How to get around Monaco: Local buses, public elevators, and airport transfers

Getting Around Monaco

Monaco's steep terrain makes vertical elevation the main factor in selecting transport across the principality.

• Public Lifts and Walking: Dozens of free public elevators, escalators, and tunnels connect low harbors with high districts like Monte-Carlo. For short vertical trips, walking through these lifts is fastest.
• CAM Buses: The local network connects Fontvieille to Larvotto. Buses win during hot weather, steep ascents, or cross-town trips.
• Bateau Bus: An electric ferry running across Port Hercule, saving a long walk around the marina basin.

Tickets and Fares

CAM buses accept contactless bank cards on boarding. Day passes suit travelers planning frequent uphill or cross-town journeys, while visitors exploring compact districts on foot do not need them.

Nice Airport (NCE) to Monaco

• Direct Express Bus: Motorway route to central Monaco. Moderate cost band, minimal effort with luggage, but vulnerable to highway traffic.
• Tram and Regional Train: Tram to Nice Saint-Augustin, then TER train to Monaco-Monte-Carlo station. Lowest cost band and reliable travel time, but requires self-transferring luggage.
• Taxi or Private Car: Door-to-door convenience. High cost band, minimal effort, but affected by rush-hour bottlenecks.

Practical Transit Tips

Commuter traffic creates morning and evening road congestion at border points. Regular buses stop before midnight, followed by an hourly night service. While public elevators provide step-free transit, old town cobblestones and outdoor stairs challenge rolling luggage.