Welcome to Monaco
Monaco is a small principality that exudes luxury and exclusivity, commonly known as the playground of the rich and famous. Monaco's history is intertwined with famous names, glamorous living and, sometimes, the scandal that comes when royals mingle with politicians, artists, icons of the fashion world, sports and movie stars.
A melting pot of cultures and nationalities taking up an area just over 2km squared, Monaco is nestled between the French and Italian Rivieras. The most densely populated country in the world, it offers up an array of luxury hotels, international sporting events, multi-million euro yachts and, of course, the chance to visit the legendary Monte-Carlo Casino.
There are three main areas within Monaco: La Condamine, Monte-Carlo and Monaco Ville. La Condamine includes Port Hercule and the business district. Monte-Carlo is a bustling hive of activity, shopping and fast cars. Finally, Monaco Ville refers to the old town of Monaco which sits on a peninsula high above the Mediterranean.
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- Out & About
- News
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- Visit
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- See
- History & Culture in Monaco
- Sights & Attractions in Monaco
- Beaches in Monaco
- Dining in Monaco
- Events in Monaco
- Things to do in Monaco
- Yachts & Sailing in Monaco
- Nightlife in Monaco
- Where to stay in Monaco
- Villas in Monaco
- Holidays Rentals in Monaco
- Hotels in Monaco
- How to get to Monaco
Latest news, reviews & events in Monaco
Find out all about what is happening in Monaco and how to make the most of your time here. The latest news, reviews of fun activities, fabulous beaches, current events and the trendiest restaurants, as well as interviews with leading locals, insider's guides and our top choices for things to do, see and experience in this charming Principality.
Monaco is well-known for hosting some of the world's biggest and best events, such as the Monaco Grand Prix, the Monte-Carlo Tennis Masters and the Monaco Yacht Show. Fashion, art and music are also popular – you will find that there are events taking place throughout the year attracting some of the biggest names in these fields.
What to see & do in Monaco
Head out onto the beach and venture into the sparkling blue waters to enjoy a whole range of watersports or, to experience more of the coast along Monaco, hire a yacht or book a boat trip. Shopping, gambling and people watching are also extremely popular options – the local designer boutiques, glitzy cafes and superyacht marinas are too good to resist.
Monaco-Ville is the oldest area in the principality, with narrow medieval streets and vaulted passageways dominated by the Prince's palace. Monte-Carlo's most famous sight is the Place de Casino with its glittering Casino de Monte Carlo, Hotel de Paris and grand gardens with fountains. La Condamine, with its port, is seriously good for people watching.
History & Culture in Monaco
Monaco's legendary history dates back to the 6th century BC. Ruled by the House of Grimaldi since 1297, the Principality started to attract the rich and famous in the 1850s thanks to the opening of the casino.
Sights & Attractions in Monaco
There is no shortage of museums and historical sites to be enjoyed in Monaco, for both adults and children. Despite the relatively small land mass of this principality, you will also find a surprising amount of green spaces.
Sights in Monaco
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Le Fort Antoine dans La Ville
This fort was built in the 18th century with a beautiful promontory position overlooking the bay.
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Saint Nicholas Cathedral of Monaco
The cathedral of Monaco is dedicated to the Virgin, although popularly known as Saint Nicholas because of the church that previously stood on its site. The current building was built in the 19th century.
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Trophee d'Auguste (Trophy of Augustus), La Turbie
Built in the year 6 BC, the trophy of Augustus honoured Octavius, Caesar's nephew and future emperor under the name of Augustus, who had conquered the Alpine tribes.
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Le Musee des Souvenirs Napoleoniens (Museum of Napoleonic Souvenirs)
The Museum of Napoleonic Souvenirs and Historic Archives of the Palace houses a collection by Prince Louis II.
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Oceanographic Museum
Sovereign Prince, scholar and explorer, Albert I of Monaco, devoted his life to the Principality forces as well as scientific investigation. This museum showcases his passion.
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Palais Princier de Monaco
The grand palace of the Prince of Monaco was built in 1215 by the Genoese and has been transformed into one of the most luxurious residences in the world.
Beaches in Monaco
Monte Carlo is the home of the Monaco beaches. This is where the glamorous private beaches stand, backed by luxury beach clubs and restaurants, as well as the only public beach in the Principality, Larvotto Beach.
Beaches in Monaco
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Plage du Larvotto Beach
Larvotto is the principality of Monaco's most popular sandy beach and the main one with free public access. Covered in smooth imported fine gravel this man-made beach is made up of both private and public areas of beach.
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Plage Marquet Beach, Cap d'Ail
Plage Marquet is the most easterly of the Cap d’Ail beaches and is right on the border with Monaco.
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Plage du Golfe Bleu Beach, Roquebrune
This family-friendly beach is easy to get to but not so easy to find, which is perhaps why it always stays fairly quiet even in peak season.
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Plage Gramaglia Beach, Cap d'Ail
Located just beneath Restaurant La Pinede along the Sentier Littoral, Plage Gramaglia is more a series of rocky coves than a traditional beach.
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Plage du Buse Beach, Roquebrune
Plage Buse is a pretty and undulating stretch of pebbly coastline tucked away to the west of the Roquebrune Cap Martin peninsula.
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Plage Mala Beach, Cap d'Ail
This is a small and secluded beach with two excellent restaurants and safe swimming. Plage Mala is a little haven.
Dining in Monaco
Not lacking in top quality restaurants and well-known chefs, your only problem in Monaco will be deciding where to go. And, contrary to what most people think, there are some very reasonably priced options.
Restaurants in Monaco
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Le Grill Restaurant
Situated in the luxury Hotel de Paris, this restaurant serves modern Mediterranean cuisine qith great panoramic views of the sea.
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Yoshi Restaurant
Yoshi Restaurant is located in Hotel Métropole Monte-Carlo and holds one Michelin star.
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Le Vistamar Restaurant
Orchestrated by Chef Joël Garault, this chic restaurant offers delightful gourmet seafood.
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Horizon Rooftop Restaurant & Champagne Bar
Views over the Principality's legendary Opera House, Prince's Palace, and Casino - against a backdrop the azure splendour of the Mediterranean.
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Hostellerie Jerome Restaurant, La Turbie
Chef Bruno Cirino prepares Mediterranean dishes that carefully showcase the flavours of local produce. A light and creative cuisine that you can enjoy in their elegant dining room with vaulted ceilings and frescoes or their shaded terrace overlooking the sea.
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La Maree Restaurant
'Fish chic' restaurant in Port Hercule that is located on the sixth floor of the Port Palace Hotel, overlooking the marina.
Events in Monaco
Events in Monaco
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Monaco Yacht Show
An annual trade show held in Port Hercules, it is Europe's biggest in-water display of large yachts.
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e-Rallye Monte-Carlo
Open to various categories of non-polluting and CO2-free vehicles.
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Sportel Awards at Grimaldi Forum, Monte Carlo
The Sportel Awards celebrate the best sports images of the year. The ceremony will take place at the Grimaldi Forum, under the Honorary Presidency of Prince Albert II of Monaco.
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Monte-Carlo Jazz Festival
The Monte-Carlo Jazz Festival is ready to host the biggest jazz artists at the Opéra Garnier Monte-Carlo.
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Top Marques Monaco
In this luxury world, the 'Top Marques' event showcases not only some of the newest and most amazing cars but also the additional toys and gadgets that make them unique.
Things to do in Monaco
Monaco is the place to splash the cash on the most exclusive jewels, clothes, yachts and works of art. Otherwise, you will certainly enjoy people watching and soaking up the surroundings in this fascinating city.
Things To Do in Monaco
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One Week Yacht Charter Itineraries
Experience the French Riviera your way with 212 yachts, using one of their sample itineraries or with a specialised itinerary created just for you, based on what you like and don't like, as well as their own expertise.
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Cannes & Islands Luxury Motor Boat Trip
This is a coastal trip departing from Monaco to explore the gems of the Cote d'Azur with opportunities to swim and snorkel in the glistening Mediterranean.
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A Day in Monaco Tour
Sit back and relax on this guided tour of the French Riviera.
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Sunset Luxury Motor Boat Trip
This two hour cruise departs from Monaco to take you on a stunning sunset cruise on the Cote d'Azur.
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Private Sightseeing Tours
A wide selection of guides and tours of the French Riviera covering famous destination such as Monaco, Antibes, Cannes, Nice and Saint-Tropez. You can also experience the Italian Markets in San Remo and Ventimiglia as well as enjoy wine tasting and culinary tours.
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Monaco & Monte Carlo by Night, from Monaco
Witness the glitz and glamour of Monte Carlo after dark.
Yachts & Sailing in Monaco
Nightlife in Monaco
Nightlife in Monaco is incredibly varied – from superyacht parties to beach club DJs and nightclubs where the VIPs mingle. Gambling is another favourite pastime, centered around the Monte-Carlo Casino, the best in Europe.
Bars & Clubs in Monaco
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Saphir 24 Bistro Lounge, Restaurant & Bar
The relaxed atmosphere and sublime vista make it the perfect spot to enjoy, 24 hours a day, according to your rhythm and fancy...
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Bar Americain
The Hôtel de Paris' fantastic cocktail bar and lounge oozes old world class. It has a cosy, elegant low-key ambiance, with big leather armchairs, sea views and live music from Doctor Gabs' piano.
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Crystal Bar & Terrace
Sit back in this lounge and take in the magnificent views across the Mediterranean, Port Hercule and the Rock of Monaco, while luxuriating in the atmosphere of exclusivity.
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Horizon Rooftop Restaurant & Champagne Bar
Views over the Principality's legendary Opera House, Prince's Palace, and Casino - against a backdrop the azure splendour of the Mediterranean.
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Brasserie du Cafe de Paris
With Belle Epoque style windows, recalling the old Parisian bistros, the building creates a bright and friendly atmosphere.
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La Note Bleue Beach Club
A private beach where you can relax and enjoy a lounger, have your feet in the cool blue waters, or enjoy the cooling mist on a sunbed.
Where to stay in Monaco
Monaco has a small selection of hotels, many of them in the uber-luxurious category with five-star facilities, Michelin-starred restaurants and sumptuous spas. There are also a couple of budget options.
Villas in Monaco
Villas in Monaco
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La Vigie Villa
Set on a promontory on the same cape as Monte-Carlo Beach, the Villa has a magnificent panoramic view of the Mediterranean, the Principality of Monaco and Roquebrune-Cap-Martin Bay.
Holidays Rentals in Monaco
Holiday Rentals in Monaco
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Monaco Condamine Apartment
Charming one bedroom apartment located in the Condamine area close to all Port restaurants and shops, with views over Place D'Armes.
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Palazzo Leonardo Apartment
This most luxurious building makes up the Southern tip of the Principality. It sits directly on the waterfront, with over 180 degrees of sea view.
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Park Palace Apartment
At the heart of the ''Golden Square", set within one of the most prestigious building in the Principality with indoor pool, fitness, sauna and 24h security service, this 2 bedroom apartment enjoys pleasant views of the gardens and the city.
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Les Abeilles Apartment
Modern apartment benefiting from magnificent sea view, superbly located, just minutes from the beach and Carré d'Or.
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La Vigie Villa
Set on a promontory on the same cape as Monte-Carlo Beach, the Villa has a magnificent panoramic view of the Mediterranean, the Principality of Monaco and Roquebrune-Cap-Martin Bay.
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Le Metropole Apartment
This apartment is close to the Casino Place, set in a prestigious building with pool, spa, fitness , 24h concierge and a room service.
Hotels in Monaco
Hotels in Monaco
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Monte-Carlo Bay Resort & Hotel
In a relaxed yet sophisticated ambiance, this hotel offers you a whole new experience of a legendary destination.
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Port Palace Hotel
With urban elegance, chic interiors and just steps away from the casino, boutique shopping and the legendary F1 Grand Prix circuit, this hotel is a gem in the heart of Monaco.
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Fairmont Monte Carlo Hotel
The Fairmont Monte Carlo hotel is a unique four-star luxury resort. The hotel is one of the largest in Europe with its 602 guest rooms, residences and suites, two restaurants, a bar and a new pool space on the roof which integrates a contemporary touch.
Price: €8,648
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Eza Chateau Hotel, Eze
Exquisite and intimate, the rooms and suites of Château Eze cling to the side of the ancient rock walls of Eze, a thousand-year-old Medieval village more than 400 metres above the Mediterranean Sea.
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Hotel de Paris Hotel
Elegant and exclusive hotel in the centre of Monaco, ideally located right in front of the casino.
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Hermitage Hotel
Overlooking the Mediterranean, the Hôtel Hermitage cultivates elegance at its highest level.
How to get to Monaco
Monaco lies on the southeast coast of France, close to the border with Italy. Nice International Airport is 30km from the centre of Monaco while taxis, buses and trains connect the Principality with the neighbouring towns.
Transfers for Monaco
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Private airport transfers
From Nice airport to Monaco, they handle the rest. The Côte d’Azur's most trusted private transfers.
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Helicopter Airport Transfers & Scenic Flights
Created in 1976 this company has grown and has now transported well over 100,000 passengers. They have a fleet of 12 craft to meet client demands.
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Private Jet and Helicopter Transfers
With an International fleet of jets and helicopters based across Europe it is quick and easy to get a private charter flight for business, pleasure or an airport transfer.
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Helicopter Transfers and Scenic Flights
With a long history and experience in the VIP transport industry this company is proud of its personal and high-quality services.
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Helicopter Charter Flights
Heli Securite offer transfers on a helicopter from the airport to your yacht or various destinations in and around the Cannes area, St Tropez and Monaco. In addition to this they also service all of the main French ski resorts from their base in Courchevel.