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Things to do in Monaco: Top attractions, day trips, and tips
Discover the best things to do in Monaco: from iconic sights and free attractions to local tips, kid-friendly picks, and easy day trips from Nice.
Monaco may be the second-smallest country by area in the world, but it packs an incredible range of things to do into just over 2 square kilometers.
This guide covers the top things to do in Monaco, free and family-friendly activities, smart day trips, and real travel tips to help you plan your visit smoothly.
And whether you’re visiting for a day or staying longer, we’ll also share how to avoid roaming fees and stay connected easily with a travel eSIM for Monaco.
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Top attractions and must-see places in Monaco
The top places to visit in Monaco combine royal landmarks, cliffside views, world-class museums, and iconic architecture, all within walking distance.
Whether you’re visiting for a day or planning a longer stay, these highlights capture the best of what Monaco has to offer:
- Monte Carlo Casino: Step inside one of the world’s most iconic casinos, surrounded by Belle Époque architecture, grand gardens, and luxury boutiques.
- Prince’s Palace of Monaco: Visit the royal residence and catch the daily changing of the guard at 11:55 AM. The views from the palace square are worth the climb.
- Oceanographic Museum: Perched on a cliff, this historic museum combines marine research, aquariums, and interactive exhibits, making it a favorite for families.
- Exotic Garden of Monaco: Wander cliffside paths through rare plants and cacti, with sweeping views across the coast.
- Monaco Cathedral: A peaceful spot to admire Roman-Byzantine architecture and visit the tombs of Princess Grace and Prince Rainier III.
Fun and unique things to do in Monaco
Beyond its famous landmarks, Monaco offers a mix of fun events, beach relaxation, and once-in-a-lifetime views. If you’re looking for unique things to do in Monaco, here are the top experiences that go beyond the usual sightseeing:
- Experience the Monaco Grand Prix: If you’re visiting in mid-May, nothing matches the roar of Formula 1 racing through the city’s narrow streets. Even off-season, you can walk parts of the F1 circuit.
- Relax at Larvotto beach: Monaco’s main public beach is ideal for sunbathing, swimming, or renting a paddleboard, especially during warmer months.
- Explore Monaco nightlife: Head to Monte Carlo for upscale bars, live music lounges, and late-night clubs with a dress code to match.
- Catch a local event or festival: Depending on the season, you might find the Monaco Film Festival, outdoor jazz nights, or a colorful local fair.
- Take a helicopter tour: For a truly unforgettable Monaco experience, book a short flight and see the coastline, cliffs, and cityscape from the sky.
Free things to do in Monaco
Monaco is known for luxury, but you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy it. If you’re visiting on a budget, there are plenty of free things to do in Monaco that showcase its views, history, and charm with no tickets required.
- Wander Monaco-Ville: Explore the old town’s narrow lanes, quiet squares, and historic buildings, including viewpoints near the Prince’s Palace.
- Visit Port Hercules: Walk along the harbor and admire superyachts, seaside cafés, and the city skyline. It’s especially beautiful at sunset and one of the most Instagram-worthy photo spots in Monaco.
- Relax in public gardens: Entry is free to peaceful green spaces like the Princess Grace Rose Garden and parts of the Exotic Garden.
- Take a coastal walk: Follow scenic seaside paths with panoramic Mediterranean views between Monaco and Cap d’Ail or Larvotto.
These free spots in Monaco are ideal for unwinding, taking photos, and enjoying your trip at your own pace without spending any entry fees.
Things to do in Monaco with kids
Traveling to Monaco with kids? While the casinos are off-limits, Monaco has plenty of family-friendly experiences worth exploring.
Here are some of the best things to do in Monaco with kids:
- Visit the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco: This is Monaco’s top kid-friendly spot, with giant aquariums, shark tanks, and hands-on exhibits. The rooftop terrace has sea views and a mini play zone.
- Explore the Prince’s Car Collection: If your kids love racing or Pixar’s Cars animation, they’ll love this. View F1 race cars, royal classics, and vintage rarities in a spacious museum at Port Hercules.
- Relax at Princess Antoinette Park: A peaceful green space with a playground, shaded seating, and mini-golf. Ideal for a kids’ playday and downtime between sightseeing stops.
- Catch family-friendly events: From circus acts to outdoor festivals, Monaco hosts seasonal shows ideal for young travelers. Check the Monaco Events Calendar before your trip.
All these kid-friendly spots in Monaco are walkable or a short bus ride from the center, and most of them offer reduced or free child entry.
Suggested one-day itinerary in Monaco
Only have a day to explore? Whether you’re arriving on a cruise stop or taking a Nice to Monaco day trip, this one-day itinerary helps you experience the best of Monaco without rushing.
Here’s how to make the most of things to do in Monaco in one day:
Morning: Visit the old town and enjoy royal views
Here’s how to enjoy your morning in Monaco:
- Prince’s Palace: Try to arrive in time for the changing of the guard ceremony at 11:55 AM and take in panoramic views over the harbor.
- Monaco Cathedral: Just a short walk away, this is where Grace Kelly and Prince Rainier III are buried.
- Stroll Monaco-Ville (Old Town): Wander the cobbled alleys, grab a coffee, and snap a few scenic photos before heading downhill.
Afternoon: Museums or motorsport moments
Choose your experience depending on your style:
- Oceanographic Museum: Perfect if you’re traveling with family or love marine life. It’s interactive and packed with exhibits.
- Monaco Grand Prix circuit walk: Trace the famous F1 track on foot. Key stops include Casino Square, the Fairmont Hairpin, and the tunnel by Port Hercules.
Evening: Monte Carlo, fine dining & nightlife
Wind down in the most glamorous part of the city:
- Monte Carlo Casino: Step inside (entry fee required) or enjoy the atmosphere from nearby terraces.
- Dinner featuring Monaco food: Book ahead at places like Le Louis XV for fine dining or La Marée for seafood with a view.
- Nightlife at Port Hercules: Grab a drink at a harborside lounge or check out the DJ lineup at Sass Café.
Trains between Nice and Monaco run until late, so whether you’re heading back or staying overnight, you’ll end the day with a Riviera sunset in view.
Tips for visiting Monaco
Whether you’re spending one day or a full weekend in Monaco, these practical tips will help you move around easily, budget wisely, and enjoy every moment.
- How many days in Monaco is enough? One to three days is ideal to explore key sights, enjoy the coast, and soak in the luxury.
- Is Monaco expensive? Yes, but it can be done smartly. Mix free attractions like gardens and harbor walks with paid highlights like museums or rooftop dining.
- Currency and payments: Monaco uses the euro (€), and credit cards are widely accepted, even at smaller cafés.
- Getting around: The city is very walkable. For hills, use the efficient bus network or short taxi rides.
- Visa info (US citizens): No visa is needed for stays under 90 days.
- Best time to visit Monaco: April–June and September–October offer great weather with fewer crowds than summer.
- Dress code tips: Smart casual works for most places. For casinos or upscale venues, pack a formal dress and shoes, and note that jackets are often required for men.
- Try Local cuisine: Don’t miss barbajuan (stuffed fritters), socca (chickpea flatbread), and fresh seafood. Try spots like Chez Roger or Le Petit Bar for authentic Monaco food.
Stay connected while exploring Monaco
Traveling to Monaco often means hopping between nearby destinations like Nice, the French Riviera, or even other parts of Europe.
To avoid high roaming charges and swapping physical SIMs, a Holafly international eSIM gives you steady, high-speed data wherever you go.
With unlimited data, 5G coverage in 200+ destinations, and flexible daily or monthly eSIM plans, Holafly keeps you online for maps, tickets, reservations, and sharing the views. Setup is instant with a QR code, and 24/7 multilingual support is always available if you need help.
From Monaco to nearby day trips, Holafly eSIM keeps you online without interruptions.
Peace of mind before you fly
Set up your eSIM before travel and get unlimited data on arrival.
Plans that may interest you
Formerly a travel journalist turned marketing copywriter, I found my way back to the travel world with Holafly—my dream company that made remote work possible. My motto? “Dream big and make it happen.” I’m passionate about writing, exploring the world, and staying active through walking, running, swimming, and hiking. I also love learning, reflecting, and connecting with inspiring minds.
