Published on December 26, 2019Updated on December 11, 2023
Although it is famous for its Rocher and breathtaking panoramic views of the Mediterranean coastline and its yachts, there is actually a whole range of things to do in Monaco. From well-preserved heritage to lovingly protected nature parks, luxury boutiques, cultural destinations and excursions to famous locations, there are so many things to see in Monaco, as well as places to explore. Whether you are coming for a day trip, an evening or longer vacation, there are lots of unique, unforgettable experiences to be had and fun things to do, including in winter.
Things to Do in Monaco on Day Trips
Thanks to the city state’s small size, it is perfectly possible to explore Monaco and its main tourist attractions over the course of a day trip. Although there are many places to visit, all the different areas of the city are easy to access on foot or by bus, and you can often hop on an elevator to get from one to the next. One destination you really mustn’t miss is the Palais Princier – literally the “Princely Palace” – which is perched atop the city’s rock. Once you are there, you can watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony on the Place du Palais before strolling the little winding streets of the Old Town. After touring the Oceanographic Museum and stopping off at Hercule Harbor, set off for the legendary Monte Carlo district and its sublime Place du Casino. The Belle Epoque facades of the Monte Carlo Casino and Hotel de Paris Monte-Carlo lend the area a truly unforgettable ambiance. There are some fantastic restaurants nearby too, so feel free to settle down in the cafe terraces and soak in the dolce vita of the French Riviera. Last but not least, don’t forget to shop in style in the luxurious One Monte-Carlo district.
Evenings in the Principality
If you are wondering what to do in Monaco for the evening, look no further! The Principality offers no end of opportunities for evenings out in one of the Cote d’Azur’s most sought-after locations. Legendary singers and operatic masterpieces regularly wow tourists at the Monte Carlo Opera House. The Ballets de Monte-Carlo also puts on some very highly reputed shows. And connoisseurs will be delighted with the Michelin-starred restaurants on offer too. Even sports fans will have plenty to keep them happy, not least when Monaco AS are playing at the Louis II Stadium. You can’t say you have had a night out in Monaco without calling in at the casinos and gaming rooms. Slot machines, roulette wheels and blackjack all await at the legendary Casino de Monte-Carlo, Casino Café de Paris and Sun Casino. Do you love dancing? Monegasque nightclubs’ reputation undoubtedly precedes them. Whether you opt for Jimmy’z, Buddha-Bar Monte-Carlo or Blue Gin, the party is always in full swing!
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A Weekend Away in Monaco
A weekend is the perfect amount of time to discover the second smallest country in the world, so head first for some of its most famous tourist attractions, including the Monte Carlo district and its casino, Hercule Harbour and the Oceanographic Museum. Keep the culture flowing at the Nouveau Musée National de Monaco or at one of the Grimaldi Forum art galleries’ major summer exhibitions. If outdoor activities are more your thing, take a promenade through the Jardin Exotique. There, you will find the Observatoire’s cave and the Princess Grace Rose Garden (which is particularly good for walking tours). As the day draws to a close, there is no end of bars and restaurants to choose from, all with views over the Mediterranean sea, as well as Monaco’s famous nightclubs. If you are spending the night in a hotel in Monaco and are wondering where to stay, consider the Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer’s various locations. From a grand hotel to a seaside resort, you have a range of the best 4- and 5-star establishments to choose from. On day two, don’t leave the Principality of Monaco until you have seen the Palace Princier and the narrow cobblestone streets of the Old Town on Monaco’s Rocher, or the Japanese Garden and charming Fontvieille Port.
Things to Do in Monaco for a Week
If you are spending a week in Monaco, you can really uncover all its charms. Check out the Principality’s sports scene at the famous Monte Carlo Golf Club, or admire the prestigious car collection owned by Prince Rainier III at Fontvieille Terraces. Relax in the Principality’s wellbeing centers, including the Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo and the 5 Mondes Spa at the Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort. Shop in style as you spend a day touring the glitz of One Monte-Carlo’s luxury boutiques, and be sure to call in at the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo’s jeweler’s piazza. Wondering what to see in Monaco next? Soak in some rays sunbathing along the Mediterranean through the palm trees on the hotels’ own private sandy beaches. Or why not design your own gourmet food tour around the Michelin-starred restaurants and spend a day visiting Monaco’s art museums and other cultural attractions? A good way to end your stay in the Principality is to combine the thrill of the gaming rooms with the high-octane sensations of the Mediterranean coast’s watersports scene. What a royally fantastic way to spend a day!
Winter in Monaco
Take advantage of the mild Mediterranean climate and long sunshine hours as you stroll along the Larvotto district’s seafront, the casino gardens or the lush plant life of the Jardin Exotique de Monaco. In December, experience the true magic of Christmas thanks to the Place du Casino’s illuminations, Monaco Port’s Christmas Village attractions and discover the magic of the best Monaco's Christmas restaurants and events. In January, don’t miss the Monte-Carlo International Circus Festival, the Rallye de Monte-Carlo or the traditional Saint Devota’s Day celebrations. In February, come celebrate the Rallye Monte-Carlo Historique as its vintage motor cars roll into town. You can even take part in the Monaco Run or, for some family fun, visit the winter ice rink at the Stade Nautique Rainier III. And not forgetting St Valentine’s Day, of course, when Monaco’s Michelin-starred restaurants offer romantic gourmet meals and the Principality’s gala evenings put on a dazzling show. There are just so many things to do in Monaco in winter!
Discover our suggestions of activities to do in winter à Monaco
Summer in Monaco
In summer, immerse yourself in the elegance and glamour of Monaco while enjoying a rich program of events and exceptional activities. Applaud the biggest international stars during the Monte-Carlo Summer Festival. Discover unforgettable moments under the Monaco sun while enjoying the Balinese beds, the remodeled private beach and the aqua gym classes offered by the Monte-Carlo Bay and Monte-Carlo Beach, or relax in the luxurious wellness cocoon with private pool on the rooftop terrace of the Hotel de Paris Monte-Carlo. Enjoy the pleasures of gambling at the legendary Casino de Monte-Carlo and the Casino Café de Paris. Enjoy Monaco's trendy nightlife. The Resort's bars are pleased to welcome you in the best possible conditions to offer you the pleasure of Monaco's evenings. In Monaco during the summer, come and experience a moment of haute couture gastronomy. Our 7 Michelin-starred resort is constantly reinventing the art of entertaining, and invites you to share the infinite inspiration of its chefs.
Discover our suggestions of activities to do in summer in Monaco
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