Monaco, French Riviera
Locavy ratings
Party
4/5
Sightseeing
4/5
Relaxation
4/5
Value
1/5
Transport Links
3.5/5
Experiences
Top 20
5/5
Party
4/5
Sightseeing
4/5
Relaxation
4/5
Value
1/5
Transport Links
3.5/5
Experiences
Top 20
5/5
At a glance
Monaco is a glamorous, tiny principality on the French Riviera, renowned for its luxury, world-class events, stunning views, and rich history.
Party
Monaco offers glamorous clubs, upscale bars, and exclusive events. Enjoy cocktails at the Monte Carlo Casino, dance at stylish nightclubs, or attend high-profile events like the Monaco Grand Prix afterparties.
Sightseeing
Monaco may be small, but it’s packed with sights. Visit the Prince’s Palace, Monte Carlo Casino, and the Oceanographic Museum, or enjoy the views from the Princess Grace Rose Garden and the old town.
Relaxation
Monaco isn’t typically seen as a relaxing getaway, but you can unwind at Larvotto Beach or enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the Princess Grace Rose Garden, a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle.
Value
Monaco is known for being one of the most expensive destinations, with high costs for dining and accommodation. To save, it’s best to book in advance and avoid visiting during major events like the Monaco GP.
Transport links
Fly
Train
Drive
Fly
The closest airport to Monaco is Nice Côte d’Azur Airport, located 30km west. Regular buses run directly to Monaco, though be prepared for the airport’s busyness as it serves as a major hub for the French Riviera.
Train
Taking the train is an excellent way to visit Monaco, with the Monte Carlo station offering connections to major cities like Nice, Paris, and Turin.
Drive
Given Monaco’s compact size and limited parking options, it’s highly recommended to avoid renting a car when visiting.
Experiences
Monaco offers iconic experiences like the thrilling Monaco Grand Prix and the glamorous Monte Carlo Casino. Don’t miss a scenic boat trip along the coast for stunning views of the French Riviera.
Best Things To Do
1. Monaco Grand Prix
The Monaco Grand Prix is the most famous Formula 1 race, held on a challenging circuit that winds through the streets of Monte Carlo. It’s a spectacle that draws millions of fans and offers an unforgettable atmosphere.
If you’re attending, book tickets well in advance as this event often sells out quickly. Prices vary depending on the seating.
2. Monte Carlo Casino
The Monte Carlo Casino is one of Monaco’s most iconic landmarks, renowned for its elegant architecture and appearances in films. The casino offers a chance to experience luxury and try your luck in a glamorous setting.
Remember to bring an ID, as entry is restricted to those over 18, and there is a dress code.
3. Museums of Monaco
Explore Monaco’s rich history and culture by visiting its many museums, including the Museum of Prehistoric Anthropology and the Oceanographic Museum. These offer fascinating exhibits on the region’s history and natural beauty.
Most museums offer discounted tickets for students or combined entry for multiple attractions.
4. Prince’s Palace
Visit the Prince’s Palace to tour the residence of the royal family and enjoy stunning views of Monaco. The palace is a symbol of Monaco’s history and offers beautiful gardens and impressive architecture.
The changing of the guard ceremony happens daily at 11:55 AM, so try to catch it for a traditional experience.
5. Boat Trip Around Monaco
A boat trip around Monaco provides a unique perspective of the coastline and the stunning city-state. You can also charter a private yacht for a relaxing day on the Mediterranean.
Book a boat trip in advance to secure the best times, especially during peak tourist seasons.
6. Monaco Beaches
While Monaco has the bustling Larvotto Beach, there are quieter beaches along the French Riviera where you can relax. For a more peaceful experience, consider exploring neighboring coastal areas.
Larvotto Beach can get crowded, so arrive early for a prime spot, or try beaches in nearby Menton or Villefranche-sur-Mer for a more tranquil setting.
7. Princess Grace Rose Garden
The Princess Grace Rose Garden offers a peaceful retreat with over 4,000 rose bushes. The garden is beautifully landscaped and perfect for a relaxing stroll amidst vibrant flora.
The garden is free to enter, but visiting during spring or early summer offers the best views of the blooming roses.
8. Day Trip to Nice
Just 20 km west of Monaco, Nice is a perfect day trip with its Mediterranean beaches, vibrant market squares, and delicious cuisine. It’s a great contrast to Monaco’s glamorous lifestyle.
Take the train from Monaco to Nice for a scenic and affordable journey, and plan a visit to the Old Town for the best local experience.
9. Shopping in Monaco
Monaco is a shopping paradise with luxury boutiques and designer stores lining its streets. For high-end shopping, head to the Le Metropole Shopping Center for a premium retail experience.
Be prepared for high-end prices, and keep an eye out for seasonal sales for potential discounts.
10. Hercules Port
Hercules Port is Monaco’s main harbor and home to some of the world’s largest and most luxurious yachts. The port area is lined with bars and restaurants, making it a lively spot to enjoy a drink or meal.
Visit in the evening when the yachts are lit up, creating a stunning atmosphere. Dining around the port is pricey, but you can find more affordable options nearby.
1. Monaco Grand Prix
The Monaco Grand Prix is the most famous Formula 1 race, held on a challenging circuit that winds through the streets of Monte Carlo. It’s a spectacle that draws millions of fans and offers an unforgettable atmosphere.
If you’re attending, book tickets well in advance as this event often sells out quickly. Prices vary depending on the seating.
2. Monte Carlo Casino
The Monte Carlo Casino is one of Monaco’s most iconic landmarks, renowned for its elegant architecture and appearances in films. The casino offers a chance to experience luxury and try your luck in a glamorous setting.
Remember to bring an ID, as entry is restricted to those over 18, and there is a dress code.
3. Museums of Monaco
Explore Monaco’s rich history and culture by visiting its many museums, including the Museum of Prehistoric Anthropology and the Oceanographic Museum. These offer fascinating exhibits on the region’s history and natural beauty.
Most museums offer discounted tickets for students or combined entry for multiple attractions.
4. Prince’s Palace
Visit the Prince’s Palace to tour the residence of the royal family and enjoy stunning views of Monaco. The palace is a symbol of Monaco’s history and offers beautiful gardens and impressive architecture.
The changing of the guard ceremony happens daily at 11:55 AM, so try to catch it for a traditional experience.
5. Boat Trip Around Monaco
A boat trip around Monaco provides a unique perspective of the coastline and the stunning city-state. You can also charter a private yacht for a relaxing day on the Mediterranean.
Book a boat trip in advance to secure the best times, especially during peak tourist seasons.
6. Monaco Beaches
While Monaco has the bustling Larvotto Beach, there are quieter beaches along the French Riviera where you can relax. For a more peaceful experience, consider exploring neighboring coastal areas.
Larvotto Beach can get crowded, so arrive early for a prime spot, or try beaches in nearby Menton or Villefranche-sur-Mer for a more tranquil setting.
7. Princess Grace Rose Garden
The Princess Grace Rose Garden offers a peaceful retreat with over 4,000 rose bushes. The garden is beautifully landscaped and perfect for a relaxing stroll amidst vibrant flora.
The garden is free to enter, but visiting during spring or early summer offers the best views of the blooming roses.
8. Day Trip to Nice
Just 20 km west of Monaco, Nice is a perfect day trip with its Mediterranean beaches, vibrant market squares, and delicious cuisine. It’s a great contrast to Monaco’s glamorous lifestyle.
Take the train from Monaco to Nice for a scenic and affordable journey, and plan a visit to the Old Town for the best local experience.
9. Shopping in Monaco
Monaco is a shopping paradise with luxury boutiques and designer stores lining its streets. For high-end shopping, head to the Le Metropole Shopping Center for a premium retail experience.
Be prepared for high-end prices, and keep an eye out for seasonal sales for potential discounts.
10. Hercules Port
Hercules Port is Monaco’s main harbor and home to some of the world’s largest and most luxurious yachts. The port area is lined with bars and restaurants, making it a lively spot to enjoy a drink or meal.
Visit in the evening when the yachts are lit up, creating a stunning atmosphere. Dining around the port is pricey, but you can find more affordable options nearby.
10 Things You Need to know
1.
French Riviera Pass
Maximize your sightseeing with the French Riviera Pass, which grants access to many popular attractions across the region.
6.
Public Transport
Monaco’s bus network is efficient and a convenient way to travel around the country.
2.
Where to Stay
Monaco’s high accommodation prices make nearby cities like Nice a more affordable option, with easy public transport connections into Monaco.
7.
Safety
Monaco is a very safe destination, but be aware of pickpockets due to its high population density.
3.
Monaco is Small
Monaco is one of the smallest countries in the world, making it easy to explore, but it also means space is limited.
8.
When to Visit
The best time to visit Monaco is in the spring and summer, perfect for enjoying outdoor activities and the Mediterranean climate.
4.
Events Impacting Prices
Big events like the Monaco GP and Yacht Show can increase prices and crowd levels, so plan accordingly if visiting during these times.
9.
Currency
Monaco uses the Euro, and the country is largely cashless, with many establishments accepting cards for payment.
5.
Language
French is Monaco’s official language, but English and Italian are also widely spoken.
10.
Tipping
Tipping is not mandatory in Monaco, but a 10% tip is appreciated for good service due to the high wages in the service industry.
6.
Public Transport
Monaco’s bus network is efficient and a convenient way to travel around the country.
7.
Safety
Monaco is a very safe destination, but be aware of pickpockets due to its high population density.
8.
When to Visit
The best time to visit Monaco is in the spring and summer, perfect for enjoying outdoor activities and the Mediterranean climate.
9.
Currency
Monaco uses the Euro, and the country is largely cashless, with many establishments accepting cards for payment.
10.
Tipping
Tipping is not mandatory in Monaco, but a 10% tip is appreciated for good service due to the high wages in the service industry.