Monaco is unlike any other place in Europe. It feels like a “sanctuary” for the rich and famous; a place where the yachts are larger than most townhouses and luxury cars are around every corner.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Although Monaco is often described as a “postage stamp” (it is the second smallest country in the world after Vatican City), don’t underestimate its scale. It may look tiny on a map, but its location against steep cliffs means you\u2019ll get quite a workout from all the walking. The elevation changes are enormous, the slopes are steep, and the views of the azure Mediterranean Sea are fantastic. It\u2019s a very special place to see!<\/p>\n\n\n\n My visit was extra special because the Historic Grand Prix was taking place at the time. The entire city was at a standstill<\/strong>, cordoned off with grandstands and fences everywhere. Although we didn\u2019t watch an official race, there was a very special atmosphere. We saw the track and some practice laps, which was already quite an experience!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Before I tell you more about the best Monaco sights, here is some practical info about this microstate:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Now that you know a little more about Monaco, you\u2019re likely wondering what there is to see and do. Here are some of the best activities and sights in this microstate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Monaco-Ville, also known as Le Rocher (The Rock), is the old town. It is perched on a 60-meter-high cliff rising above the Mediterranean. This is one of the places where you\u2019ll immediately notice those significant elevation changes. To get there, you\u2019ll need to make a steep climb via the Rampe de la Major, but once you reach the top, you\u2019re rewarded with spectacular views of the harbors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the narrow, medieval streets, the atmosphere is much more charming and relaxed than in the rest of the city. You\u2019ll find cozy squares and small boutique stores to explore.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Atop the rock in Monaco-Ville is the official residence of the Prince of Monaco. It is an impressive building that reflects the rich history of the country. If the flag is flying, it means the prince is currently at home. Be sure to arrive around 11:55 a.m. to witness the Changing of the Guard. It is a traditional spectacle that always draws a crowd.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You can\u2019t visit Monaco without stopping at the world-famous casino. Even if you aren\u2019t a gambler, the square in front of the building is a sight in itself. This is where you can truly experience the glitz and glamour. The most expensive cars in the world are often parked here side by side right in front of the entrance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Walk (or take the elevator!) down toward the Port Hercule marina. Here, you\u2019ll find the most incredible superyachts you will ever see. It is almost unfathomable how large these vessels really are. We spent over an hour wandering around here; it is truly an extraordinary world to witness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Something you\u2019ll immediately notice when admiring Port Hercule from above is the large swimming pool situated between the marina and the race track. This is the Stade nautique Rainier III, a heated saltwater pool. The best part is that, as a visitor, you can head inside for a relatively small fee to enjoy a swim with a million-dollar view.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The building of the Mus\u00e9e oc\u00e9anographique de Monaco is spectacular to see, as the museum is built directly against the steep cliff on the coast. It seems to rise up from the sea. Inside you will find various aquariums and information about marine life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Buy your ticket for Mus\u00e9e Oc\u00e9anographique de Monaco here<\/a>.<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n For any sports fan, the Fairmont hairpin is an iconic spot. This is the slowest and most famous corner on the Formula One circuit. It is very special to walk along the sidewalk past a point where normally the best drivers in the world race by. Because the city was still set up for the race, the red and white curbs were very visible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Many members of the Grimaldi family are buried in the Cathedral of Monaco, also called the Saint Nicholas Cathedral. The most famous graves are those of Prince Rainier III and his wife, Grace Kelly. The building is a sight to behold and is made of white stone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What I personally found particularly special is the great contrast when you enter the cathedral. It is so different from the hustle, bustle, and showiness in the rest of the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Right by the cathedral, you will find the Palais de Justice (Palace of Justice). This may not be the first place you think of when listing sights, but I found the building truly a sight to behold! The facade is full of extraordinary details. It is one of the most beautiful buildings on the Rock.<\/p>\n\n\n\n One place I unfortunately missed during my visit is the Jardin exotique de Monaco. But after seeing the pictures, I definitely want to go here next time! It is a botanical garden located high up against the rocks and is filled with thousands of cacti and succulents. Again, it’s quite a climb to get there, but the view is phenomenal. Below the garden, there is even a prehistoric cave with stalactites and stalagmites that you can visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Monaco has one official beach: Larvotto Beach. Do not expect vast expanses of sand here; it is a landscaped pebble beach with a modern promenade. The skyline of skyscrapers behind the beach creates a very unique sight. It’s a great place to rest and look out over the sea after all the miles you’ve covered through the steep streets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Monaco and Formula One are inseparable. I wasn’t able to walk the entire loop myself, but what makes it unique is that outside of the race weekends, you can just walk on the asphalt. Many of the spots in this list are right on the track, but it is also highly recommended to walk the entire circuit of over three kilometers. You will immediately recognize the familiar turns and the places where the grandstands are normally located.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Want to hear all the ins and outs about legendary races and overtaking? Then book a guided walk around the track<\/a>.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n This small chapel stands in a unique spot, right at the first corner of the race track. The chapel is dedicated to the patron saint of Monaco. For racing fans, this is a sacred place, as this is often where the most spectacular action takes place on the first lap. I found the contrast between the centuries-old chapel and the atmosphere of the race (with all the structures built around it when I was there) to be very typical of Monaco.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Directly opposite the famous Casino de Monte-Carlo, you will find these beautiful tropical gardens. The name (“Little Africa”) says it all: you can walk here among huge palm trees, exotic plants, and unique flowers. It is a wonderful place to seek shade and escape the crowds. Good to know: you will also find the tourism office here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n While Monaco is impressive enough on its own, it is very easy (and fun!) to extend your day trip. We took the train from Nice to Ventimiglia, Italy, just across the border. We walked through the old streets in the morning and, of course, had a delicious Italian pizza for lunch!<\/p>\n\n\n\n We then caught the train back and got off halfway for our afternoon stroll in Monaco. It’s a funny contrast: one moment you are experiencing the Italian charm, and half an hour later, you are in the middle of the immense luxury of the principality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n After reading these tips, are you ready to discover Monaco for yourself? Here are the practical details to help you arrange your trip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The easiest way to reach Monaco is via the French city of Nice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n While you can explore a lot on your own, some attractions are popular and can get very crowded. If you want to be sure of a spot at the Oceanographic Museum or fancy a guided walk to learn about the Formula One history, check out GetYourGuide<\/a><\/strong> for convenient skip-the-line tickets and tours.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n I personally visited Monaco as a day trip from Nice, but if you have the budget, it is even more special to spend the night there. Once the day-trippers leave, the atmosphere changes completely. Here are some highly-rated places to stay:<\/p>\n\n\n\n You can find all available hotels and prices at Booking.com<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Want even more in-depth information and handy maps of the narrow streets? The Lonely Planet Pocket Nice & Monaco<\/a><\/strong> is highly recommended. It is small enough to fit in your daypack and is full of practical tips and hidden spots you might otherwise miss.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n Did you enjoy reading about Monaco and are you looking for more travel inspiration for Europe? I have many more tips for you on this website! Check out these articles:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Want to receive personal travel stories, practical packing lists, and travel tips in your inbox? Then sign up for my newsletter<\/a>.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Co](\"https:\/\/www.opreismetco.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Co-in-Monaco-683x1024.webp\" "\\"\\"")
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nA “postage stamp” with steep climbs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The magic of the Grand Prix<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Useful to know about Monaco<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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The best things to do in Monaco<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Monaco-Ville<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nThe Prince’s Palace (Palais Princier)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nPlace du Casino & the Casino de Monte-Carlo<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nPort Hercule<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nStade Nautique Rainier III<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nMus\u00e9e Oc\u00e9anographique de Monaco<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nThe Fairmont Hairpin<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nCathedral of Monaco<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nPalais de Justice<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nJardin Exotique de Monaco<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Larvotto Beach<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nWalking the Formula One circuit<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nSainte-D\u00e9vote Chapel<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Jardins de la Petite Afrique<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nTake a combination trip to Ventimiglia<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nPlan a trip to Monaco<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Getting there<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Tours and tickets<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Where to stay in Monaco<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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<\/a>Travel guide<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Discover more beautiful destinations<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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