Monaco is a country in western Europe bordered by France. Our guide offers you all the information you need on things to see and do, hotels, where to find the best shops and restaurants and how to get around.
Monaco is a sovereign city-state that borders France and is surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea. It’s often considered the most prestigious city on earth, with people coming from all over to do their business. It’s also got incredible, glitzy beaches, so make sure you get some time soaking up the sun, too.
This guide will give you all the information you need to plan the perfect trip to Monaco. You’ll find tips on where to stay, what to see and do, and how to get around.
Monaco History and General Information
Monaco is a small, independent city-state located on the French Riviera. Monaco is known for its famous Grand Prix Formula One race, luxury hotels and casinos, and its status as a tax haven.
The history of Monaco goes back to the 6th century BC, when the area was settled by the Celts. In 127 BC, the Roman Emperor Pompey made Monaco a part of the Roman province of Gallia Narbonensis.
In 888 AD, Monaco was annexed by France. However, it regained its independence in 1297 under the rule of François Grimaldi. Since then, Monaco has been ruled by the House of Grimaldi.
In 1861, Monaco became a sovereign state and began to mint its own currency – the Monegasque franc. In 1918, Monaco officially became a protectorate of France. During World War II, Monaco was occupied by Nazi forces but liberated by Allied troops in 1944.
Since 1949, Prince Rainier III has governed Monaco. Under his rule, Monaco has become one of the wealthiest and most popular tourist destinations in Europe.
Today, Monaco is home to about 36,000 people. Visitors from all over the world come to enjoy its Mediterranean climate, beaches, luxury hotels and casinos. The annual Grand Prix Formula One race draws tens of thousands of spectators each year.
What to admire in Monaco
When it comes to admiring Monaco, there are plenty of reasons to put this small country at the top of your travel list. From its picturesque location on the French Riviera to its glamorous Siren streets, Monaco is an undeniable standout in Europe.
Here are just a few of the many things to admire in Monaco:
The Scenery: Nestled between the Alps and the Mediterranean Sea, Monaco boasts some of the most beautiful natural scenery in all of Europe. From its stunning coastline to its verdant mountains and valleys, there’s no shortage of places to explore and admire in Monaco.
The Architecture: From imposing castles and palaces to quaint villages and churches, Monaco boasts a wide range of architectural styles ranging from medieval to Renaissance to baroque. No matter what your taste, you’re sure to find plenty of buildings and structures to admire during your travels.
The History: With a history dating back centuries, Monaco is steeped in tradition and culture. From its days as a Grimaldi stronghold to its current status as a playground for the rich and famous, there’s no shortage of interesting stories and facts to uncover about this fascinating country.
When is the best time of year to go?
The best time to go to Monaco is in the spring or autumn. The weather is mild and there are fewer tourists than in the summer. However, if you want to experience Monaco’s world-famous Grand Prix, you’ll need to visit in May.
How much money should I budget?
You can find a detailed Monaco budget guide here, but in general, you should budget for at least $100 per day if you plan to visit Monaco on a budget. This will cover your food, accommodation, and basic activities. If you want to do more expensive activities like gambling or nightlife, then you should budget accordingly.
Practicalities
Monaco is a small country located on the French Riviera. Despite its size, Monaco is a popular tourist destination. This guide will help you plan your trip to Monaco, including information on where to stay, what to see, and how to get around.
Monaco is easily accessible by plane, train, or car. The nearest airport is Nice Cote d’Azur Airport (NCE), which is about a 30-minute drive from Monaco. There are also regular trains from Paris and other major French cities. If you’re driving from elsewhere in Europe, it’s easy to reach Monaco via the well-maintained highways in the region.
Once you arrive in Monaco, you’ll need to find accommodation. There are several high-end hotels in Monaco, as well as some more affordable options. If you’re on a budget, consider staying in Nice, which is just a short drive away. Wherever you stay, be sure to book your accommodations in advance, as Monaco can be quite busy during peak tourist season.
There are plenty of things to see and do in Monaco. Top attractions include the Monte Carlo Casino, the Prince’s Palace of Monaco, and the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco. You can also enjoy the beautiful Mediterranean weather by spending time at one of Monaco’s many beaches or taking a stroll along the promenade.
Getting around Monaco is easy thanks to its excellent public transportation system. The country has an efficient bus network
Travel, Food, Transport and Accommodation Advice
When travelling to Monaco, it is important to consider your travel, food, transport and accommodation options carefully.
There are a number of ways to get to Monaco, including by air, train, bus or car. If you are driving, be aware that parking in Monaco can be expensive.
There are also a number of accommodation options in Monaco, from hotels and apartments to camping and hostels. Again, prices can vary greatly depending on your chosen option.
Monaco is famous for its luxury restaurants, but there are also a number of less expensive options available. When it comes to transport, walking is often the best way to get around Monaco’s small size. However, there is also an excellent public bus system in place.
Whatever your budget and preferences, there is sure to be an option to suit you when travelling to Monaco.
Tips for Women Travelling Alone to Monaco
When traveling to Monaco, there are a few things to keep in mind if you’re a woman traveling alone. First, dress conservatively. Monaco is a very glamorous and wealthy country, and you’ll want to fit in with the locals. Second, be aware of your belongings at all times. Monaco is very safe, but it’s always better to be cautious when traveling alone. Finally, enjoy yourself! Monaco is an incredible place full of luxury and beauty. Take advantage of everything the country has to offer and create some amazing memories.
Airports Near Monaco
If you’re planning a trip to Monaco, you’ll need to know which airport is closest to your destination. The two main airports serving the area are Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE) and Monaco-Fontvieille Heliport (MCM).
Nice Côte d’Azur Airport is located just over 20 kilometers from Monaco, making it the closest airport to the city. The airport offers regular service to destinations around Europe and the Mediterranean, as well as some long-haul flights.
Monaco-Fontvieille Heliport is located within the city of Monaco and is primarily used for domestic and private flights. If you’re arriving in Monaco by helicopter, this is the airport you’ll be using.
Expensive Attractions for The Wealthy Traveler
From the glamorous casinos of Monte Carlo to the pristine beaches of Saint Tropez, there are plenty of expensive attractions for the wealthy traveler in Monaco.
For those looking to indulge in the finer things in life, Monaco has no shortage of luxury hotels, restaurants, and shops. The legendary Casino de Monte Carlo is a must-see for any first-time visitor to Monaco, and it’s easy to see why it’s been attracting the rich and famous for over 150 years.
If you’re looking for a more relaxing vacation, the French Riviera has no shortage of beautiful beaches and towns to explore. Saint Tropez is one of the most popular destinations for wealthy travelers, and it’s easy to see why with its stunning beaches and chic boutiques.
Whether you’re looking to gamble at the casino or relax on the beach, Monaco has plenty of expensive attractions to keep the wealthy traveler entertained.
Cheap Attractions for The Budget Traveler
There are plenty of things to see and do in Monaco without breaking the bank. The Jardin Exotique, for instance, is a stunning garden full of cacti and other succulents, while the Prince’s Palace of Monaco offers free tours on certain days of the week. Other cheap or free activities in Monaco include visiting the Port Hercules – where you can watch the luxury yachts come and go – or simply taking a stroll along Monte Carlo’s famous waterfront.
If you’re willing to spend a few euros, theOceanographic Museum is a must-see, while the Monaco Cathedral – which is free to enter – is also well worth a visit. Alternatively, you could take the funicular up to the Exotic Garden for sweeping views over Monaco and the Mediterranean Sea beyond.
Where to stay in Monaco
There are many wonderful places to stay in Monaco, from luxurious 5-star hotels to more affordable options. Here are some of our top recommendations:
For luxury:
The Fairmont Monte Carlo is a beautiful 4-star hotel located in the heart of Monaco. With stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, this hotel offers an infinity pool, spa, and several restaurants.
The Hermitage Monte-Carlo is another great option for those looking for luxury accommodations. This 5-star hotel features an outdoor pool, spa, and several restaurants and bars.
For a more budget-friendly option:
The Novotel Monte Carlo is a great mid-range hotel located just a few minutes’ walk from the casino and other central attractions. This hotel offers comfortable rooms and suites, as well as an on-site restaurant and bar.
The ibis Styles Monte-Carlo is another great mid-range hotel, located just a short walk from the casino. This hotel offers comfortable rooms and suites, as well as an on-site restaurant.
Restaurants you must try in Monaco
There is no shortage of excellent restaurants in Monaco, but there are a few that stand out above the rest. If you’re looking for an unforgettable dining experience, be sure to check out these must-try restaurants during your stay.
Le Louis XV-Alain Ducasse: Located within the world-famous Hotel de Paris, Le Louis XV-Alain Ducasse is one of Monaco’s most prestigious restaurants. Michelin-starred chef Alain Ducasse oversees the kitchen, which serves exquisite French cuisine like truffle tagliatelle and roasted sea bream. With its stunning setting and first-class food, it’s no wonder this restaurant is a favorite among celebrities and royalty.
Joël Robuchon: Another Michelin-starred spot, Joël Robuchon is known for its contemporary French fare. The menu features dishes like artichoke soup with black truffle ravioli and seared scallops with summer vegetables, all served in a sleek and stylish setting. This restaurant also has an excellent wine list, so be sure to ask for a recommendation to pair with your meal.
Grimaldi Forum: For something a bit different, head to Grimaldi Forum for inventive Italian cuisine with Mediterranean influences. The restaurant has an airy, open layout with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea. Be sure to try the wild boar ravioli or one of the fresh seafood dishes while
Perfect Day in Monaco
After a leisurely breakfast of fresh pastries and coffee at one of Monaco’s many outdoor cafes, spend the morning wandering through the streets of the old city. Admire the architecture and Stop to enjoy the views from Place du Palais. As lunchtime approaches, make your way down to the world-famous Monte Carlo Casino. Take a few photos of this iconic building before sitting down for an al fresco meal at one of the many restaurants overlooking the casino gardens.
In the afternoon, take a stroll through the Jardin Exotique, with its stunning array of cacti and other desert plants. Then head down to Port Hercule to watch the boats come and go. As the sun begins to set, make your way up to Lerins Abbey on Monte Carlo mountain for panoramic views over Monaco and the Mediterranean Sea. Finish your perfect day with an exquisite dinner at Le Louis XV-Alain Ducasse restaurant in Hotel de Paris, followed by drinks at one of Monaco’s chic nightclubs.
Monaco is an amazing place with so much to do. A perfect day in Monaco would start with a delicious breakfast at one of the many cafes overlooking the harbor. Then, you would head to the Prince’s Palace to tour the opulent state rooms and learn about the history of this small country. After that, it would be time for some shopping at the famous Monte-Carlo Casino where you could find designer clothes, jewelry, and more. As the sun began to set, you would enjoy a glass of champagne on one of the outdoor terraces while watching the boats come in and out of the harbor. Finally, you would end your perfect day with a wonderful meal at one of Monaco’s Michelin-starred restaurants.
When it comes to planning the perfect day in Monaco, there are a few key things to keep in mind. First, Monaco is a tiny country, so you won’t want to waste any time getting from one place to another. Second, because it’s situated on the French Riviera, the weather is almost always beautiful, so make sure to take advantage of it by spending plenty of time outdoors. Finally, Monaco is known for its luxury and glamour, so don’t hesitate to treat yourself to a few upscale experiences.
With those tips in mind, here’s how we recommend spending your perfect day in Monaco:
Start the day with a leisurely breakfast at one of Monaco’s many outdoor cafes. Then, head over to the Prince’s Palace of Monaco for a tour. After that, take a stroll through the Jardin Exotique de Monaco, where you can see some rare and unusual plants and flowers.
In the afternoon, relax on one of the beaches along the Mediterranean Sea. Or, if you’re feeling more adventurous, go for a swim or paddleboard in the water. For lunch or dinner, treat yourself to a meal at one of Monaco’s Michelin-starred restaurants. And finally, cap off your perfect day with a drink or two at one of Monaco’s chic nightclubs or bars.
We hope you enjoyed our travel guide to Monaco. This glamorous destination has a lot to offer, from the stunning architecture to the luxurious lifestyle. Whether you’re interested in soaking up the sun on one of the many beaches or exploring the many museums and art galleries, there’s something for everyone in Monaco. We hope this guide has helped you plan your trip and that you have a wonderful time in this beautiful country.
