During our stay in Nice, we couldn’t resist the allure of Monaco, the glamorous city-state not far away. Monaco is small, so very easy to see in just a few hours. If you’re considering a day trip, here’s an itinerary I recommend to make the most of your visit:
Palace of Monaco
I’ve always been captivated by the remarkable story of Grace Kelly, the iconic American actress who chose love and royalty. Her allure and the tragic brevity of her life have always fascinated me. The Palace is just the place to learn more about her, her children, and the entire Grimaldi family.
Loacated in Monaco-Ville, the Prince’s Palace is perched dramatically on a rocky cliff, offering views of the Mediterranean Sea. I recommend arriving shortly before noon to witness the changing of the guard at 11:55am, a spectacle that draws crowds. The guards, in their vivid uniforms and distinctive bearskin hats, march in precision in front of the Palace Square.
Tickets can be purchased in advance for 10 Euros here. These tickets include a comprehensive audio guide available in English.
Inside the palace are the state apartments, with all of their historical artifacts and grandeur. It’s opulent and sheds light on the rich history of Monaco and the saga of the Grimaldi family.
Across from the Palace is the Saint Nicholas Cathedral, where you can pay your respects at the final resting place of Princess Grace Kelly and Prince Rainier III. The cathedral’s interior is beautiful, with intricate architecture and an atmosphere of serenity.
Make sure not to skip the palace’s inner courtyard, which offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean. It’s a spot tailor-made for capturing Instagram-worthy photos, so have your camera ready.
Within the palace itself lies the Palace Museum, filled with historical artifacts, paintings, and memorabilia that tell the story of Monaco’s ruling family. It provides a journey through time.
Late Lunch with a View
For lunch I recommend Caffe Milano, with its beautiful sea views. They offer a selection of salads and fresh seafood pastas, as well as other Italian dishes.
Stroll through Monaco-Ville
Take a walk along the charming cobblestone lanes of Monaco-Ville’s historic old town. While here, don’t miss a visit to the Oceanographic Museum, which was under the directorship of the legendary Jacques Cousteau until 1988. Inside, you’ll find an aquarium teeming with a myriad of sea creatures, including jellyfish, sea cucumbers, sharks, and a host of other sea creatures.
Visit the Monte Carlo Casino
Spend your afternoon at the iconic Casino de Monte-Carlo. Even if you’re not a gambler, the architecture and interior of the casino are worth seeing. Make sure to dress appropriately, as there is a dress code of “smart attire” and there is a $20 entry fee. Enjoy a cocktail at one of the fancy bars, perhaps a martini, shaken, not stirred. 😉
If high-stakes betting is not your thing, play the slot machines. Then at least you can say you’ve gambled in Monte Carlo.
Explore the Jardins de la Petite Afrique
After the casino, take a nice stroll through the Jardins de la Petite Afrique. It’s a beautiful park nearby with plenty of greenery and some cool sculptures—perfect for relaxing.
Shop at the Golden Circle
No trip to Monaco would be truly complete without a bit of retail therapy. Make your way to the Carré d’Or (Golden Circle) district, renowned for its exclusive luxury shopping experiences. Whether you’re content with window shopping or ready to indulge, this area offers a lavish selection of designer boutiques. You’ll find luxury brands like Balenciaga and Hermes, ensuring a shopping excursion that will leave your wallet a little lighter.
Keep in mind that Monaco’s compact size makes it easy to explore on foot or via quick taxi rides between attractions.
Winter Wonderland
I thought I’d also mention that if you happen to be visiting Monaco during the holidays, the city transforms into a winter wonderland. There is a giant Ferris wheel, which provides breathtaking views of the picturesque surroundings. Nestled alongside the Port Hercule, is an ice rink where you can glide amidst the holiday decor. There are lots of holiday decorations that adorn the streets and infuse Monaco with a warm and festive atmosphere.
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