From Nice to Monaco by Train: A Scenic Coastal Ride

Introduction

Traveling by train from Nice to Monaco is a quick and beautiful way to experience the French Riviera. The journey offers stunning coastal views, a comfortable ride, and easy access to one of Europe’s most glamorous spots. In this article, I’ll share my experience and practical tips for making the most of this short trip.

Route Overview

The route from Nice Ville to Monaco Monte Carlo is operated by SNCF TER trains. The distance is around 20 kilometers, and the journey takes about 20 to 25 minutes. Trains run frequently throughout the day, making it one of the best ways to get from Nice to Monaco without the hassle of driving or traffic.

Transportation Experience

Booking my ticket was straightforward: I booked it through Omio, and it cost me only €7 and a couple of minutes. I traveled with two friends, and we found the train from Nice to Monaco to be comfortable and punctual. I chose a seat by the window to enjoy the coastal views, and the two-seat pattern allowed for a relaxed journey. Make sure to sit on the right side, which is where the good views will be.

Route Details

Departure and Arrival Stations

Nice Ville station is large, busy, and well-equipped with shops and cafés. It’s located conveniently in the city center.

Monaco Monte-Carlo station is relatively small and mostly underground, giving it a more practical, no-frills feel rather than the glamour and elegance you might expect in Monaco. Seating and amenities, like cafés and shops, are limited, so it’s not the most comfortable for long waits. However, the signage is clear, and it’s only a short walk or bus ride to major attractions, which is a big plus for me. The trains on this route can get quite busy in summer, which only shows how popular it is, so plan ahead if you’re traveling during peak season.

Schedule and Frequency

TER trains run approximately every 15 to 30 minutes from early morning until late evening, providing ample flexibility for travel plans. The journey duration stays consistent, usually around 20 minutes. I took the 10:12 AM train from Nice Ville to Monaco Monte-Carlo on a weekday, and it arrived right on time. The train was clean, quiet, and not too crowded, making the ride smooth and pleasant.

Onboard Experience and Services

I traveled in Standard Class, as this is the only class on the train. I had more than enough legroom. The seats were comfortable and arranged mostly in pairs, which is great for couples or friends traveling together. However, I found the toilet on board to be quite small, a tight fit for someone of my size.

Most TER trains on this route do not offer Wi‑Fi, so it’s best not to rely on onboard internet access. There's no onboard catering or snack bar, either. If you want refreshments during the 20-minute journey, be sure to buy snacks and drinks before boarding.

The ride itself was smooth and quiet. The big windows gave fantastic views of the blue coastline as we sped along the Mediterranean.

On TER regional trains in France, including the route from Nice Ville to Monaco Monte Carlo, passengers can bring luggage on board free of charge as long as they can carry it themselves and store it in designated racks or above their seats. There are no strict size or weight limits, but it’s recommended to keep luggage manageable, around 70×50×30 cm for standard items.

Since this train runs entirely within France, and France is part of the Schengen Area, passport or ID checks are typically not conducted for EU or Schengen zone nationals. However, it’s still advisable to carry valid identification, especially for non-EU travelers or in case of spot checks by security or train staff.

Ticketing Advice and Budget Breakdown

I booked my ticket at the station for about €7. A coffee at the Nice Ville station café cost me around €3. The price is very reasonable for such a scenic and convenient route.

You can also book your train ticket in advance on Omio if you want to secure your seat and avoid queues. While tickets don’t usually sell out on this route, trains can get busy, especially in summer, so booking ahead is a smart move if you’re on a tight schedule.

My budget breakdown at a glance:

Top Tips and Personal Recommendations

• Arrive at Nice Ville early to enjoy the station’s cafés before departure.
• Try to get a window seat on the right side heading towards Monaco for the best coastline views.
• Keep in mind the onboard toilet is small, so plan accordingly.
• Be prepared for a busy train ride during the summer.

Conclusion

Traveling from Nice to Monaco by train offers a quick, comfortable, and scenic experience along the French Riviera. With frequent departures and beautiful views, it’s the best way to enjoy this iconic route without any stress. Book your ticket with Omio and get ready for a gorgeous ride.

About the Author: Luke Patrick Hoogmoed

Job Title: Solo Traveler and Content Creator Bio: Luke Patrick Hoogmoed is a solo traveler and Instagram content creator from the Netherlands with a passion for train travel and Eastern Europe.