If you’re keen on a stunning European getaway without using up your annual leave, then you’re in luck.
In just one weekend, you can visit two beautiful countries without taking a day off, thanks to a train journey between them that takes less than half an hour.
By catching a flight to Nice on a Friday evening after work, you can spend your Saturday exploring this charming French seaside town. Skyscanner currently offers flights from London to Nice later in January for a mere £88.
Nice is renowned for its laid-back, Italian-inspired ambiance. The city’s proximity to Italy, just 14 miles away, influences its architecture, cuisine and seaside resorts.
You can explore its famous flower market situated in the city centre, as well as its fresh food and vegetable market – perfect for a leisurely Saturday morning stroll, reports the Express.
On Sunday, you can hop on a quick train ride from Nice to Monaco – a small independent sovereign state just 20 minutes away by train. Trains depart from Nice to Monaco every half hour, providing the perfect opportunity to visit two countries in one weekend.
Monaco is known for being a haven for the wealthy and famous – it’s even mentioned in ABBA’s classic ‘Money, Money, Money’.
However, you don’t need to be a millionaire to enjoy a day in this breath taking city-state. With an area of just 2.02 square kilometres, Monaco is easy to walk around, so there’s no need to worry about expensive taxis.
Monaco is renowned for its opulence and offers some top-tier people-watching experiences. Settle down with a brew at one of the numerous cafes and enjoy the spectacle of high-end vehicles navigating the streets.
Free to explore, Monaco’s several splendid gardens, like the mid-90s Japanese Garden complete with koi-filled ponds, charming bridges, and beautifully maintained gardens, provide serene escapes.
For visitors seeking a touch of culture, the Prince’s Palace of Monaco looms grandly on a hill. This ex-Genoese stronghold features Renaissance frescoes and segments dating back to the 13th century.
For early risers, timing your visit to catch the daily changing of the guard at Place du Palais at 11:55am is recommended this can be followed by an exploratory amble through the city, rounding off the day with a train journey back to Nice in time for an evening flight to the UK.
Part of a current travel phenomenon known as ‘extreme day tripping’, these full-bodied schedules are gaining traction. Hadleigh Diamond, commercial director of SCS Chauffeurs, noted, “Extreme day trips are becoming a popular way to see key cities without having to take time off work, or fit travel around other responsibilities.”