Things To Do
in Monaco
Monaco is a tiny, sovereign city-state on the French Riviera known for its glittering casinos, luxury yachts, and headlining events. Despite its minute size, it brims with Mediterranean glamour, dramatic cliffside streets, and opulent architecture around the harbor. It blends French and Italian influences in its cuisine, high-end shopping, and world-class hospitality.
Visitors should be prepared for premium prices, meticulous service, and a chic, high-energy atmosphere that defines Monte Carlo.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the iconic Monte Carlo Casino, where you can admire the stunning architecture and learn about its rich history. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at one of the nearby cafes while soaking in the glamorous surroundings. Don't forget to capture some photos of the beautiful gardens that frame the casino.
After your casino visit, take a stroll through the luxurious streets of Monte Carlo, exploring high-end boutiques and shops. Treat yourself to lunch at a Michelin-starred restaurant, indulging in exquisite Mediterranean cuisine. Post-lunch, consider visiting the nearby Japanese Garden for a peaceful walk among traditional landscapes.
As the sun sets, prepare for a night of entertainment by attending a performance at the famed Opéra de Monte-Carlo. After the show, enjoy cocktails at a chic rooftop bar, where you can unwind with stunning views of the city and the sea. Conclude your evening with a romantic dinner overlooking the harbor, savoring the flavors of the region.
Begin your day with a visit to the Prince's Palace, where you can witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony at 11:55 AM. Tour through the palace’s richly decorated rooms and learn about the Grimaldi family's fascinating history. Don't forget to take in the panoramic views of Monaco from the palace grounds.
Spend your afternoon in the Old Town (Monaco-Ville) exploring its charming streets and boutique shops. Enjoy lunch at a quaint café, sampling local specialties such as Socca or Pan Bagnat. After lunch, visit the stunning St. Nicholas Cathedral, where many of the royal family members are buried.
As night falls, dine at one of the many oceanfront restaurants in Monaco. Enjoy a fresh seafood platter while listening to the gentle sounds of the waves. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the Monaco harbor and admire the luxurious yachts illuminated against the night sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $20-25 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $90-150 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $180-350 |
| 🚕Taxi start fare | $7-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable city-state with easy access to beaches and sights
- Iconic casinos, luxury dining, and glamorous Riviera ambiance
- High prices across dining, accommodation, and activities
- Limited budget-friendly options and daytime attractions outside the coast
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good day
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Combien ça coûte ?" - How much does it cost?
- "Où est… ?" - Where is…?
- "Je voudrais" - I would like
- "Excusez-moi" - Excuse me
Places to Visit in Monaco
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic Belle Époque facade and grand staircase; best captured at dusk when the lights come on.
Historic fortress and old town with narrow lanes, pastel buildings, and sweeping views over the port.
A striking building with panoramic sea views and dramatic architectural lines.
Marina lined with luxury yachts and colorful façades, especially photogenic at sunrise.
Parapet views over Monaco’s coastline, set among a rich collection of cacti and succulents.
Food in Monaco
Monaco Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Monégasque fried pastry pockets typically filled with chard, ricotta, onions, and herbs.
Must-Try!
Slow-braised dried cod with tomatoes, garlic and olive oil, a coastal specialty.
Garlic mayonnaise served with boiled fish and seasonal vegetables.
Caramelized onion tart topped with anchovies and olives, popular as a snack or light meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market near the port offering fresh seafood, cheeses, olives, and seasonal produce.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Monaco values polished, smart-casual attire, especially in upscale venues and casinos.
A courteous handshake is typical; address people formally, using Monsieur/Madame unless invited to a first-name basis.
Respect privacy and quiet in residential areas; loud behavior in public can be frowned upon.
Casinos enforce strict rules and dress codes; follow staff instructions and keep personal belongings secure.
Safety
Tipping in Monaco
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is often included; if not, a 5–10% tip is customary for good service. For taxi rides, rounding up is common.
Cards are widely accepted; cash is convenient for smaller purchases. Contactless payments are common, and ATMs are plentiful.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
March–May bring mild temperatures (about 60–70°F/15–21°C) and blooming gardens. Great for outdoor exploration and fewer crowds.
June–August brings warm days (70–85°F/21–29°C) with sea breezes. Peak crowds and higher prices; tie events like yacht and terrace dining season.
September–November offers pleasant temps and clearer skies; sea remains warm enough for swimming on many days; shoulder-season benefits include easier reservations.
December–February are mild (typically 50–60°F/10–15°C); some outdoor activities are limited, but museums and restaurants are in full swing and light displays add charm.
Monaco at Night
Hiking in Monaco
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic coastal hikes just outside Monaco with sea views and cliffside paths.
Ridge routes above the Riviera offering expansive panoramas of Monaco and the sea.
Airports
How to reach Monaco by plane.
Main international gateway for the Riviera; about 20–40 minutes by car or rail to Monaco, depending on traffic and route.
Small heliport offering private helicopter transfers to Nice and nearby destinations; quick option for high-end travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A small, native community with deep ties to the principality, living alongside a large expatriate population.
A large proportion of residents come from France, Italy, the UK, and other countries, contributing to a cosmopolitan atmosphere.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Top-tier club with matches at the Stade Louis II; a key part of the local sports scene.
Iconic street race around Monte Carlo; one of the world’s most famous motorsport events attracting visitors annually.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Monaco.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants can adapt to vegetarian diets; look for Mediterranean salads, seafood-free pastas, and vegetable-forward dishes. In Monaco, it’s common to request olive oil, herbs, and roasted vegetables as core flavors.