We're visiting Nice & Monaco 23-24 February 2008?

Question

I just wanted to know other than the carnival, are there any other events to watch out for? We are thinking of renting a car so we can visit Monaco for the day, will driving be possible as the carnival is on? is there anything else I should consider? Thanks

Answer 1

Do not rent a car just to go to Monaco, driving and parking in cities is just a pain. There are trains every 30 minutes or so every day and the trip is about 20 minutes. It will be much cheaper, faster and more convenient than renting a car and you won't waste time looking for parking. Only rent a car if you want to travel  inland. There are also bus lines along the coast, just ask the tourist office for more info: http://www.nicetourisme.com/GB/som.html

http://www.visitmonaco.com/

Dress warm, with coastal winds, the Riviera can feel really cold in winter.

Answer 2

No need to rent a car. You can take the train.

It will probably be quicker and certainly far more convenient. A commuter rail line (the TER) runs from Nice to Monaco and the journey (depending on time of day and which station) can be as little as 13 minutes.

Answer 3

If you drive to Monaco, you'll soon find out that non-Monagasque cars are not allowed to park on the streets (only garages where you have to pay).  OTOH, you can visit a lot of nice little villages and resort towns outside of Nice if you have a car and driving to those towns is the only practical way of getting there.  In Nice, just use the bus.  Cheap, clean and more convenient than driving.  Be aware that if you are from the US or Canada, driving in the south of France will take some getting used to bc the lanes are narrow, ppl tailgate and stop on a dime.  If you hotel has a parking lot, it is likely to be very small.  Even a 5 series BMW or E class Mercedes (or Ford Taurus sized car) will feel too "big" to drive comfortably.  Remember, you were warned!