Monaco is a microstate on the French Riviera, and being one of the richest countries in the world, it is a haven of luxury and extravagance. Famous for its casinos, beautiful buildings, haute cuisine, and palm trees, Monaco is a popular holiday destination year-round.
Here is a list of the top attractions to visit during your stay…
Monte Carlo Casino
Monte Carlo Casino is a grand building designed in 1893 in the lavish Beaux-Arts style, with a marble atrium and towering onyx columns. Famously said to be the setting for Flemming’s novel Casino Royale, it is a truly opulent place, covered with inexpensive artwork and sparkling chandeliers. The casino captures all the glitz and glamour that Monte Carlo is famous for, and should definitely be on your list.
Jardin Japonais
An unexpected find in Monaco is the Japanese Gardens, a tranquil oasis away from the traffic and the flashy outside world. By the time you’ve visited the casinos, you’ll probably be looking for somewhere quieter. Here you’ll find beautiful landscaping, manicured shrubs, and small bridges, as well as large ponds of koi fish and a traditional Japanese tea house. This zen oasis is the perfect spot for a picnic or a refreshing walk – it feels like you’ve just stepped away from Monte Carlo and found yourself in a garden in Tokyo.
Formula One Grand Prix
Taking place every year in May, the Formula One race always draws an international crowd. If you choose to visit then, it’ll be an amazing experience, just be aware that the normally calm streets will become very busy and chaotic. One of the most iconic parts of the race is of course the Fairmont Hairpin Curve. Found just up from the Japanese Gardens, in front of the Fairmont Hotel, the views are spectacular whether you’re an F1 fan or not.
Opera de Monte Carlo
The Opera House is attached to Monte Carlo Casino and is just as impressive. The theatre inside is not overly large, seating around 500 people, but it is still beautiful and ornate. The architect who designed it also built the French Opera House Palais Gernier, which became the inspiration for this smaller version. With a frequently changing variety of performances, from ballets to plays, the Opera is well worth a visit.
Collection de Voitures Anciennes
This exhibition of antique cars will be fascinating to any classic car enthusiast. From vintage road cars and carriages to modified rally cars and famous F1 models, as well as the cars owned by the royal family, it is a treasure trove of historical automobiles. The exhibit also specializes in rare cars that you’re unlikely to come across anywhere else, such as the BMW M1, the Ferrari Daytona GR4, and the Type 46 Bugatti.
Monaco Navel Museum
The Naval Museum is another interesting attraction to add to your itinerary. It exhibits everything from ancient Greek sailing boats to gondolas to modern nuclear submarines. There is even a model of the Titanic. With a variety of large model ships including battlecruisers, aircraft carriers, and torpedo boats, the museum will be fascinating for adults and children alike. In addition to the ships, you’ll also learn all about marine wildlife.
Fort Antoine Theatre
This former military fort, originally built in the 18th century, has now been transformed into an outdoor theatre that seats up to 300 people. Some of the original military architecture remains, including the watchtower and the canons. If there aren’t any events when you visit, you can still enjoy the wonderful views out to sea.
Palais du Prince
The Palais du Prince is another famous landmark, known for its history and understated elegance as well as its fantastic view of the harbour. Inside you will find a variety of exhibitions, including one dedicated to Princess Grace and her life in and before Monaco. If you want to fit in other sightseeing opportunities without having to travel far, the Palace is located conveniently close to the Cathedral and the Oceanographic Museum.
Monaco Cathedral
This grand cathedral, first built in 1875, serves as the burial ground for members of the royal family, including Grace Kelly and her husband. Inside you’ll see beautiful religious artwork; altar pieces by famed artist Louis Brea, mosaic decorations above the altar, and much more.
Plage du Larvotto
Larvotto Beach is the only public beach in Monaco, and it’s a beautiful one. The ocean here is sectioned off by nets that stretch over 400 metres, so you don’t have to worry about any unfortunate encounters with jellyfish. Larvotto is also a hub of water sports, in particular, you’ll see a lot of jet skiing and sea kayaks, but don’t worry if you’d rather just relax, there are lots of sun loungers and parasols available too. If you feel peckish, you don’t have to go far to find something to eat. Larvotto is surrounded by plenty of casual restaurants and cafes perfect for your post-swim cravings.
Port Hercule
Monte Carlo’s harbour Port Hercule has spectacular views – both of the ocean and of the very expensive private yachts docked there. Described by tourists as ‘a mini Hong Kong harbour, but more opulent’ this is one of the most expensive harbours in the world. The yachts here are perfectly maintained, and somehow the collection of man-made vessels manages to look picturesque instead of vulgar. It’s well worth a visit, so be sure to come and take a look.
Musee Oceanographique
Mediterranean Aquariums, a Tropical Aquarium and a Shark Lagoon. Home to over 6,000 different marine species, the museum has 100 separate pools that are carefully designed to mimic the natural habitat, right down to reconstructed coral reefs. If you’re interested in marine life and marine conservation, you’ll love it here.
Princess Grace Rose Garden
The Princess Grace Rose Garden is a moving tribute to the late Grace Kelly, commissioned by her husband after her death. It is located in the Fontvieille district and is open daily from dawn to dusk. Inside you will find over 8,000 rose bushes of every variety and colour, proving the garden’s name is well deserved. There is also an olive grove and a small lake in the centre surrounded by palm trees. This is a tranquil, reflective place away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Louis II Stadium
Although Monaco is a small country, it has a large stake in many sports, including football. The Louis II Stadium arena dates from 1939, and today it hosts two of Monaco’s football teams, as well as international matches. If you’re a football fan, you’ll want to arrange your trip to coincide with one of the matches so you can combine a relaxing holiday with your favourite sport.
Le Louis XV Restaurant
As well as being the ‘playground of the rich’, Monaco is also known for its haute cuisine and fine dining options. One popular venue is Le Louis XV restaurant, which boasts three Michelin stars, wonderful reviews and a spot in the top restaurants worldwide. Run by chef Alain Ducasse, Le Louis XV has an elegant atmosphere and lovely decor that enhances everything. What better way to celebrate your trip than to enjoy a decadent fine dining experience.
Jardin Exotique
Another lovely garden in the Fontvieille district is le Jardin Exotique. The garden is perched on the cliffside, overlooking the sea and providing a beautiful, if somewhat perilous, vista. First opened in 1933, the garden now has over 7,000 different species of plants, including plants native to Africa and numerous types of cacti that are able to grow in Monaco due to the warm, semi-tropical climate. As well as the variety of plants and shrubs, the garden is also famous for its Observatory Cave, which is full of dramatic stalagmites reaching upwards and stalactites clinging to the roof.
Avenue de Monte Carlo
Lastly, no trip would be complete without a shopping spree. One of the best places to find luxury clothes, perfumes, accessories and other designer goods is the Avenue de Monte Carlo, home to a vast selection of upscale shops and boutiques. Here you’ll find Hermes, Valentino, Gucci and much more. If you need to take a break (walking around with shopping bags is hard work!) the avenue is also lined with lovely cafes and restaurants where you can sit back and bask in the luxurious, indulgent atmosphere that makes Monaco what it is.
