Monaco guide | Monaco attractions and things to do

Located on the French Riviera, Monaco has long been considered one of the world’s most glamorous destinations. The independent principality is the playground of Europe's celebrities and idle rich who are drawn by the sun, iconic casino, legendary Grand Prix, and – crucially – tax-free income.

Monaco has a suitably glamorous history. Disguised as a Franciscan monk, Francois Grimaldi reclaimed a fortress on the Rock of Monaco in 1297, giving the country its name, which is derived from the word monk, and it soon became a major prosperous port. In the late 1800s, Prince Charles III created the Societe des Bains de Mer, consisting of a casino, some hotels and a theatre, which formed the basis of the glittering capital of Monte Carlo. The Grimaldi Palace still looms over Monaco, serving as a constant reminder of its fascinating history.

How to get to Monaco

There is no airport in Monaco, with the nearest being Nice Cote d’Azur, which is 22km from Monaco. There is a direct bus service from Nice airport to Monaco, with a journey time of around 45 minutes. A helicopter service run by Héli-Air Monaco also links Monaco and Nice, with a journey time of just 7 minutes. There are free shuttle links from the heliport to hotels in the principality.

An extensive train service, including daily and overnight trains, runs through the principality to all neighbouring towns. The TGV Méditerranée line runs between Paris and Monaco, with a journey time of about 6 hours. High-speed trains on this route run through the picturesque Burgundy and Provencal countryside.

When to visit Monaco

Monaco enjoys mild Mediterranean weather, with an average of 300 days of sunshine a year, and nights cooled by breezes from the sea. Summer average temperatures of 21C are bolstered in July and August when the heat can become a little oppressive at times.

Autumn brings wonderful weather to Monaco, averaging 15 to 21C and clear skies through to winter. From December through to January, daytime temperatures subside to a range of 8 to 12C.

Be warned that in May, around the time of the Monaco Grand Prix, hotels get booked up very early and you can also expect price hikes during this period.

Things to do in Monaco

Monaco and Monte Carlo is such a small geographical area that in theory it should be easy to navigate on foot. However, its various nooks and crannies mean that visitors can easily get confused. The following route will take you to all of the main attractions:

Walk to the western side of the harbour and take an elevator up to Monaco-Ville near the Oceanographic Museum, which has a superb aquarium with both tropical and Mediterranean species of marine life. Continuing along the Avenue Saint-Martin will provide a scenic walk alongside some beautiful cliff-side gardens. This will lead you to the Monaco Cathedral, which was built in the late 19th century, and was where Princess Grace and Prince Ranier married. It is also where Grace and many of the other Grimaldis are buried.

The Prince's Palace, located in old Monaco-Ville, has been ruled by the Grimaldi family since 1297. If the flag is flying over the palace, you know the Prince is in residence. While you are on the hill near the palace, check out the excellent views of the harbours on either side.

Back at street level, leaving the harbour and walking to the east will take you towards the famous Grand Casino. Even if you're not a gambler, it is worth going in to see the beautiful frescoes and bas reliefs. The gaming rooms are spectacular, with stained glass, paintings, and sculptures aplenty.

Shopping in Monte Carlo is suitably high-end. Avenue des Beaux-Arts, situated between the Place du Casino and the Square Beaumarchais, is home to a concentration of big name designers.

For nightlife, in addition to the casino, there are a few drinking venues flanking the harbour. The most famous nightclub in Monaco is Jimmy's, located at Le Sporting Club Avenue. If you find that Monaco’s nightlife is a little too exclusive, you could head to Nice which offers more choice and variety.

What's on in Monaco

January

Monte Carlo Rally. Every January, over 100 rally car drivers take to the often snow-bound, winding mountain roads above Monte Carlo to compete in this popular racing event.

March

Rose Ball. The Salle des Étoiles hall at Sporting Monte Carlo hosts Monaco's glamorous Rose Ball, which is themed on different countries each year. Despite its glittering guest list, tickets are also available to the general public, though are suitably expensive.

May

The Monaco Charity Film Festival helps talented film makers to find financing and distribution for their films. As its name suggests, the Festival, wich screens about 4 films per day across one week, also has a strong charitable focus, raising money for poor children around the world.

The Monaco Grand Prix is the glamour event of the Formula One calendar. The circuit winds round some of the most famous streets in motor racing, past the Mairie, the Casino, through the tunnel and round the port. Those fortunate enough watch from their private yachts in the Monte Carlo harbour, but a seat in the grandstand is also a superb vantage point.

September

Monaco Yacht Show. The annual yacht show at the Port Hercule is the perfect way to draw visitors out of the casinos and into the harbour. More than 250 companies display their wares in front of over 15,000 visitors. As well as admiring the boats from the exterior, visitors are also invited to climb aboard for an inside view.

November

Held at the Espace Fontevieille, Monte Carlo's Gastronomy Fair invites visitors to sample a heady mix of herbs, spices, cheeses and chocolates. You can stroll amongst 120 stalls, manned by local and top international chefs and restaurateurs.