. Monaco is compact and walkable. A day trip allows you to see the main sights, have lunch, and be back in Nice by evening.
What is the cheapest way to get from Nice to Monaco?
The bus (line 100 or 607) costs €1.50 one-way. The train is €4.10. Both are affordable. The bus is slower but scenic.
Do hotels in Nice offer parking for guests driving to Monaco?
Many hotels offer parking, but it often costs extra (€15–€30 per day). If you plan to drive to Monaco, check parking availability and rates. However, parking in Monaco is expensive and limited.
When is the best time of year for a Monaco day trip from Nice?
Spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer is busy and hot, but the sea is warm. Winter is mild but some attractions have reduced hours.
Final Recommendations for Your 2026 Trip
To ensure a smooth Monaco day trip in 2026, book a hotel near Nice-Ville station or with easy tram access. Confirm breakfast times and check for air conditioning if traveling in summer. Purchase a Zou! card for unlimited train travel if you plan multiple trips. Start your day early to beat the crowds, and wear comfortable shoes—Monaco involves a lot of walking and stairs. Whether you choose a budget B&B or a luxury seafront hotel, Nice offers the perfect launchpad for your Riviera adventure. Happy travels!
Thanks for the detailed guide! I was wondering if any of the hotels on the Promenade des Anglais have easy access to the bus line 100 to Monaco? I prefer the scenic coastal route over the train.
You’re welcome! Yes, Hôtel de la Mer and Hôtel Negresco are both on the Promenade des Anglais, and bus line 100 stops along that route. You can catch it at the nearest stop (e.g., ‘Promenade des Anglais’ or ‘Riviera’). It’s a slower but beautiful ride—about 45 minutes to Monaco. Just check the schedule for 2026 as it may adjust.
I’m planning a day trip to Monaco in 2026 and want to stay near the train station. Which of the hotels you listed has the earliest breakfast? I want to catch the 7:30 AM train.
Great question! Hôtel Vendôme – Nice Gare offers early breakfast upon request, so you can eat before catching the 7:30 AM train. Hôtel Nice Excelsior has a 24-hour front desk but breakfast timing may vary; it’s best to confirm directly. For guaranteed early breakfast, Vendôme is your best bet.