What to do in Monaco in July?

Summer’s here, and freedom’s in the air. Make the most of this with a summer getaway in Monaco, a dream destination on the French Riviera. From the seaside to Le Rocher, here is a selection of places and events to discover in July in the Principality and nearby. Let us inspire you to design an amazing schedule.

Explore the Principality’s Must-See Sites

Monte-Carlo: The Beating Heart of Monaco

The newly renovated Place du Casino is a must-see during any trip to Monaco. It lies majestically between two Belle Époque wonders: The Casino de Monte-Carlo and the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo. Stroll beneath the palm trees by the fountain containing artwork by Anish Kapoor. Follow the greenery into the Jardins des Boulingrins before reaching the new One Monte-Carlo district for a luxury shopping trip.

Monaco-Ville and Le Rocher

Wander through the little winding streets of the Old Town in the shade of the colorful buildings to discover the soul of Monaco. The Palais Princier – literally the “Princely Palace” – is perched at the top of Le Rocher. It is the home of the Grimaldis, Monaco’s royal family. In summer, you can visit parts of it, including the Grand Apartments and the Throne Room. Continue to the Roman-Byzantine-style Cathédrale de Monaco, home to a magnificent 16th-century altarpiece painted by Louis Bréa.

Fontvieille

Partly reclaimed from the sea, Fontvieille is worth a visit for its charming marina, a small haven of peace facing Le Rocher, surrounded by restaurants. Not far from there, don’t miss walking along the Chemin des Sculptures sculpture trail to admire artworks by Botero, César, and more.

La Condamine

The glamorous yachts in Port Hercule look their best in the July sun. After a stroll along the quays, visit La Condamine’s shopping streets and the covered market to discover local specialties. Every July, the Braderie d’été is held in the district over three days – with clothing, accessories, homeware, and more on sale in the streets, it is the perfect time to get a bargain.

Gardens to Explore

The gardens of the Principality of Monaco welcome those looking for some greenery to enjoy in the July sun. With its exuberant succulents, the Jardin Exotique offers a change of scenery with a fabulous panoramic view of the Riviera. It is home to the Grotte de l’Observatoire: Cool down among the stalactites and stalagmites on a tour of this cave. For some peace and quiet, explore the winding alleyways of the Jardin Saint-Martin on Le Rocher. And if you’re on vacation with your kids, the Jardin Animalier zoo is a must-see. If you love flowers, you can admire 300 varieties at the Roseraie Princesse Grace in the heart of the Parc Paysager de Fontvieille. Or if you want to relax, be swept up by the Zen atmosphere of the Jardin Japonais in Larvotto.

Casinos in Monaco: Become Part of the Legend

Closely linked to the history of Monaco, the iconic Casino de Monte-Carlo is open for self-guided tours in the morning with or without an audioguide (an entry fee applies). In the afternoon and evening, it’s all about the thrill of the game with roulette, Blackjack, craps, and Ultimate Texas Hold’em poker! At the Casino Café de Paris, state-of-the-art slot machines create an electric atmosphere. You can even play outdoors on its two terraces. A stone’s throw away, luck is in the air at the festive Sun Casino.

Fun in the Water

July is the perfect time to enjoy the Monaco seaside. Plage du Larvotto stretches along the preserved water of a nature reserve. The supervised public beach is perfect for families, and swimmers love to dive into the sea from the seawall.

For a more exclusive seaside experience, book a sunbed on one of the best private beaches in Monaco. At the Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort, the Sea Bay offers direct access to the Mediterranean Sea in a stylish and exclusive setting. Striped canvas huts and an idyllic landscape await at the Monte-Carlo Beach Club, which also offers a wide range of watersports (including jet skiing, flyboarding, and boat trips).

Do you prefer the pool? Book a day of relaxation beside the legendary, heated seawater Olympic-sized pool at the Monte-Carlo Beach. Nestled in a leafy setting, the pool and extraordinary sandy lagoon at the Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort are also well worth a visit.

Cultural Attractions: Museums in Monaco to Visit in July

Explore the marine world thanks to the exhibitions at the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco. Its aquariums are home to over 6,000 species, including sharks, sea turtles, and tropical and Mediterranean fish. Boat fans should visit the Navy Museum of Monaco to admire over 250 models, from an Egyptian funerary barge to the Titanic.

Take a step back in time at the Museum of Prehistoric Anthropology. Located within the Jardin Exotique, it traces human evolution on the Côte d’Azur, starting in Prehistoric times. Another way to explore the history of Monaco is to visit the Museum of Stamps and Currency. The majority of its stamps and coins are from Prince Rainier III’s private collection.

If you are an art lover, head to the Villa Sauber and Villa Paloma. These two exhibition spaces are used by the New National Museum of Monaco, a showcase of contemporary art. Finally, admire the vivid reds of H.S.H. Prince of Monaco’s car collection on the Terrasses de Fontvieille. The unique exhibition features many prestigious cars.

Unmissable Sporting Events in Monaco in July

On July 1, 2, and 3, the Jumping International de Monte-Carlo will be held opposite the port of Monaco. This show jumping competition is one of the most prestigious stages of the Global Champions Tour, bringing together the best horse riders from around the world.

Another major sports event, the Meeting Herculis EBS, part of the Wanda Diamond League, will take place on July 9 at the Stade Louis II. The 14 events pit champion athletes against each other. You might even witness a world record being beaten!

The Monaco Energy Boat Challenge will take place from July 6 to 10, featuring races and trials of boats powered by clean energy, organized by the Yacht Club de Monaco.

Outdoor Evening Activities and Concerts

July sees the Monte-Carlo Sporting Summer Festival kick off with outdoor concerts by international music stars.

On July 24 and 31, the Monaco Art en Ciel International Fireworks Competition returns to Port Hercule. Admire the fantastic pyrotechnic displays from the Quai Albert I.

On summer evenings, the Monaco Open Air Cinema opens at the foot of Le Rocher, offering incredible sea views. Films in their original language will be shown on the giant screen.

Cinema in the Spotlight on the Côte d’Azur in July

From July 3 to 6, the Grimaldi Forum will host the first Monaco Streaming Film Festival, dedicated to films from the streaming industry. Expect stars, producers, screenings, and panels. On its heels and only a few miles away, the glamorous Cannes Film Festival will take place from July 6 to 17. Film stars, like Spike Lee, the jury president, will walk La Croisette during the 74th edition.

A Few Day Trips Beyond Monaco

Make the most of your stay in Monaco to explore its surroundings. The region is brimming with lovely places to visit in July!

Visit Menton

Head just 10 km along the Route de la Corniche to Menton for incredible panoramic views. Located on the Italian border, the small town offers a taste of the Dolce Vita on the Côte d’Azur. Menton is a real gem with ochre houses in the medieval center, a market hall, Belle Epoque villas, and more!

Discover Èze and Nice

Another excursion that involves following the winding roads of the hinterland is an outing to Èze to discover the magnificent hilltop village. Its paved streets, a legacy of the Middle Ages, lead to the Jardin Botanique – its peak offers breathtaking views of the coast. From there, head to Nice for a stroll along the Promenade des Anglais or through the Old Town.

Cross the Italian Border to Explore Ventimiglia and Sanremo

Keep following the Route de la Corniche or take the train to Ventimiglia, the closest town in Italy to the border. The covered market and the medieval center with its narrow streets are must-sees. Continue along the Ligurian coast to Sanremo for its charming seaside and beautiful buildings, such us the 12th-century Basilica Concattedrale di San Siro.

What is the Weather Like in Monaco in July?

Monaco enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot summers. It gets the most sun in July, and temperatures lie between 22°C and 28°C. The water temperature varies between 20°C and 24°C, and it rarely rains, making it the ideal weather for enjoying the seaside.

During your getaway, discover the secrets of Monaco by following our concierge’s itineraries.

Where to Sleep and Eat in Monaco in July

The Monte-Carlo Beach is undoubtedly one of the best hotels to stay in during summer in Monaco. Between pine forests and the Mediterranean Sea, it is a chic and glamorous vacation spot. Staying in a room with a sea view, sipping a cocktail by the pool, and relaxing at the Spa Monte-Carlo Beach are all 5-star experiences. Another must is the Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort, a paradise where you can relax beside the lagoon and enjoy the pure comfort of its rooms and suites.

Book a luxury stay at the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, in Monaco’s golden square to live like royalty. Or choose the elegance of the Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo and its sophisticated suites.

In July, Monaco’s summer restaurants offer gourmet experiences beside the sea. Discover the idyllic setting at the Vigie Lounge & Restaurant, the organic and seasonal dishes at Michelin-starred Elsa, the relaxed atmosphere at Las Brisas, or the fusion cuisine at COYA Monte-Carlo.

For a refreshing break on a terrace, head to the Café de Paris Monte-Carlo for a delicious ice cream or drink. Or, for a cocktail, try La Rascasse with its views of the port or the Blue Gin with its views of the sea. For an even more chic experience, enjoy an ice cream made by Gérard Taurin, the ice cream world champion, or cool down with a glass of champagne on the Patio des Joailliers at the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo. It’s summer in Monaco – make the most of it!