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Cultural activities in Monaco

Discover the top Monaco cultural activities

Updated

Whatever you choose to do on your holiday you are sure to find a huge range of cultural activities across the Monaco area. From museums to theatres, live music or wine tastings, there is something for everyone in Monaco. Check out the selection of things to do & see below for some holiday inspiration!

Castles & Ruins

Home to one of the most popular princely families, in Monaco you can visit the Palais Princier and check out the luxurious residence of the Grimaldis. The small country also has an 18th-century fort overlooking the bay.

Caves & Rocks

Monaco's Jardin Exotique features a wide variety of succulent plants as well as beautiful caves for a great day out.

Cinema

Catch the latest films and releases in Monaco on your holiday. Look out for VOST for English speaking films. 

Cookery Schools & Courses

Monaco, nestled between France and Italy, is a paradise for foodies. Some restaurants around Monaco offer cookery classes where you can learn to prepare traditional dishes or discover the newest trends in the local cuisine.

Fiestas, Fairs & Fetes

The biggest festival in Monaco is celebrated on its national day, Saint-Rainier day on November 19th. But there are other fetes where you can mingle with the locals, dance to traditional music and taste local specialities while learning more about the region's history and customs.

Houses & gardens

There is a wide variety of gardens where to go for a walk in Monaco. They feature different varieties of plants and layouts, including a Japanese garden, the large area of the Fontvieille Park that boasts a beautiful rose garden dedicated to Princess Grace, or the French gardens surrounding Monaco's casino. On the southern face of the Grimaldi rock there is also a zoological garden with around 50 different animal species.

Live Music

Monte Carlo is more known for its casinos, superyachts and royal shenanigans than for its music scene, but that’s not to say there aren’t spectacular live music acts to be found. Whether you’re looking for a sophisticated jazz lounge with a panoramic view over the Mediterranean, the deep house beats of a famous DJ in an exotic Japanese garden or a rock band belting out old favourites at an Irish bar, Monaco will deliver.

Markets

Monaco and the surrounding area have a whole host of markets where you can hunt a bargain, check out the local crafts and antiques, or buy regional produce.

Museums & Galleries

Monaco has a unique history showcased in a wide range of museums and galleries to keep visitors entertained. From important art collections to historical exhibitions, there is something for everyone, including a museum dedicated to old cars.

Religious Buildings

The largest church in Monaco is Sainte-Dévote, dedicated to the patron saint of the Principality and dating back to the 19th century. 

Theatres

Monaco has a very lively cultural life despite its small size, boasting spectacular theatre venues like the historical Theatre Princesse Grace, the Opera or the modern Grimaldi Forum. Here you will be able to watch an eclectic choice of theatre pieces, many in French, dance shows, and operas.