Monaco has long been a destination for the rich and famous and today offers visitors glamorous nightlife as well as beautiful old buildings and palaces.
Monaco is an independent principality on the Mediterranean, completely surrounded by France. It is a mere 500 acres (202 hectares) but is home to over 35,000 people, making it among the most densely-populated countries on Earth. It is ruled as a constitutional monarchy and maintains its own government and constitution. The country is best known for the many rich and famous celebrities drawn to Monaco's attractive tax laws and as a glamorous gambling hot-spot. Although home to some of the world's wealthiest jet-setters, there are still surprisingly affordable holiday options to experience the exciting Monaco lifestyle.
Go for a stroll around Monte Carlo Harbour or the Condamine Marina and gaze at multi-million dollar yachts. Wander over to the Old Town to see quaint old buildings and the Prince’s Palace. You can watch the changing of the guard and even take a tour of the interior. Keep exploring the Old Town to find Monaco Cathedral and the renowned Oceanographic Museum of Monaco. Inside is an extensive array of marine species as well as a fascinating collection artworks and artifacts.
Make your way over to Fontvieille to check out the classic old cars collected by the princes of Monaco. Anyone out to relax should head to the exotic garden in the Condamine or the Japanese Gardens in Monte Carlo. If you need to cool off, go for a swim at Larvotto Beach.
When the sun goes down, change into your best clothes and visit the famous Casino of Monte Carlo. Wander past Lamborghinis and Aston Martins as you walk through to the lavishly-decorated interior. Enjoy the impressive paintings and statues and do some serious people watching. For a special night out, take in a show at the Opera of Monte Carlo. It’s a beautiful old building and hosts some of the most prestigious productions in the world.
Monaco is a great place to get a taste of how some of the world’s wealthiest people live. Enormous yachts sit in the harbour and elegant bars and boutiques abound. You can gamble in the classiest casinos and indulge in the finest cuisine or just wander the streets and take it all in. Be sure to stay at least a few days to really experience this spectacular principality.
Monaco
Travel Guide
Visit Monaco
Monaco Travel Guide Video
Where to stay in Monaco
Monte Carlo
Monte Carlo is a destination visitors seek out for its beaches, abundant dining options and casinos. You might want to check out attractions like Circuit de Monaco or Casino Cafe de Paris while you're exploring the neighbourhood.
Menton City Center
If you're spending some time in Menton City Center, Basilica of Saint Michael the Archangel and Jardin de la Villa Maria Serena are top sights worth seeing.
Cap-Ferrat
You'll enjoy the restaurants and gardens in Cap-Ferrat. You might want to make time for a stop at Cap-Ferrat Lighthouse or Baie des Anges.
Monaco-Ville
You'll enjoy the museums and seaside views in Monaco-Ville. You might want to make time for a stop at Circuit de Monaco or Prince's Palace of Monaco.
Old Town Menton
Travellers come to Old Town Menton for its beaches, and you can see top attractions like Basilica of Saint Michael the Archangel and Chapel of the Penitents-Blancs while you're in town.
La Condamine
Waterfront views, casinos and shopping are some highlights of La Condamine. Make a stop by Circuit de Monaco or Monaco Harbour while you're exploring.
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Popular places to visit
Circuit de Monaco
Every year, these winding city streets host the annual Monaco Grand Prix, said to be one of the toughest races in the Formula One calendar.
Casino Monte Carlo
Take a trip to the glamorous heart of Monaco, where you can try your luck with games or simply explore the palatial landmark.
Monaco Harbour
Walk along the oceanfront in Monte Carlo and see superyachts, glamorous casinos, historic cathedrals and celebrated museums.
Grimaldi Forum
The stylish multipurpose venue offers a varied program of theater, art and music and is one of Monte Carlo's most distinctive modern landmarks.
Prince's Palace of Monaco
Explore the gilded rooms at the official residence of Monaco's monarchs, a stately, grand building in the principality's old town.
Oceanographic Museum
Get a close look at a vast array of marine life at this striking museum, which seems to have been carved out of the cliff face.
Things to do
Fragonard Eze: Perfume Making Class and Factory Tour
Monaco & Monte Carlo Tour - F1, Grace Kelly & Royal History
Private Tour Exclusive Monaco F1 Inside Grand Prix Track Circuit
Nice, Cap d'Ail: Sea Scooter Snorkeling Tour
Monaco Monte Carlo Eze Morning Tour from Nice
Reviews of Monaco
5/5 - Excellent
Monaco is an enchanting place to be.
5/5 - Excellent
Best city break yet. Monaco is the most awesome place on earth
5/5 - Excellent
our 3rd visit we love Monaco
5/5 - Excellent
Amazing other world
5/5 - Excellent
Expensive, luxurious, safe and stunning
4/5 - Good
Great for a short visit - unsurprisingly expensive. Recommend: Take comfortable walking shoes/sandals - there are plenty of hills Try eating in the COSTA market and some wine from the Bar le Zinc - reasonably priced great wine.
