The glittering royal principality of Monaco is situated on the French Riviera (Côte d’Azur) and is a spectacle that simply needs to be seen to be believed.
Monaco is tiny – it’s actually around two square kilometres in size. However, don’t let this notion dissuade you from visiting. There’s a sublime beauty to behold here, with gorgeous views and a pleasant Mediterranean climate.
There’s plenty to do in Monaco, too, so long as you have the money to enjoy yourself. Below, you’ll find our list of the five must-visit attractions in Monaco.
Prince’s Palace
Also known as Palais Princier de Monaco in French, this is a unique location situated above sea overlooking Monte Carlo. Located on the Le Rocher peninsula, it’s said that this is the seat of the world’s oldest monarchy, established in 1297 by the Genoese family of Grimaldy.
There are many panoramic views that you can enjoy from here, and this because, originally, the Prince’s Palace was created as a fortress. It has been renovated over the ages and eventually became an Italian Renaissance palace of luxury. Nowadays, the Palace is a private residence, but it’s open to the public during certain periods of the year.
You can see many points of interest within it, such as the Blue Room, the Hercule Gallery, the Mazarin Room, the Palatine Chapel and others.
Casino de Monte-Carlo
Even if you’ve never been to Monaco, you’re well aware of the world-renowned Casino de Monte-Carlo.
The venue is one of the most famous casinos in the world, where even James Bond has played several times. Fans of Formula One (see below) will know all about Casino Square on the circuit. Customers will enjoy the lavish surroundings as they play traditional table games like blackjack or try their luck at different types of poker games.
Poker is one of the world’s most popular types of gambling games – hence why it holds a special place at Casino de Monte-Carlo. There have been countless big tournaments held in Monaco at Casino de Monte-Carlo, with the famous Monte Carlo Millions broadcast in the UK, Canada, and the US every year.
Should you win big and want to splurge on a seriously fancy meal, then just next door you’ll find the three Michelin-starred Le Louis XV, one of the best restaurants of its kind in the world.
Oceanographic Museum
The Oceanographic Museum, known as the Musée Océanographique de Monaco, is situated in a seaside location on the peninsula of Le Rocher. It has a dramatic setting – and it took 11 years just to build the foundations! Prince Albert I commissioned this museum, and it originally opened in 1910.
The museum continuously updates and improves its exhibits. Here you will get to see the newest and latest displays of oceanography and marine science. You’ll find three aquariums here: the Mediterranean Aquarium, the Shark Lagoon, and the Tropical Aquarium. If you’re a fan of marine life, then you have to visit the Oceanographic Museum.
The Cathedral Of Monaco
Known in French as the Cathédrale de Monaco, this is a striking building with a white stone façade. It’s a neo-Byzantine building containing the tombs of Monaco’s royals. The cathedral was commissioned in 1875 and finished in 1884, making it a more modern building. However, the painter Louis Bréa created an altarpiece in the year 1500. There’s also the Episcopal throne that you must see – sculpted with Carrara marble.
As is the case with any cathedral, the Cathedral of Monaco also has a grandiose organ which is used during religious services. If you want to visit the cathedral, then you must wear proper clothing. You can visit from 9am to 6pm, provided no active religious services exist.
Formula 1 Grand Prix de Monaco
Lastly, we have the world-famous and popular Formula 1 Grand Prix de Monaco. On a par with Casino de Monte Carlo, even people with no interest in Formula 1 have heard of the popular racing circuit around the streets of Monaco.
It’s an incredible setting for Formula 1 racing, even though the twisty nature of the circuit makes it difficult to overtake.
The race track starts at Boulevard Albert 1, progressing towards Place du Casino and then the Monte-Carlo Fairmont Hotel. If you visit Monaco in May, you may see the Formula 1 Grand Prix de Monaco racing event.
Have A Wonderful Time In Monaco
Once you visit the awe-inspiring principality of Monaco, you will be stunned by what it has to offer. Whether you visit the attractions we’ve listed above or not, you will still be captivated by the uniqueness of Monaco.
We hope you’ll have a great time visiting, and if you’re keen to explore the region further, then why not head down the road to St. Tropez, checking out our tips on luxury things to do there before you arrive!