Lifestyle

Tips & Tops

What to do in Monaco? Complete guide to visit Monaco

Published on October 29, 2024Updated on November 12, 2024

Known for its Rock and its breathtaking views over the Mediterranean Sea, the Principality of Monaco has many facets. So, what's there to see and do in Monaco? An unspoilt heritage, pampered nature, luxury shopping addresses, renowned cultural and leisure venues... there's so much to discover and do! Whether you come for a day, an evening, a short or long stay, or even in winter, a unique and unforgettable journey awaits you.

A day trip to Monaco

The city-state's small size means you can visit Monaco and its main attractions in just one day. The city's different districts are easily accessible on foot or by bus, and are often linked by lifts. Here are our recommendations for visiting the essentials in one day.

Discover One Monte-Carlo district

See the must-sees in a day

In Monaco, be sure to visit the Palais Princier, the official residence of the Grimaldi family, located on the heights of the Rock. Stroll through the picturesque streets of the Old Town before immersing yourself in the world of the sea at the Oceanographic Museum. Sharks, turtles, fish from all oceans, a curiosity cabinet... it's a must for family visits in particular. There's also a stroll along the quays of Port Hercule to admire the boats, and a visit to the sublime Place du Casino in the legendary Monte Carlo district. The Belle Époque facades of the Casino de Monte-Carlo and the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, historic buildings that are emblematic of Monaco, give the place an incomparable atmosphere.

Our recommended itinerary

To make the most of your day in Monaco, follow our suggested route:

Head to Place d'Armes for an early morning visit to the Condamine market, a must-see with its colourful stalls, gourmet market and great atmosphere
Go to the Rocher district and wander around the Old Town
Admire the Prince's Palace and watch the changing of the guard of the Carabinieri at 11.55 a.m. sharp
At the foot of the Rocher, visit the Oceanographic Museum and enjoy the superb sea views from its roof terrace
Head for Port Hercule and its superb yachts
Take the waterbus across the harbour, then visit the Monte-Carlo district on your way to the Place du Casino
Finish the day with some luxury shopping in the One Monte-Carlo district

Restaurants and cafés to discover

For a gourmet break, head to the Café de Paris Monte-Carlo, located on the Place du Casino. An iconic brasserie where you can enjoy a coffee, a snack on the terrace or a meal in an elegant setting. For lunch, discover the cosy setting and generous cuisine of the Salon Rose in the Casino de Monte-Carlo. Round off the day with a drink in Port Hercule at the La Rascasse bar, famous for its lively nightlife and its location on the legendary Monaco Grand Prix bend.

Discover our restaurants

Evenings in the Principality

If you're wondering what to do in Monaco for an evening out, look no further! Opinions are unanimous: the Principality offers some of the finest opportunities for going out on the Côte d'Azur.

Discover our bars

Le Bar Américain à l'Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo

Prestigious shows

Monaco is renowned for its dynamic cultural scene and its many high-quality shows. Attend world-renowned artistic performances in the Salle Garnier at the Opéra de Monte-Carlo, where great voices and lyrical masterpieces are staged; thrill to performances by Les Ballets de Monte-Carlo or concerts by the Orchestre Philarmonique de Monte-Carlo.

The best Michelin-starred and gourmet restaurants

A top gastronomic destination, Monaco delights the most discerning palates with its many Michelin-starred restaurants. Meet the great names of the world culinary scene: the Louis XV - Alain Ducasse at the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo or the quintessence of 3-star gastronomy; the Blue Bay Marcel Ravin, 2 stars, a delicious journey full of creativity; Pavyllon, a restaurant by Yannick Alléno at the Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo (1 star), between excellence and modernity. Le Grill, with its fabulous sea views, and Elsa, with its stunning marine garden designed by Marcel Ravin, also offer unforgettable experiences.

Where to go out and party in Monaco?

The reputation of Monaco's nightlife is well established... Legendary clubs such as Jimmy'z Monte-Carlo bring together jet-setters and DJ stars in a glamorous, energetic atmosphere. Its bars, such as Buddha-Bar Monte-Carlo and COYA Monte-Carlo, are perfect for partying with friends. Blue Gin is ideal for a sunset cocktail. Never short on novelties, the Principality is delighted to invite you to Amazonico Monte-Carlo, a trendy, festive and gourmet venue with a tropical atmosphere. Casinos are also a must for an exhilarating evening in Monaco: slot machines, roulette and blackjack await you at the legendary Casino de Monte-Carlo and the Casino Café de Paris. And then, The iconic Moods reopens its doors as the New Moods. Whether you come for a show, an after-work party, a nightcap, a get-together with friends or to immerse yourself in local life... The New Moods offers a cosy decor and a welcoming, light and festive atmosphere that reflects all the energy of Monaco.

A weekend in Monaco

Visiting Monaco in two days is ideal. Cultural sites, historical heritage, walks and green spaces... you can take full advantage of all that this jewel of the Côte d'Azur has to offer.

Discover our hotels in the Principality

Heritage and culture on your programme

After your visit to the Prince's Palace or the Oceanographic Museum - must-sees among the activities to discover in Monaco city - walk to Monaco Cathedral, where many members of the princely family, including Prince Rainier III and Grace Kelly, are laid to rest. Your weekend can also be an opportunity to take in some culture at the Nouveau Musée National de Monaco, with its exhibitions of contemporary art in the Sauber and Paloma villas, two architectural gems. Every summer, the Grimaldi Forum also stages a major exhibition focusing on a particular artist or theme. A must.

Outdoor walks

If you prefer an outdoor excursion, stroll through the Jardin Exotique, home to the Grotto of the Observatory and the Princess Grace of Monaco Rose Garden, with its 300 varieties of roses. On the Rock, close to the Oceanographic Museum, the Saint-Martin gardens offer a pleasant shady stroll and splendid views over the Mediterranean. The wildlife garden, set on a rocky hillside above Fontvieille, will delight the whole family with its 300 animals, from exotic birds to hippos. Finally, in the Larvotto district, treat yourself to a Zen break with a visit to the Japanese Garden.

Which hotel to choose for a weekend in Monaco?

For your night in a hotel in Monaco, consider the establishments of Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer. The finest 4 and 5 star hotels open their doors to you: the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, the iconic palace; the Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo for a weekend of luxury and elegance; the Monte-Carlo Beach for a chic and glamorous summer getaway or the Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort, a veritable seaside paradise.

Diamond Suite Prince Rainier III à l'Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo

Things to do in Monaco for a week

In just one week, you can take the time to experience Monaco to the full and enjoy all its facets.

Sports and well-being

Discover the sporting side of Monaco on the renowned 18-hole course at the Golf Club de Monte-Carlo. Its location on the heights of the hinterland offers magnificent views of the coast. Fans of the little yellow ball will love the clay courts at the Monte-Carlo Country Club. Finally, relax in the Principality's wellness centres, such as the Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo or the Spa Cinq Mondes at the Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort. These two benchmark addresses offer expert treatments and top-of-the-range facilities to help you recharge your batteries.

Luxury shopping

A trip to Monaco is always accompanied by a luxury shopping spree, as the Principality is packed with prestigious fashion, beauty, jewellery and design brands. Take a stroll through the streets of the Carré d'Or: the One Monte-Carlo district, the area around the Café de Paris Monte-Carlo on Place du Casino and the Patio of the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo are the best places to find Monaco's finest luxury boutiques.

Excursions and guided tours

To discover Monaco from a different angle, opt for a guided tour. Visit the famous Casino de Monte-Carlo with an audioguide and marvel at its grandiose architecture. Book a guided tour of Monaco and the surrounding area (several tours are available for groups or individuals to discover Èze, La Turbie, Nice...) to admire the splendours of the Riviera. A boat trip will take you around Monaco with a superb view of its coastal districts such as Fontvieille and Larvotto.

Events in Monaco in Winter

Monegasque winters benefit from the mild Mediterranean climate for enchanting breaks. Between the magic of the end-of-year festivities and major events, Monaco warms hearts.

Discover our suggestions for winter activities in Monaco

A magical festive season

In December, enjoy a magical festive season as the Place du Casino is lit up in all its finery. On Monaco harbour, the Christmas Village features a Ferris wheel, Christmas market, attractions and entertainment for all ages. Come and discover the winter wonderland of hotels, restaurants and events in Monaco for Christmas. Experience magical moments in the Principality for Christmas and New Year's Eve.

carrousel-jardin-des-boulingrins-ffa-2023-monaco-monte-carlo

Winter sports events

Sport never stops in Monaco, with sports and fun activities for all the family, such as the ice rink set up all winter at the Rainier III water sports stadium. Then there are two not-to-be-missed sporting events in January and February: the Monte-Carlo Rally, followed by the Monte-Carlo Historic Rally and its classic cars. In February, the City trail Monaco Run takes runners on a journey through the heart of the city.

Winter cultural events in Monaco

Every year in January, Monaco plays host to a major event in the entertainment world, the Monte-Carlo International Circus Festival. Under the presidency of Princess Stéphanie of Monaco, prestigious acts by the world's leading companies take place under the Fontvieille big top. Gala evenings, concerts by the Orchestre Philharmonique de Monte-Carlo and performances at the Opéra de Monte-Carlo also punctuate the winter months.

Events in Monaco in summer

In summer, immerse yourself in the elegance and glamour of Monaco while enjoying a programme packed with exceptional events and activities. Concerts, private beach, parties... follow the guide!

Discover our suggestions for summer activities in Monaco

The summer festival not to be missed

In July and August, come and applaud the biggest international stars at the Monte-Carlo Summer Festival. The Salle des Étoiles, the Opéra Garnier Monte-Carlo and the Place du Casino host concerts by artists from all horizons, much to the delight of the audience. The highlight was the closing evening of the Monegasque Red Cross Gala, with its spectacular fireworks display.

Feu d'artifice sporting Monte-Carlo Summer Festival

Monaco's most beautiful private beaches

Enjoy exclusive moments under the Monaco sun in dreamy waterside settings. A sandy lagoon, Balinese beds and private access to the sea at Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort give your holiday an air of paradise. The private beach at Monte-Carlo Beach, with its striped canvas huts and mythical pontoon, is a must for summer visitors to Monaco. You can also relax by the Olympic-size swimming pool or tone up with an aquagym or aquabike class and take advantage of the many water sports (paddle, canoe, jet-ski...) at the Monte-Carlo Beach Club. Guests of the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo and members of the My Monte-Carlo programme can relax in the luxurious wellness cocoon of the Wellness Sky Club with private pool on the roof terrace.

Festive or gastronomic, exceptional summer evenings

Enjoy Monaco's trendy evenings throughout the summer in the Resort's bars. From the Mada Lounge, a pop-up bar with live music in the Jardins des Boulingrins, to the glamorous and festive Maona Monte-Carlo, memorable evenings await you. Our 7 Michelin-starred Resort also has a number of gourmet summer evenings in store for you. Savour our chefs' exceptional menus at dinners under the stars, on the terrace with breathtaking views of the sea or harbour. An art of entertaining that is constantly reinvented to delight our guests.