Train Tour of the French Riviera: Monaco

Monaco is world famous for its mega-rich residents, super-yachts, casinos and tax breaks.  Even if you don’t worry if you arrive by train instead of a yacht, there is a lot to enjoy for visitors and is definitely worth a day to explore. Here is a list of the major attractions and don’t worry, your France Eurail pass is valid here.

When you first arrive by train, you will find yourself near Monaco’s harbour, known as “Blillionaires Bay”.  Here you can go for a stroll and admire all the beautiful scenery and the multi-million dollar yachts. 

Palais du Prince was built in the 13th century originally as a fortress, but is now the Royal Palace, home to the Prince of Monaco and his family. Aim to be here before 11:55am for the traditional changing of the guards and note that tours are only available when the Prince and his family are away.

Jardin Exotique is a exotic botanical garden that flourishes in Monaco’s warm climate. The Museum of Prehistory and Anthropology, which displays artifacts from Roman eras of the region is located nearby.

Formula One Grand Prix is held every May till June and sends race cars screaming around its narrow streets at breakneck speeds. The World Championship Grand Prix race hereis considered one of the most challenging tracks in the world.  If you are a car fan, then he Prince of Monaco's Car Collection is not to be missed. The prince is a big fan of exotic and collector cars and you can view a wide selection of them here.

The Oceanographic Museum is built impressively in the side of a cliff. Built in 1911, it houses extensive collections of marine fauna and related exhibits. A statue outside the cliffside building commemorates Prince Albert I, who was a renowned marine scientist.

The cathedral of Monaco is located on the Avenue Saint-Martin and features lovely gardens. Hundred year-old building is where Prince Rainier and Princess Grace married. The cathedral is also her resting place, and the bones of many of the ruling Grimaldi family lie there, too.

Monaco only caters to the high-end market when it comes to shopping. Some shopping places include the Golden Circle near the Avenue Monte Carlo, the Fontvieille Shopping Center or the Condamine Market near the Place d'Ames.

Casinos are what Monaco was built around, and even if you don’t gamble, you must check them out. In the Place du Casino is the Casino de Paris, known as much for its architecture and opulent furnishings as well as its clientele. The Monaco Casino is another well-known casino for high rollers, which enforces a jacket-and-tie dress code.

So if you want a taste of how the mega-wealthy live, plain a stop on your train tour to visit this interesting little country within a country called Monaco.