15 Things to Visit in Monaco

Monaco is a small principality ruled by the Prince of Monaco and is located on the opulent French Riviera. The principality is only two square kilometres in size, but it more than makes up for it in flair. This region is among the richest in the world and is also gifted with a wealth of natural beauty. The warm environment in this region, which is bordered by azure waters, is ideal for the palm palms that line the streets. Exotic flowers and luxuriant vegetation are also in abundance. The Rock, also known as Le Rocher, is a sizable rocky outcropping and the location of Monaco-Ville, the heart of the city. It is one of the most well-known sites of the principality. This is the place to go for glitz and glamour, and it’s easily accessible from nearby Nice in France. If you want to try your luck, you may spend time in the casinos there and channel your inner James Bond. The top activities in Monaco are listed below:

Walk around Jardin Exotique

The Jardin Exotique is situated in Fontvieille, close to the city centre. This garden offers lush surroundings and breathtaking views as it perches high on a soaring bluff overlooking the ocean. Due to the warm climate, a startling variety of plants, including those from Latin America and Africa, can be found in the garden, which first opened its doors in 1933. 7,000 different plant types are on display, and you can also visit the Observatory Cave, which is lined with stalactites and stalagmites.

Sunbathe at Larvotto Beach

Larvotto Beach, the sole public beach in the principality, is close to the famous Avenue Princess Grace. Nets surround the beach, allowing swimmers to enjoy the ocean without worrying about jellyfish. If you’d rather stay out of the water, you can sunbathe on the stretch of golden sand. Popular water sports around here include sea kayaking and jet skiing.

Tour the Palais du Prince

The Palais du Prince is a prime example of Monaco’s reputation as a principality. The palace, which dominates Monaco, was a Genoese castle in the 13th century. It is located high above Monaco. Look for the flag in the main tower to determine whether you are permitted to enter the palace when the Prince is not present. If it is elevated, the Prince is likely at home. The Italianate-style gallery and the Blue Room, which is famous for its blue and gold décor, are two highlights of a visit. A lavish Throne Room and a Palatine Chapel are also present.

Visit the Monte Carlo Casino

Given that it was constructed in the extravagant Beaux Arts style in 1893, the Casino de Monte Carlo is one of the most well-known casinos on the entire globe. 28 onyx columns in the marble atrium, which is equally opulent in design, welcome you to the gaming rooms. Since this is rumoured to have been the site for the James Bond novel Casino Royale, fans of James Bond are sure to like the surroundings. While you try your luck in one of the many themed gaming rooms available here, be sure to look up and see the chandeliers and beautiful artwork.

Do some shopping

Given that Monaco is famed for its richness, you can anticipate finding a wide variety of upscale retail options there. These include perfume, jewellery, and other designer and upscale goods. The Avenue de Monte-Carlo is one of the best spots to blow some cash in Monaco. The posh Boulevard des Moulins is where you can get well-known clothing if you’re seeking them. Avenue Princess Grace, which bears Grace Kelly’s name, is still another excellent option if you’re looking for some chic attire and accessories.

Tour Monaco Harbor

The principal harbour of Monaco is situated at the foot of the infamously windy cliffs. The harbour, which is also known as Port de la Condamine, was built in 1901 and features yachts bobbing on the water. This is a top location to view these incredible vessels, even if you don’t get to go on board, as it is home to the Prince’s primary yacht as well as that of many wealthy Monaco citizens. Additionally, there are several restaurants and cafés nearby, so you can grab a snack and take in the views of the ocean.

Visit the Musée Oceanographique

It took 11 years to build the foundations that prevent the 90-meter-high Musée Oceanographique from falling to the earth. It is one of the oldest aquariums in the world and is devoted to marine antiquities and oceanography. It was formally opened in 1910. The collection of scientific artefacts from an investigation by Jacques-Yves Cousteau and Prince Albert I is one of the museum’s most recognizable areas. Three aquariums are also present here, including a Shark Lagoon, a Tropical Aquarium, and a Mediterranean Aquarium. Over 6,000 aquatic life species may be found here, and 100 separate pools that simulate their natural habitats include recreated coral reefs. A special touch tank for children allows them to get up and personal with creatures like sea urchins, starfish, and newborn sharks.

Have a drink at Quay Jean Charles Rey

Quay Jean Charles Rey sits on the water and is located on the other side of Le Rocher. It is renowned for being a beautiful location to enjoy a drink, and you can find a variety of cafes and eateries here, including curiosities like a typical English pub, that look out into the quay. This is a terrific option for a sundowner if you’re seeking a relaxing way to end a hectic day in Monaco.

Watch a show at the Opera de Monte Carlo

The Opera de Monte Carlo, also known as Salle Garnier, is situated on the renowned Place de Casino, the most well-known location in all of Monaco. The opera house’s main performance room is decked out in lovely crimson and gold embellishments, and it was completed in 1878. Additionally, there are elaborate carvings in the shape of frescoes and sculptures here. If you enjoy opera, ballet, or musical performances, don’t pass up the opportunity to see a performance in this opulent environment.

Visit the Nouveau Musee National de Monaco

The New Museum of Monaco is tucked up between two mansions. The homes, Villa Paloma and Villa Sauber are crammed with exhibitions of modern art, including lovely paintings and photographs. Additionally, the museum functions as a type of conservation facility, preserving traditional artwork such as old dolls and costumes.

Watch a race at the Formula One Monaco Grand Prix

The annual Formula One races in May at Monte Carlo are well-known. The race is unique since it passes the Boulevard Albert I and the renowned Monte-Carlo Fairmont Hotel as it winds through the city’s streets. If you chance to be in Monaco at the correct time, the race, which has a distinguished history and has been going on since the turn of the 20th century, is absolutely worth checking out.

Wander around the Princess Grace Rose Garden

Anyone who loved the American actress Grace Kelly, who was wed to the former prince of Monaco, Prince Rainier, will find visiting the Princess Grace Rose Garden to be an emotional experience. The garden was created by Prince Rainier III in honour of his wife, who died in a vehicle accident, and it officially opened its doors in 1984. Four hectares of land make up the park, which features an adorable lake surrounded by palm trees and even an olive grove. Over 8,000 rose bushes can also be found here, as the name would suggest.

Visit the Monaco Naval Museum

The Monaco Naval Museum, which originally opened its doors in the 1990s and features a variety of maritime-related items including over 250 ships in miniature form, looks over the marina in Monaco. Many of the pieces on display here are from Prince Rainier III’s personal collection and were presented to the museum by him. With displays of ancient Roman vessels, classic Viking longboats, and elegant Spanish galleons, the museum transports visitors back in time. Even the Titanic and the Nimitz, the greatest US warship in the world, are represented in scale models.

Visit the Monaco Cathedral

The use of white stones in the construction of Monaco Cathedral makes it distinctive. Built-in the Roman-Byzantine style, the cathedral houses the remains of the former princes of Monaco including Prince Rainier. The cathedral was built in 1875 although some of the artefacts inside are older such as an altarpiece which was painted in 1500. In addition, keep an eye out for the main throne, which is made of white marble, and a large organ.

Wander around Les Jardins Saint-Martin

In Les Jardins Saint-Martin, which overlooks the Mediterranean Sea below, there is a statue of Prince Albert I that serves as a memorial. The gardens lead you along the Le Rocher coastline as they round the coast. Thanks to the mild Mediterranean climate that supports their growth, the flowers in this region are both native and exotic. You can take a stroll through the grounds to admire the delicate ponds, charming fountains, and breathtaking vistas of the azure seas.