I haven't seen much on Monaco here. Just wondering if those that have been feel it's a worthwhile trip? We have a 4-day weekend in April, and this would be about a 3.5-hour drive for us. I thought it might be fun, BUT we have a 2-year-old, so keep that in mind. Let me know what you think. Obviously there are hundreds of places we could go, but I thought this sounded like fun, and the distance is about right.
Thanks,
Mindy

It's a nice place to visit for a day; your 2-year old might enjoy the Musee Oceanographic (aquarium); this is in the old part of town. Also walk around the expensive shops, near the Cafe de Paris; great to watch the people there. I wouldn't want to spend 4 days just in Monaco, but there is plenty do do and see nearby as well.

I go there often for "weekends". It's a great place with a child, because there are places to walk. Trees and birds, and some fancy shopping. I'd say do two days there, and then drive down to Nice to visit too.
Nice is just 15-20 down the coast with a beautiful drive. There is a open market and antique area plus the beach that would occupy your day. Cannes is also just a bit further than Nice and can be done in a day too. I'd go, as I do often.
The weather is almost always sunny and warmer than anywhere else in France. It's very pretty and worth the visit.
Ciao, Mel

Why not. It's a pretty little country, with great streets for walking (though hilly), museum of automated toys, the marina, the Old Town up the hill, the palace, gardens and aquariam. And since you have a car there are so many places to visit nearby. Surprisigly there are many young families living here with lots of children so there must be playgrounds somewhere (though can't say exactly).

Nice has wonderful market at the Cours Selaya, museums - the Chagall especially has great works done by children.

The hilltowns of Eze, St. Paul de Vence with the Maeght Foundation Musee across the road and others.

Most no more than 1-hrs drive. Go for it! Enjoy!

Is there parking by the Church at the palace area in Monte Carlo? I think I remember cars parked there, but I'm not sure.

Only residents are permitted to drive their vehicles up the Rock to the Palace, church, and Oceanographic musee area. For others who are driving, there are a few underground garages in close proximity - signs will direct you. Once you've parked your vehicle, you can either walk up the rock or take the bus (though not certain the bus #, but believe the sign on the bus says The Palace).

it's ok. i've been there once and do not feel the need to ever return. certainly not a must see in my opinion.

I'm with walkinaround. There are lots more interesting places to spend a 4 day weekend. And the walking can be difficult. Lots of hills. Nice, St. Paul de Vence, Menton are all more interesting than Monaco if you ask me. And in April a drive up from Menton to the tiny hill villages of Saorge and Tende could be beautiful.

Count me with the not-worth-it-with-a-2-year old. Parking is limited, and you'll be pushing a stroller up a lot of incline. We loved the aquarium, the little museum, etc., but my kids were physically capable of getting there on their own.