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 vacation options to experience the exciting Monaco lifestyle.
Go for a stroll around Monte Carlo Harbor 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
Where to stay in Monaco
Monte Carlo
Discover the iconic Monte Carlo Casino, Hôtel de Paris, and Café de Paris, or catch a performance at Salle Garnier, home of the Opéra de Monte-Carlo. Stroll to Larvotto's public beach and explore the Grimaldi Forum, a modern convention center.
Menton City Center
While visiting Menton City Center, you might make a stop by sights like Basilica of Saint Michael the Archangel and Plage des Sablettes.
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
Historical and quiet, this district boasts pedestrian streets, medieval charm, and attractions like the Prince's Palace, Cathedral of Our Lady Immaculate, and Oceanographic Museum. Limited vehicle access adds to the serene atmosphere.
La Condamine
Waterfront views, casinos, and shopping are just a few things travelers enjoy about La Condamine. Check out Circuit de Monaco or Monaco Harbour while you're exploring the area.
Old Town Menton
Old Town Menton is known for its beaches, and you can plan a trip to Basilica of Saint Michael the Archangel and Chapel of the Penitents-Blancs while you're in town.
Fairmont Monte Carlo
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Le Meridien Beach Plaza
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Hotel Novotel Monte Carlo
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Appart'hôtel Odalys City - Monaco Les Hauts de la Principauté
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Sara Riviera
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Aparthotel Adagio Monaco Monte Cristo
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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.
