When you visit the French Riviera on a Mediterranean cruise, you'll have ample opportunities to explore the sun-soaked beaches, picturesque coastal towns, historic cities, and the city-state of Monaco. 

Monaco is a popular destination featured on Mediterranean itineraries and a highlight for travelers taking a cruise along the French Riviera. These sailings often include nearby destinations such as Barcelona, Marseille, Nice and Civitavecchia (for Rome).

Key takeaways

Top attractions include Old Town Monaco, the Prince's Palace and the Monaco Exotic Gardens.

Most cruise ships tender in or dock at nearby ports like Villefranche-sur-Mer.

Itineraries often pair Monaco with Barcelona, Marseille and Civitavecchia (for Rome) — and select itineraries may coincide with the Monaco Grand Prix.

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The Village of Eze

Take an excursion to Eze, located just outside Nice, France, which is thought to have been populated as early as 2000 BCE. An incredible 1,400 feet above sea level, this village — known as the "eagle's nest" — is a popular spot for visitors who want to experience gorgeous views of the sea, explore twelfth-century buildings, visit the popular botanical gardens full of cacti, or check out Fragonard, Eze's famous perfumery. This vantage point is a memorable addition to your port day along the French Riviera.

Old Town Monaco

Because Monaco’s harbor is relatively small, many cruise ships anchor offshore or dock in nearby ports like Villefranche-sur-Mer, with passengers transferred to Monaco by tender or short excursion. When you hear the name Monaco, your first thoughts probably turn to glitz, glamour, and the famous casino of the same name. Although this city-state is famous for its opulent living, it actually has an incredible history that is waiting to be discovered by those who choose to dig a little deeper.

The Cathedral of Monaco (Saint Nicholas Cathedral) represents the history of religion in the country. In modern times, this cathedral is famous for being the final resting place for Prince Rainier and his wife, the actress Grace Kelly. On a popular Monaco cruise shore excursion, you can climb the 30 steps that lead to the cathedral and see it for yourself, while marveling at the marble Episcopal Throne and brilliantly colored imagery that have inspired so many.

Additional historic sites in Monaco include the Prince's Palace, a twelfth-century Genoese fortress which is still occasionally used by Monaco’s royal family' today, and the Oceanographic Museum, which was once directed by Jacques Cousteau. Some Mediterranean itineraries even visit Monaco during the famous Monaco Grand Prix, allowing travelers to experience the city during one of the world’s most iconic Formula 1 events.

Monaco Exotic Gardens

In addition to historical sites, Monaco offers several opportunities for experiencing the natural side of the Mediterranean. One of the more famous attractions you can see on an excursion during your Monaco cruise is the Monaco Exotic Gardens.

The gardens of Monaco have been a highlight of the country since their opening in 1933. These gardens features succulents such as cacti that were brought to Monaco from dry climates around the world including the southwestern United States, the Arabian Peninsula and South Africa. This popular attraction also boasts several panoramic views of Monaco and the Mediterranean, and even features an underground cathedral that's located in a cave system.

Interested in a trip to Monaco? Explore Monaco and the French Riviera with Princess Cruises View Europe cruises.

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