14 stunning places to go in Monaco (2024 travel guide)

Nestled along the beautiful Mediterranean, the Principality of Monaco is a small but interesting destination.

Most people picture luxury yachts and the famous Monte Carlo Casino, and yes, you’ll see plenty of that. But Monaco has a lot more going on – from the opulence of it’s casino to the medieval charm of the old town. Add some beautiful views, some pretty gardens and a lot of sun and sand.

Monaco’s a pretty unique destination – an independent nation ruled by the Grimaldi family since 1297, it’s prime minister is appointed by it’s monarch in consultation with France. It’s the world’s second smallest state after Vatican City; the most densely populated; the third richest by capita; and 30% of its population are millionaires.

We spent a day there, going as a day trip from Nice. Whether you go for the day or spend longer, we’d highly recommend it – it’s history and uniqueness make it a fascinating place to go. In this guide, we’ll show you the highlights and help you make the most of your own visit – whether you’ve got a few hours or a couple of days.

The practical stuff

How long should you stay in Monaco?

Monaco might be small – just over 2 square kilometres – but there’s plenty to see and do. A long weekend (three to four days) is ideal for exploring Monaco’s main attractions, enjoying a bit of leisure time by the sea, and indulging in some fine dining.

Most people visit Monaco for the day – which is what we did. It’s enough time to see all the main highlights from the outside, but if you want to go inside then you’ll need to stay longer. Monaco isn’t cheap though, so staying over might be outside of your budget – instead, you could consider staying overnight in Nice or Villefranche sur Mer and returning the next day.

If you’re here for a specific event – like the Yacht Show or the Monaco Grand Prix – then plan around those dates. However, bear in mind that prices skyrocket and Monaco is completely geared towards those events, becoming very busy.

Where should you stay in Monaco?

Accommodation options in Monaco are famously luxurious, but there are choices for every type of traveller.

If you’re looking for five-star hotels, the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, with it’s iconic place on Casino Square, or the Hotel Hermitage are ideal. These hotels are a stone’s throw from the Monte Carlo Casino and offer Michelin-starred chefs, exclusive access to the Monte Carlo Beach Club, and breath-taking views of the Mediterranean Sea.

But, if you’re like us and a night here costs what you might spend on your entire holiday, consider the charming boutique hotels or bed and breakfasts in the quieter Le Rocher area (the old town).

The good news is that wherever you stay in Monaco, you’ll never be far from the action. Keep in mind that accommodation prices peak during race weekend and other major events. If you’re looking to save a small fortune, consider visiting in the off-season, when you can find great deals at many of the hotels.

Also consider staying overnight in Nice or Villefranche sur Mer (just factor in the cost of extra train travel if doing so).

How do you get to Monaco?

Getting to Monaco is straightforward, and there are a few options depending on your starting point. Monaco doesn’t have an airport, and the closest major airport is Nice Côte d’Azur Airport. It’s about an hour away by train or bus, and departures are regular.

If you’re travelling by train, Monaco’s main station, Gare de Monaco-Monte-Carlo, is well-connected with frequent services from Nice, Cannes, and beyond. Prices are fair too.

You won’t need your passport to get into Monaco if arriving from France.

You can also arrive by sea – many companies offer yacht access or ferry services from other parts of the French Riviera.

And if you’re driving, take the A8 motorway, but be prepared for narrow city streets and limited parking.

When should you go to Monaco?

Monaco is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your interests. If you’re here for the Formula One Monaco Grand Prix or the Yacht Show, visit in May or September, respectively. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and there’s a buzz in the air with parties, events, and world-class entertainment.

But, the majority of people will want to go outside the flagship events. The late spring and early autumn months are ideal. The weather is warm but not too hot, and there are fewer crowds.

Clear days in winter can be beautiful, and Monaco’s Christmas market at Port Hercules is worth visiting. Summer brings heat and crowds, but also a great atmosphere with beach clubs, concerts, and cultural festivals.

What are the best places to go in Monaco?

Place du Casino

The Place du Casino is the beating heart of Monte Carlo. Surrounded by the Monte Carlo Casino, the Hôtel de Paris, and the Café de Paris, it’s the perfect spot to people-watch and soak in the atmosphere of this glamorous city. You’ll see luxury cars, beautiful architecture, and perhaps even a celebrity or two.

Take a seat at a café terrace, enjoy a drink, and watch the world go by. It’s one of the best places in Monaco to feel the pulse of the city.

Why go? People-watching, and to see a completely different way of life.
How long? 1-2 hours.

Monte Carlo Casino

The Casino de Monte-Carlo is perhaps Monaco’s most famous landmark. It’s set on the small main square in the centre of Monaco, and surrounded by opulent buildings and expensive cars, and is the centre of Monaco’s glitz and glamour.

It was opened in 1863 and was built to save the Grimaldi family from bankruptcy – and create an economy centred on finance, gambling and luxury. It worked, and set the stage for Monaco’s fast development.

You can go into the foyer of the casino for free and get a small flavour of it’s grandeur. We didn’t go into the gaming rooms for a flutter so can’t advise much here, but do know that the dress code is smart, there’s an entry fee and you’ll need to bring your passport.

Why go? A world landmark, and insane luxury.
How long? 30 minutes, if you’re not going for a flutter.

Monaco Opera House

Tucked right next to the casino is Monaco’s opera house, called the Salle Garnier.

It was designed by Charles Garnier, the same architect behind the casino (and the Paris Opera), and the drama and elegance you’d expect (but on a much more intimate scale).

The inside looks pretty much how you’d expect: red velvet seats, gold everywhere, and some impressive frescoes. Even if you’re not into opera, it’s worth popping in.

You can do a guided tour to learn a bit about the history and the building, or catch a show if the timing works out.

Why go? Monaco Opera House, Charles Garnier, cultural experience.
How long? 1-2 hours.

Prince’s Palace

Home to the Grimaldi family since the 13th century, the Prince’s Palace offers a unique glimpse into Monaco’s royal history. Take a tour of the state apartments to see richly decorated rooms, beautiful tapestries, and historic artefacts. Don’t miss the changing of the guards, a daily tradition held in the Place du Palais.

The palace is also a private residence for Prince Albert and his family, adding to it’s unique charm. Visit in the summer months when the palace is open to the public, and you’ll enjoy stunning views over Monaco and the harbour.

Again, even if you don’t go inside it’s worth seeing from the outside. It’s also near the old town, which shows another side of Monaco. You can walk from downtown Monaco (the Monte Carlo area) in about 30 minutes – which we recommend over the bus.

Why go? A historical palace and beautiful views.
How long? 1-2 hours.

Japanese Garden

Tucked away near Avenue Princesse Grace, this tranquil Japanese garden is one of Monaco’s lesser-known gems. Created at the request of Princess Grace, it features traditional Japanese landscaping with a small lake, a waterfall, and exotic plants. It’s a peaceful spot to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a quiet moment.

The garden is free to enter and open year-round, making it a great place to visit any time of year.

Why go? Japanese garden, exotic plants, tranquillity.
How long? 30 minutes.

The old town of Monaco – Le Rocher

Le Rocher, also known as Monaco’s old town, is the historical heart of Monaco. Perched high on a rocky cliff overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, its very different to the glitz and glamour of Monte Carlo. Here, the atmosphere is slower, more charming, and a bit more ‘real’.

The old town is filled with pastel-coloured buildings, quaint cafés, and local boutiques. Check out the Saint Nicholas Cathedral, and the Prince’s Palace (Palais du Prince) – there’s separate entries for each of these sites in this guide.

Stroll around the charming Place Saint Nicolas and Place de la Mairie, where you’ll find locals enjoying a slower pace of life. You can also enjoy some of the best views of Monaco and the surrounding French Riviera from various view points around the old town.

We recommend visiting in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and see the old town when it’s quietest.

It’s also a good place to get lunch – while most restaurants are aimed at tourists (and so priced accordingly), you’ll find them cheaper than in the Monte Carlo area and have more choice if you’re on a normal tourist budget.

If you like old towns then put Belgium on your bucket list – it’s fully of cobbled streets, quaint canals and medieval old towns.

Why go? Old town charm and rich history.
How long? 2 hours.

Jardin Exotique

If you want a break from the busy streets, head up to the Jardin Exotique. It’s a botanical garden perched on the cliffs above Monaco, and you can see pretty much the whole country plus the Med from up there.

The garden itself is packed with cacti and succulents – some more than a century old – so it feels very different from your usual European park. Underneath, there’s a limestone cave with stalactites and stalagmites.

Guided tours of the cave are included in your ticket, but they run at set times, so it’s worth checking when you arrive. Tickets are about €7.

You can walk up (it’s steep) but bus line 2 drops you right outside, which is easier than hiking up (tickets are €2 and can be purchased on board with Contactless card). Be aware there are loads of stairs inside, so it’s not ideal if you’ve got mobility issues. Go early or later in the day to dodge the heat.

Why go? Exotic garden with stunning views.
How long? 2 hours.

Saint Nicholas Cathedral

Saint Nicholas Cathedral (also called Monaco Cathedral) is worth a stop if you’re wandering around the old town. It’s where many of Monaco’s royals are buried, including Princess Grace and Prince Rainier III, so it has a bit of extra significance beyond being “just another church.”

The building itself is Roman-Byzantine in style, built from white stone, and inside you’ll see stained glass, mosaics, and a marble altar. It’s not huge, so you don’t need loads of time here, but it’s a nice pause while exploring Le Rocher.

If you’re around on a Sunday, you can catch mass – the organ is massive and sounds incredible in the space. Entry is free, so it’s easy to pop in as part of a walk through the old town.

It’s open daily (usually 9am–6pm). It can get busier in the late morning, so early or late in the day is quieter if you want space to look around.

Why go? Royal history and a beautiful building.
How long? 30 minutes.

Larvotto Beach

If you’re after some downtime in Monaco, Larvotto Beach is the place to go. It’s the main public beach in the principality and, while not huge, it’s a nice spot for a swim or just to sit by the Med for a while. The water is clear, the beach is clean, and the promenade makes it easy to grab food or a drink nearby.

The beach was recently refurbished, so the facilities are pretty modern. You’ll find showers, changing areas, and lifeguards in the summer. There are free sections where you can throw down a towel, or you can rent sun loungers and umbrellas from private areas if you’d rather have a bit more comfort.

It gets packed in July and August, so if you want space, go early in the morning or later in the evening. Even outside of peak times, it’s a good spot for a walk along the seafront.

Bus lines 5 and 6 stop nearby (pay by Contactless on board, €2) , making it easy to reach without a car. If you’re only in Monaco for the day then we’d probably recommend skipping it and prioritising other areas (a beach is a beach) but that’s our personal preference.

Why go? Beaches, sun and a break from the craziness of Monaco.
How long? 2-3 hours.

Port Hercules

Port Hercules is Monaco’s main harbour and the place to go if you want to see ridiculous yachts up close. It’s been used since ancient times, but today it’s more about superyachts than fishing boats. Walking around the harbour doesn’t cost anything, and you can look up some of the boats to see who they belong to and how much they cost.

There are restaurants and bars along the front if you want to sit down with a drink, but the best bit is just strolling the promenade and people-watching. The Formula One track also runs right along here, and in winter the port turns into Monaco’s Christmas market, so there’s usually something going on (we went as they were setting up for the a huge yacht festival).

If you like a walk then it’s halfway between Monte Cristo and the old town.

Why go? Luxury yachts in a pretty harbour, and to see a lot of money.
How long? 1 hour.

Princess Grace Rose Garden

The Princess Grace Rose Garden in Fontvieille is a really nice, quiet spot away from the crowds. It was created in memory of Princess Grace and has over 300 types of roses, all labelled so you can see what’s what.

It’s not as famous as the casino or the harbour, so it’s usually pretty peaceful. Spring is the best time to go, when everything’s in bloom, but it’s a nice walk any time of year. Great for a chill break if you’ve been walking around Monaco all day. It’s free to enter.

Why go? Princess Grace Rose Garden, peaceful, floral beauty.
How long? 1 hour.

Marché de la Condamine

If you want a bit of local life in Monaco, check out the Marché de la Condamine near Port Hercule. It’s the main market in town, with fresh fruit and veg, flowers, and plenty of local treats. Even if you’re not buying much, it’s a nice place to wander and soak up the atmosphere.

Morning is the best time to go, when it’s busiest and the stalls are fully stocked. Try some local snacks while you’re there, like socca (chickpea pancake) or barbajuans (fried vegetable and cheese parcels). Grab something to eat and sit on a nearby bench for a bit of people-watching, it’s a nice break from the more touristy spots.

It’s also a great and affordable stop for lunch. It’s open daily except Sunday, usually from 7am–2pm. Cash is handy for small purchases, though some stalls accept cards. It’s easy to reach on foot from the harbour or the old town.

Why go? To taste some local food.
How long? 1 hour.

Day trips from Monaco

• Èze: A medieval village perched high above the sea with incredible views and charming streets.
• Menton: Known as the “Pearl of France,” this town is famous for it’s gardens and colourful architecture.
• Nice: Just 30 minutes away, Nice offers beautiful beaches, museums, and vibrant nightlife.
• Cannes: Home to the famous film festival, Cannes offers glamour, luxury, and beautiful beaches.
• Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat: A beautiful peninsula with stunning villas and secluded beaches.

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