mo_han1

A friend has suggested we take a drive from Santa Margherita to Monaco for a day. Has anyone done this trip? If so, how long does it take? And any suggestions where to stop for lunch on the way?

bobthenavigator

I would not bother---the route has 100 tunnels and is not much fun. And, you have better options much closer at Portofino and Portovenere---or even Lucca.

nytraveler

The drive is 2.5 to 3 hours each way. Can't imagine that spending 6 hours driving just to see a city designed for the uber wealthy - when there are similar but more charming places much closer.

What had you planned on doing in Monte Carlo that's worth such a long trip. (I've been several times - but from the Riviera - and to go to the casino in the evening - just for the hoot of feeling you're in a James Bond movie.)

cafegoddess

If you have never been to Monaco and wants to see it, then go for it. Like Bob said, the drive is long with lots of tunnels. Leave early and have lunch at Joel Robuchon (for a especial treat). If you are curious about Monaco then see it and form your own opinion. I like Monaco.

Portofino is very pretty, we love the O Magazin restaurant. The seafood pasta is heavenly and the baked fish with potatoes is simple, fresh and delicious! After lunch, hike up to the light house, a good way to work of the calories.

Have a great time!

qwovadis

Monaco is modern expensive and far away for a day trip

Cinqueterre towns are pretty and close

Portofino is awesome close

prettiest closer nice casino SanRemo

Still a couple of hours away though.

qwovadis

Torrettas.com Manarola is awesome

Metropole.it. Great food rooms where I usually stay

mamamia2

As one who spent some wonderful time there less than a month ago, I join the crowd. It's too long of a drive (yes, LOTS of tunnels, which are OK, but...), for too little of a reward, certainly for one day... I DO HOPE you have Cinque Terre in your itinerary, and yes, Portofino (practically around the corner) too, and so many other WONDERFUL places, especially in Toscana...

If you definitely want to drive up along the coast to the Italian Riviera than San Remo would be a nice city to visit.

mo_han1

Thanks so much for the comments - will give it a miss then. We plan to go to Portofino and of course Cinque Terre

ekscrunchy

Portofino is beautiful but tiny and will probably be crowded with day trippers.

Camogli was much more to my liking.