You’ve decided to visit Monaco in 3 days? Great idea, you won’t have time to get bored!
Between its iconic Casino and its magnificent Palais Princier, we were charmed by the Principality. The embodiment of international luxury, the Principality boasts palaces, haute couture, sports cars, private beaches and Michelin-starred restaurants. Densely built into the cliffs, Monaco leaves no one indifferent!
In this article, we suggest detailed itineraries to optimize your stay and make sure you don’t miss a thing! Check out our practical tips and our many photos to make up your own mind about this destination.
This guide is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Practical tips for visiting Monaco in 3 days
Getting around on foot or by public transport
Most tourist attractions are concentrated in Monte-Carlo and Le Rocher. Within these neighborhoods, it’s easy to get around on foot. Journey times are relatively short, as the Principality is densely built-up but not very large. On the other hand, Monaco’s cliff-side location means that it can be difficult to reach some of the higher districts. Good physical condition and good walking shoes are a must!
Although there are public elevators to get from one road to another, they’re generally pretty slow, which is why we mostly took the stairs. To help you find your way around this densely populated city, we recommend downloading the city map here, which shows the location of escalators, public elevators and staircases. A brochure for people with reduced mobility is also available here.
You can also opt for public transport. Several bus lines serve Monaco’s different districts, and you can even check traffic in real time on the official website here! Choose to pay by contactless credit card or via the Monapass application. If you wish to pay in cash, the rate will be more expensive and you’ll need to top up!
Cab fares are fixed. Whatever your journey, it will cost you €18! For more information, visit the official Monaco cab website here.
The weather in Monaco
Monaco enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate. However, temperatures can sometimes rise considerably in summer, which can make outdoor activities uncomfortable (especially if you’re sensitive to heat). We advise you to visit the Principality and its surroundings in spring, autumn or winter.
The water temperature never falls below 12° and averages around 13°, with a maximum of 15° in December.
Attendance in Monaco
Monaco is very busy, especially during major events (Formula 1 Grand Prix, Monaco Yacht Show…) and the summer season. Tourist attractions are quickly snapped up. If you have the opportunity, we advise you to go outside these periods. Monaco is also a popular destination during the festive season. Some areas (Monte Carlo and the Rocher) are very busy. Access to the Rock by car, for example, is restricted to residents of the Principality and the Alpes-Maritimes department. To park, you’ll have to go to a paying underground parking lot. There are very few hotels. We advise you to book your accommodation now.
Map of Monaco’s main tourist attractions
See our map of Monaco’s main tourist attractions:
Where to sleep in Monaco
WHERE TO STAY IN Monaco
Option 1: In Monte Carlo
Discover luxury palaces in Monaco’s most sought-after district:
- Hotel de Paris – see prices, pictures and availability
- Hermitage Hotel – see prices, photos and availability
- Hotel Métropole – see prices, photos and availability
Option 2: Larvotto
Close to Larvotto beach, you’ll find some splendid resort hotels.
We recommend..:
- Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort – view prices, pictures and availability
- Le Méridien Beach Plaza – view prices, pictures and availability
Option 3: At Port-Hercule
Boutique hotels, with superb views of the port and the Rock.
- Hotel Miramar – prices, pictures and availability
- Port Palace – see prices, photos and availability
Our ideal itinerary: 3 days in Monaco
Are you ready to pack your bags and set off to discover the Principality of Monaco, which will leave no one indifferent? Here’s our ideal itinerary!
Day 1 – 10am-11.30am: Visit the Prince’s Palace
Let’s start with a must-see: the Prince’s Palace, home to the princely family. Head for the tourist district of Le Rocher. One part of the building can be visited: the Grands Appartements. It features a splendid main courtyard, numerous 16th-century frescoes, and even the Throne Room! These discoveries won us over, which is why we’ve listed the palace among Monaco’s best museums!
The exterior is equally impressive, with its medieval dwelling built in the 13th century, and the elegance of the rest of the facade (16th-17th century). To discover the secrets of this palace, which we really enjoyed, read our dedicated article!
Day 1 – 11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.: Attending the changing of the guard
We advise you to start your 1st day with a visit to the Palais Princier as soon as it opens, so that you’ll have a good place to watch the changing of the guard. This famous military ceremony, which attracts curious visitors from all over the world, is the daily rhythm of palace life. At 11:55 a.m., the Prince’s Carabinieri, a military corps created in 1817, take turns ensuring the safety of the palace and the princely family. Lined up in a row, they cross the Place du Palais, handling their weapons to the sound of drums. Take a look at our article on the Palais Princier to find out more!
Day 1 – 12.15pm-2pm: Lunch in the Rocher district
Once the changing of the guard is over, explore the district via Rue Basse. This is one of the Rock’s two main thoroughfares, starting at Place du Palais. You’ll find plenty of restaurants here, but here are our recommendations:
- Restaurant Le Petit Bar: we enjoyed a guinea fowl leg with a green bean salad, well seasoned with a cream of herbs and old-fashioned mustard. If you’re looking for a simple but hearty and tasty meal in a relaxed atmosphere, Le Petit Bar is the place for you!
- Restaurant La Montgolfière: this restaurant, run by an enthusiastic couple, serves refined cuisine and has been awarded a Michelin star.
Find out more about our selection of good places to eat in our article on the best restaurants in Monaco!
OUR TPS FOR RENTING YOUR CAR IN Provence
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Choose a car that is powerful enough (the roads are steep) but compact (some passages are narrow).
- Think of thecomplete insurance (some roads are tortuous and narrow).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
Day 1 – 2pm-2:30pm: Discovering the cathedral
Have you regained your strength? You’re ready for the afternoon program. It may seem busy, but don’t worry, the neighborhood is on a human scale, and the various tours we suggest are all within easy walking distance. Start with a visit to the cathedral. Built in the Roman-Byzantine style, it is an important symbol of the Principality’s history. In fact, it was built in place of Saint-Nicolas church. This 14th-century monument was demolished when the diocese of Nice separated from Monaco in 1868. The new cathedral was consecrated in 1911.
The cathedral is most famous for housing the tombs of deceased princes. Other highlights included a magnificent 16th-century high altar, 2 organs and superb altarpieces. Our favorite is St. Nicholas, built in 1500, which impressed us with its flamboyant colors and delicate gilding. For more information on this emblematic monument, see our dedicated article!
Day 1 – 2:30-3pm: Stroll through the Jardins Saint-Martin
It’s just a 5-minute walk to the pretty Jardins Saint-Martin. We liked them so much that we listed them as number 1 in our article on Monaco’s most beautiful gardens! The first public gardens opened in the Principality in 1816, they featured exclusively Mediterranean plants. They were later enriched with exotic species, including numerous cacti.
We found this cliffside space superb, with its beautiful sculptures and magnificent ocean views. Don’t miss the promontory and its bronze sculpture by François Cogne. It depicts Prince Albert I as a “prince navigator”. To find out more about this beautiful green setting, take a look at our dedicated article!
Day 1 – 3pm-5pm: Visit the Oceanographic Museum
You can’t miss the Oceanographic Museum, located right next to the gardens. 85m high and built into the side of the Rocher, we found it impressive! We took the time to admire its architectural ornaments, which, both inside and out, evoke the marine world. Created on the initiative of Prince Albert I, who led 28 scientific campaigns on the study of the sea, it was directed by the famous Captain Cousteau from 1957 to 1988. A must-see site in Monaco, it welcomes 650,000 visitors every year! For a worry-free visit, book your ticket now.
Since its inauguration in 1910, it has housed a rich collection of archives, measuring instruments and models. It houses the world’s largest cabinet of marine curiosities, with over 1,000 objects. The museum is also popular for its aquarium, focusing on tropical and Mediterranean species. To discover the riches of this institution, visit our dedicated article!
Day 1 – 5-6pm: Option 1 – Stroll around the rest of the Rocher district
For the end of the day, we suggest several solutions depending on your interests. If you prefer to stay on the Rock, we recommend a visit to the Chapelle de la Miséricorde, a 5-minute walk from the Oceanographic Museum. Dating back to the 17th century, this church is worth a visit with its beautiful ceiling fresco. If you’re in good physical shape, we invite you to visit the Théâtre Fort Antoine. This former military fortress is used as an open-air theater and offers a view of Solarium Beach (an artificial concrete beach).
Day 1 – 17h-18h: Option 2 – Admire the cars in Prince Rainier III’s collection
If you’re a car enthusiast, we recommend leaving the Oceanographic Museum a little early for the Prince Rainier III Collection Museum (20min walk). Last entry is at 5pm. The sovereign began this collection in 1950, which includes some very luxurious models. On display are vintage cars dating back to the early 20th century, iconic Porsche and Ferrari models, and even the car used by Prince Albert II for his wedding to Charlene of Monaco in 2011! The first floor is occupied by racing models, including the Formula 1s used in the Grand Prix, and cars that left their mark on the Monaco Rally.
Day 1 – 5pm-6pm: Option 3 – Stroll around the Condamine market and Port-Hercule
If cars don’t tempt you, and you’d rather discover a neighborhood other than Le Rocher, we suggest you head downstairs to stroll around the neighboring La Condamine district. You can start by heading for the Place d’Armes, whose well-preserved architecture we really appreciated. Here you’ll find a gourmet market and a high concentration of affordable shops and restaurants. After a stroll through this human-scale district, you can return to the Port-Hercule, to admire the Rock and watch the yachts.
Day 1 – 6-8pm: Enjoy the upscale services of your Monte-Carlo hotel
We recommend that you don’t return too late from your day’s sightseeing to take advantage of the hotel’s top-of-the-range services. Access to the spa area sometimes closes relatively early in some establishments. It’s time to enjoy the private beach of your palace, or the optimal comfort of your room!
We’ve written a full article on the best hotels in Monaco, which you can find here, but here are 2 options with luxurious facilities in the heart of Monte Carlo:
- Hôtel Hermitage: this 5-star luxury hotel is housed in a beautiful historic Belle Époque building, famous for its splendid Eiffel dome. It offers a private beach and direct access to the Thermes Marins de Monte-Carlo, open until 9pm! – See prices, photos and availability.
- Hôtel de Paris: this palace is undoubtedly Monaco’s most iconic and luxurious! Like the Hôtel Hermitage, it offers direct access to the Thermes Marins de Monte-Carlo and a private beach. But it offers even more exceptional services, including Alain Ducasse’s 3-star Louis XV restaurant – see prices, photos and availability.
Day 1 – 8-10pm: Dinner in a Michelin-starred restaurant
In Monaco, you’ll find a large number of exceptional gourmet restaurants. Discover our complete selection here, or our 3 recommendations below:
- Le Pavyllon (1 star): we were delighted with our dinner at this restaurant nestled in the Hôtel Hermitage. We were able to discover all the modern techniques used by chef Yannick Alléno (cold extraction, emulsion, fermentation…). We can’t recommend this resolutely creative cuisine enough!
- Le Louis XV (3 stars ): thanks to Alain Ducasse, Le Louis XV was awarded its third Michelin star in 1989. Since then, his disciples have taken over the reins. Chef Emmanuel Pilon, who trained at the Plaza Athéné in Paris, and pastry chef Sandro Micheli are currently bringing the menu to life. Through a revisiting of Mediterranean cuisine, they respect Alain Ducasse’s “naturality” approach, which advocates healthier eating. Head to the Hôtel de Paris to take advantage!
- Le Blue Bay (2 stars): located in the superb Monte-Carlo Bay Hôtel & Resort (4 stars). Young chef Marcel Ravin offers an innovative fusion of Mediterranean and Caribbean flavors. He draws his inspiration from his Martinique origins, using exotic products and specialties (manioc, coconut water, boucané…) to express his creativity.
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Day 2 – 10am-11am: Marvel at the Casino de Monte-Carlo
After devoting the 1st day of your stay to discovering the Rock, we suggest you continue this itinerary in the iconic Monte-Carlo district. It is best known for its mythical landmark: the casino. Immortalized in numerous films (James Bond saga…), this entertainment venue boasts remarkable architecture. Designed in the Belle Époque style in 1879 by Charles Garnier, who also built theOpéra Garnier in Paris.
At this time and until 1pm, you will not be able to play. Mornings are reserved for sightseeing. You can also admire the gaming tables and discover a dazzling interior, notably the Europe Room with its 8 monumental chandeliers.
Day 2 – 11 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.: A stroll through the Jardins de la Petite Afrique
Looking for a break? We invite you to take a stroll through the Jardins de la Petite Afrique, located just in front of you as you exit the casino. Created at the end of the 19th century at the request of Prince Charles III, these gardens highlight the casino with a central section featuring a succession of fountains and sparse vegetation. That’s one of the reasons why we’ve listed it among Monaco’s most beautiful gardens!
The adjacent areas are planted with species from the South Pacific, Oceania, South America and Asia. We owe this particularity to the famous French botanist Edouard André, who gave this green space the appearance of an eternal spring in order to seduce winter visitors. We recommend that you discover these species by following the heritage tree trail (signposted)! To find out more, read our dedicated article.
Day 2 – 11:30am-12:30pm: Option 1 – Shopping in Monte Carlo
The Jardins de la Petite Afrique are surrounded by luxury boutiques. Why not take a tour? On one side, you’ll find the “Promenade Monte-Carlo Shopping”. Haute couture and jewelry houses are housed in contemporary buildings. To help you find your way around, you’ll find a sign map here. On the other side of the gardens, we entered Métropole Shopping Monte-Carlo. This shopping center offers a more diversified range, albeit generally upmarket.
Day 2 – 11:30am-12:30pm: Option 2 – Follow in the footsteps of the Formula 1 Grand Prix
Perhaps you’re more of a fan of the legendary Monaco Grand Prix? While you’re in Monte Carlo, take a look at the race’s most difficult bend, the Fairmont, a real tourist attraction. You can even opt for a guided tour of the entire 3km circuit!
Day 2 – 12:30-14:00: Lunch at Chez Pierre
Are you in the Métropole Shopping Center? Enjoy lunch at Chez Pierre. Although family-run, the cuisine is refined. From main course to dessert, we feasted on a fillet of bass with assorted vegetables, and dark chocolate quenelles accompanied by praline bites.
The décor, in red (banquettes, ceiling, chairs) and black and white (checkerboard floor, cushions…), immerses visitors in the atmosphere of an old-fashioned Parisian bistro. You can also see photos of the French capital’s most emblematic landmarks. Because of these assets, we’ve listed it among the best restaurants to eat at in Monaco!
Day 2 – 14h-14h30: Relaxing in the Japanese Garden
Satisfied? Time for a short digestive walk to the Japanese Garden. Allow ten minutes or so to reach this small green space. Created in 1994 by Japanese landscape architect Yasuo Beppu, at the request of Prince Rainier III, this garden respects the principles of Zen thought. It offers a change of scenery, combining Japanese tradition with Mediterranean essences. That’s why we’ve listed it among Monaco’s most beautiful gardens!
We enjoyed watching the many koi carp in the main pool and strolling over the Japanese bridges that cross it. The covered terrace with Japanese dolls is a delight, as are the waterfall and the teahouse dedicated to Princess Grace of Monaco. As you can see, there’s a lot to see in this little garden! Find out more in our article on the subject.
Day 2 – 2.30pm-3.30pm: Visit the New Monaco National Museum Villa Sauber
In just ten minutes, you’ll arrive at the historic building of the New National Museum of Monaco, created in 1972. Villa Sauber is built in the Belle Époque style. It belonged to the Blanc family, who played a significant role in the development of the Société des Bains de Mer. The latter still operates a number of sites in Monaco, including the Casino de Monte-Carlo. The collection includes 10,000 works of contemporary art, but these can only be seen in temporary exhibitions.
During our visit, we enjoyed an exhibition on the decorations that poet and artist Jean Cocteau created in his Villa Santo Sospir, in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. As well as enjoying the beautiful setting of the garden and villa, we learned a lot! If you’d like to find out more, take a look at our dedicated article!
In the center Mauro Restiffe, Santo Sospir #64 (2018).
Day 2 – 3:30 pm – 7 pm: Swimming at Plage du Larvotto
Now that you’ve had a full day of sightseeing on Day 2, we’d like to invite you to relax on Larvotto Beach. Stretching over 400m, it’s Monaco’s largest public beach. That’s why we’ve listed the most beautiful beaches in and around Monaco as number one in our selection!
It is bordered by a tiled promenade where you’ll find many restaurants and a few shops (beauty salon, gym…). At the far end of the coast, you’ll find resorts and clubs (Coya Bar…). The beach is a mixture of gravel and sand. It has a first-aid post, and a jellyfish net in season. We think it’s a great place for snorkeling, as the water is clear and rich in fish.
Day 2 – 7-9pm: Dinner with your feet in the sand!
For dinner, we recommend you take advantage of the restaurants lining the beach. Here are our suggestions, which you can find in our article on the best restaurants to eat in Monaco.
- Restaurant La Note Bleue: a must if you want to feel like you’re eating with your feet in the sand! The restaurant boasts a large terrace on the beach, and a very varied menu. We did notice a healthy influence, with a significant number of vegetarian dishes. For our part, we opted for a plate of quality charcuterie and cheeses.
- Restaurant Avenue 31: this restaurant is located just opposite Larvotto beach. The setting is sophisticated and contemporary. We appreciated the touches of floral decoration, visible from the entrance to the restaurant. This address offers Mediterranean cuisine, with a few Italian specialties. We appreciate the hearty but well-presented plates.
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Day 3 – 10h-10h45: Visit the Museum of Prehistoric Anthropology
For your 3rd and final day in Monaco, we take you to the heights of the Principality. We advise you to get there by car or bus (bus lines 2 and 3, “Villa Paloma” stop), as the walk is steep. Start by visiting the Museum of Prehistoric Anthropology.
It was founded by Prince Albert I in 1902. The goal? Preserve the prehistoric remains found in and around the Principality. Although small, the museum traces the major developments in the history of mankind. We learned that over a million years ago, the Côte d’Azur was already a favored habitat for our prehistoric ancestors! We invite you to read our article on the museum to find out more.
Day 3 – 10.45am-12pm: Strolling through the Exotic Garden
This garden is next to the Museum of Prehistoric Anthropology. And with good reason! It includes a cave where prehistoric bones were found, now on display in the museum. It also includes a botanical center created in the 1960s, which, with its 10,500 plants, boasts the world’s largest collections of cacti and succulents. Built in the early 20th century, the garden offers superb panoramic views of the Riviera (closed for renovation, reopening planned for 2025). In fact, it’s one of the most beautiful gardens in Monaco!
Day 3 – 12pm-12.45pm: Visit the New National Museum of Monaco Villa Paloma
If you’re an art lover, we recommend a visit to the Nouveau Musée National de Monaco’s second exhibition space. Acquired by the museum in 2010, Villa Paloma is a ten-minute walk from the Jardin Exotique. Built at the beginning of the 20th century, it offers superb panoramic views, particularly of the Rock. Like the Villa Sauber, it features a garden, first floor and first floor, open for exhibitions. A quick visit!
For our part, we enjoyed a very interesting exhibition on the American painter George Condo. Born in 1957, this artist creates strange, humanoid figures. Thanks to the museum’s audiovisual room, we were able to unravel the mysteries of his paintings! To find out more, read our article on our visit.
Day 3 – 12h45-14h: Lunch on the port of Fontvieille
We suggest you move on to the Fontvieille district below. Residential and on a human scale, we really liked it! It is organized around a pleasant harbor with many restaurants. Here are our recommendations, which you can find in our complete selection:
- Restaurant Le Beef Bar: as its name suggests, this restaurant caters almost exclusively to meat lovers. The atmosphere is chic and subdued, and the meat is on display! We were able to taste particularly tasty, fine and tender slices of Kobe beef.
- Restaurant Les Perles de Monte-Carlo: this restaurant is the reference address for seafood tasting in the Principality. Located at the end of the Fontvieille harbor jetty, it offers a sea-to-plate concept. Indeed, they set up their own aquaculture farm in 2011, at a time when the oyster farming tradition was virtually non-existent in Monaco. Their menu features platters of 12 oysters, a variety of fish and crustaceans.
Day 3 – 2 – 2:30 p.m.: Enjoy the view of the Rocher from Quai Jean-Charles Rey
The port offers a superb view of the Rock and its main monuments: the Prince’s Palace, the Cathedral and the Oceanographic Museum. Take a moment to stroll along the Quai Jean-Carles Rey and venture to the end of the pier. We recommend following the promenade along the seafront, which we found very pleasant. You’ll soon arrive at the Jardin aux Canards, home to numerous water features. It is adjacent to the Princess Grace Rose Garden.
Day 3 – 2:30 – 3:30 pm: A stroll through the Princess Grace Rose Garden
The Princess Grace Rose Garden was created by Prince Rainier III, as a tribute to his wife Grace Kelly. Inside, you’ll discover some 315 varieties of rose, over a surface area of more than 5,000m2. Most of these flowers are named after movie stars, sovereigns and other celebrities.
We were immediately drawn to this bright red rose! It’s the “Ingrid Bergman” variety, by the American actress of the 1950s. But this rose garden has other surprises too! A number of sculptures and fountains line the route. Designed according to the principles of an English garden, the rose garden retains a Mediterranean character with its century-old olive trees. We’ve ranked it among the most beautiful gardens in Monaco.
Day 3 – 3:30 pm – 5 pm: Option 1 – Discover the Rainier III Animal Garden with your family
Still have the energy for a visit? If you’re with the family, we recommend a visit to Jardin Animalier Rainier III. As its name suggests, this park was founded by Prince Rainier III in 1954. One of the world’s last royal menageries, it is home to some 250 animals of some 60 different species. For example, we discovered this otocyon, known as the non- marsupial mammal with the most teeth (between 46 and 50!).
The construction of the garden on the southern flank of the rock explains the narrowness of the enclosures. So you won’t see any large animals. We would also like to point out that no garden animals have been purchased. They come from donations, abandonment or customs seizures. Finally, the garden offers beautiful views of the Fontvieille district and the Prince’s Palace, and includes a playground that will delight your children!
Day 3 – 3:30-5pm: Option 2 – Visit the Museum of Stamps and Coins
If you’re an experienced numismatist or just curious, we suggest a visit to the Museum of Stamps and Coins. Created in 1995 by Prince Rainier III to house his philatelic and numismatic collections, the museum was opened to the public a year later. These collections are among the finest and most renowned in the world, and include the coins of the Sovereign Princes of Monaco, nineteenth-century Monegasque finds and the first Monegasque stamps. The museum regularly hosts major international specialist exhibitions.
Day 3 – 5pm-7pm: Return to the hotel for a moment of relaxation
Before enjoying Monaco’s nightlife, it’s time to take a break! Time to decompress! What better way to do this than in a resort hotel? You can find our full selection here, but here are our 2 favorites:
- Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort (4 stars): We were seduced by its size and luxurious contemporary decor, but above all by its splendid lagoon! It’s actually an outdoor pool topped by several decks with sea views. An indoor pool and spa are also available – see prices, photos and availability.
- Hôtel Méridien Beach Plaza (4 stars): this establishment boasts a private beach and sublime indoor and outdoor swimming pools. Add to this a top-quality gym, superb sea views and contemporary decor. In the reception hall, you can admire art hangings with works available for purchase! – See prices, photos and availability.
Day 3 – 7-11pm: Dinner in a lively atmosphere
The Principality has a lively nightlife! Most of the places to go out are just like Monaco: luxurious, sought-after, with refined dishes. Here are our suggestions if you’re a night owl ready for a party the night before you leave (if not, we suggest you swap it with a party proposal we’ve made for you on another day):
- Le Buddha Bar: this restaurant is one of Monaco’s legendary nightlife spots. Asian cuisine is served in a subdued decor featuring a monumental Buddha sculpture. DJ sets are regularly scheduled until 2am. Reservations required here.
- Le Coya Monte-Carlo: this restaurant/bar/club offers Peruvian-inspired decor and cuisine. With its terrace and rich DJ program, it’s one of Monaco’s must-visit venues. However, it is only open in season. For more information, visit the official website here. If you want to extend your festive night, it’s located next to the Jimmy’z nightclub.
WHERE TO STAY ON THE Côte d’Azur
Our independent picks for the accommodation of your dreams:
Alternative 1 – Best excursions
Discover the riches of Provence
Would you like to explore more of the region during your 3-day stay in Provence? An excursion from Monaco offers a unique opportunity to explore the emblematic destinations of the Côte d’Azur. Here are our suggestions:
- Visit Cannes, Antibes and Saint-Paul-de-Vence: with this tour, you’ll stroll along the Croisette, visit Old Antibes, and the charming village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, which has inspired many artists – see program and availability.
- Visit the medieval village of Èze: if you have a car, we recommend a visit to this village perched high up on the Côte d’Azur. Just 20 minutes from Monaco, this 1h30 guided tour will take you away from it all! – see program and availability.
Monaco is ideally located between Nice and Menton. Don’t hesitate to check out our articles on Nice’s tourist attractions here, and Menton’s here, to enhance your stay!
Enjoy the Italian Riviera
Monaco is only 30 minutes from Italy! Why not take the opportunity to discover the Italian Riviera? Here are a few ideas to enhance your stay:
- Getaway to San Remo or Ventimiglia and a stopover in the village of Dolceacqua: experience the excitement of Italy’s open-air markets in the emblematic towns of the Italian Riviera! – see program and availability.
- Visit Menton, the Italian village of Dolceacqua and an Italian market: you’ll marvel at the colorful facades of Menton, and the charm of the medieval village of Dolceacqua, whose bridge was immortalized by Claude Monet! – see program and availability.
Alternative 2 – Better sports activities
Vacations are the perfect time to try out new experiences and get back into the swing of things! Here are a few ideas for activities in Monaco to make your stay even more unforgettable:
- Snorkeling and sc uba diving: departing from Plage du Larvotto, you can admire the coastal landscape from Menton to Villefranche-sur-Mer. Afterwards, you’ll enjoy a 45-minute snorkel followed by a 25-minute baptism! – see program and availability.
- Parascending: would you like to see the Principality from a different perspective? Opt for this boat-drawn flight! – see program and availability.
- Jet-ski excursion: take to the sea for 1h to 1h30 in the direction of (your choice) Menton, Cap-d’Ail, Italy, or Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. – see program and availability.
If you have a car and are ready to hit the road, here’s an extra activity that might interest you:
- Canyoning in the Barbaira Canyon in Rocchetta Nervina, Italy: if you’re looking for a getaway in Italy, why not include this activity? Just 1 hour’s drive from Monaco, crystal-clear waterfalls set amid lush vegetation await you! – see program and availability.
Alternative 3 – Activities with children
Kid-friendly restaurants in Monaco
Few restaurants in the Principality are family-friendly, but here are our favorite addresses, which you can find in our article on the best restaurants to eat at in Monaco:
- Restaurant Azzura Kitchen: the restaurant of the 3-star Hotel Novotel Monte-Carlo, a 10-minute walk from the Casino, Azzura offers top-quality international cuisine. We think their children’s menu is interesting and varied!
- La Maison des Pâtes delicatessen: founded in 1977, it has been the official fresh pasta supplier to the princely family since 1999. We recommend a visit to the Marché de la Condamine to sample their products, available in half portions: a child-friendly solution!
Activities to do with your children
Among the tours we’ve listed in this article, here are our favorites for families:
- The Oceanographic Museum: with its aquarium and virtual reality experiences, your children won’t get bored. Book your ticket now.
- Jardin Animalier Rainier III: as well as being home to a wide range of wild and domestic animals, this is also a playground for the little ones!
- The Museum of Prehistoric Anthropology: with coloring and other activities for children. Read our article on the subject here to find out more!
Here are our suggestions for making it easier for you and your family to get around:
- Petit Train Touristique: the ideal way to get around and discover Monaco without tiring the little ones! Departures and arrivals are in front of the Oceanographic Museum.
- Multi-stop bus: a bus tour can also be a great way to discover Monaco with your children, without tiring them out. The tour is free for children under 4! Book your tour now.
OUR TPS FOR RENTING YOUR CAR IN Provence
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Choose a car that is powerful enough (the roads are steep) but compact (some passages are narrow).
- Think of thecomplete insurance (some roads are tortuous and narrow).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
Alternative 4 – Live the luxury of the Principality to the full
Sleeping in a 5-star hotel
To make the most of your experience in Monaco, we recommend staying in a 5-star establishment if you can. Everything is in place to guarantee you an exceptional stay: the comfort, equipment, layout and staff are all top-notch. We stayed in spacious, elegantly decorated rooms with stunning views. Monaco is the ideal place to enjoy top-of-the-range services while creating beautiful memories!
The facilities and services offered by these luxury establishments are impressive. You even need maps to find your way around these impressive palaces! In addition to indoor and outdoor pools and spa facilities, these hotels feature private beaches, boutiques and Michelin-starred restaurants. Book your night in a 5-star hotel now.
Discover the great international fashion houses
A temple of glamour and luxury, Monaco is home to a succession of major fashion houses, including Dior, Gucci, Balenciaga, Valentino, Saint Laurent and Louis Vuitton: they’re all here! If you have the financial means and are a lover of luxury products, this is the perfect opportunity to visit a boutique and snap up a one-of-a-kind piece!
Stores are concentrated on Promenade Princesse Charlène, Avenue Princesse Alice and Avenue des Beaux-Arts. To help you find your way around, you’ll find a sign map here. Some are also located in Métropole Shopping Monte-Carlo. To complete your outfit, all the major jewellery and watchmaking houses are in Monaco!
Eating in a gourmet restaurant
Monaco boasts some of the finest restaurants in the world. The daring gastronomy of Michelin-starred chefs and the local produce of Provence and Italy were a real treat. Each dish was a new journey, a new culinary discovery, in elegant surroundings. There’s something for every taste and style. We strongly recommend that you try a gourmet restaurant to get the most out of your Monaco experience.
Successful casino poker
Monaco is famous for its casino, immortalized in the James Bond saga, where stars from all over the world rub shoulders! In addition to restaurants, it offers a variety of entertainment, such as slot machines, blackjack, English roulette and a full range of table games. Put on your best outfit and let yourself be tempted by a little game!
Enjoy Monaco’s nightlife
Monaco is also known for its nightlife. If you stroll along the quays of Port-Hercule at night, expect to hear music coming from the various yachts moored there. The Principality is home to a number of discotheques, including Jimmy’z, the temple of clubbing that has been welcoming the biggest names in electro music (Martin Solveig, Bob Sinclar…) for 40 years.
You can also head to Le Rascasse for festive evenings, salsa classes and acoustic duets! If you like to eat well before dancing, opt for the Buddha Bar or the Coya Bar. We also recommend the Blue Gin, a bar at the Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort, with a DJ set and a breathtaking sea view! Finally, if you prefer galas and concerts, head for the Salle des Étoiles, in the heart of Sporting Monte-Carlo!
Alternative 5 – Vibrate with the Formula 1 Grand Prix
Monaco is an ideal destination for car enthusiasts, as it hosts the oldest Formula 1 race: the Grand Prix. You’ll be able to discover the 3km of this urban circuit, made up of tight bends, which was designed in 1929. It passes through the Condamine district, around Port-Hercule, and Monte-Carlo. The Fairmont, a real tourist attraction, is located in the latter. Motorsport fans from all over the world flock to the Principality in May for this event. We recommend a guided tour.
If you want to get to Monaco for the Formula 1 Grand Prix, get a head start! Hotels are overcrowded and prices are skyrocketing. We advise you to book your accommodation now. Please note that museums and monuments are closed. Extend your stay if you wish to visit the Prince Rainier III Automobile Collection. And don’t forget to visit the Automobile Club de Monaco in Port-Hercule. You’ll find a boutique stocked with products from Monaco’s great races! To find out more, visit the official website here.
Frequently asked questions
Is Monaco part of France?
No, Monaco is a sovereign and independent Principality, even if it is landlocked on French territory.
What are Monaco’s major annual events?
Monaco is famous for its large-scale events. The first of these is the legendary Monaco Grand Prix in May. Other events, such as the Monaco Yacht Show in September, or the Monte-Carlo Summer Festival in July and August, punctuate the Principality’s calendar. Major events also take place in winter, such as the International Circus Festival and the Monte Carlo Rally. On these occasions, accommodation is packed and prices soar! We invite you to consult the Tourist Office’s events program here, and to book your hotel as soon as possible.
What beaches are popular in Monaco?
Monaco’s most popular beach is its largest public beach, Plage du Larvotto. It also includes an artificial concrete beach, Solarium Beach. The other beaches are privately owned by hotels. To find your way around, consult our article dedicated to the most beautiful beaches in and around Monaco.
What activities are linked to AS Monaco?
TheAssociation sportive de Monaco Football Club is a world-famous club founded in 1924. Although based and owned by Monaco, it is affiliated to the French Football Federation and takes part in French competitions. Its players have been with the French national team since 1950. AS Monaco FC has launched Thierry Henry, Lilian Thuram and Kylian Mbappé into the world of professional football. Don’t hesitate to visit the official boutique in the Fontevieille district. AS Monaco is also the name of the Principality’s basketball club, which often leads the French championships.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO THE Côte d’Azur
- Inspiration
The most beautiful landscapes in 30 photos
Best things to do on the Côte d’Azur
Most beautiful villages
Best beaches on the Côte d’Azur
Most beautiful gardens
Best boat tours (coming soon)
Most beautiful islands
Secret places
- Practical advice
Successful travel on the Côte d’Azur (coming soon)
Rent a car in Provence – in Nice – in Cannes – in Marseille – in Aix-en-Provence.
Itineraries: 5 days – 1 week – 10 days
Weekend ideas: best-of – romantic – luxury – unusual
- Where to stay
Where to stay on the Côte d’Azur
Best luxury hotels on the Côte d’Azur
Hotels by the sea
Best boutique-hotels
