Monaco can be overwhelmingly over the top, intense and oh-so-bright on first sight, so follow Culture Trip’s 20 unmissable attractions to navigate yourself around the alluring principality with ease.
Oceanographic Museum
Aquarium, Building, Museum
One of the most beautiful buildings and landmarks of the principality, the Oceanographic Museum is a must-see. Perched on the cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean, it houses various exhibitions throughout the year as well as an impressive aquarium.
Prince's Palace of Monaco
The Prince’s Palace is home to the royal family. In front of the palace, every day at 11:55 am, the traditional ritual of the Changing of the Guard takes place. Definitely worth planning your day around.
Saint Nicholas Cathedral
Cathedral, Church
Princess Grace Rose Garden
This gorgeous garden was cultivated in 1984 by Prince Rainier III of Monaco, two years after the death of his wife, Grace Kelly, Princess of Monaco. Her favourite flower was the rose so the garden is very much in her honour.
The Princess Grace Rose Garden, Fontvieille, Monaco, France +37 792 166 116
Larvotto Beach
Natural Feature
Monte-Carlo Casino
Casino, Opera House
Rock of Monaco
Le Rocher is the old town of Monaco, which perches on a rocky headland and is home to the principality’s royal family. Head to the old town to find winding streets and characterful buildings.
Destinations Unlocked:
Let our travel expert Stefano help you find your perfect Culture tripLooking for an expert's perspective?
Uncover my top 3 recommended places from each continent on the map.
CentralAmerica
1. Guatemala
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2. Belize
A quick trip not too far away for those seeking a relaxing mini break. You will have plenty of free time to relax but also some awesome activities to experience the rainforest and the caribbean sea. Next
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3. Mexico
An exciting mini trip exploring the lesser known colonial towns of central Mexico. This is hte perfect trip for someone with limited time off and still wants to turn on explorer mode and do something different. SouthAmerica
1. Ecuador
A remarkable 8 days adventure through the Andes and the Amazon rainforest. The best choice for adventure seekers wishing to visit the 2 most iconic areas of South America, in only 1 week and no flights.Next
SouthAmerica
2. Peru
An alternative itinerary to classic Peru, from Cusco to Arequipa. This itinerary is great combination of highlights Cusco and Machu Picchu with the lesser known Arequipa and Colca Canyon. Europe
1. Italy
The ultimate Italian experience from the vibrant streets of Naples to the breathtaking sceneries of the Amalfi Coast followed by Matera and down to Puglia with its golden beaches, intense flavours and fascinating destinations.Next
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2. Scotland
Embark on this great adventure starting from London all the way to Scotland with a true Scottish experience made of breathtaking sceneries, whisky tasting and ..lots of fun! Ideal for train lovers and explorers. Next
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3. Portugal
A wonderful train journey around Portugal, from the romantic city of Porto to the Douro Valley, to the beautiful Aveiro all the way to Lisbon and Sintra. The perfect trip to train, culinary and culture lovers. Asia
1. South Korea
Discover incredible temples, mountains and modern cities on this 10 day adventure. This trip is perfect for those seeking immersion in the cuisine, culture and natural wonders of South Korea.Next
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2. Thailand
From Bankgok to Angkor Wat to Ho Chi Minh City and everything in between - adventure through the heart of South-East Asia. Taste the delights, see history brought to life and unwind on a Mekong River cruise. Next
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3. Sri Lanka
A fantastic adventure that showcases Sri Lanka's fantastic landscapes, wildlife and flavours. With 3 epic rail journeys, 3 UNESCO heritage sites and time to relax, this trip has loads to offer at a great price Africa
1. Morocco
An epic journey across Morocco: from Casablanca to Marrakech, through the blue city of Chefchaouen to the wonders of the desert and deep to the High Atlas Mountains - this trip has it all! Ideal for true explorers!Next
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2. Egypt
From Cairo to Aswan, this trip brings the land of the pharaohs to life. You'll visit the Pyramids, Valley of the Kings and Luxor Temple and cruise down the Nile in style. This is the perfect way to explore Egypt. Next
Sainte-Dévote Chapel
Church
Japanese Garden
Stroll through this uncrowded landscaped Japanese garden for a moment of Monaco calm. Centrally located and very well maintained, it’s a sweet pocket to explore in the principality.
The Sculpture Path
Dotted about the principality are almost 100 sculptures. The Fontvieille district houses The Sculpture Path, a pedestrianised street solely for these impressive pieces of art.
Rainer III Outdoor Pool
Stadium
Run by the municipality, the Rainer III Outdoor Pool is open from May through to October and in the wintertime it is turned into an ice-skating rink.
Rainier III Nautical Stadium, Route de la Piscine, Monaco, France +37 793 306 483
The Rainier III Outdoor Swimming Stadium | © Hans Braxmeier / Pix | © Hans Braxmeier / Pix
Café de Paris
The perfect place to wine and dine or simply people watch in Monaco, Café de Paris is the café to be seen in in Monaco.
Café de Paris, Place du Casino, Monte Carlo, Monaco, France +37 798 067 623
Louis II Stadium
Park, Stadium, Swimming Pool
This stadium located in the Fontvieille district of Monaco is home to the Monaco national football team. The land it’s built on was actually reclaimed from the sea.
Louis II Stadium, 7 Avenue des Castelans, Monaco France +37 792 054 021
Hercules Port
Hercules is Monaco’s only deep-water port. Major cruise ships also dock here; quite the sight when some can measure up to 300 meters in length.
Exotic Garden
The Exotic Garden, opened in 1933, is filled to the brim with exotic plants, such as cacti and succulents. As well as the garden itself, hit the steps (almost down to sea level) into the observatory cave as part of your visit.
Exotic Garden, 62 Boulevard du Jardin Exotique, Monaco, France +37 793 152 980
Monaco Top Cars Collection
Museum
Zoological Gardens
Zoo
Prince Rainer III established these Zoological Gardens, built into the Monaco rocks in 1954. Keep a look out for the infamous hippo – the star of the show.
Zoological Gardens, Place du Canton, Monaco, France +37 793 504 030
Fort Antoine Theatre
This open air theatre used to be – and the clue is in the name – a fortress, with an incredible position overlooking the Mediterranean.
Fort Antoine, Avenue de la Quarantaine, Monaco, France
Le Metropole shopping centre
Shopping Mall
Fontvieille Port
Fontvieille is the newest of the four traditional wards in Monaco. It was created using reclaimed land and is a calmer section of Monaco to escape to with an attractive waterfront.
Fontvieille Port, Monaco, France
Volcanic Iceland Epic Trip
meet our Local Insider
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