Things to Do in Monaco: My Guide to the Riviera’s Smallest Big City
The first thing that hits you about Monaco is the scale. It covers barely two square kilometres, yet within that sliver of land between the sea and the mountains you get a world-class casino, a royal palace, glamorous beaches, and some of the best views in Europe. I have walked every corner of this principality more times than I can count, and every visit shows me something I missed before. If you are planning a trip, here are the things to do in Monaco that I genuinely think are worth your time.
Start at the Casino de Monte-Carlo
You cannot visit Monaco and skip the Casino de Monte-Carlo. Even if you never place a bet, the building itself is worth the trip. The Belle Epoque facade, the golden statues, and the gardens in front of it feel like a film set. I recommend arriving in the late afternoon, when the light makes the architecture glow and the area is calm before the evening crowds. Dress code matters here, so pack something smart if you plan to step inside. The Atrium and the salons are magnificent, and wandering through them feels like stepping back a century.
Walk the Prince’s Palace and the Old Town
Up on the Rock of Monaco sits the Prince’s Palace, home of the ruling family. I love the changing of the guard at 11:55 each day, a small ceremony that draws a surprising crowd. Past the palace, the narrow lanes of Monaco-Ville wind between pastel buildings and tiny squares. This is the oldest part of the principality and a welcome escape from the busier waterfront. Stop for lunch at one of the family-run spots and soak in the quiet rhythm of local life.
Spend an Afternoon at the Oceanographic Museum
The Oceanographic Museum perches right on the cliff edge, and the building is as impressive as anything inside it. Set into a sheer rock face, it has been fascinating visitors for over a century. Inside you will find an enormous aquarium, shark tanks, and exhibitions about the deep sea. The rooftop terrace is one of my favourite spots in Monaco, with views across the Mediterranean that are hard to beat. Give yourself at least two hours here; there is more to see than you imagine.
Cruise Around the Port Hercules
The harbour at Port Hercules is a parade of the largest yachts I have ever seen. Walking along the quayside is free and endlessly entertaining, and in the evenings the whole waterfront lights up. For a different angle, take a boat tour that loops around Monaco from the sea. Seeing the towers and the palace from the water gives you a real sense of how the city is stacked on the cliffs. The breeze and the salt air make it a lovely break after a day on your feet.
Ease Off at Larvotto Beach
Monaco may be small, but it has proper beaches. Larvotto is the main public stretch, with soft sand and calm, clear water. It is not a huge beach, but it is clean and family friendly, and the backdrop of apartment towers and hills is uniquely Monégasque. Pack a towel and spend a relaxed afternoon swimming, or just stretch out in the sun. When hunger hits, the little cafés along the promenade serve simple, fresh food with a sea view.
Take the High Path to the Exotic Garden
For my money, the best view in Monaco is from the Jardin Exotique, the exotic garden that hangs over a dramatic cliff. Succulents and cacti spill down the slope, and the panorama reaches across the whole principality to the sea. There is also a grotto beneath the garden that you can explore on a guided tour. The climb is a little steep, so wear comfortable shoes, but the reward is a vantage point that most visitors never reach.
Get Lost in the Environs and the Formula One Circuit
Motorsport fans will not want to miss the streets that make up the Formula One circuit. Out of season the roads are just ordinary city streets, and you can walk the exact route the drivers race each May. I love finding the dramatic hairpin at the Loews corner and picturing the cars squeezing through. Even if you are not a racing fan, walking the route is a fun way to see the city from street level.
Explore the Restaurants and the Nightlife
Monaco punches well above its weight when it comes to food. You can eat an elegant dinner overlooking the harbour or find a casual spot in the old town serving authentic Mediterranean plates. After dark, the nightlife is slick and glamorous, concentrated around the casino and the port. Whether you want a quiet glass of wine or a glittering night out, there is something for every mood.
Practical Thoughts for Your Visit
Monaco is compact, so you can cover an enormous amount on foot. Comfortable shoes are essential because the principality is full of hills and stairs. Public transport is excellent, and a bus ride is an easy way to save your legs. The best time to visit is spring or early autumn, when the weather is mild and the crowds are thinner. Carry a card, since many places are cashless these days, and check opening times for the palace and the casino in advance. Whatever you choose to do, Monaco rewards the curious traveller with more than you expect from such a tiny place.
