Step this way for a taste of the cosmopolitan city of Monaco. With a sparkling casino, impressive architecture and mixture of attractions, you’re bound to have a splendid trip on the French Riviera.
This country is what you make it. Fancy a day at the beach? Tick. A stroll around the glitzy harbour? Tick. A slow day doing a tour of your choice? Tick. Monaco is truly a hit for all ages.
Top tip: You’ll want to pack a camera, comfortable shoes for all the sightseeing, and plenty of space in your case for those boutique goodies!
Oceanographic Museum of Monaco
Dip into a taste of marine life at the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco. Here, you can find a shark lagoon, collections of natural history and pass through Turtle Island on the sweeping terrace. The museum has a lot of wall-mounted specimens and models too, making for a fascinating family day out.
Monaco Grand Prix tour
It wouldn’t be a trip to Monaco without a walking tour of the Monaco Grand Prix F1 track! This famous attraction looks just as grand in person as it does on the TV. This is where your comfy shoes come in, as depending on your tour, you may be walking the entire 3.3km circuit. Not to worry if that’s too long, you can opt for a shorter one. Why not get up to scratch on all the facts with a guide?
Plage des Sablettes
Looking for the best beach in Monaco? In Menton, Plage des Sablettes boasts a family favourite beach of sand and pebbles. The shallow waters and volleyball nets are a hit too. You won’t be short of eateries nearby as there are lines of restaurants and bars, from Italian to Japanese, including ice cream spots. Yum!
Japanese Garden
This sweet garden designed by famous landscape architect Yasuo Beppu hones a charming waterfall, hanging lanterns and a quaint bridge. You’ll be able to capture some lovely pictures in this green oasis, near the Zen garden and tea house. Eye spy the koi carp and lotus flowers!
The Private Collection of Antique Cars of H.S.H. Prince Rainier III
Lover of cars or history? This speciality museum has displayed antique cars, bikes and carriages since 1993. It even has an F1 simulator! The prince’s collection fuses with art, packing plenty of inspiration. Racing cars from the Monte Carlo Rally and even royal wedding transport are a few of the museum’s highlights.
Monte Carlo Harbour
Time to feel like an A-Lister... Jam-packed with spectacular views, Monte Carlo Harbour is home to some of the world’s largest yachts. It’s also brimming with lots of food stalls and restaurants, so whether you fancy hotdogs and paninis or a sit-down meal, you’ve got it. What about a water taxi? Admire the breathtaking views while you float on the Mediterranean.
Top tip: Events are often held here, so plan ahead to tick one of these off your bucket list, like their yacht show.
This impressive cathedral is a must see when in Monaco. The architecture on the outside is just as incredible as the sights you get on the inside. The stained-glass windows will wow you. It also holds the tombs of Prince Rannier and Princess Grace for those history enthusiasts.
Casino of Monte Carlo
Roll the dice within Monte Carlo’s legendary casino. You can start the night off in one of the building’s bars of your taste, whether you like a party, trendy or chill vibe, before moving on for an unforgettable thrill. The gold and marble décor matches the city’s grandeur perfectly.
This central hub of Monte Carlo is where you can expect to see the flashiest of cars. These glamorous walkways, with their water fountains and manicured flower beds, will have you feeling fresh out of a film set. It’s romantic on an evening with the streetlamps glowing beneath the palm trees but is also a great spot for some people watching during the daytime.
A visit to this palace won’t leave you disappointed – each room holds the key to its original state through period pieces and Renaissance art. Look out for family portraits. If you’re going to taste regal grandeur, it will be in Monaco! This site overlooks the bay, so you won’t be short of sweeping views either. Check opening times as you visit as it closes for the season.
Posted: 18th Oct 2023. Updated: 3rd Apr 2024.