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Monaco

Monaco from Palais Princier

Introduction

Monaco is a principality in the south of France and home to the rich and famous. Sometimes referred to as Monte Carlo, Monte Carlo is actually a region in Monaco and the name of the main casino.

Where You're Docked

Ships dock at a new pier at the edge of Hercules Port at the base of Monaco-Ville. You may be tendered to this location if the pier is not available. Ships could also tender to the marina in Fontvielle to the west.

View Larger Map

Money & Tipping

Monaco's currency is the Euro (EUR). In Europe, it is common to round up the bill to leave a small tip (5-10%).

Local Transportation

The local bus is a great way to get around if you don't want to walk the hilly streets and only €1 per trip or €3 for a day pass. However, you can get around very easily by walking since the city is very compact but it is hilly. Public escalators and elevators make some of the hills easier. Their locations are marked on the linked map. Useful ones for tourists are up to the Oceanographic museum from the south side of the hill and up to the casino from the auditorium.

The Bateau Bus (part of the bus network) takes passengers across the harbour for the same price as the bus or you can use your day pass.

Public Transport Website

http://www.cam.mc/

Public Transport Route Map

http://www.cam.mc/PLAN_CAM.pdf (In French)

Hotels

Search hotels in Monaco here

Must See Sights

Palais Princier - has a great view of the city from the grounds. Not worth the admission to go inside. There is a small changing of the guard ceremony at 11:55am.

Monte Carlo Casino - There is a dress code and entry fee if you want to go inside but it is a magnificient building from the outside. There are other casinos nearby if you want to gamble in a less ritzy environment.

Shopping & Restaurants

Most restaurants can be found along the promenade. There is a gigantic Carrefour supermarket in Centre Commercial Fontville. Take the elevator from Place du Canton to avoid walking through the tunnels. A smaller Casino supermarket can be found on the main street facing the harbor.

There is a market close to the train station marked on the map as Place D'Armes.

Day in Monaco

From the cruise terminal, follow the trail in front of you up to the top of the Monaco-Ville or head to the left where you will find an escalator in the parking lot. The top of the hill has the old town with shops and restaurants, Oceanographic Museum (made famous by Jacques Cousteau), the Cathedral of Monaco where Princess Grace and other royal members are buried, and Palais Princier (royal palace) with great views of the city. You can either walk down the hill or take bus 6 over to Monte Carlo Casino. If walking, you'll pass La Condamine. Your destination is Monte Carlo Casino where you take an elevator for the last section. From the casino, you can walk down and take the Bateau Bus back to the terminal.

Been Here Before

• Take a train to Nice. The train station is fairly close by. Verify the train schedules at the station.
• Spend a day at the public beach at Larvotto. Take bus 4 or 6.

Internet

Stars 'N Bars restaurant on your left when walking into town from the cruise terminal has free wifi for customers.

Maps (right-click to save)

The cruise terminal is outlined by the dotted line.

Weather

Monaco Weather Forecast

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