Monaco is a stunning little country on the French Riviera and may be considered among the glitziest in the world. With beautiful weather, gorgeous views due of the Mediterranean Sea, and exciting sights, here are our Top 10 Things to do in Monaco.
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Grand Prix
Every year in Monaco the prominent and illustrious Formula One Grand Prix race takes place. From its beginnings in the 20th century, the Monaco Grand Prix is one of the most recognized auto races in the world. The road course, called Circuit de Monaco, winds through the twisting streets and past the marina and features an impressive hairpin turn. This unique annual event should not be missed if you find yourself in Monaco at the time it takes place – usually late May on the same Sunday as the Indianapolis 500 (IndyCar Series) and the Coca-Cola 600 (NASCAR Cup Series), making it known as the most prestigious weekend in auto racing. Coverage of all these races and more can be found on our sister site, Go TrackHopper.
Monte Carlo Casino
If you’re in Monaco, you have to visit one of Europe’s most luxurious casinos. The Monte Carlo Casino is open to visitors of all ages in the morning. But if you plan on gambling, arrive after 2 p.m. for the slot machines and after 4 p.m. for table games, which includes French Roulette, Baccarat, Black Jack, Craps and Poker Texas Hold’em Ultimate.
Although there is no specific dress code, ‘correct attire’ is mandatory, and men must wear a jacket and tie in the evening.
Museum of Antique Automobiles
For car lovers, and even those that are not, when you’re in Monaco, do not miss visiting the Museum of Antique Automobiles. Gifted and funded by Prince Rainier III, these cars are all from his personal collection.
This unique display features more than a hundred cars, including a 1903 DE DION BOUTON, a 2013 LOTUS F1, plus a ROLLS ROYCE, LINCOLN, FACEL VEGA, PACKARD, FERRARI, MASERATI, LAMBORGHINI, ALFA ROMEO, and the LEXUS used for the royal wedding in 2011.
With a broad range of automobiles, all ridden by the prince and other celebrities, everyone will be able to appreciate the collection.
Oceanographic Museum of Monaco
The spectacular Oceanographic Museum of Monaco was founded in the early 1900s by Prince Albert I, who was also a sea captain. Like the whale skeleton, many exhibits come from Prince Albert’s findings while exploring. There are also plenty of underwater sea creatures inhabiting this aquarium, so not only is it a way to see some beautiful fish, but it is also an educational experience for people of all ages.
The museum also hosts special exhibitions throughout the year so check the website before you visit to see what’s currently on display.
Prince’s Palace
Towering high above the sea level sits the beautiful Palais Princier. This Genoese fortress was used for defense purposes in the Middle Ages and is now home to the oldest monarchy in the world.
Although this is a private residence, it is open to visitors at specific times of the year.
Monaco’s rich history and panoramic views make visiting this fortress a must-do.
Exotic Garden
This beautiful public garden opened in 1933. Allowing for breathtaking views of Monaco and the Mediterranean, the Exotic Garden is rife with exotic plants that come from Mexico, South America, and the Southwestern United States.
There is also an Observatory Cave filled with interesting rock formations. This cave was once inhabited by prehistoric humans and offers guided tours of the cave.
Monaco Cathedral
This stunning cathedral was built in 1875 but is home to much older artifacts, like an altarpiece painted in 1500. There is plenty to see at the Monaco Cathedral as it is home to numerous tombs of the former Monaco Princes, as well as the grave site of Grace Kelly, who eventually became the princess of Monaco.
The Monaco Cathedral offers free entry and requires visitors to dress appropriately and treat the cathedral and its people with respect.
Princess Grace Rose Garden
This garden memorial is an absolute beauty, just like the woman it was named after. The Princess Grace Rose Garden is a lovely and peaceful place to explore and take photos.
The garden was built by Prince Rainier III in memory of his wife – actress-turned-princess Grace Kelly – after her tragic death. As such, it features a bronze statue of her, along with olive trees and more than 315 varieties of rosebush with a total of 6,000 rosebushes divided into seven themes. A beautiful and moving memorial to the princess, visitors can explore over 5,000 square meters of gardens.
Larvotto Beach
Known as the only public beach in Monaco, visitors can enjoy Larvotto Beach. Nets are placed offshore so swimmers need not worry about sea creatures getting close to them in the waters.
There are also jet ski and kayak rentals found here.
Although it is a beautiful beach for the whole family to enjoy, it does get crowded easily and quickly, so it is best to arrive early to secure a spot before the crowds.
National Museum of Monaco – Villas Sauber
Found inside Villa Paloma and Villa Sauber is the National Museum of Monaco. This museum showcases old works of contemporary art, 19th-and-20th-century theater costumes, photographs, stage sets and decorative objects, and much more.
The museum prides itself on its conservation work by means of restoring antique items and costumes from the late 1800s. It is an interesting and educational experience that is also entertaining for everyone.
Photo Credits:
Lead – Pierre Blaché from Pixabay
Monaco Grand Prix – Go TrackHopper
Monte Carlo Casino – David Serrano from Pixabay
Museum of Antique Automobiles – Reynier Carl on Unsplash
Oceanographic Museum of Monaco – Kamilla Isalieva on Unsplash
Prince’s Palace – Hans from Pixabay
Exotic Gardens – Visit Monaco
Monaco Cathedral – Hans from Pixabay
Princess Grace Rose Garden – Visit Monaco
Larvotto Beach – Wikimedia by V&A Dudush – License Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported
National Museum – Visit Monaco
