Itineraries for Your Trip to Monaco
3 Days in Monaco for First Timers
Some Cote d’Azur travelers write off Monaco as a billionaires’ escape, favoring Nice or Cannes instead. But as long as you skip the busy Grand Prix and Monaco Yacht Show dates, and research where to stay, this principality is an exciting weekend destination with a unique culture all its own—regardless of your budget. My favorite thing to do in Monaco is to just take a walk; you’ll pass more flashy cars, yachts, and dramatic viewpoints in one square mile than anywhere else I’ve ever been. If you’re lucky enough to find yourself here for three days, here are a few other things you’ll want to do.
If you only have time for one thing, make it a stroll past the yachts, finishing at the Prince’s Palace for sweeping views of the Mediterranean.
Grey days are rare in Monaco, so sunglasses are always a good idea.
Similar in size to New York’s Central Park, Monaco is small and easy to explore. Hop aboard Le Petit Train de Monaco (a tourist train) or ride the hop-on hop-off bus to orient yourself and see top Monaco attractions like Monte Carlo Casino and Hercules Port. If you time your visit well, you can hop off at the Prince’s Palace in time to see the changing of the guard ceremony before admiring the views from the square.
After lunch in Monaco’s Old Town, meet up with a local guide to scout out some lesser-seen sights that some tourists miss. You’ll get the lowdown on Monaco’s history and as well as tips for places to eat afterwards.
Head to Boulevard Albert 1er to see the most famous street circuit in Formula 1 racing. To get up to speed on Monaco’s Grand Prix gossip, you can take a tour of the track with a professional guide, then find the best spots for photos by the Casino Square and the tunnel section.
In the evening, put a Monégasque twist on your pre-dinner drinks with a tasting of local liqueur before you head out to see Monaco's glittering lights at night. End your day at the Monte Carlo Casino to take a look around or enjoy a spot of James Bond-style nightlife.
On your last day, do as the high rollers do and see Monaco and the surrounding coastline of the French Riviera by boat. You can book a private yacht that will take you along the riviera and stop at a perfumery in historic Eze.
Alternatively, if you prefer to finish your Monaco vacation on dry land instead, Eze is still a great place to start. If you’re car-free, you can go on a guided day trip that offers hassle-free transport along with a guide; these often include a stop in nearby St. Paul de Vence, too. If your budget extends to it, visit the beautiful stone hotel of Château Eza for a cocktail or dinner on the terrace, or wander through the Exotic Garden of Èze (Le Jardin Exotique d’Eze) to enjoy panoramic views.
