18th November 2016: For many, the highlight of any holiday is the experiences, and with Silversea’s extensive range of trips and tours, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Here are some of my favourite excursions, during my recent visit to captivating Monaco.
Helicopter Transfer
For the ultimate start to your holiday I would highly recommend the helicopter transfer from Nice airport to Monte Carlo. Departing every half hour from 8:30am until 7:30pm, it takes just seven minutes, but the views are breath taking.
Our helicopter took six passengers and I was lucky enough to be sat by the window, giving me the perfect view during the journey. As I gazed out, the Cote d'Azur coastline glistened in the afternoon sun, with the bobbing yachts and boats below us looking like mere specks in the ocean as we flew smoothly over.
After this amazing journey aboard the Monacair helicopter, we landed on the helipad in Monte Carlo, where we were whisked away by private transfer, and taken to our hotel. If that’s not enough for you, Silversea offers an amazing Cote D'Azur sightseeing flight, which takes about 20 minutes to complete, from $299.
Silversea Excursions
Whether you wish to explore the Riviera Corniches or Nice and Eze, Silversea offers plenty of trips and excursions so you can really make the most of your holiday. Guests on board can book at the shore concierge desk between 7.30am to 10am and 5pm to 7pm, here you can arrange day trips and plan out your time ashore.
Most excursions are a group size of 24, and travelling in a full size coach, you’ll be accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide and Silversea representative, giving you a real insight to each location.
My Top Picks
The French Riviera is waiting to be discovered, and the principality of Monaco has a wide range of museums and attractions for all ages. Two I would definitely recommend are the Oceanographic Museum and Aquarium, and the Classic Car Collection HSH Prince of Monaco. Both of which I have visited many times and enjoyed thoroughly.
The Oceanographic Museum was founded by Prince Albert I, as a Temple of the Sea, dedicated to art and science. Perched on the edge of the mythological Rock of Monaco, this impressive structure looks out onto the ocean, and offers a unique learning experience for all. Housing an impressive colourful tropical aquarium, with spectacular coral reef habitat and four floors to explore, it’s easy to loose track of time in here. It also features Bushnell’s ‘Turtle’ submarine, one of the first manned submarines in existence. Built in 1776, this impressive contraption is made out of wood and designed to be driven underwater by a hand turned propeller.
The Exhibition of HSH The Prince of Monaco’s Vintage Car Collection is a must for any "petrol head” or curious tourist. Bringing together an extensive collection of almost 100 classic models and vintages, as well as six historic coaches, it’s truly fascinating and unique.
For those who love to wander through pretty flora, two of my favourite places to visit are the Jardin Exotic Garden of Monaco and the Japanese Garden. For any keen gardeners, or those who simply appreciate the beauty of nature, they are a must-see and truly inspirational.
Monte Carlo can easily be explored on foot, and with over 300 days of sunshine, there is no better way to spend a pre or post cruise short break. With Silversea, you’ll have the opportunity to tailor your holiday, making the most of each destination, with their unique excursions and trips.
