Stopover in Monaco: Your Ultimate Guide to the Jewel of the French Riviera

Monaco, a tiny yet glamorous principality on the French Riviera, is often associated with wealth, luxury, and the famous Monte Carlo Casino. While it may not have its own airport, many travelers find themselves visiting Monaco as part of a stopover, especially when traveling through Nice Côte d’Azur Airport, just 30 minutes away. If you’ve ever wondered, how do you book a flight with a stopover in this stunning locale or want to know the top spots to visit, this guide will walk you through everything.

How to Book Flights with a Stopover in Monaco

Even though Monaco does not have a major airport, it’s extremely well-connected thanks to its proximity to Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE), one of the busiest airports in France. So, how do you book a stopover flight that includes time in Monaco? You can easily plan a stopover when booking a flight through Nice, whether you’re flying from or to other major cities in Europe, the Middle East, or North America.

If you’re wondering how do you book a stopover flight, the process is simple. Most major airlines allow you to book a flight with a layover in Nice. From there, you can either hop on a quick 30-minute helicopter ride, take a scenic train, or drive along the coast to Monaco. To book a flight with a stopover, simply use the “multi-city” option on most booking platforms, allowing you to add Nice as a stopover before continuing to your next destination.

Top Features of a Monaco Stopover

Monaco is small but packed with experiences that make even a short stopover feel luxurious. Whether you’re staying for a few hours or overnight, the following are the highlights of a stopover in this breathtaking city-state:

1. Monaco’s Famous Landmarks

Monaco offers a mix of history, glamour, and stunning views. During a stopover, the must-see sights include:

• The Prince’s Palace of Monaco: Situated in Monaco-Ville, the Prince’s Palace is a historic gem, home to the ruling Grimaldi family. Time your visit for the changing of the guard, which happens daily at 11:55 AM.
• The Monaco Grand Prix Circuit: Car enthusiasts can experience part of the Monaco Grand Prix circuit, one of the most challenging and prestigious Formula 1 races. You can even rent a luxury car to drive along the famous streets used in the race.
• Oceanographic Museum of Monaco: Perched on a cliff above the sea, this museum is a must for families or marine enthusiasts. With its impressive marine life displays and its connection to Monaco’s commitment to marine conservation, it’s a great way to spend an hour or two.

2. World-Class Hotels

If you plan to stay overnight, Monaco boasts some of the world’s most luxurious hotels. Here are a few top picks for every traveler, from those looking to splurge to budget-conscious visitors:

• Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo: Located right next to the Monte Carlo Casino, this five-star hotel is the epitome of luxury. With Michelin-starred restaurants and world-class amenities, it’s a perfect choice for travelers looking for a taste of the high life.
• Fairmont Monte Carlo: Situated on the waterfront, this hotel offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Monaco Grand Prix hairpin bend. The Fairmont’s rooftop pool and fine dining restaurants make it ideal for a leisurely stopover.
• Hotel Novotel Monte Carlo: For a more budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on comfort, Novotel Monte Carlo is an excellent choice. It’s conveniently located near the train station and offers modern amenities.

3. Fine Dining in Monaco

Monaco is known for its gourmet dining, with restaurants helmed by Michelin-starred chefs. Even if you have just a few hours, you can indulge in exquisite meals that will leave a lasting impression.

• Le Louis XV – Alain Ducasse: Located in Hôtel de Paris, this three-star Michelin restaurant offers Mediterranean-inspired dishes with locally sourced ingredients.
• Café de Paris: Perfect for a more casual yet still luxurious meal, Café de Paris offers brasserie-style food and is located just steps from the casino.
• La Marée Monte Carlo: For seafood lovers, this restaurant offers the freshest catches with an elegant, modern twist. It’s ideal for enjoying a seaside meal with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean.

How to Get Around During Your Stopover

Monaco is compact and easy to navigate, so even during a brief stopover, you can see many of the top attractions. You can either walk or use public transportation to move around the city-state.

• Walking: Monaco is best explored on foot, especially since many of its landmarks are located close together.
• Taxis: Taxis are readily available, but note that Monaco is a high-end destination, and taxi fares reflect that.
• Trains: If you’re traveling from Nice or another city along the Riviera, the train is the most convenient option. Monaco’s central station, Gare de Monaco-Monte-Carlo, is well connected to major cities across France and Italy.
• Helicopter Transfers: For a truly unforgettable experience, you can book a helicopter ride from Nice to Monaco, which takes just 7 minutes. Companies like Monacair offer frequent flights, and the views are spectacular.

Where to Relax and Recharge During a Stopover

Even if you’re only stopping over for a few hours, Monaco offers many places where you can unwind:

• Larvotto Beach: The only public beach in Monaco, Larvotto Beach is perfect for a quick dip in the Mediterranean Sea. It’s easily accessible and has nearby cafés and shops where you can grab a bite or a drink.
• Japanese Garden: A tranquil, beautifully landscaped space that’s free to enter. It’s the perfect spot to relax, take a stroll, and escape the bustle of the city.
• Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo Spa: If you’re looking to indulge in some pampering, this luxury spa offers everything from massages to seawater treatments with a stunning view of the Mediterranean.

Shopping and Entertainment

Monaco is home to world-class shopping, from high-end boutiques to quaint markets. If you have time during your stopover, consider visiting:

• The Golden Circle (Carré d’Or): This is the heart of Monaco’s luxury shopping scene, featuring stores like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Cartier.
• Monaco Market: For a more local experience, head to the Condamine Market, where you’ll find fresh produce, artisanal goods, and souvenirs.
• Monaco Opera House: If your stopover coincides with a performance, the Opéra de Monte-Carlo offers a cultural escape with its stunning architecture and world-class performances.

Essential Travel Tips for Your Monaco Stopover

• Time Management: Plan your itinerary according to your stopover time. If you only have a few hours, focus on one or two key landmarks, like the Prince’s Palace and Monte Carlo Casino. If you’re staying overnight, you can afford to explore more, including a dining experience at one of Monaco’s top restaurants.
• Currency: Monaco uses the Euro, so be sure to have some on hand if you plan to shop or dine.
• Visa Requirements: While Monaco itself does not require a visa for EU, U.S., or Canadian citizens staying less than 90 days, ensure your stay complies with French visa regulations since you’ll be entering and exiting through Nice, France.
• How to Book Flights with a Stopover: If you’re interested in visiting Monaco as part of your travel journey, don’t hesitate to use flight booking platforms that allow stopovers in Nice. By choosing the “multi-city” or “add stopover” option when booking flights, you can explore this beautiful corner of Europe without any hassle.

Conclusion: A Memorable Stopover in Monaco

Whether you’re stopping for a few hours or spending the night, Monaco offers a wealth of experiences that fit seamlessly into any itinerary. From iconic landmarks and luxury hotels to fine dining and scenic views, it’s an unforgettable addition to your journey. So next time you’re booking a flight, remember how to book a flight with a stopover and consider Monaco as the perfect stopover destination.

With its blend of glamour, history, and stunning Mediterranean vistas, a stopover in Monaco is an opportunity you won’t want to miss.