Monaco is a small independent country that sits in the middle of southeast France, adjacent to the Mediterranean Sea in what is known as the French Riviera. If you visit Monaco, you are likely to see a little red and white train pass you by as you stroll through the city.
This miniature train, Azur Express, gives tourists a comfortable guided tour with glimpses into the cities of Monaco and Monte Carlo.
The Azur Express train is a panoramic 30 minute express ride that travels through the entire principality of Monaco. If you are not in the country very long, this train provides an overview without having to cover it on foot.
The appeal to tourists from all over the country is the ability to listen to the commentary, which is delivered in 12 languages such as German, Italian, French, English, Russian, Japanese, and more.
The Azur Express Route
The Azur Express starts off from the Oceanographic Museum on the avenue of Saint Martin. Before you hop on the train, visitors can spend time in this museum which contains many sea exhibitions, over 4,000 species of fish and over 200 families of invertebrates that represent Mediterranean and tropical marine ecosystem. Visitors can also watch spectacular shows of marine flora and fauna.
From there, it travels through the country. The train will cruise past the Forumla One Grand Prix racetack, the harbor, beautiful gardens, Old Town, and more. Riders will be able to see the Monaco Port, Monte Carlos with it casinos, luxurious hotels and palaces. Finally, the last stop includes the Palace of the Prince.
The train makes stops along the way at the Port, Monte-Carlo, the casinos & then back ...more [+]at the Prince's Palace. The main casino, Grand Casino, charges to even enter if you are not gambling with more exorbitant fees to enter the gambling room. It also has strict dress codes and may not be for the casual gambler. But, Monte Carlo also offers more American-style gaming facilities that do not have an admission fee.
Once you get back to the other side, the last stop is worth visiting. Outside of the Palace, you can find places that offer breathtaking panoramic views overlooking the Port and Monte-Carlo.
Departure Times Allow Flexibility
There is a fixed time and place from where the train departs. In the summers, it starts at 10 am and stops service at 5 in the evening.
During winters, the journey starts at 10:30 am and continues till 6 in the evening as per the weather conditions. This train provides service except from 15th November to 16th December and the whole month of January.
Since the train leaves every 30 minutes, as long as you retain your ticket, you can hop on and off the train as it makes a few stops along the way.
Prices for the Azur Express
Adults and Children over 8 Years: 7 €
Children 2 -8: 4 €
Children< 2 years of age can ride for free.
They take cash of Visa/MC for payment and tickets can be bought where the train route begins.
If you want to give your feet a rest and get an overview of Monaco, taking the Azur Express Train may be a great option to see this small country.
Resources: Azur Express Train Information
Julie McElroy - Freelance travel writer with published articles about places all over the world, including Italy, Colorado, Japan, Germany, and Spain.
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