The Principality of Monaco is a sovereign city-state and micro-state located on the French Riviera close to the Italian region of Liguria. Monaco is known as one of the most expensive and wealthiest places in the world and is the second smallest sovereign state in the world, after Vatican City. Despite being a small country there are in fact a lot of things to do and visit. Here are 10 must-see tourist attractions in Monaco.
1. Casino de Monte-Carlo
We cannot speak about Monaco without thinking about its famous casino, the Casino de Monte-Carlo. Not only a place for gambling, it also the home of Monaco’s Opera and Les Ballets de Monte-Carlo.
2. Prince’s Palace of Monaco
Prince’s Palace of Monaco or Palais du Prince is home to one of the oldest monarchies in the world. The location of the palace is unusual, positioned high above the sea on the picturesque peninsula of Le Rocher. The Palais is a private place but open to the public at certain times of the year.
3. “Musée océanographique de Monaco”
The Oceanographic Museum is a museum of marine sciences in Monaco-Ville. Jacques-Yves Cousteau, explorer and filmmaker who studied the sea and all forms of life in water, was its director 1957 to 1988. This place is perfect for a family travelling with children. They will love the museum and learn all about the marine and sea life.
4. Larvotto Beach
If you love beaches you must visit this place, the Larvotto Beach has everything from clear water, blue sky, free toilet and shower, and near to the Casino there are very nice bars and restaurants.
5. Exotic Garden of Monaco
For plant lovers, the Exotic Garden of Monaco is a perfect place to visit. The garden has a valuable collection of plants from South America, the United States, Africa and the Middle East. There is also a cave which you can visit and the view is amazing from the garden so you can take wonderful pictures.
6. Marché de la Condamine
Besides sightseeing in the city and visiting tourist attractions you can also try local food. At La Condamine market you can buy local products such as socca (made with chickpea flour and often enhanced with herbs), barbagiuan (a savory filled pastry), pissaladière (provençal tart or pizza made with caramelized onions, nicoise olives, and anchovies) and fougasse (sweet bread flavored with oranges and decorated with nuts, raisins, and anise). The market was opened on 18 November 1880 and is open every day.
7. Saint Nicholas Cathedral
After eating, why not visit the Saint Nicholas Cathedral? This Cathedral has several different names, such as the Cathedral of Our Lady Immaculate or simply the Monaco Cathedral. Built between 1875–1903 and consecrated in 1911, the architecture is really impressive both inside and outside.
8. Opéra de Monte-Carlo
Opéra de Monte-Carlo is an opera house which is part of the Monte Carlo Casino. If you like ballet, orchestra performances or operas, don’t miss this place when visiting Monaco.
9. Rock of Monaco
The Rock of Monaco is a 62-meter tall monolith on the Mediterranean coast. It overlooks the Mediterranean Sea and the Port Hercules. The view of this place is just breathtaking. You can walk in the Old Town and enjoy the view as well as lot of small shops and local products.
10. Port de Fontvieille
Port de Fontvieille is the second port of Monaco after the Port of Hercules. Port de Fontvieille has 275 berths available for yachts up to 200m long. Numerous restaurants on the waterfront and nearby shops make the Port of Fontvieille a place of vitality to be explored in any season.
