You’re planning to visit Monaco, on the French Riviera, and you’re looking for the best things to do?
You’re at the right place!
Synonymous with luxury and opulence, this city (which is also the 2nd smallest country in the world, after the Vatican) is world famous for its casino, 5* hotels, Michelin starred restaurants and the “Rock of Monaco”.
In order to help you plan your stay, I have written this guide of the 25 best things to do in Monaco, with all must-see attractions and points of interest of the city and its surroundings.
In addition to the best places to visit, you will also find itineraries to visit Monaco in 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 days (or more!) as well as my selection of the best hotels depending on your budget.
So, what are the best things to do in Monaco? Where to stay?
Let’s find out!
1. The Rock of Monaco
Start with Monaco’s unmissable landmark: the Rock.
This is where the history of the city began when, in 1297, Francesco Grimaldi, disguised as a monk, successfully captured The Rock to found the famous Grimaldi dynasty and the Principality of Monaco, still in power today.
The Rock, a district in its own right, constitutes the old town of Monaco or “Monaco City”. The best way to get there is on foot so you can enjoy the views over the harbour and the city.
Very different from the modern part of the city with its buildings, the historic heart of Monaco has narrow streets, colourful houses, and of course no end of souvenir shops and restaurants.
Visit the Monaco Rock and you’ll also discover a raft of iconic places of interest:
- The Prince’s palace (I tell you more about it below)
- Saint Nicholas Cathedral (point 3)
- The Saint Martin Gardens, see point 4
- The Oceanographic Museum (point 5)
2. The Prince’s Palace Monaco
The Prince’s Palace is the main tourist attraction in Monaco. It is located on the Place du Palais, right at the top of the Rock.
Built in the 13th century, it is still the residence of the Grimaldi family, the Prince of Monaco, Albert II and his wife Charlène of Monaco.
Part of the Prince‘s Palace is open to visitors, but only from April to October. In particular, you can discover:
- The main courtyard and its marble double rise staircase
- The Hercules Gallery and its sumptuous frescoes representing mythological characters
- The State Apartments: several rooms adorned with luxurious furniture, rich drapes and paintings. It is here that the Prince receives his prestigious guests during official ceremonies. You can also admire the Throne Room.
For details of opening times and prices for your visit to the Prince’s Palace of Monaco, see the official website.
3.Saint Martin Gardens
4.Monte Carlo Casino
During your trip to Monaco, be sure to visit the Monte Carlo Casino. Even if you are not a fan of slot machines or roulette, you should at least admire its exterior façade.
The casino was built in 1863 by Charles Garnier the same architect who was responsible for the Opéra Garnier in Paris. Inside, you will find the Opera Hall (a replica of the one in Paris) which hosts numerous concerts and games rooms, all of which are beautifully decorated.
You can visit the inside of the casino in the morning (there is a charge) but from 2.00 pm, entry is restricted to gamblers.
The casino is located on the Casino Square (Place du Casino) and is part of the most famous area of Monaco: Monte Carlo.
In Monte Carlo you will also find:
- The iconic Hotel de Paris Monte Carlo, a palace of world renown where the rates for one night start from €530. The luxury price for an exceptional stay in Monaco! You can book your night at the Hotel de Paris.
- The “Le Louis XV” restaurant run by chef Alain Ducasse has been awarded 3 Michelin stars
- The Café de Paris is the perfect place to enjoy a cocktail with a view of the Casino, or buy an ice cream created by the Ice Cream World Champion, no less.
- Luxury boutiques and jewellery shops in the area known as the “Golden Square”. Let me give you more details about shopping in Monaco a little further away.
5.Exotic Garden of Monaco
Another Monaco tourist attraction I recommend you visit: the Exotic Garden.
Located high up in the city, this garden extending over 15,000 m² is home to hundreds of cacti and other exotic plant species, especially from the American continent.
In addition to its extreme richness, the Exotic Garden of Monaco allows you to contemplate a beautiful panorama of the Principality and the Riviera.
6.Port Hercules
If you want to and admire the yachts while you’re in Monaco, head for Port Hercules!
Located below the Monte Carlo district, at the foot of the Rock, the city’s main harbour is where luxury cruise ships and pleasure boats dock.
Every year, the Port Hercules dock also hosts the Monaco funfair, which usually takes place between October and November. If you have decided to visit Monaco during the All Saints holidays, it is a great place to head with the family!
The funfair then gives way to the Christmas village of Monaco where you will find the traditional Christmas market as well as a large outdoor skating rink, merry-go-rounds, the Ferris wheel and shows.
