Things to do in Monaco

Larvotto Beach, Monaco

Larvotto Beach, situated in the glamorous heart of Monaco, offers a luxurious seaside experience that epitomises the elegance and sophistication of the French Riviera.

This pristine stretch of coastline, with its soft golden sands and clear azure waters, is a haven for both relaxation and recreation. As you step onto the meticulously maintained beach, the gentle sound of the waves lapping against the shore creates a serene backdrop to the vibrant atmosphere. Sun loungers and parasols are artfully arranged, providing perfect spots for basking in the Mediterranean sun.

The promenade that runs alongside the beach is lined with chic cafes, upscale restaurants, and stylish boutiques, inviting visitors to indulge in gourmet cuisine and high-end shopping. For those seeking adventure, Larvotto Beach offers a variety of water sports, including jet skiing, paddleboarding, and snorkelling, making it a dynamic destination for all interests.

The beach is impeccably clean, with crystal-clear waters that are ideal for a refreshing swim. The stunning views of the surrounding cliffs and luxury yachts anchored offshore add to the allure, creating a picturesque and exclusive seaside escape.

Whether you are looking to unwind in an opulent setting, engage in exciting water activities, or simply enjoy the vibrant coastal culture, Larvotto Beach in Monaco promises an unforgettable experience marked by elegance and charm.

Baie du Soleil Beach, Menton, Monaco

Baie du Soleil Beach, lies in the charming town of Menton on the French Riviera, offers a tranquil retreat with a backdrop of breathtaking natural beauty. This inviting stretch of coastline is famed for its soft golden sands and clear, azure waters, creating an idyllic setting for relaxation and leisure. As you approach the beach, the gentle sound of waves lapping against the shore and the salty sea breeze instantly transport you to a state of tranquillity.

Baie du Soleil is thoughtfully equipped with sun loungers and parasols, providing comfort and shade for visitors looking to soak up the Mediterranean sun. The calm waters are perfect for swimming and snorkelling, offering a refreshing escape and a chance to explore the underwater marine life. For those seeking a more active beach experience, kayaking and paddleboarding are popular activities that allow you to explore the coastline and enjoy the panoramic views of Menton’s picturesque landscape.

Surrounding the beach, a promenade dotted with palm trees and flowering plants offers a scenic pathway for leisurely strolls, with charming cafes and seafood restaurants nearby where you can savour local delicacies and enjoy the view.

Plage du Borrigo Beach, Menton, Monaco

Plage du Borrigo, located in the charming coastal town of Menton near Monaco, is a captivating destination that offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and serene ambiance. This inviting beach, known for its smooth pebbles and sparkling turquoise waters, provides a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the nearby Riviera hotspots. As you step onto the shore, the gentle sound of waves rolling over the pebbles creates a soothing symphony that instantly relaxes you.

The beach is well-equipped with amenities, including sun loungers and parasols, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable visit. The clear, calm waters are perfect for swimming and snorkelling, offering a refreshing dip and a chance to explore the vibrant marine life. For those who prefer staying on land, the beach is ideal for sunbathing or leisurely strolls along the shore, taking in the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the charming town of Menton.

Plage du Borrigo is framed by picturesque promenades and lush gardens, with a variety of cafes and eateries nearby where you can savour local delicacies and refreshing beverages. The backdrop of colourful buildings and verdant hills adds to the beach’s scenic allure, making it a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts.

Hawk Beach, Monaco

Hawk Beach, nestled in the exclusive principality of Monaco, is a hidden gem that offers a serene escape with a touch of glamour. This secluded beach, with its soft golden sands and sparkling azure waters, provides an idyllic setting for relaxation and rejuvenation. As you step onto the beach, the tranquil sound of waves gently lapping against the shore creates a soothing ambiance that instantly puts you at ease.

The beach is impeccably maintained, with plush sun loungers and chic parasols thoughtfully arranged to provide comfort and privacy. The clear, calm waters are perfect for swimming and offer excellent visibility for snorkelling, allowing you to explore the vibrant marine life just beneath the surface. For those seeking adventure, Hawk Beach also offers a variety of water sports, from paddleboarding to jet skiing, ensuring a dynamic and engaging experience.

Hawk Beach embodies the essence of Monaco’s sophisticated charm, providing an exclusive seaside retreat where you can unwind in style. Whether you are looking to bask in the sun, engage in exciting water activities, or simply savour the local flavours, Hawk Beach offers an unforgettable experience marked by elegance and tranquillity.

Plage des Fourmis Beach, Beaulieu Sur Mer, Monaco

Plage des Fourmis, located in the enchanting town of Beaulieu-sur-Mer near Monaco, is a delightful beach that exudes charm and tranquillity. This picturesque beach, with its fine pebbles and crystal-clear waters, provides an inviting haven for relaxation and leisure. As you arrive, the serene sound of gentle waves kissing the shore creates an immediate sense of calm, making it the perfect spot to unwind.

The beach is well-appointed with sun loungers and parasols, ensuring visitors can relax in comfort while soaking up the Mediterranean sun. The clear, azure waters are ideal for swimming and snorkelling, offering a refreshing escape and a glimpse into the vibrant underwater world. For those who enjoy a more active beach experience, kayaking and paddleboarding are popular options, adding a touch of adventure to your visit.

A charming promenade borders Plage des Fourmis, lined with elegant cafes and restaurants where you can savour delicious local cuisine and refreshing beverages while enjoying stunning sea views. The backdrop of lush greenery and the sight of luxury yachts anchored offshore enhance the scenic beauty, creating a postcard-perfect setting.

The beach’s proximity to the historic Villa Kerylos and the stunning gardens of Beaulieu-sur-Mer adds cultural interest to your visit, making it a well-rounded destination. Whether you seek a peaceful retreat to relax by the sea, an opportunity to explore local culinary delights, or a base to discover nearby cultural attractions, Plage des Fourmis offers a quintessential Riviera experience marked by elegance and serenity.

Things to do in Monaco

Unique Attractions - Discovering Destinations

Prince’s Palace of Monaco

The Prince’s Palace of Monaco, perched majestically atop the Rock of Monaco, is a symbol of regal grandeur and historical significance. As you approach this magnificent residence, the sweeping views of the Mediterranean Sea and the elegant architecture of the palace immediately captivate your senses. Built in 1191 as a Genoese fortress, the palace has evolved over centuries into the luxurious home of the Grimaldi family, showcasing a rich tapestry of history and culture.

The exterior of the palace, with its stately façade and blend of Renaissance and Baroque elements, exudes a timeless elegance. The changing of the guard ceremony, held daily at 11:55 AM, adds a touch of traditional pomp and ceremony, drawing visitors from around the world. Inside, the state apartments offer a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of Monaco’s royalty. Lavishly decorated rooms, adorned with exquisite frescoes, period furnishings, and priceless artworks, reflect the grandeur of the past and the artistic heritage of the principality.

Highlights include the Palatine Chapel, the Hercule Gallery with its series of 16th-century frescoes depicting the labours of Hercules, and the Throne Room, where official ceremonies and receptions are held. The palace’s museum and collection of antique carriages provide further insights into the rich history and traditions of Monaco’s royal family.

Casino de Monte Carlo

The Casino de Monte Carlo stands as a beacon of opulence and glamour on the dazzling French Riviera. Nestled in the heart of Monaco, this historic casino exudes an air of sophistication that has attracted the elite and the adventurous for over a century. As you approach its ornate façade, adorned with intricate sculptures and grand columns, you are transported to an era of lavish indulgence and refined elegance.

Entering the casino, you are greeted by the glittering interiors that evoke the spirit of Monte Carlo’s heyday. The main hall, with its chandeliers casting a soft glow over the polished marble floors and sumptuous furnishings, exudes a timeless allure. The gaming rooms, adorned with plush velvet and gilded accents, offer a variety of table games and slot machines where guests can test their luck in an atmosphere of exclusivity.

Beyond the gaming rooms, the Salle Garnier, an architectural masterpiece, hosts performances ranging from opera to ballet, adding a cultural dimension to the casino’s allure. The casino’s gardens, with their manicured lawns and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea, provide a serene retreat amidst the excitement of the gaming tables.

Grand Prix Monaco

The Grand Prix of Monaco is an electrifying spectacle that transforms the streets of Monaco into a thrilling race track, blending high-speed adrenaline with the glamour of the French Riviera. Held annually since 1929, this iconic Formula 1 race is renowned for its challenging circuit that winds through the narrow, winding streets of Monte Carlo and along the picturesque harbour.

As the race weekend approaches, Monaco buzzes with excitement as fans and celebrities alike descend upon the principality. The air is filled with the roar of engines and the scent of burnt rubber as sleek racing cars navigate hairpin turns and chicanes with breathtaking precision. The backdrop of Monaco’s elegant architecture, luxury yachts moored in the harbour, and panoramic sea views creates a stunning contrast to the speed and intensity of the race.

The Grand Prix of Monaco is not just a sporting event; it is a celebration of style, prestige, and unparalleled excitement. Spectators gather at vantage points such as Casino Square, the Fairmont Hairpin, and the iconic Tunnel to catch a glimpse of the action up close. Exclusive parties and events hosted by luxury brands and prestigious sponsors add to the allure, drawing a global audience eager to witness the pinnacle of motorsport in one of the world’s most glamorous settings.

Oceanographic Museum of Monaco

Perched dramatically on the cliffside of Monaco, overlooking the azure Mediterranean Sea, the Oceanographic Museum is a beacon of marine exploration and conservation. Founded by Prince Albert I in 1910, this majestic institution combines breathtaking architecture with a profound dedication to ocean science and education.

Approaching the museum, visitors are greeted by its impressive façade, adorned with ornate sculptures and intricate detailing that reflect its rich maritime heritage. Stepping inside, the grandeur continues with sweeping staircases, vaulted ceilings, and a stunning central hall housing the skeleton of a fin whale, a testament to the museum’s commitment to marine conservation and research.

The museum’s exhibits offer a captivating journey through the wonders of the sea, showcasing a diverse array of marine life from delicate corals to majestic sharks. Interactive displays and multimedia presentations engage visitors of all ages, providing insights into ocean ecosystems, biodiversity, and the urgent need for conservation efforts.

From the rooftop terrace, panoramic views of Monaco’s coastline and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea unfold, offering a serene escape and a perfect vantage point for appreciating the museum’s cliffside location.

Old Town (Monaco-Ville)

Monaco, Old Town, known as Monaco-Ville, is a charming enclave that embodies the principality’s rich history and timeless charm. Stepping into this historic quarter feels like entering a storybook setting, where narrow winding streets lined with colourful buildings lead to hidden squares and panoramic viewpoints.

The architecture of Monaco-Ville reflects its medieval origins, with stone facades adorned with wrought-iron balconies and vibrant shutters adding a splash of colour against the cobblestone streets. The Prince’s Palace, a masterpiece of Renaissance and Baroque design, stands as the centrepiece of the Old Town. Its grand exterior and changing of the guard ceremony evoke a sense of regal splendour and tradition.

As you wander through Monaco-Ville, you encounter quaint boutiques, artisanal shops, and traditional cafes offering local delicacies. The Cathedral of Monaco, where Grace Kelly and Prince Rainier III are laid to rest, exudes a serene atmosphere and boasts impressive Roman-Byzantine architecture. Nearby, the Saint-Martin Gardens offer a peaceful retreat with panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Monaco coastline.

The Old Town is also home to cultural gems such as the Oceanographic Museum and the Chapelle de la Miséricorde, each contributing to Monaco’s rich cultural tapestry. With its captivating blend of history, architecture, and scenic beauty, Monaco-Ville invites visitors to step back in time and immerse themselves in the enchanting ambiance of this historic quarter perched above the sparkling waters of the French Riviera.

Things to do in Monaco