Top Things to Do in Monaco – Best Sights & Tips
By Richard Hoskisson – April 2025
Monaco and its capital Monte-Carlo are jewels of the Côte d’Azur. Having visited countless times over the past 20 years and based just 45 minutes away, I’ve explored every corner of this unique microstate.
The tiny principality of Monaco packs an impressive variety of things to do into less than one square mile. From the iconic Casino de Monte-Carlo to the historic Prince’s Palace, Monaco offers experiences that far exceed its size.
What many visitors don’t realise is that you can enjoy Monaco without emptying your wallet. My local perspective reveals the best timing to avoid crowds, hidden viewpoints, and authentic experiences beyond the glitz.
Let me guide you through the best things to do in Monaco whether you’re planning a quick day trip or a luxury weekend getaway.
Monaco at a Glance: Interactive Map
Click the star on the google map below (next to the title ‘Top Things To Do in Monaco’) to save as a favourite for future reference.
💡 Top Tip – Press the arrow at the top left of the map to reveal the different itineraries and categories I have crafted for you.
Monaco’s Must-See Attractions
Monaco’s small size (second only to Vatican City) creates a rare experience: you can see centuries of history, world-class culture, and breathtaking Mediterranean views all on foot. What this microstate lacks in size, it more than makes up for in what it has to offer.
After 20 years exploring of exploring Monaco, I’ve curated these essential things to do that showcase Monaco to its best; from its royal heritage to its modern glamour, all conveniently accessible within walking distance of each other.
Casino de Monte-Carlo
The Casino de Monte-Carlo isn’t just about high-stakes gambling—it’s a masterpiece of architecture and history. Designed by Charles Garnier, the architect behind the Paris Opera, this 1863 landmark features ornate frescoes, marble columns, and exquisite chandeliers that make it a must-see for any visitor to Monaco. Originally built to rescue Monaco’s ruling family from financial ruin, the casino now stands as a testament to their bold vision.
Even if you’re not interested in gambling, step inside during the morning hours (10 AM – 1 PM, entry €17) to admire the stunning interiors. Outside, the grand square and terraces of the Café de Paris offer some of the best photo spots in Monaco, especially at sunset.
💡 Top Tip: The atrium and lobby are free to enter, so if you just want a quick look without paying the entrance fee, this is your chance!
📸 – Head into the sunken garden opposite the Casino to frame the perfect shot of this beautiful building and square.
👔 Dress Code: If you plan to visit the gaming rooms, elegant clothing is expected – men’s collared shirts, no athletic wear.
Prince’s Palace & Changing of the Guard
I love the old-world charm of Le Rocher, the Prince’s Palace and its peaceful square. For a real treat, arrive just before midday—11:55 AM—to witness the Changing of the Guard, a tradition that dates back to 1817 when the Prince’s Carabinieri was formed.
The officers’ crisp white or formal black uniforms (depending on the season) are a striking sight and feel like a throwback to another era. The high-rises and casino of Monte-Carlo feel a million miles away from here.
If you’re visiting Monaco between April and October (excluding Grand Prix week when the palace is closed), I highly recommend touring the Prince’s Palace of Monaco. The visit takes you through the beautiful State Apartments, now featuring freshly restored frescoes that had been hidden from view for over five centuries.
⏰ Opening Hours: 10 AM – 5 PM (until 6 PM in July & August)
🎟️ Entry: €10 Adults / €5 Children – Booking in advance is highly recommended
👔 Dress Code: Appropriate attire is required. Swimwear and very light clothing are not permitted.
📸 – Photography Tip – to the easterly side of the palace square you will capture some of the most magnificent views of Monaco.
Monaco Old Town (Rock of Monaco/Le Rocher)
Another favourite thing to do in Monaco is to wander the Old Town, known as Le Rocher—the rocky outcrop that rises above the Mediterranean and is home to the Prince’s Palace.
The narrow alleyways, dating back to the Middle Ages, wind through a charming neighbourhood filled with hidden gems. Stroll past Place Saint Nicolas, stop for a drink or light bite in Placette Bosio, and admire historic sites like the Chapel of Mercy (inaugurated in 1639 under the reign of Prince Honoré II), the Palais de Justice, and the Cathedral of Monaco (a particular favourite of mine).
Built in 1875 in a Roman-Byzantine style, the Cathedral is well worth stepping inside. Don’t miss the magnificent high altar and Episcopal throne, which date back to the 1500s.
Inside the cathedral, you’ll also find the tombs of Princess Grace of Monaco—known to many as the Hollywood icon Grace Kelly (Gratia Patricia is inscribed on her tomb)—and her husband, Prince Rainier III. It’s a moment of quiet reflection in a place of deep historical significance.
⏰ Opening Hours: 9 AM – 6 PM daily
👔 Dress Code: Modest attire required. Shoulders must be covered, and miniskirts or short shorts are not permitted (knee-length “Bermuda” shorts are acceptable).
Oceanographic Museum & Jacques Cousteau Legacy
When you stroll through Le Rocher, you won’t miss the imposing and magnificent structure of the Musée Océanographique de Monaco.
Founded by HSH Prince Albert I (the current Prince’s great-great-grandfather) in 1910, the museum is world-renowned for its marine research and education. Inside, you’ll find over 6,000 marine specimens, from colourful tropical fish to creatures native to the Mediterranean. My personal highlight is the aquarium level, where modern displays showcase delicate coral reefs and deep-sea wonders.
💡 Top Tip: Save your museum visit for the later afternoon when many of the tourists start to leave Monaco. You will have a more tranquil experience.
📸 Photography Pointer: For the best external shot, walk down the steps to the right hand side of the museum (towards the car park). You will capture some of the most dramatic shots of this impressive structure (see mine above).
🌊 Jacques Cousteau’s Legacy:
Ocean legend Jacques Cousteau, co-inventor of the Aqua-Lung and pioneer of marine conservation, served as the museum’s director from 1957 to 1988. His impact on ocean exploration is still celebrated within these walls.
⏰ Open daily (except 25 Dec and Grand Prix weekend): 10 AM – 6 PM (extended to 7 or 8 PM in peak season)
🎟️ Adults €18 | Children €12 | Under 4s free | People of Determination €9
Port Hercule (Luxury Yacht Paradise)
It’s impossible to miss Port Hercule—a glittering marina lined with some of the world’s most opulent yachts, backed by Monaco’s iconic skyline. Nestled at the foot of Le Rocher and the Prince’s Palace, this natural deep-water harbour has been in use since Roman times and is still very much the beating heart of Monaco.
What truly sets Port Hercule apart is its blend of old and new: ancient history of Le Rocher meets futuristic floating palaces. In the 1970s, engineers constructed a revolutionary semi-floating sea wall—complete with underground parking—to accommodate ever-larger vessels. Today, the port plays host to everything from superyachts to world-famous events like the Monaco Yacht Show and Formula 1 Grand Prix.
💡 Top Tip: One of Monaco’s hidden gems is the Solarium on the Rainier III Sea Wall, where locals go for a dip. With ladders descending directly into the Med, it’s a brilliant free swimming spot—but be warned: the water is deep, so it’s best suited to confident swimmers.
🏊🏼♂️ Year-Round Fun at Rainier III Stadium
From mid-April to October, the Olympic-size 50m pool is a fabulous place for a swim with harbour views—if you’re lucky, you might spot Princess Charlene, a former Olympic swimmer (for South Africa 🇿🇦), getting in a few laps.
❄️ Winter Magic: From early December to early March, the pool is transformed into a public ice skating rink, complete with music, lights, and that unbeatable Monaco backdrop. It’s a festive favourite for locals and visitors alike.
📸 Photography Pointer: For a postcard-perfect view, stroll along the upper levels of Boulevard Albert I or the terraces near the Yacht Club. Golden hour here turns the entire port into a glowing showcase of Monaco’s glitz and Mediterranean charm.
Exotic Garden & Cave Observatory
Although currently closed for renovation (with reopening scheduled for late Summer 2025 – at the time of writing opening date is not yet confirmed), the Jardin Exotique de Monaco is well worth adding to your future itinerary.
First opened in the 1930s, this cliffside garden showcases a remarkable collection of succulents and cacti from around the globe—including Mexico, the Middle East, and Southern Africa. Perched high above the city, it offers breathtaking panoramic views across the Principality and the Mediterranean below.
Beneath the garden lies one of Monaco’s hidden gems: the Observatory Cave. Despite the name, this isn’t a stargazing spot—the name refers to the nearby astronomical observatory, which has stood here for over a century. The cave itself is a vast subterranean chamber located around 100 metres above sea level, filled with dramatic limestone formations.
🎟️ Entry to the garden includes a guided tour of the cave (around 300 steps in total), where you’ll descend into a world of underground stalactites, stalagmites, and fascinating geological history.
💡 Top Tip: Don’t skip the Botanical Centre, which remains open even while the main garden is under renovation. It’s home to one of the world’s most important collections of rare and endangered succulents, many of which aren’t on display elsewhere.
📸 Photography Pointer: Once reopened, time your visit for early morning or late afternoon to capture the soft light over the terraces—perfect for framing the plants against Monaco’s skyline and sea beyond.
Princess Grace Japanese Garden (Hidden Zen Retreat)
Established in 1994 at the request of Prince Rainier III, this peaceful garden was designed according to the principles of Zen philosophy. It’s a serene escape that transports you straight to the heart of Japan—right in the middle of the hustle and bustle of Monaco.
Created under the guidance of renowned Japanese landscape architect Yasuo Beppu, the garden blends traditional Japanese architecture (imported from Japan) with Mediterranean plants, carefully cultivated by Beppu himself over a three-year period to suit the local climate.
Wander along stone paths, listen to the trickle of water, and enjoy a moment of calm beside the koi pond or beneath the wisteria-draped pavilion.
🎟️ Free Entry
⏰ Open daily from 9 AM – 5:45 PM (extended to 6:45 PM in summer)
💡 Top Tip: This spot is ideal for a quiet break if you’re exploring Monte-Carlo on foot—especially in the warmer months when the shaded pavilion offers welcome relief.
📸 Photography Pointer: For that perfect Zen shot, head to the red bridge near the koi pond in the early morning light—it makes for a striking contrast with the lush greenery and reflections in the water.
Unique Monaco Experiences
Fo a truly exceptional experience beyond the main sights listed above, you will definitely want to add some of these things to do to your Monaco itinerary.
Walk the Monaco Formula 1 Circuit
The Monaco Grand Prix has been a fixture of the Principality’s calendar since 1929. While the race itself only roars to life in May, you don’t need to be here on race day to follow in the tyre tracks of Formula 1 legends — the world-famous 3.3km street circuit is walkable all year-round.
This is one of the only F1 tracks in the world made up entirely of public roads, winding past the harbour, casinos, historic corners and swanky hotels.
📍 Monaco F1 Circuit Walking Highlights (Approx. 45 min walk / 3.3km loop):
- 🚩 Sainte-Dévote Corner – Begin at the sharp first turn, named for Monaco’s patron saint.
- ⬆️ Beau Rivage (Avenue d’Ostende) – Climb uphill with spectacular views of Port Hercule.
- 🎭 Massenet – Skirt past the grand Opéra de Monte-Carlo, one of the circuit’s more dramatic settings.
- 🎰 Casino Square – Snap a photo in front of the legendary Monte-Carlo Casino and Hôtel de Paris.
- 🏨 Mirabeau Haute – Sweep downhill into Monaco’s luxury heart.
- 🌀 Grand Hotel Hairpin – The tightest turn in Formula 1 and a must-stop photo op.
- 🏨 Mirabeau Bas – A downhill twist into classic Monaco streets.
- 💥 Portier – A fast exit onto the sea, and site of Senna’s infamous 1988 crash.
- 🌉 Tunnel – Experience the roar and glow of this high-speed, semi-dark stretch.
- 🔀 Nouvelle Chicane – A tight turn where overtakes are rare and risky.
- 🚬 Tabac – Glide past yachts and the harbour at this waterside curve.
- 🏊 Piscine Complex – A flashy, fast sequence flanked by the public swimming pool.
- 🍸 La Rascasse – Iconic bar and one of the trickiest corners on the track.
- 🏁 Antony Noghès / Finish Line – Cross the finish like a champ on Boulevard Albert 1er.
🗺️ See my full Google Map above — the circuit route is marked in red.
💡 Top Tip: Early mornings are best for quieter streets. Wear comfortable shoes — there are stairs, slopes, and lots of distractions!
📸 Photography Pointer: The best F1 selfie spots? Casino Square and the Fairmont Hairpin—two of the most photographed turns in Formula 1.
⚠️ Safety Note: While you can walk the entire route, remember it’s still a functioning city. Stick to pavements, cross at lights, and stay aware of traffic.
Prince’s Vintage Car Collection (70+ Classics)
A must for car lovers and Monaco history fans alike. In the late 1950s, HSH Prince Rainier III began collecting classic cars—a passion that grew into a unique private collection. In 1993, he opened his collection to the public.
Now housed in a purpose-built space at Port Hercule, the exhibition spans 3,500m² and showcases over 70 vintage vehicles, including models that have raced in the Monaco Grand Prix, Monte-Carlo Rally, and even the Paris-Dakar.
Look out for the Chrysler Imperial specially brought over from the U.S. to transport Grace Kelly from the port to the Palace on her wedding day—a real highlight for fans of Monaco’s royal love story.
🕙 Opening Hours
• July 1 – Aug 31: 10 AM – 7 PM (last entry 6 PM)
• Sept 1 – June 30: 10 AM – 6 PM (last entry 5 PM)
• Closed: Nov 19, Dec 25, and during Grand Prix weekends
🎟 Entry – Adults: €10 | Children (6–17): €5 | Under 6: Free
Monaco Cathedral & Grace Kelly’s Resting Place
While I touched on this earlier in the Le Rocher section, it deserves its own mention here. After all, where else can you pay respects to a Hollywood icon who became a real-life princess?
Grace Kelly captivated the world in the 1950s before marrying Prince Rainier III of Monaco in 1956 in one of the most glamorous weddings of the century.
She later dedicated her life to Monaco and her family, before tragically passing away in a car accident on the winding coastal road between Nice and Monaco in 1982.
HSH Princess Grace of Monaco’s final resting place, marked Gratia Patricia, lies within Monaco Cathedral, beside her husband Prince Rainier III. Whether you’re a fan of classic cinema, royalty, or just intrigued by her story, this is a truly unique and poignant stop during your visit.
⏰ Opening Hours: 9 AM – 6 PM daily
👔 Dress Code: Modest attire required. Shoulders must be covered. No short shorts or miniskirts. Knee-length “Bermuda” shorts are acceptable.
Luxury Shopping at Metropole & Carré d’Or
Even if you’re not planning to splurge, it’s worth experiencing the glamour of Carré d’Or—Monaco’s Golden Square. Set around the elegant Place du Casino, this prestigious quarter is lined with flagship boutiques from the world’s top luxury brands, including Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Hermès, Cartier, and more.
You’ll also find jewellery houses, haute couture ateliers, and some of the finest hotels and Michelin-starred restaurants in the world.
💡 Top Tip – Pop into the Métropole Shopping Monte-Carlo, an upscale mall just steps from Casino Square. It offers a blend of designer boutiques, a beautiful chandeliered atrium, and an excellent Monaco-style people-watching spot, even if you’re only window shopping.
Afternoon Aperitif at Place du Casino
There’s no better place to soak in the spirit of La Belle Époque than at the Café de Paris Monte-Carlo. Set within the Casino de Monte-Carlo complex, this iconic café has been a staple of Monaco life since 1868, offering a front-row seat to the glamour of Place du Casino.
With its elegant Parisian Art Deco interiors and spacious terrace, it’s the perfect spot for a sunset cocktail or indulgent afternoon tea. Whether you’re people-watching or admiring the surrounding architecture, this is Monaco at its most timeless.
⏰ Open daily from 8 AM – 1 AM
💡 Top Tip – Try to book a terrace table around golden hour—it’s ideal for photos, and the changing light across the square is pure magic.
Enjoy Michelin-Star Dining (10 Stars in 1 Square Mile)
Monaco is home to the world’s highest concentration of Michelin stars, with 10 stars across 7 restaurants in the Principality. Most are found in the Carré d’Or and nearby areas.
Here’s a snapshot of the Michelin-starred restaurants:
⭐️ Pavyllon by Yannick Alléno
Fresh, seasonal Mediterranean cuisine with a modern twist, led by Yannick Alléno.
⭐️ Elsa
Monaco’s first Michelin-starred organic restaurant, offering sustainable Mediterranean fare.
⭐️ Le Grill
Elegant French dining with panoramic views of the Mediterranean at Hotel de Paris.
⭐️ La Table d’Antonio Salvatore au Rampoldi
A fusion of Italian and Monagasque flavours with creative Mediterranean dishes.
⭐️⭐️ L’Abysse Monte-Carlo
Intimate Japanese fine dining by renowned French and Japanese chefs Yannick Alléno and Yasunari Okazaki.
⭐️⭐️ Blue Bay Marcel Ravin
Caribbean-Mediterranean fusion cuisine in a relaxed, tropical setting.
⭐️⭐️ Les Ambassadors by Christophe Cussac
Modern French cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients at the Fairmont.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ Le Louis XV – Alain Duvasse à l’Hôtel de Paris
A pinnacle of Mediterranean fine dining with Alain Ducasse at the helm.
💡 Top Tip: If you plan to dine at any of these prestigious spots, make sure to book in advance, as reservations are often in high demand.
Perfect Monaco Itineraries
Choose between my perfect one-day or weekend itineraries in Monaco to pack in the main highlights as well as some hidden gems.
🕘 One-Day Itinerary for Monaco
A Perfect Day Trip from Anywhere on the Côte d’Azur
Thanks to Monaco’s excellent train links, it’s easy to visit from Cannes, Antibes, Nice, Èze, Menton, or even Grasse. The TER regional trains run frequently, with most journeys taking under an hour. This itinerary hits the iconic sights and a few unique local experiences, wrapping up just in time for a sunset aperitif and the train home.
- 🚆 8:30–9:00 AM: Arrive by Train
- Monaco-Monte-Carlo station is well-connected and easy to reach from Nice, Antibes, Menton, and Cannes. Trains run frequently and the journey offers spectacular sea views.
- 🚶 Leave via the “Sortie Ville” (City Exit) or signs for Jardin Exotique.
This takes you through a pedestrian tunnel and down to Place Sainte-Dévote — a perfect starting point for your walking tour. Enjoy the quiet charm of the Old Town before the tour groups arrive.
- 🏎️ 9:00–10:00 AM: Walk the Monaco F1 Grand Prix Circuit
- Begin your day by tracing the legendary 3.3 km F1 route through Monaco’s streets. You’ll pass iconic corners like Sainte-Dévote, the Grand Hotel Hairpin, and the roaring Tunnel.
🗺️ Want the full walkthrough? Click here for my mapped highlights and insider tips!
💡 Top Tip – Wear comfy shoes. The circuit includes stairs, tunnels, and plenty of photo stops.
- 🏰 10:00–12:00 PM: Explore Monaco Old Town (Le Rocher)
- Take the lift or stairs up to the Old Town. Discover:
- The Prince’s Palace (with optional Guard Ceremony around 11:55)
- Monaco Cathedral (Princess Grace’s final resting place)
- Charming medieval alleyways, quiet squares, and local cafés
- Take the lift or stairs up to the Old Town. Discover:
💡 Top Tip: Stop at Placette Bosio for a light snack or coffee.
- 🌿 12:00–12:45 PM: Lunch With a View
- Enjoy lunch with a Mediterranean backdrop. Options include:
- 🥗 Le Petit Bar or La Terrasse (local fare, fair pricing)
- 🧺 Or bring a packed lunch and eat near the Palace viewpoints or for pure tranquility at the Jardins Saint Martin (adjacent to the Musée Océanographique) for truly spectacular views over the Mediterranean.
- Enjoy lunch with a Mediterranean backdrop. Options include:
- 🪷 13:00–13:45 PM: Visit the Japanese Garden
- Stroll through this peaceful Zen-inspired between the glamour of the Casino area and the harbourfront.
- Bamboo, koi ponds, stone bridges, waterfalls and quiet paths
- Created by Japanese architect Yasuo Beppu
- A moment of contrast amongst the Principality’s glitz and glamour.
📍 Avenue Princesse Grace
💸 Free Entry | ⏰ 9 AM – 6 PM
💡 Top Tip: The Japanese Garden also has shaded benches—perfect for a short rest or quiet moment before heading down to the port.
- 🍸 14:00–15:30 PM: Sunset Aperitif or Afternoon Drink
- Return to Casino Square and soak in the Belle Époque vibes at Café de Paris Monte-Carlo
- Terrace seating adjacent to the Casino; experience old-world glamour, and people-watching heaven.
💡 Top Tip: Try to grab a table by the railing for the best people-watching and views of the Casino façade. Prices are generally higher here, but the setting is unmatched and worth it.
- 🚉 5:30–6:30 PM – Return to the Train Station
- Take a leisurely stroll back towards the station. There’s still time to detour via Port Hercule for a final photo stop.
Weekend in Monaco: The Insider’s Route
Enjoy a full weekend in the Principality with this two-day itinerary that goes beyond the tourist highlights. Expect peaceful corners, scenic walking routes, and a touch of Riviera luxury—without overloading your schedule.
🕘 Day One – The Classics & a Taste of Glamour
This follows much of the One-Day Itinerary, so head there if you’d like full details. Here’s the snapshot:
- Morning:
- 🚶 Walk the F1 Circuit
- 🏰 Visit Monaco-Ville (Le Rocher): Palace, Cathedral, and charming alleyways
- ☕ Coffee break at Wake & Waffle (Le Rocher)
- Midday:
- 🥗 Lunch in the Old Town or picnic at Jardins Saint-Martin
- Afternoon:
- 🌸 Stroll the Japanese Garden
- 🎰 Stop at Casino Square for photos and a place inside the Casino
- 🍸 Aperitif at Café de Paris
- Evening:
- 🍽️ Dinner options include local bistros like Le Petit Bar or treat yourself to a Michelin-starred experience (see list above)
☀️ Day Two – Hidden Gems & Relaxed Luxury
- 🖼️ 9:30 AM – Musée Océanographique
- Start with the iconic cliff-top aquarium and museum. Even if you’ve visited before, the rooftop terrace and Mediterranean views are worth a return
- 🌿 11:00 AM – Quiet Garden Strolls
- Wander the adjacent Saint Martin Gardens, then detour to the Roseraie Princesse Grace in Fontvieille—lesser known and beautifully serene.
- 🚗 12:30 PM – Prince’s Car Collection
- Take a peek at 200+ vintage vehicles, including race cars from the Monaco Grand Prix. A must-see for car lovers. (Entry €10)
- 🍝 2:00 PM – Lunch at the Port
- Grab a relaxed bite at Caffé Milano or Marius Monaco around Port Hercule.
- 🛍️ 3:30 PM – Light Shopping or a Scenic Stroll
- Browse the Métropole Shopping Centre
- Or follow the waterfront promenade past La Condamine Market and up to the Rock (Le Rocher)
- 🏖️ 5:00 PM – Time to Unwind
🌅 Sundowners & Summer Swims
If you’re visiting in warmer months, end your weekend with a swim or sunset drink.
Swim Spots
- 🏊♂️ Plage des Pêcheurs – a small local beach beneath the Rock (Le Rocher)
- 🌊 The Solarium – a peaceful sea-access platform on the new seawall (Fontvieille side) – this is my absolute favorite spot for swimming in Monaco.
- 🏖️Larvotto Beach – Monaco’s preferred sandy beach, with free access, crystal-clear waters, and a vibrant Riviera atmosphere.
Sundowner Suggestions
- 🍹 La Note Bleue (Larvotto Beach) – chilled music, beachfront setting
- 🥂 Nikki Beach (Fairmont rooftop) – poolside cocktails with serious Riviera energy
- 🍷 Il Giardino – tucked-away terrace with great wine and sunset light
🧭 More Hidden Gems & Unique Experiences
For travellers with extra time or niche interests, these lesser-known Monaco highlights add a different experience to your visit:
🎭 Fort Antoine Theatre
A 19th-century fortress turned open-air theater, carved into the cliffs of Le Rocher. Free summer performances come with panoramic Mediterranean backdrops. Insider Tip: The ramparts offer sunset views rivaling paid viewpoints.
⚽ Promenade des Champions
Monaco’s answer to the Hollywood Walk of Fame, honouring soccer legends like Pelé and Beckham with golden footprints along the harbour. Enjoy a stroll along this unique promenade.
🌿 Jardin Animalier
Monaco’s tiny but charming zoo, founded by Prince Rainier III in 1954. Highlights include endangered Iberian lynxes and a lemur enclosure with Princely Palace views. (Entry: €5)
🖼️ Nouveau Musée National de Monaco (Villa Paloma)
A thought-provoking contemporary art space in a Belle Époque villa. Rotating exhibits often explore Mediterranean themes. Bonus: The garden terrace has secret harbour vistas.
🚢 Tour the Yacht Club de Monaco
Even non-members can admire Philippe Starck’s sleek architecture and the Tuiga (1909 sailing yacht) docked outside. Check their website for rare public open days.
🇲🇨 Monaco: A Destination for All Seasons
Whether you’re visiting for a summer day trip or a festive winter escape, Monaco has something unique to offer all year-round.
🌼 Spring (March–May)
Arguably the best time. Monaco is in bloom, and the vibe is fresh but not hectic. Visit the Jardins Saint-Martin and the Jardin Exotique, enjoy café terraces, and feel the buzz as the Grand Prix build-up begins in late April/early May.
🌞 Summer (June–August)
The season of sun, swims, and soirées. Beach clubs are in full swing, terraces buzz with life, and there’s often live music or pop-up festivals around the port. Great for dips at Larvotto Beach, the Crique des Pêcheurs, or sunbathing by the Solarium on the sea wall.
🍂 Autumn (September–November)
Warm sea temperautres linger into October and with fewer crowds, mild weather, and cheaper hotel rates it is the perfect time for exploring on foot. Visit the Oceanographic Museum, or enjoy quieter moments in the Japanese Garden.
🎄 Winter – From late November, Christmas markets bring festive lights to Port Hercule. There’s also an ice rink in the port area and seasonal events hosted by the Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer. Expect fewer tourists and a more local feel.
💡 Top Tip – If you’re not sure when to go, spring or early autumn as they offer the perfect balance of sunshine, space, and atmosphere.
Practical Monaco Tips
🚆 Getting to Monaco (Train, Bus & Helicopter Options)
The easiest way to reach Monaco is by train from Nice, with frequent TER services that take around 25 minutes. If you’re staying along the Côte d’Azur, buses also offer scenic — if slower — options (such as the #607 from Nice, previously the #100).
For a truly memorable arrival, consider a helicopter transfer from Nice Airport — just 7 minutes in the air with stunning views of the coast.
⚠️ Top Travel Hack: If you’re flying with scheduled airlines like Emirates Qatar Airways etc, you can book your flight directly to Monaco. This includes the helicopter transfer from Nice — often at a discounted or surprisingly reasonable rate when bundled into your fare.
💡 Top Tip: The Monaco train station (Gare de Monaco) is entirely underground, with multiple exits — follow signs for Monte-Carlo or Le Rocher depending on where you’re headed.
🛗 Navigating Monaco’s Elevators & Hidden Walkways
Monaco is quite steep in parts! Luckily, the principality is full of public lifts, escalators and hidden walkways that make it much easier to get around. These connect areas like the train station to the port and beaches, and help avoid uphill climbs.
💡 Top Tip: Google Maps now marks lift locations. Look out for signs labelled Ascenseur Public — they’re your best friend when exploring on foot.
Where to Stay in Monaco: Luxe to Budget-Friendly
Despite its luxury reputation, Monaco offers accommodation for a range of budgets — from five-star icons in Monte Carlo to more affordable hotels just across the border within easy walking distance in France. The connection between Monaco and its French neighbours is seamless, making it simple to stay nearby and still enjoy everything the principality has to offer.
💎 Luxury Hotels in Monaco
- Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo – Iconic, elegant, and unbeatable location next to the Casino.
- Fairmont Monte Carlo – A Riviera classic perched above the famous F1 hairpin. Rooftop pool, sea views, and lively dining options.
- Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo – Serene Belle Époque charm with panoramic terraces and access to Thermes Marins spa. My personal favourite.
🧳 Mid-Range Stays
- Columbus Monte-Carlo – A stylish boutique option in Fontvieille, loved for its quieter location and proximity to the Princess Grace Rose Garden.
- Novotel Monte-Carlo – Central, modern and well-connected — a solid all-rounder close to the train station.
- Hotel Ambassador Monaco – A more modest choice near the Condamine district and within walking distance of Le Rocher.
💸 Budget-Friendly Picks (Just Over the Border)
While Monaco itself isn’t known for budget accommodation, there are excellent options in Beausoleil and Cap-d’Ail — towns that border Monaco and are literally minutes away on foot:
- Hotel Olympia (Beausoleil 🇫🇷) – Basic, clean and located just above Monte Carlo Casino. You can walk to the action in under 10 minutes.
- Hotel Capitole (Beausoleil 🇫🇷) – A no-frills option with friendly service and a great location steps from Casino Square.
- Hotel Normandy (Cap-d’Ail 🇫🇷) – A charming, budget-friendly base with sea views and easy bus access to central Monaco.
Click the links above to check availability and current rates.
💡 Top Tip: Accommodation inside Monaco is often booked out during Grand Prix or major events — plan ahead or stay in Beausoleil, Cap d’Ail, or Roquebrune-Cap-Martin for nearby, budget-friendlier options.
Monaco FAQs
Is Monaco a Country or Part of France?
Monaco is an independent country, officially known as the Principality of Monaco. It’s bordered by France and the Mediterranean Sea — and while French is the official language, it has its own monarchy, laws, government, flag 🇲🇨 and passports.
Monaco vs. Monte Carlo: What’s the Difference?
Monaco is the country. Monte Carlo is a district within Monaco — specifically the area known for its casino, luxury shopping, and glamorous lifestyle. Think of Monte Carlo as a neighbourhood within the principality.
📸 Best Photo Spots in Monaco (Local Photographer Tips)
Some of the best photo spots include:
- 📸 The viewpoint over Port Hercule from Avenue de la Porte Neuve
- 🏰 The Prince’s Palace square overlooking the harbour
- 🌊 The Japanese Garden for serenity and contrast
- 🐠 Outside the Musée Océanographique, perched above the sea
- 📍 And if you’re lucky: the bend at Fairmont Hairpin during Grand Prix prep!
Do I Need Euros or Can I Use Credit Cards?
Monaco uses the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, especially in hotels, restaurants, and shops. That said, it’s handy to carry some small change for things like water fountains or bus tickets.
How Much Time Do I Need in Monaco?
You can see the highlights in a day, but a weekend allows for a more relaxed pace and time to dip into the beaches, museums, and restaurants. Want to linger longer? Many travellers base themselves in Nice or Menton and pop in for multiple visits.
The Monaco Experience: Final Thoughts
Monaco is a destination like no other. This tiny principality is packed with iconic landmarks, rich traditions, and a fascinating blend of old-world charm and modern luxury. Whether you’re enjoying an evening at the Monte-Carlo Casino or watching the changing of the guard at the Prince’s Palace, there’s an undeniable sense of grandeur here.
Personally, I love wandering around Le Rocher, where the cliffside views over the Mediterranean and the city’s towering skyline make for an unforgettable contrast. And if you’re a fan of Formula One, tracing the legendary Grand Prix route is a must.
Use my recommendations and curated itineraries to help you make the most of your time in Monaco — whether you’re planning a quick day trip or a full Riviera weekend.
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