
The Principality of Monaco, abbreviated as Monaco, is a city-state located in Europe. It is one of the four principalities in Europe (the other three are Liechtenstein, Luxembourg and Andorra) and the second smallest country in the world (the smallest is Vatican City), with a total area of 2.02 square kilometers.
Although it is small in size, it has medieval streets and palaces, the famous Grand Casino and its surrounding luxury hotels, which fully demonstrate the long tradition and luxury of the "Belle Epoque", as well as tropical botanical gardens and ocean museums. The famous tennis open and the unparalleled Formula One car race held in the city center have made this small country a hot spot of world attention.
Subtropical Mediterranean climate;
Suitable for all seasons
Prince's Palace of Monaco
The Prince's Palace of Monaco, perched on a cliff, is the seat of government. Built by the Genoese in 1215, it served as a military fortress until the 17th century. The palace consists of two parts: one half houses the royal family's private residence and offices, the other a museum. Every year at 11:55 a.m., the Changing of the Guard takes place in the Palace Square. This brief five-minute event attracts many tourists.
Monte Carlo Casino and Opera House
Monte Carlo, located north of Monaco-Ville, is home to the world-famous Monte Carlo Casino. Flanked by the Opera House on one side and the Casino on the other, the Casino boasts stunning scenery and boasts a seaside resort, hot springs, sports fields, and other recreational facilities. Security will refuse entry to the Casino if you are untidy or wearing slippers, and you will be required to check your bag at the entrance. The Opera House is closed to the public; admission requires a performance ticket. Students under 26 receive discounts. Spectacular performances are held annually from mid-July to April.
Monte Carlo Circuit
The Monte Carlo Circuit, a historic racetrack located in the heart of Monte Carlo, is one of the four most famous circuits in the world. Built on streets, it's the shortest of the F1 circuits, boasting the slowest corner and the famous tunnel. Because it's a street race, the team's refueling stations are small and narrow. However, due to the technical demands of the track, where suspension and tires are crucial, only the best drivers can achieve victory, their long-cherished dream being to win the Monaco Grand Prix.
Monaco is a small sovereign city-state on the French Riviera, known for its wealth, luxury, and historical significance as a strategic Mediterranean port. It is ruled by the Grimaldi family since the 13th century and is famous for its casinos, royal palace, and prestigious events like the Monaco Grand Prix.
Monaco is located on the French Riviera, bordering France and the Mediterranean Sea. Access is by train from Nice or surrounding French cities, by bus from nearby towns, taxi, or walking around within the city due to its compact size. Helicopter transfers from Nice airport are also popular.
Most attractions are open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Spring and autumn offer the best weather and fewer crowds. Summer is popular but can be crowded and expensive.
Booking in advance is recommended for popular sites and during peak tourist season, ideally 1–2 weeks ahead.
1–2 days for major attractions; 3–4 days to leisurely explore Monaco, including museums, gardens, and the coastline.
Guided tours are available in English, French, and Italian. Audio guides are offered in multiple languages at major attractions like the Prince's Palace and Oceanographic Museum.
Start at Monaco-Ville (Prince's Palace, Old Town) → visit Oceanographic Museum → stroll Exotic Garden → Monte Carlo Casino → relax at Port Hercules and Larvotto Beach. Evening: enjoy restaurants and nightlife.
Some attractions like the Monte Carlo Casino offer evening entry. Special events include the Monaco Grand Prix, yacht shows, and seasonal concerts.
Monaco is busiest during summer and events like the Grand Prix. Spring and autumn weekdays are least crowded.
All major attractions have restrooms, cafes, water points, benches, and souvenir shops. Public areas have restaurants and cafes.
Monaco is generally accessible; most museums have elevators and ramps. Streets in Monaco-Ville are hilly, which may challenge some visitors.
Credit/debit cards and mobile payments are widely accepted; cash (Euros) can be useful for small purchases or markets.
Monaco has a range of options from Michelin-starred restaurants to casual cafes near the harbor, Monte Carlo, and Old Town.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at several restaurants; halal options are more limited but can be found with prior research.
Luxury hotels include Hotel de Paris Monte-Carlo, Hotel Hermitage, and Fairmont Monte Carlo. Mid-range and boutique options are available in Monaco-Ville and near the harbor.
Souvenir shops offer Monaco-branded items, luxury chocolates, local wines, postcards, and miniature Formula 1 memorabilia.