THINGS TO DO IN Monaco: 2-DAY ITINERARY

A true playground for the rich and famous, Monaco is an alluring destination for anyone who likes to dip their toes in the lap of luxury. This tiny principality of just 36,000 residents is brimming with Michelin-starred restaurants, private beach clubs, and 5-star resorts.

But there’s much more than meets the eye in “The Rock”, with museums to explore, ancient history to uncover, and an endless array of gardens to stroll through. Follow in the footsteps of royalty at the Prince’s Palace, home to the House of Grimaldi, or try your hand at the slots in Casino Monte-Carlo. No matter what you decide to do, a visit to Monaco will have you feeling like you’re getting the royal treatment.

Our two-day itinerary includes all the best things to see and do in Monaco. You’ll see the major sites while also looking behind the veil to reveal a more laid-back side of this glitzy resort town. Grab a glass of champagne to come with us to Monaco.

Day 1

Morning: Casino Square

There’s no better place to start your trip to Monaco than in the plaza that made it famous, Casino Square. Known as Place du Casino in French, the official language of this tiny country, you’ll kick off day one here. Fringed by the Casino de Monte-Carlo, Casino Cafe de Paris, Hôtel de Paris, and the Opera de Monte-Carlo, the Casino Square is a leafy plaza that flows into the beautiful Jardin du Casino. It’s likely that you’ll see luxury cars driving past and strolling shoppers who have just come from Louis Vuitton.

Casino de Monte-Carlo & Opera de Monte-Carlo

Make your way over to the world-renowned Casino de Monte-Carlo. Opened in 1865, the same Beaux-Arts building houses the Opera de Monte-Carlo, which hosts ballets, concerts, and operas throughout the year. Here, you can try your hand at French Roulette, Black Jack, and other betting games while taking in the opulent decor and architecture.

Jardin du Casino

Located just off Casino Squares' northwestern edge is the palm-lined Jardin du Casino. Cross through the square and enter the garden, where you’ll find striking views of the Mediterranean Sea, fountains, and tropical plant species. Designed by botanist Edouard André, this green space serves as an oasis in the heart of the city.

Fairmont Hairpin (famous section of the Formula 1 race)

Finish your morning stroll around the center of Monaco with a visit to the Fairmont Hairpin. The Monaco Grand Prix is the biggest event of the year in Monte-Carlo. As one of the most famous race segments, this hairpin turn is notorious for being an accident-prone section of the route.

Day 1, Morning - monaco Tour Map

Afternoon: Monte-Carlo District

Eglise De Saint-Charles: Continue your afternoon wanderings in the Monte-Carlo District by visiting the Eglise de Saint-Charles. Commissioned by Prince Charles Le Clerc III, the church opened in 1883. This Renaissance beauty is just as beautiful outside as it is inside, with bright blue ceilings and striking stained glass.

Nouveau Musée National de Monaco

Make your way down the terraced streets to the Nouveau Musée National de Monaco. Set in a stunning Belle Epoque building, this contemporary museum hosts various exhibitions throughout the year and displays its permanent collection, which houses over 10,000 works of art produced in the 19th and 20th centuries. This particular location is known as Villa Sauber, while their second site, Villa Paloma, is just across town.

Le Jardin Japonais

Make your way down Avenue Princesse Grace to Le Jardin Japonais. Also known as the Princess Grace Japanese Garden, it is a unique mix of Mediterranean plants and Japanese design, a peaceful respite tucked among modern buildings. Landscape architect Yasuo Beppu created it, and it features traditional garden elements like the tea house, bamboo hedges, and Awaji Island tiles.

Monte-Carlo Beach Club

Round out the day by grabbing a taxi down to the Monte-Carlo Beach Club. Just a 5-minute drive away, this exclusive stretch of sand has all the amenities you could dream of. Lounge by the saltwater pool, kayak in the clear Mediterranean Sea, or simply relax on the sun deck. There are also two onsite restaurants if you start to feel hungry.

Plage du Larvotto

Backtrack down Avenue Princesse Grace to reach one of Monaco’s only public beaches. Plage du Larvotto is a manmade turquoise stretch of coast. If you’re up for relaxing or swimming, finish out the day by renting one of the beach umbrellas and lounge chairs.

Day 1, Afternoon - monaco Tour Map

Day 2

Morning: Monaco-Ville

Cathédrale De Monaco: Start your second day in Monaco-Ville, also known as Le Rocher, a rocky bluff that overlooks the Mediterranean Sea. The cathedral, built by the architect Charles Lenormand in the Romanesque Revival style, officially opened in 1903. Many members of the Grimaldi Royal Family, including Princess Grace of Monaco, are buried here.

Place du Palais

Walk behind the cathedral to connect with the Rue Comté Felix, a colorful, narrow lane that leads to the Place du Palais. The Place du Palais is a stone courtyard in front of the Prince’s Palace, flanked with towering stone pines. You can also walk to the far western end of the square to look out over the Mediterranean Sea.

Prince’s Palace of Monaco

The Prince’s Palace is the formal residence of the Monegasque monarchy. Also known by its French name, Palais Princier de Monaco, visitors can take a guided tour of the palace, its Murano glass chandelier-clad hallways, and gilded state apartments, from March to October. Walk through the Mirror Gallery, modeled after the Palace of Versailles, and past the elaborate frescoes, painted during the Italian Renaissance, that adorn the halls. If you decide to forgo a tour, you can admire its Renaissance facade and watch the changing of the guard each day at 11:55 a.m. at the Royal Entrance.

Jardins Saint-Martin

Continue down the Avenue Saint-Martin, following the brick path until you reach the wrought-iron fence that protects the Jardins Saint-Martin. These were the first public gardens in Monaco, opening in 1816. Nestled below the road on terraced levels, the garden holds an abundance of Mediterranean plant life and sculptures with striking views of the sea to match. Stop to admire the statue of Princess Grace before walking just down the street to reach your next stop.

Musée Océanographique de Monaco

The Musée Oceanographique de Monaco is an aquarium and museum combined, housed in a beautiful Baroque Revival building that overlooks a sheer cliff into the sea. Discover exhibits like the Shark Lagoon, Tropical Seas, Turtle Odyssey, and Mediterranean Species display. Jacques Cousteau was a curator here for over thirty years. As one of the oldest aquariums in the world, this is a must-visit spot in Monaco.

Solarium Beach

End the morning by walking down the switchback roads to reach Quai Antoine 1er, which ends at Monaco’s Solarium Beach. Along the way, you’ll find views of Fort Antoine Theatre, an 18th-century fortress turned amphitheater. Whether you decide to take a dip or simply want to admire the water from the stadium-style seats, Solarium Beach is a great spot to swim or watch the boats go by.

Day 2, morning - monaco Tour Map

Afternoon: Quartier du Port

Port Hercule: Start your second day in Monaco at the city’s largest and deepest anchorage, Port Hercule. This is the home of the Superyachts in Monaco who come here to dock. Because the water is so deep, this location has been used for centuries, originally named Port Hercules by the Romans. The port is lined with Michelin-star restaurants and boutique shops.

La Collection Automobiles de S.A.S. le Prince de Monaco

Set along the Circuit de Monaco and just opposite the Port Hercule is La Collection de Voitures de SAS le Prince de Monaco. Over 70 vintage cars, all collected by Prince Rainier III, are on display. The museum also houses Formula 1 cars for those interested in the Monte-Carlo Grand Prix.

Musée d’Anthropologie Préhistorique de Monaco

From Port Hercule, you can take a quick taxi or make the 20-minute walk up the hill via Boulevard Rainier III to reach the Musee d’Anthropologie Prehistorique de Monaco. Inhabited for thousands of years, the museum holds artifacts from excavations taking place around Monaco. Visitors can look forward to both human and animal skeletal remains in the permanent collection.

Jardin Exotique de Monaco

Walk next door to the stunning Jardin Exotique de Monaco, which houses hundreds of succulents and cacti. Built in 1933, the garden features plants from as far away as Mexico and South America, all with the stunning backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea in the distance. At the base of the garden is the Observation Cave. Once inhabited by Prehistoric humans, these caves hold huge stalagmites and stalactites and make for the perfect follow-up to visiting the artifacts at the Musée d’Anthropologie.

Port de Fontvieille

End your last evening in Monaco at the Port de Fontvieille. Grab a taxi or make the 20-minute walk down to the small port, surrounded by sunshine-hued buildings and the city’s signature cliffs. With plenty of waterfront restaurants to choose from, this is also a great spot for your final dinner.

Day 2, afternoon - monaco Tour Map

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Other Things to See in Monaco

• The Princess Grace Rose Garden - The Roseraie Princesse Grace is a rose garden in Fontvieille, Monaco, named after Princess Grace of Monaco. Covering more than 5,000 square metres, this once-private garden now has over 300 different rose varieties, including hybrid teas, floribundas, and climbers. Open to the public daily, the garden is a popular spot for relaxation, weddings, and special events. Admission is free.

• The Sainte-Dévote Chapel is a Roman Catholic chapel dedicated to the patron saint of Monaco, Saint Dévote. It was built in the 11th century and has stunning stained-glass windows. Legend has it that Saint Dévote was brought to Monaco by boat, guided by a white dove, as a result, the chapel was constructed right here. The chapel is a representation of Monaco's identity. It's where the bride of the Prince of Monaco traditionally leaves her wedding bouquet, and the first corner of the Monaco Grand Prix circuit is named after the chapel.

• Go on a whale-watching tour: Go out in search of whales and dolphins on a day cruise from Monaco’s harbors. The Mediterranean Sea is home to Finn, Sperm, and Pilot whales, along with a myriad of dolphin species. If you’re curious about a whale-watching tour, you’ll need to visit Monaco sometime between May and September.

• Take a dip at the Wellness Sky Club: Crowning the top of the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo the Wellness Sky Club offers a dreamy spot to swim and relax with sprawling views over the city and sea.

• Circuit de Monaco: For Formula 1 fanatics, a walking tour of the Circuit de Monaco provides an in-depth look at the famed race track while simultaneously providing a unique look at the Monte-Carlo District.

• Drive a Supercar: Whether you want to feel the power of driving a Supercar or simply want to experience the French Riviera as a passenger, booking a sightdriving experience in Monaco is a great way to see the sights and surrounding landscapes. Choose from a Lamborghini or Ferrari to drive around town in style.

• Hike Le Tête de Chien: For those who like to combine heart-pumping exercise and beautiful views, hiking to La Tete de Chien is a great way to get a birds-eye view over Monaco. Directly translated to “the dog’s head,” you’ll trek 3.5 km through wildflowers and Mediterranean landscapes to reach the cliffside terminus.

• Charter a catamaran: See the lagoons and craggy coastline that surrounds Monaco while also getting gorgeous views of the city skyline from the water on a chartered catamaran. You can choose from a private experience or join a group. Either way this is best experienced at sunset, watching the sun slip into the sea.

Day Trips From Monaco

• Eze, France: Only a 15-minute drive out of Monaco, Eze oozes Côte d’Azur charm. This hilltop Medieval city has been settled for well over a thousand years. Climb its stone steps for a better look at the quaint village, walk among the cacti gardens in Le Jardin Exotique, and enjoy panoramic views of the Med. There are also dozens of small shops to explore and charming cafes to enjoy a café au lait at.

• Nice, France: Just 25 minutes west of Monaco, Nice is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and provides the perfect laidback respite despite being nestled on the notoriously glamorous Côte d’Azur. Once Europe’s most luxurious resort town, Nice has thousands of years of history under its belt, including Roman occupation. Stroll along the Plage des Anglais, browse its legendary open markets, and check out the Roman ruins in Cimiez. A visit to the Musée National de Marc Chagall, which houses over 250 of his works, should also be on your list, or choose from one of 9 other museums in town like the Museée Matisse. Heavily influenced by North Africa and Italy, Nice’s heritage is evident in its signature cuisine, from socca to pissaladière. Other decidedly French eats include salad niçoise and tourte de blettes. It’s possible to reach Nice by train from Monaco, which takes just 30 minutes. A visit to Nice can be easily combined with Eze.

• Cannes, France: Famed for its film festival, Cannes is a playground for the rich and famous and a quick one-hour drive outside of Monaco. Situated on the French Riviera, Cannes draws huge crowds for its international film festival and glamorous beach clubs. Dine at oceanfront seafood restaurants, shop your heart out on the Rue d’Antibes, or take a ferry out to Île Sainte-Marguerite, where the Man in the Iron Mask was imprisoned. Cannes is easily reached from Monaco by train as well, which takes about an hour and 15 minutes.

• Grasse, France: The perfume capital of the world, Grasse is about an hour to the west of Monaco. One of Provence’s Medieval villages, you can’t visit without popping into one of the perfume houses. Most offer a chance to create your own perfume or simply purchase some to take home. The Fragonard Museum is another great stop for those interested in the history of perfume making. Stroll the streets afterward to take in the beauty of this charming town.

• Saint-Paul-de-Vence: A 45-minute drive from Monaco, Saint-Paul-de-Vence is one of France’s most picturesque towns. Founded between the 10th and 11th centuries, art lovers will love its galleries and museums, while those who like to take pictures will never run out of material while walking the winding, Medieval lanes.

• Menton, France: Just a short 20-minute drive east along the coast will bring you to the charming town of Menton. It is home to the Serre de la Madone gardens, famous for their design and rare plantings. Situated on the gorgeous coastline, this lively old town hosts the annual Lemon Festival, which honours citrus with sculptures made entirely of lemons and oranges.

• Ventimiglia, Italy: Monaco is just 10 miles from the Italian border. If you can’t resist the chance to indulge in Ligurian cuisine, head to Ventimiglia, Italy, just 30 minutes by car or train from the center of town. Walk along the promenade for seaside views, visit the Roman ruins, and browse the covered markets. If you happen to be visiting in June, don’t miss out on the Battaglia di Fiori, also known as the Battle of the Flowers.

• Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild: Located in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, just a 30-minute drive from Monaco, is the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild. Built in the early 20th century, this iconic pale pink palace overlooks the Mediterranean Sea and was once the home of Baroness Beatrice de Rothschild. Take a tour of the grounds of this palatial property and its beautiful gardens, including the secluded La Temple de l’Amour, a replica of the Trianon Garden in Versailles. Back inside the estate, you’ll find classic decor and antique furniture, along with the Beatrice Room, a gorgeous salmon-colored ballroom with floor-to-ceiling windows that overlooks the Villefranche Bay. This is the perfect spot to indulge in a sumptuous afternoon tea or a glass of rosé.

• Villa Kerylos: Just minutes away from the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild is another luxurious Greek Revival residence, Villa Kerylos. Built by Theodore Reinach in the early 1900’s, this estate was one of the inspirations behind the Rothschild villa. Take a tour of the interior to discover Greek colonnades, mosaics, and other architectural features that took inspiration from ancient civilizations like the Romans and Egyptians.

Racecourses near Monaco

• Hippodrome de la Côte d'Azur: Just a 40-minute drive from downtown Monaco, the Hippodrome de la Côte d'Azur is a popular track for horse racing that can be visited throughout the year. Situated right on the sea in Cagnes-Sur-Mer, it also holds a famous, annual trotting race.

Best Golf Courses in Monaco

• Monte Carlo Golf Club: A sprawling course that overlooks the glittering Mediterranean Sea, you’ll find everything from an 18-hole, par 71 golf course to a putting green and training bunker at the Monte Carlo Golf Club.

Best Vineyards Near Monaco

• Vignoble Rasse: Just 40 minutes from Monaco, Vignoble Rasse is situated on the outskirts of Nice. Previously named for the village it's found in, Saint-Jeannet, guests can relax among the leafy grapevines, sipping on Rosé and indulging in aperitifs like local cheese and charcuterie.

• Château de Berne: About 1.5 hours outside of Monaco, Chateau de Berne is a certified organic winery. Set on 150 hectares of land, the vineyards thrive in the limestone terroir, all making for a beautiful backdrop for sipping wine. Stop into the Tasting Cellar to sample their flagship Côtes de Provence Rosé paired with estate jam, honey, and olive oil. The estate also happens to be a 5 star hotel should you decide to spend the night.

• Château de Saint-Martin: Also tucked in the Côtes de Provence wine region, Chateau de Saint-Martin is a no-frills wine-tasting stop just 20 minutes away from Chateau de Berne. This estate specializes in gastronomic experiences with chocolate, cheese, and other local products. It’s also possible to arrange a vineyard picnic.

Things to Do with Kids in Monaco

While Monaco’s reputation for glitz and glamor might discourage parents from bringing little ones, there are plenty of things to do with kids. One of the best things for pint-sized visitors to do is to go to the Musee Oceanographique de Monaco. Looking out over the Mediterranean Sea, children will adore this combination of aquarium and museum, which offers activities like an escape game, a hands-on encounter with marine life, and virtual reality experiences.

Le Petit Train de Monaco is another fun activity with kids in tow. Climb aboard for a guided tour around the city center that both adults and children will love. The train also happens to leave from the Musee Oceanographique’s parking lot, which makes it easy to combine these activities.

The Jardin Animalier de Monaco, also known as the Rainier III Zoological Garden, is a small zoo tucked just outside Monaco City. Visitors will find 60 different species of animals, including lemurs and tropical birds. What makes this zoo extra special is that all of the animals were either seized by customs, donated, or abandoned. With playgrounds and other fun things to do, this is a great place to bring children on a visit to Monaco.

Where to Eat in Monaco

• YOSHI: Located inside the Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo, YOSHI is the finest Japanese restaurant in Monaco. This Michelin-starred restaurant offers sushi, sashimi, and teppanyaki-prepared main courses alongside hot and cold starters. An on-site sommelier is at your service to provide sake, whiskey, and green tea recommendations.

• Elsa: A seaside restaurant with exceptional views, Elsa is housed inside the Monte-Carlo Beach Hotel on Monaco’s border with France. Dine on elevated Mediterranean fare as you watch Superyachts slip past in a laid back yet elevated setting.

• Em Sherif Monte-Carlo: Tucked within the famed Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, Em Sherif specializes in Lebanese cuisine. With two eight-course menus to choose from, a medley of textures and temperatures takes guests on a sensory experience. Em Sherif regularly has live music hosted at their Live DJ events.

• Maona Monte-Carlo: Maona Monte-Carlo’s Bohemian atmosphere and striking views of the Med make it the perfect place to grab dinner. Dine on Monegasque favorites that are typical of the region, like socca and fougasse, in the fun and funky dining room or on their breezy terrace. If you’re simply looking for a drink, pop into Bar Sauvage. They embrace local flavors in their signature cocktails, including the famous peach melba.

• Les Ambassadeurs by Christophe Cussac: Crowned with two Michelin stars, French cuisine shines in the hands of Chef Christophe Cussac at Les Ambassadeurs. Guests are treated to 13 different courses either in their intimate dining room or spacious terrace. A fresh-baked bread and dessert trolley further seals the deal.

• Le Louis XV: Also hidden inside the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, Le Louis XV is one of the most distinguished restaurants in the whole of Monaco. With three Michelin stars, Louis XV wows with its exquisite take on Mediterranean cuisine. Guests must follow a strict, elegant dress code.

• Blue Bay Marcel Ravin: Housed within the Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort, Blue Bay Marcel Ravin celebrates a perfect fusion of Mediterranean and Creole cuisine. Another Michelin star-studded restaurant option, guests will find an ever-changing menu with a few signature dishes.

Where to Stay in Monaco

• Hotel Hermitage Monte-Carlo (5 stars): Tucked just off Casino Square, Hotel Hermitage Monte-Carlo is a wonderful choice if you want to be close to all the action. This five-star hotel includes a Michelin-star restaurant, private beach access, a stunning glass atrium, and luxurious suites with courtyard and sea views that are worthy of the hotel’s star-studded reputation.

• Hotel de Paris Monte-Carlo (5 stars): Just opposite the Casino Monte-Carlo, Hotel de Paris Monte-Carlo is a legendary 5-star property in the heart of the city. Situated in a prime location along the Monte-Carlo Grand Prix track, guests will find Michelin-star restaurants, the rooftop Wellness Sky Club, and private beach access to further complement the opulent interiors.

• Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo (5 stars): Home to one of the most prestigious restaurants in Monaco, Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo sets the bar high for elegance. Located in the Monte-Carlo District and with sprawling suites, the Spa Metropole by Givenchy, and multiple restaurants, including YOSHI and Les Ambassadeurs, visitors will be hard-pressed to find a more wow-worthy stay in Monaco.

• Fairmont Monte-Carlo (4 stars): Overlooking the famous Fairmont Hairpin, the Fairmont Monte-Carlo is a sprawling hotel with almost 600 rooms. Guests can look forward to an onsite spa and fitness center, paired with a beautiful pool and restaurants. The Fairmont Monte-Carlo is one of the best options in Monaco for those traveling with children, as they provide babysitting services, a kid’s club, and other family-centered amenities.

• Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort (4 stars): At the eastern tip of Monaco, Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort sits on a striking turquoise lagoon. The spa Cinq Mondes, private beach, gardens, and delicious restaurants, including one with two Michelin stars, means that you would never have to leave the resort to get a true taste of Monaco. With a four-star status, this property is also Green Globe certified for its sustainability efforts.

• Hotel Miramar (3 stars): If you’re looking to avoid the glitz and glamor of Monaco’s five-star resorts and hotels, Hotel Miramar is a perfect middle ground. Situated along Port Hercule, this boutique hotel has 14 rooms, some with private balconies. The rooftop provides beautiful views over the harbor and continental breakfast each morning.

• Monte-Carlo Beach Hotel - Relais & Chateaux (5-star): Technically located in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, France, the Monte-Carlo Beach Hotel is a 5-star hotel situated on a peaceful stretch of the Mediterranean Sea. With 40 different suites to choose from, all looking out to the sparkling sea, you’ll be treated to beautiful, contemporary rooms and spacious marble bathrooms. Amenities include a Michelin-Guide restaurant, private beach, Olympic swimming pool, spa, and a kids club. Secluded from the glitz and glam of downtown Monaco, this is the perfect place to stay if you’re craving peace and tranquility.

Best Time to Visit Monaco

The best time to visit Monaco is in spring and autumn, specifically from April to May and September to October. Both seasons have plenty of events to attend, including the Monaco Grand Prix in May and the September Yacht Show. Monaco enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm summers.

Monaco Festivals

• Monaco Grand Prix: Perhaps the most famous Formula 1 race in the world, the Monaco Grand Prix, takes place at the end of May every year. Drawing in huge crowds, this is the busiest time of year to visit this coastal country. Drivers race along the famed Circuit de Monaco, which runs straight through the city center.

• Monte-Carlo Summer Festival: The focus of the Monte-Carlo Summer Festival is all things music. Held in venues across town, including in Casino Square, visitors can expect famous music artists like Alicia Keys and Lenny Kravitz, alongside cabaret shows and seated concerts.

• Monaco Yacht Show: Held in Port Hercule, the Monaco Yacht Show takes place every September. The rich and famous flock to Monaco to speak with the foremost yacht experts about purchasing and chartering their own boats. Everything from tenders to Superyachts are on display.