When I think of Monaco, one thing comes to mind – the Monaco Grand Prix. While I didn’t get to visit Monaco during race week, it’s still at the top of my bucket list. That’s not the only thing to do in this beautiful place; check out my list of the 10 best things to do in Monaco!

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At less than one square mile, it is one of the smallest nations in the world (2nd to Vatican City). It’s location on the Mediterranean couldn’t be better. Monaco is tucked into southern France and Italy is just 10 miles away!

It’s located in the French Riviera and this city is all about money. In fact, one in three people living here are millionaires.

So what does one do when in such a beautiful place, surrounded by some of the richest people in the world? Keep reading to find out!

2. Place Your Bets at the Monte Carlo Casino

This world famous casino is located right in the heart of the city, in Casino Square. This area is also home to the famous Hotel de Paris Monte-Carlo and Opera de Monte-Carlo.

Movies like James Bond and Ocean’s Twelve have filed scenes at this famous casino so it’s no surprise that this is one of the most popular tourist spots.

Admission is 17 euros per person 10 euros of which will be turned into a voucher that can be used for gaming or at the restaurant.

Keep in mind, to enter the casino you must follow a few guidelines. For example, a passport must be presented to enter, you must follow the ‘smart attire’ dress code and minors may enter the atrium area only.

Fun fact, did you know that citizens of Monaco aren’t actually allowed to gamble in any of the local casinos? The government does not want to encourage locals to gamble their money away and therefor, they aren’t even allowed to enter the casinos unless they work there!

They must be doing something right, Monaco has the highest life expectancy of anywhere in the world at 85.8 years!

3. Make a Visit to the Prince’s Palace

This fortress was originally built in 1191 as a Genoese fortress but was captured in 1297 by the Grimaldi family who still maintain it today.

This palace is especially unique in that the Grimaldi family has ruled from the same palace for more than 700 years.

Today, you can tour designated areas of the palace when the prince and his family are not in residence.

An easy way to know if the family is in residence? Look for the enormous flag flying above the palace. If he is in residence, the flag will be flying. If you do not see the flag, chances are the Prince and his family are elsewhere.

4. Take a Stroll Through the Princess Grace Rose Garden

As you may already know, the famous American actress Grace Kelly married the Prince of Monaco, Prince Rainier, in April of 1956. She gave up acting and dedicated her life to serving the country.

Then, in 1982, she sadly passed away after a car accident.

Prince Rainier commissioned this beautiful garden to be built in memory of his late wife.

Visitors can wind through the paths of more than 6,000 rose bushes, set out in this English style garden while also keeping the Mediterranean feel with olive and palm trees throughout.

5. Learn at the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco

The Royal Family of Monaco shares a deep love for the sea. Prince Albert I completed many oceanographic campaigns after his years serving in the Navy.

Known as the “Prince of the Seas”, he studied marine animals, the Gulf Stream and even discovered the Monaco Pit – a 5,530 meter deep pit in the Atlantic.

It would make sense then that a museum should be built to house this impressive history and carry on the legacy.

This cliffside palace-like museum is straight out of a movie. Here, you will wander through out various exhibits, bringing together both art and science.

You’ll learn about sea turtles, the polar mission, view artifacts recovered from the sea as well as instruments used during Prince Albert I’s various campaigns.

Here you will find more than 5,000 sea creatures within the various pools and aquariums built to mimic the natural environments. Children will love the touch-pools where they can get up close and personal with a few of the sea creatures that call this place home.

6. Relax and Have a Drink at Larvotto Beach

This pebble beach is, quite possibly, one of the most popular in Monaco. Because it is free to the public, it can get wildly busy during peak months.

You won’t find soft sand to lay your towel so it’s worth it to splurge a little during this excursion. There are multiple places renting out lounge chairs and offering food & beverage service along this beachy area.

Kayaks, jet-skis and other water sports equipment are available to rent as well.

If the rich & famous aren’t relaxing comfortably on their private yacht, you may find them in the private sections of one of these bars & restaurants!

7. Pay Your Respects at the Monaco Cathedral

The first church built on this land was completed in 1321. But, when the principality of Monaco separated from the diocese of Nice, a decision was made to demolish the original 600 year old church and build a new one.

The cathedral that stands here today was consecrated in 1911.

This Roman Byzantine Cathedral houses the tombs of Monaco’s former Princes.

Princess Grace is also buried here.

8. Eat and Then Eat More

Being so close to the sea, it’s no surprise that you are going to find some amazing seafood dishes.

Barbagiuan are fried pastries typically filled with vegetables and cheese. Nicoise salads make for a delicious lunch. Of course, you will be able to find plenty of crepes – both savory and sweet!

Quai Jean-Charles Rey is a famous port-facing street in Monaco lined with many fantastic restaurants and bars. It’s the perfect place to do a little people watching while enjoying the sunset over the harbor.

9. Take a Walk

Whether it be to do some high-end shopping in the Golden Circle, a calm stroll on Princess Grace Avenue (which was once the most expensive street in the world) or through the Old Town of Monaco, this city is worth the walk.

Enjoy some of the scenic views, do a little window shopping or stop in a café for an afternoon treat.

Monaco is one of the safest cities in the world, in part due to having one of the largest police forces per capita in the world.

10. Rent a Car & Have a Photo Shoot

Souvenirs are expensive and typically just end up lying around the house after a trip. Something that you won’t regret buying during your trip? A fun photo shoot for memories that you will keep forever.

There are plenty of local photographers to hire in the area to take some great shots of you and your family that will be the best keepsakes.

What better place to rent a sports car for a drive around? Take a Lamborghini or a Ferrari for a spin around these famous streets. Even better? Have someone take some professional shots of you while doing it!

I hope you enjoyed this round-up of the best things to do in Monaco. Let me know your favorite thing to see when visiting this fun place!