Monaco is a small country that packs a big punch. Spanning a mere 2 kilometers, this Mediterranean city-state is the second smallest in Europe, but it offers visitors an unparalleled experience with its rich culture and stunning natural beauty. Monaco has been home to many of the world’s wealthiest people, including Grace Kelly, who married Prince Rainier III there in 1956. There are so many things to see on your visit, from luxurious hotels, lush gardens, and beautiful beaches to cultural attractions like museums and galleries. To help you plan your trip, here are ten things not to miss while visiting Monaco!

1) Monte Carlo Casino

Once upon a time, the Monte Carlo Casino was an exclusive destination reserved for the world’s aristocrats. Now anyone can come and try their luck at the world’s most famous casino located on the beautiful Avenue des Beaux-Arts in Monte Carlo, Monaco. The casino scenes in the James Bond movie “GoldenEye” were filmed here, and the ambiance of lavish, high-stakes gaming will have you taking your martini “shaken, not stirred.”

Casino Monte Carlo is a fascinating location for everyone, whether you enjoy playing the game of chance or not. And, regardless of whether you win or lose the game, you will undoubtedly be drawn into the atmosphere that will urge you to give it a try.

2) Palais Du Prince

The Palais du Prince is where the ruling family of Monaco has lived and ruled since its construction in 1190. The palace houses both government offices, including the Prince’s when he resides there, and private apartments for guests.

The grounds, which include a gorgeous conservatory and a distinctive Italianate-style gallery, are worth seeing. The Blue Room, for example, is known for its blue and gold decorations. An ornate Throne Room and Palatine Chapel are also on the premises. While you are there, don’t miss the Palace Changing of the Guard that occurs daily at 11:55 am.

3) Monaco Cathedral

The Monaco Cathedral is a Provencal Gothic Roman Catholic church located on the Avenue Sainte-Dévote in Monte Carlo, Monaco. The cathedral was built between 1875 and 1914 to commemorate the third centenary of Prince Albert I’s birth. It has been called “one of the most impressive temples in the Roman world.”

The Monaco Cathedral is one of those locations where you can feel a sense of history and beauty. The interior design and decoration are simply stunning, with impressive stained glass windows that will leave visitors awestruck.

4) Musée Oceanographique de Monaco

The Musée Oceanographique de Monaco is a museum of oceanography located in the Palais Princier in Monaco. It has over 6,000 specimens on display, from fish, coral, and reptiles to some rare fossils that date back millions of years ago. This particular location is very popular with children!

Built just 90 meters above sea level, it took more than a decade to build the foundations that kept the museum from tumbling to the ground. The Musee Oceanographique opened in 1910, making it one of the world’s oldest aquariums.

5) Opera de Monte Carlo

The Opera de Monte Carlo is a historic opera house located on the Place du Casino in Monaco. This magnificent building with its golden dome and ornate interior designs was completed in 1879 and is one of the oldest opera houses in Europe.

6) Larvotto Beach

Monaco’s Larvotto Beach is a famous public beach in Monaco. It offers visitors water sports, such as jet skiing and parasailing, along with the option of dining at one of its many restaurants.

 7) Jardin Exotique

The Jardin Exotique de Monaco is a public botanical garden specializing in succulent plants and one of the most popular attractions in Monte Carlo. The garden was created from a wasteland as part of Prince Albert I’s Green Plan to beautify the city and opened its doors in 1933. There are more than 7,000 species of plants on display. 

The Jardin Exotique is another one of those locations that will make you feel as if you’ve stepped out of Monaco and into some faraway land. A visit to this beautiful garden offers visitors the chance to enjoy nature in an extraordinary setting.

8) Le Rocher

Le Rocher is the Old Town of Monaco, which sits on a rocky promontory that juts into the Mediterranean Sea. Its name means “the Rock” in French, and it has been referred to as Monaco-Ville since medieval times. Le Rocher is a picturesque location with old-world charm and will make you feel as if you have been transported back in time to another era.

9) Le Metropole Shopping Center

Le Metropole Shopping Center is one of Monaco’s most popular shopping centers. This upscale boutique shopping gallery offers visitors a variety of stores, including perfume shops and jewelers, as well as cafes to take a break at after all that shopping!

10) Monaco Grand Prix

No visit to Monte Carlo or Monaco is complete without a nod to the Monaco Grand Prix!

The first race was held on the Circuit de Monaco in 1929, and since then, it has been part of the Triple Crown of motorsport. The Monaco Grand Prix is considered one of the most important and prestigious automobile races in the world and attracts A-list celebrities and the wealthy alike to its annual May run. However, if you miss the race itself, you can still check out the harrowing Fairmont hairpin curve, one of the world’s most dangerous and notable racing sites.

Monaco offers visitors an unforgettable experience that combines luxury, beauty, and a little bit of excitement, making it one of Europe’s most visited locations.

Ready to go? Monaco is one of our favorite Mediterranean destinations! We’d love to plan a custom vacation just for you! Adventure awaits!