What to see in Monaco

Situated on the Mediterranean Sea, the principality of Monaco, despite its size of only two square kilometres, attracts everyone’s who likes luxury in all its glory. One of the world’s smallest independent states, it oozes glamour throughout the year. Luckily, there are lots of free attractions to enjoy for travellers on budget as well. So, check out our favourite things to do in this interesting city-state!

1) See the The Palais du Prince

The Palais du Prince is home to the world’s oldest monarchy, the Grimaldi family. Originally built in the 13th century as a strong defensive fortress, with time the building has been transformed into what it is today, a breathtaking palace in the style of Louis XIV. Visitors can tour the State Apartments when the royal family is absent. Inside you can see an Italian gallery with 15th century frescoes, the wood panelled Mazarin Room, the Blue Room and the Throne Room. In front of the Palace every day at 11:55 a.m., the traditional ritual of the Changing of the Guard takes place.

Prince’s palace in Monte Carlo, Monaco

2) Visit the Oceanographic Museum

Although there aren’t many of them, this is the principality’s best and most popular museum. It’s a neoclassical building made straight up from the cliff which looks far greater than the Palace. From aquariums and exhibitions to games, relaxation and recently opened Tortoise Island, the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco gives you a fantastic insight into the marine world. It will show you how to know, love and protect the oceans. The admission fee goes from €11 to 16€, depending on the season. See timetables and prices.

3) Roll a dice in the Casino

The Casino de Monte Carlo attracts international clients thanks to its history, legendary interior and a wide range of table games and slot machines. This legendary casino has changed and has been updated through the centuries to become what it is today and to offer only the best to its prestigious customers. Although we do not recommend you to gamble, make sure to stop by here to have a full, authentic Monte Carlo experience. Enjoy in various activites, from the European Roulette to Texas Hold’em Poker tables.

The Casino of Monte Carlo by night

4) Check out the Sainte-Dévote chapel

Visit this gorgeous chapel dedicated to Saint Devota, the patron saint of Monaco. The Sainte-Dévote chapel is situated in the Valley of the Gaumates is a slice of solitude away from all the hustle and bustle. It is the location where, during the 4th century a small boat carrying Sainte Dévote’s remains ran aground at its entrance. Every year on 26th January, a boat is burnt at nightfall as part of a traditional ceremony.

5) Walk along Port de la Condamine

The Port de la Condamine, in the shape of a square, was completed in 1926 and designed to hold a big number of luxury yachts – even the Prince himself docks his vessel there. The Yacht Club in front of the marine has more than 1 000 members from all over the world and hosts races and festivals all year long. Enjoy a walk along the port and stop for a snack at a cafe or a restaurant. You can also take catamaran ride around Monaco to see the fantastic coastline.

Famous port of Monaco

6) Pray in Saint Nicholas Cathedral

Monaco cathedral is the resting place of many Grimaldi family members, Monaco’s royals, including Grace Kelly and Prince Rainier. The Saint Nicholas Cathedral itself was built in gorgeous light limestone from La Turbie in nearby France and its interior houses an impressive Carrara marble altar dating from 1500. From September to June every Sunday at 10:00 a.m., mass is sung by the “Les Petits Chanteurs de Monaco” and “Cathedral Choir”.

7) Enjoy the sun at Larvotto Beach

Who doesn’t love a dip in the ocean? Good for all of us that Monaco’s man-made beach, Larvotto, is made up of both private and free, public area. The only actual difference between the two is that the private area allows you to hire loungers and parasols from the beach club. The sand, fine gravel, is imported, and it’s making the whole beach seem clean and polished like the city itself. Summer days are quite crowded here, since like the rest of the beaches on the French Riviera, it’s a perfect spot for people watching and cooling off in clear water.

Man-made beach in Monaco

8) Stroll in Jardin Exotique

Jardin Exotique is home to the world’s largest succulent and cactus collection, from small echinocereus to large African candelabras. The gardens tumble down the slopes of Moneghetti through paths, stairs and bridges. Admission includes the Musée d’Anthropologie, which displays prehistoric remains found in Monaco, and a 35-minute guided tour of the Grotte de l’Observatoire. The prehistoric, stalactite- and stalagmite-laced cave is a unique too, as it is the only cave in Europe where the temperature rises as you descend.

9) Climb the Le Rocher

Monaco Ville, also known as Le Rocher, is the only part of this tiny state that has retained its original old town complete with all its small medieval lanes. The old town stands on a pistol-shaped rock, its strategic location overlooking the sea that became the stronghold of the Grimaldi dynasty. There are few staircases up to the Le Rocher, but the best one is via Rampe Major, starting from Place Aux Armes near the port.

10) Watch Formula One Monaco Grand Prix

Every year, in the last week of May, the famous Formula One Grand Prix takes place in Monte Carlo. The route begins on the Boulevard Albert I, goes toward Place du Casino and then turns in front of the Monte Carlo Fairmont Hotel. It’s the only car race in the world that is run on city streets. Despite the narrow streets, the race has become a tradition which attracts more and more viewers each year. It’s difficult to catch a good spot for the view, but the atmosphere will take you away.

Part of Monaco F1 racing track