Monaco is known for being the luxurious, beach-bumming, champagne-sipping, capital of Europe, where celebrities come to play. But what many people don’t realize is that this playground on the Mediterranean is actually a sovereign principality, governed under a form of constitutional monarchy, with Prince Albert II as head of state. It is actually the second smallest country in the world, second only to Vatican City.
That said, this is a heavily French place to be, with so many great things to do and see when you have had your fill of its glorious beaches.
Pro Tip: If you are not a fan of crowds, visit Monaco in the winter, where the prices are lower, and the Christmas decorations will hold you enthralled. You will have a more authentic experience when the atmosphere is more relaxing, and the weather is still good.
Things to See and Do in Monaco
Go to the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco. It was founded in 1920 by Prince Albert I, (the current Prince Albert’s father, who was incidentally a sea captain), and is a great way to spend an afternoon. He went on dozens of expeditions in his lifetime, and the museum exhibits are the fruits of his labor. Just a couple of highlights are the skeleton of a whale, and more than 90 tanks of exotic fish, including a shark lagoon.
Speaking of Prince Albert II, pay a visit to the Prince’s Palace and catch the guard's daily-changing at 11:55 am. You can tour the palace rooms for just a few Euros, but even if you are not up for a tour of the palaces gorgeous staterooms, it’s worth it to stroll outside and take in the grandeur.
The Monaco Cathedral contains the grave of Grace Kelly, the actress-turned-princess of Monaco. So you can imagine that this is one of the more popular attractions in the area. The cathedral itself has regal features, including a stunning white marble altar and an exquisite grand organ. It is an important religious site and is open for daily tours, except during Mass services, and is free.
Stroll the harbor at night. Monaco lights up when the sun goes down, and there is no better way to experience her beauty than from the waterfront. As you may expect, the harbor also hosts some pretty spectacular yachts. If you can, rent one of the boats and take your own cruise to explore the surrounding area.
Get Off the Beaten Path in Monaco
Visit Old Town. Cozy and colorful, here you can get away from the crowds, the casinos, the yachts, and immerse yourself a little bit more in the local scene. Monaco-Ville is a lovely historic quarter, filled with narrow pedestrian streets and beautiful pastel buildings. There are nice restaurants and cafes to grab a bite, languish over a coffee and sandwich, and simply people-watch.
It is especially wonderful to visit this area at night, or during “magic hour” when the sun is just beginning to set. The colors change dramatically, giving photographers a lot of beauty to work with. Monaco at night is extremely pretty.Just inland at the Fort Antoine lies an ancient fortress. It was first built in the 18th century to protect against foreign invaders but was destroyed in 1944 by the retreating German army. Then, in 1953, Prince Rainier III ordered it rebuilt stone by stone, and today it is used by locals as a small outdoor theater that hosts plays from alternative art troupes. It is a great venue where different generations and social groups can mix freely.
Eze, France is a must-do side trip. It's only about 15 miles from downtown Monte-Carlo. If you have an extra night I highly recommend you stay in one of the small hotels on the mountain but a few hours walking the old commune situated near Mount Bastide will give you a flavor of the place. The town is gorgeous, the views are gorgeous and the food is fantastic.
What to Eat in Monaco
For a true Monégasque experience, check out this private, upscale beach restaurant called La Note Bleue. Not only can you rent an umbrella and while away the hours on a private beach, but you can also take a few short steps to the restaurant for an incredible meal and live music in the evenings.
Elsa is a restaurant situated near the beach and is the first organic Michelin-starred restaurant in the world. Their menu pays homage to Mediterranean flavors with healthy and authentic cuisine. Tasting menus start at only around 50 euros per person, and with the view, the prices (and the food) are well worth it.
If it’s seafood you’re after, pay a visit to the Port of Fontvielle, Monte Carlo. At the end is an oyster hatchery Les Perles de Monte Carlo, which produces luxury oysters. It is located at the foot of a cliff from the Prince’s Palace. Here you can partake in oyster tastings in an open-air restaurant nearby.
Where to Stay in Monaco
Luxury is the name of the game in Monaco, with plenty of posh and high-priced resorts. And if you’re willing to spend the cash, by all means. But there are other options – here is an example of great accommodations to suit every budget.
Affordable – The Columbus Hotel offers a fair price, with a great seafront location and excellent Mediterranean views. With modern, Riviera-style rooms that are bright and airy, they are on the smallish side, but you can opt to upgrade to one with a private balcony.
Mid-Range – The Port Palace is located just steps from the Yacht Club and Grand Prix circuit. Great for local exploring, and not too hard on the budget. The property features a spa and wellness center and has spacious suites overlooking the Port Hercules marina.
Luxury – The Hotel Metropole exudes the kind of elegance that Monte Carlo is known for. Here you will find exquisite marble floors and chandeliers in the lobby, several Michelin-starred restaurants nearby, and abundant floral displays. Not to mention the guest rooms that will make you hesitant ever to leave.
If you want to be in the center of everything, next to the Monte-Carlo Casino and high-end shopping area of Monte-Carlo, the Hotel de Paris Monte-Carlo is a good place to stay. It's a Michelin 3-Star hotel but you'll be staying in a hotel with a lot of history. It was built in 1836 and has been featured in multiple movies. The hotel is architecturally beautiful.
Casey Barbles 
Jeff Yelton 