Discover Hidden Gems: A Day of Unusual Monaco Sightseeing & Activities

Monaco

1 days

Picturesque street with old tree
Monaco harbor
Grand Casino building
Opera building
Monaco skyline

About Monaco

Monaco, the second smallest country in the world, is a glamorous destination nestled on the French Riviera. Known for its luxurious casinos, yacht-lined harbor, and prestigious Grand Prix motor race, it's a playground for the rich and famous. The district of Monte Carlo is a must-visit, boasting opulent hotels, gourmet restaurants, and high-end boutiques. The Prince's Palace and the Oceanographic Museum are key attractions, offering a glimpse into Monaco's rich history and marine life. The Jardin Exotique, home to thousands of rare plants, provides stunning views over the Mediterranean Sea. Despite its small size, Monaco offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and luxury living.

1-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Royal and Natural Beauty of Monaco

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Prince's Palace. This grand residence offers a unique glimpse into the royal history of Monaco. Don't miss the Changing of the Guard ceremony, which takes place every day at 11:55 am.

Lunch

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant. Monaco's cuisine is heavily influenced by its Mediterranean location, so expect plenty of fresh seafood and vibrant flavors.

Afternoon

After lunch, head to the Jardin Exotique, an exotic garden home to a wide variety of succulent plants. The garden also offers stunning views over Monaco and the Mediterranean Sea. Afterward, explore the Oceanographic Museum, a marine science museum housed in a stunning Baroque Revival building.

Dinner

For dinner, indulge in some local cuisine at a restaurant with a view. Monaco is known for its high-quality restaurants, many of which offer stunning views over the city and the sea.

Evening

End your day with a stroll along the Port Hercules, the main port of Monaco. The port is often filled with luxury yachts and offers a stunning view of the city lit up at night.

Attractions in Itinerary (4)

Prince's Palace

1
Prince's Palace

The official residence of the Sovereign Prince of Monaco, offering stunning views of the city and harbour.

Attractions
Monuments
Landmarks
Jardin Exotique

2
Jardin Exotique

A beautiful garden located on a cliffside in Monaco. It features a wide variety of exotic plants from all over the world, as well as stunning views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea.

Parks
Gardens
Oceanographic Museum

3
Oceanographic Museum

A museum of marine sciences in Monaco-Ville, Monaco. It is home to the Mediterranean Science Commission. This building is part of the Oceanographic Institute which is committed to sharing its knowledge of the oceans.

Attractions
Museums
Port Hercules

4
Port Hercules

Port Hercules is the only deep-water port in Monaco. The port has been in use since ancient times. The modern port was completed in 1926, and underwent substantial improvements in the 1970s. It covers almost 40 acres (160,000 m2), enough to provide anchorage for up to 700 vessels. The port is located in the La Condamine district of Monaco.

Attractions
Landmarks

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Barbagiuan

Barbagiuan

A traditional Monegasque food, Barbagiuan is a deep-fried pastry filled with Swiss chard, ricotta, onions, and herbs. It's a popular snack or appetizer in Monaco.

Bouillabaisse

Bouillabaisse

Originating from the South of France, Bouillabaisse is a rich fish stew that's popular in Monaco. It's made with at least three types of fish, shellfish, and aromatic herbs and spices.

Socca

Socca

A popular street food in Monaco, Socca is a thin, crispy pancake made from chickpea flour and olive oil. It's typically served hot and cut into triangular slices.

Pissaladière

Pissaladière

A common dish in Monaco, Pissaladière is a pizza-like dish topped with caramelized onions, black olives, and anchovies. It's a perfect blend of sweet and salty flavors.

Salade Niçoise

A classic dish from the French Riviera, Salade Niçoise is a salad made with tomatoes, hard-boiled eggs, Niçoise olives, and anchovies or tuna. It's a light and healthy option popular in Monaco.

Ratatouille

Ratatouille

A traditional French Provençal stewed vegetable dish, Ratatouille is popular in Monaco. It's made from aubergines, courgettes, peppers, tomatoes, onions, and garlic.

Pan Bagnat

A sandwich that's popular in Monaco, Pan Bagnat is made with whole wheat bread, tuna or anchovies, and the ingredients of a Niçoise salad.

Tourte de Blettes

A unique dessert from Monaco, Tourte de Blettes is a sweet tart made with Swiss chard, pine nuts, raisins, and powdered sugar.

Pastis

Pastis

A popular anise-flavored spirit and apéritif from France, Pastis is often enjoyed in Monaco. It's typically diluted with water before drinking.

Rosé wine from Provence

Monaco, being close to the Provence region, is a great place to enjoy a glass of local Rosé wine. It's light, dry, and perfect for a sunny day.

Monaco Beer

Monaco has its own local beer, typically a light lager, that's a popular choice among locals and tourists alike.

Limoncello

Limoncello

Although originally from Italy, Limoncello, a lemon liqueur, is widely enjoyed in Monaco due to its close proximity to Italy. It's often served chilled as an after-dinner digestif.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Monaco is during the spring months, from April to June. During this time, the weather is warm and pleasant, perfect for exploring the city-state's outdoor attractions. The Monaco Grand Prix, one of the most prestigious car races in the world, also takes place in May, making it an exciting time to visit. However, if you prefer a quieter vacation, consider visiting in the fall, from September to November, when the summer crowds have left, and the weather is still relatively mild.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

January 27

Sat

Saint Dévote's Day

April 1

Mon

Easter Monday

May 1

Wed

Labour Day/May Day

May 9

Thu

Ascension Day

May 20

Mon

Whit Monday

May 30

Thu

Corpus Christi

August 15

Thu

Assumption of Mary

November 1

Fri

All Saints' Day

November 19

Tue

National Day

December 8

Sun

Feast of the Immaculate Conception

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Monaco is a small city-state, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. It's a great way to take in the sights and sounds of the city.

Monaco has an efficient public bus system operated by Compagnie des Autobus Monaco (CAM). There are six bus lines that cover all the main areas of the city.

Taxis are readily available in Monaco and can be hailed from the street, taxi stands, or booked in advance. They offer a convenient way to get around, especially if you're carrying heavy luggage or travelling in a group.

Driving in Monaco can be challenging due to its narrow streets and heavy traffic. However, there are plenty of car rental agencies if you prefer to drive. Note that parking can be difficult and expensive.

Monaco is a bike-friendly city with numerous bike rental stations. It's a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the city.

Monaco supports green initiatives, offering electric car rentals and charging stations throughout the city. It's a sustainable choice for getting around.

Ridesharing services like Uber are available in Monaco. It's a convenient option, especially if you're familiar with these platforms.

Monaco is a coastal city, and there are public boat services that can take you along the coast or to nearby French Riviera towns.

For a unique and luxurious experience, you can take a helicopter ride from Monaco's heliport. This is a popular choice for transfers to and from Nice Airport.

Due to Monaco's hilly terrain, the city has a network of public elevators and escalators that help pedestrians navigate the steep slopes. These are free to use and can significantly shorten your journey.

Monaco's train station, Gare de Monaco-Monte-Carlo, is well-connected to other French and Italian cities. It's a good option if you're planning to visit neighbouring regions.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency€ EUR

Time zoneUTC+1

Driving sideRight

Emergency phone112

Drinking waterYes

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type EPower socket type F

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Monaco as a first time visitor

1

Monaco is the second smallest country in the world, after Vatican City.

2

The official language is French, but English and Italian are also widely spoken.

3

Monaco uses the Euro (€) as its currency.

4

Monaco is a very safe country with a virtually non-existent crime rate.

5

The country is a tax haven, so it's home to many wealthy individuals.

6

Monaco has a Mediterranean climate, with warm, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. Average summer temperatures are around 77°F (25°C), while in winter it's usually around 48°F (9°C).

7

Monaco is a pedestrian-friendly country, and it's possible to walk across the entire country in just a few hours.

8

The country is known for its luxury lifestyle, so expect high prices for accommodation, dining, and shopping.

9

Tipping is not mandatory in Monaco, as a service charge is usually included in the bill. However, it's customary to leave a small tip for good service.

10

Monaco is a constitutional monarchy, with Prince Albert II as the current reigning monarch.

11

The country is famous for its casinos, particularly the Casino de Monte-Carlo. However, Monaco's citizens are not allowed to gamble or even enter the casinos.

12

Monaco's main public transport is the bus, operated by Compagnie des Autobus Monaco (CAM). There are also numerous taxis available.

13

Monaco is not part of the European Union, but it has an open border with France and uses the Euro as its currency.

14

The country is one of the most densely populated in the world.

15

Monaco has a high standard of healthcare, with excellent hospitals and pharmacies. However, healthcare can be expensive, so travel insurance is recommended.

16

The country is on Central European Time (CET), which is 1 hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+1).

17

Monaco has a strict dress code, especially in the casinos and finer restaurants. Men are expected to wear jackets and ties, and women should wear dresses or suits.

18

The country has a strong commitment to environmental sustainability, with numerous green initiatives in place.

19

Monaco's main airport is Nice Côte d'Azur International Airport in France, about 22km away. From there, you can take a bus, taxi, or helicopter to Monaco.

20

Monaco hosts the annual Monaco Grand Prix, one of the most prestigious automobile races in the world. If you're visiting during the event, be prepared for crowded streets and higher prices.

Basic French to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Bonjour

bohn-zhoor

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Au revoir

oh reh-vwar

Saying goodbye

Please

S'il vous plaît

see voo play

Making a request

Thank you

Merci

mehr-see

Expressing gratitude

Yes

Oui

wee

Agreeing or confirming

No

Non

nohn

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

Excusez-moi

ex-koo-zay mwah

Getting attention or apologizing

I'm sorry

Je suis désolé

zhuh swee day-zoh-lay

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

Parlez-vous anglais?

par-lay voo ahn-glay

Asking if someone speaks English

I don't understand

Je ne comprends pas

zhuh nuh kom-prahn pah

Expressing confusion

Where is...?

Où est...?

oo eh...

Asking for directions

Bathroom

Toilettes

twah-let

Asking for the restroom

Help

Aide

ed

In case of emergency

Food

Nourriture

noo-ree-toor

Talking about food

Water

Eau

oh

Asking for water

Beer

Bière

byehr

Ordering a beer

Wine

Vin

van

Ordering wine

Check, please

L'addition, s'il vous plaît

la-dee-syon, see voo play

Asking for the bill

How much does it cost?

Combien ça coûte?

kohm-byen sah koot

Asking for the price

Good night

Bonne nuit

bon nwee

Saying goodnight

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Sweater or light jacket

  • Sunglasses

  • Swimsuit (if planning to swim)

  • Hat for sun protection

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-size toothpaste

  • Toothbrush

  • Deodorant

  • Travel-size shampoo and conditioner

  • Sunscreen

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Face mask

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or ID card

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash (Euros)

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel reservation confirmation

  • Emergency contact information

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Headphones

  • Camera (if not using phone camera)

  • Portable power bank

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Snacks

  • Water bottle

  • Travel guidebook for Monaco

  • Map of Monaco

  • Umbrella or raincoat (just in case)

  • Travel pillow (for the journey)

Weather Conditions

Monaco, a city-state on France's Mediterranean coastline, is known for its mild, Mediterranean climate. The weather is generally warm and sunny, making it an ideal destination for tourists year-round. If you're planning a trip to Monaco, it's important to note that the summer months, from June to August, are the warmest. Temperatures during this period can reach up to 86°F (30°C), so be sure to pack light clothing, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. The winter months, from December to February, are cooler but still relatively mild. Temperatures can drop to around 50°F (10°C), so you'll want to pack a light jacket or sweater. Despite the cooler temperatures, Monaco's winters are typically sunny, making it a great time to visit if you prefer less crowded tourist spots. Spring and autumn are also lovely times to visit Monaco. Temperatures during these seasons range from 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C), offering a comfortable climate for sightseeing. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the weather forecast before your trip. This will help you pack appropriately and plan your activities. Remember, Monaco is a coastal city, so it can sometimes be windy, especially in the evenings. A light wrap or jacket can be useful. Also, even if the weather is warm, it's advisable to carry an umbrella or raincoat as showers can occur. Lastly, don't forget to stay hydrated, especially during the summer months. The Mediterranean sun can be quite strong, and it's important to drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. Enjoy your trip to Monaco!

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

15° / 8°

January is the coldest month in Monaco, but it's still relatively mild compared to other European destinations. It's a good time to visit if you prefer less crowded tourist spots.

February

15° / 8°

February is similar to January in terms of weather, with mild temperatures and fewer tourists. It's a great time to explore the city's indoor attractions.

March

17° / 10°

March sees a slight increase in temperature, making it a pleasant time to visit. The city starts to get busier as the spring season approaches.

April

20° / 12°

April is a beautiful month to visit Monaco, with spring in full bloom. The weather is warm enough for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

May

23° / 15°

May is a popular time to visit Monaco, with warm temperatures and the famous Monaco Grand Prix taking place. Expect large crowds during this time.

June

26° / 18°

June marks the start of the summer season in Monaco, with long sunny days. It's an excellent time for beach activities and outdoor dining.

July

29° / 21°

July is the hottest month in Monaco, perfect for sunbathing and swimming. However, it's also the busiest month, so expect crowded beaches and tourist spots.

August

29° / 21°

August is as hot as July, with plenty of sunshine. It's a great time for water sports and outdoor activities, but be prepared for large crowds.

September

26° / 18°

September is a fantastic time to visit Monaco, with fewer tourists and still warm temperatures. It's an ideal time for sightseeing and enjoying the city's outdoor attractions.

October

23° / 15°

October sees a drop in temperature but it's still warm enough to enjoy outdoor activities. The city is less crowded, making it a good time to explore at a leisurely pace.

November

20° / 12°

November is a quieter month in Monaco, with mild temperatures. It's a great time to visit if you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere.

December

17° / 10°

December is a festive time to visit Monaco, with Christmas markets and decorations around the city. The weather is cooler, but still mild compared to other European destinations.

Did you know?

Did you know that Monaco is the second smallest country in the world, after Vatican City?

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