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Monaco travel guide

Monaco

Basics

CountryMonaco

Time zoneEurope/Monaco

CurrencyEUR

Official language(s)French

If you plan to visit Monaco, it's better to get around on foot rather than relying on public transport.

Places to visit

Larvotto Beach

One of Monaco’s best-known public beach areas, good for swimming and a relaxed seaside stroll. Its central location makes it easy to include on a short trip.

LocationLarvotto, 98000 Monaco

Nearest stationGrimaldi Forum

HoursAlways open

AdmissionFree

Travel tipIt gets busy in summer, so an early visit is more comfortable.

Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo

An iconic historic luxury hotel in Monte-Carlo, notable for its architecture and elegant public spaces. It pairs well with a visit to Casino Square.

LocationPlace du Casino, 98000 Monaco

Nearest stationMonte-Carlo

HoursAlways accessible from outside; interior access depends on opening hours

AdmissionFree for exterior viewing

Travel tipCombine it with a stroll around Casino Square; the facade and lobby are photogenic.

Jardin Exotique de Monaco

A hillside garden famous for its cacti and succulents, with panoramic views over Monaco. You can also visit the cave inside the grounds.

Location62 Boulevard du Jardin Exotique, 98000 Monaco

Nearest stationMonaco - Monte-Carlo

HoursOpen daily

AdmissionPaid

Travel tipGo on a clear afternoon for the best views, and wear comfortable shoes.

Prince's Palace of Monaco

The official residence of the Grimaldi family and one of Monaco’s iconic landmarks. It offers sweeping views over the city and harbor from the Rock.

LocationPlace du Palais, 98015 Monaco

Nearest stationMonaco - Monte-Carlo

HoursSeasonal hours

AdmissionPaid

Travel tipTime your visit for the guard change around noon and go early in summer to avoid queues.

Monte Carlo Casino

A glamorous casino and gardens in one spot.

Hours24 hours

AdmissionFree

Travel tipAn ID is required for entry, and formal dress is recommended.

Monaco Oceanographic Museum

A place with various marine life and exhibits.

Hours09:00 - 20:00

Admission€12

Travel tipVisiting in summer allows you to enjoy the latest exhibitions.

Grimaldi Forum

A large facility for various events and exhibitions.

Hours09:00 - 18:30

Admission€10

Travel tipIt's best to visit during special events.

Food to try

Café de Paris Monte-Carlo

A classic café-restaurant next to Place du Casino. It is a favorite for terrace dining and people-watching in the heart of Monaco.

LocationPlace du Casino, 98000 Monaco

Nearest stationMonaco - Monte-Carlo

HoursOpen daily

AdmissionMain dishes roughly €25–50

Travel tipTerrace tables are popular, so a reservation helps during meal times.

Starbucks Monaco Port

A café-style stop that works well during a harbor walk, especially for travelers looking for a quick coffee and pastry.

LocationQuai Albert 1er, 98000 Monaco

Nearest stationMonaco - Monte-Carlo

HoursOpen daily

AdmissionCoffee roughly €4–7

Travel tipGood for a short break, and easy to take away to the harbor benches.

Restaurant Louis XV

A Michelin-star restaurant offering world-class cuisine.

Hours12:00 - 14:30 / 19:30 - 22:30

Admission€70 - €150

Travel tipIt is recommended to make a reservation in advance.

Events

Monte-Carlo International Circus Festival

A world-famous circus festival known for spectacular acrobatics and family-friendly shows. It is one of Monaco’s signature winter events.

WhenAround January each year

LocationEspace Fontvieille, 5 Avenue des Ligures, 98000 Monaco

Nearest stationMonaco - Monte-Carlo

HoursOperating during the event period

AdmissionTickets paid

Travel tipPopular performances sell out quickly, so booking ahead is important.

Monaco International Film Festival

An event for movie lovers.

WhenEvery October

Travel tipCheck the screening schedule in advance.

Monaco Grand Prix

One of the most famous car races in the world.

WhenEarly May every year

HoursOperating during race week

AdmissionVaries by seat and zone

Travel tipIt's advisable to buy tickets in advance.

Monaco Historic Grand Prix

A classic car racing event with a long history.

WhenIn July every year

Travel tipReserve the best spots for viewing in advance.

Basic travel phrases (French)

Bonjour

Bonjour · Greeting

Merci

Merci · Thanks

Enchanté

Enchante · Nice to meet you

Bonne journée

Bonne journee · Wishing a good day

Bienvenue

Bienvenue · Welcome

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