The guide
Monaco travel guide
Everything you need to experience Monaco and the Riviera like an insider.
Monaco packs the world's highest concentration of glamour into barely two square kilometres. This is our umbrella guide — start here, then dive into the detailed hubs below.
When to go
The season peaks in May, when the Formula 1 Grand Prix turns the streets into a circuit, and again in late September for the Monaco Yacht Show. June and early September offer warm sea and slightly calmer crowds. Winter is quiet but the Casino, restaurants and the Opera carry the season.
How long you need
Monaco itself can be seen in a focused day, but it rewards two to three: one for Monte-Carlo and the Casino, one for the Rock — the palace, the cathedral and the Oceanographic Museum — and a third for a day trip to Èze or Nice.
Getting in
Most visitors fly into Nice Côte d'Azur (NCE), 30 minutes along the coast. A private transfer is the smoothest arrival; the scenic helicopter transfer is the iconic one.
Explore the guide
Where to stay
PalaceHôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo
Palatial hotel with elegant rooms, a thermal spa & a private beach, plus an acclaimed restaurant.
PalaceHôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo
Elegant hotel with chic, Belle Epoque-style rooms & upscale dining, plus free Wi-Fi & spa access.
BoutiqueChâteau Eza
Refined hotel offering sea views, 3 restaurants & a bar, plus an outdoor pool & a spa.
Frequently asked questions
How many days do you need in Monaco?+
Two to three days is ideal: one for Monte-Carlo and the Casino, one for the Rock and its museums, and a third for a Riviera day trip to Èze or Nice.
Is Monaco expensive?+
It can be, but it's possible to visit on a tighter budget by basing yourself in Nice, eating at brasseries and enjoying the free icons — the palace square, the gardens and the Casino square.
What's the best time to visit Monaco?+
May for the Grand Prix, late September for the Yacht Show, or June and early September for warm sea and lighter crowds.