Top 6 things to do in Monaco

Monaco…a city that is the stuff of dreams for people from all over the world. There are so many reasons why visitors and tourists come to spend a holiday here… Sumptuous museums, sandy beaches with turquoise waters, unusual places, luxury boutiques… We could go on for hours. Monaco is THE city par excellence that symbolises holidays and pleasure. As a family, on your own, as a couple, or with friends, you’ll have an unforgettable stay. But before you set off headlong, why not get a taste of some of the activities and hobbies that will thrill you? Navaway is here for you, and has put together a short list of six must-dos.

What to do in Monaco

1. A boat trip

Category: €€€/Cultural/Insolite

Description: Yes, we’re off to a great start! As you know, Monaco is surrounded by a sea of blue and silver. A boat trip is therefore highly recommended to see the city from a different angle. Weigh anchor and enjoy a cruise for a few hours, during which you’ll discover the Monegasque landscape in a completely different way. There are a variety of walking routes, so you’ll have plenty of choice as to where you want to go. Whether you’re with the family, as a couple or with friends, this is the kind of activity that appeals to everyone and allows you to share a delightful moment at sea, sailing the waves of the Mediterranean coast. In depth, discover the Principality of Monaco, this small independent state. On the programme, you’ll sail towards the city’s legendary coves, while passing by its towering limestone cliffs overlooked by splendid vegetation. A magnificent moment in store!

2. Oceanographic Museum

Category: €€/Cultural

Description: After the boat trip, you can immerse yourself in one of the most beautiful spots on the Mediterranean coast. Head to avenue Saint-Martin to discover Monaco’s Oceanographic Museum, open every day from 10am to 6pm. For those who are generally at ease in the water, you’ll be swimming in happiness as soon as you enter this gigantic place. The aquarium brings together no fewer than 6,000 species and varieties from the marine world. The neo-baroque motto of the aquarium is simple: “to make people love, know and protect the oceans”. By focusing on different themes linked to the seabed, discover the main animals studied by the oceanographic institute. You’ll have some special questions to ask the guides and the various researchers on site: “What type of coral is found in the Mediterranean, and which are toxic?”, or “Which breeds of turtle come to lay their eggs in this region, and what are the laying periods? These are all legitimate questions to ask in order to gain a better understanding of the environment.

3. Visit Le Rocher

Category: Cultural/Sporting

Description: A little described as the centre of the city, the Rock sits proudly on the heights of Monaco. Like a king seated on his throne above a 60-metre hill overlooking the sea, it allows you to discover the Old Town in a somewhat “medieval” setting. Its 20-hectare surface area allows visitors to stroll around while discovering the many important squares for which the city is famous: such as the “Placette Bosio”, the “Place Saint-Nicolas” and the “Palais de Justice”. Not to be missed? The Place des Palais is famous for an interesting spectacle to watch: the changing of the Carabinieri Guard, at precisely 11.55am. And don’t miss a visit to the district known as “Old Monaco”. It is very different from the rest of the city, with colours reminiscent of Italy. You’ll find souvenir shops, as well as several bars and restaurants serving delicious local produce.

4. Casino de Monte-Carlo

Category: €€€/Cultural

Description: Many friends who take a trip to Monaco do so for one very specific reason: the Monte Carlo Casino. Yes, there are gamblers among our readers, and we know that: poker, craps, blackjack, or even match tournaments, are you tempted? Do you have a competitive spirit and enjoy sitting around a table, sometimes for hours on end, with a few cards in your hand? Then this activity, or rather this hobby, is for you. The Casino de Monte-Carlo is so famous that it no longer needs any introduction, and has already featured in so many famous films. Designed by Charles Garnier in 1879, it welcomes many visitors every evening to try their luck on the English roulette wheel. Surrounded by luxury boutiques and sumptuous gardens, you can also take a stroll and enjoy this privileged moment. The entrance to the casino is via the main entrance, which is open from 2pm to 4am every day.

5. A Day at the Beach

Category: Free/Sporty

Description: Sea air helps us breathe. It’s good for people with heart problems, and also those prone to asthma attacks. And the least we can say is that there’s no shortage of fresh air in Monaco! That’s why we’ve found a superb beach along the Avenue Princesse Grace: Plage Larvotto. It’s not very big, with around 500 metres of sand, but it’s still a perfect spot to admire the orange and red sunsets. Spread out your beach towel and soak up the sun for a few hours, then dive headlong into the crystal-clear water. Larvotto beach is known for being rather calm, with small waves: so there’s no danger for those who are not very comfortable in the water, or even anxious. There’s no risk of being swept away by the current. And it’s a good time to introduce young children to the feel of water. A real moment of relaxation.

6. Attend an Opera

Category: €€/Cultural

Description: Who hasn’t dreamt of going to the opera? It’s the perfect activity for couples looking for a fun evening out after dinner in a lovely restaurant. When you enter this 1879 building, you’ll be amazed by its red and gold colours. You will have the chance to attend a ballet, or a concert, typically Monegasque, which will brighten up your evening. The Monaco Opera never ceases to dazzle visitors, who always have fond memories of it. Sitting, hand in hand, contemplating a show of such beauty. Depending on the season, different opera performances are offered, so you’ll never see the same thing twice. So you might as well make the most of the moment!