As an English speaking elopement and couples photographer on the French Riviera, I’ve spend a lot of time here. Here are my 5 Things You Absolutely Can’t Miss When Visiting Monaco.
Monaco is one of those places that people hear of, people dream of even, and then when they go, they tend to be very disappointed. The Internet is full of commentary along the lines of, Monaco was over rated, Monaco was boring. For those who’ve not ever done any background research on Monaco, I can understand this reasoning to a point.
However, I find Monaco to be truly one of the world’s most fascinating spots. An interesting mix of high wealth and incredible history. If you go with the right mindset, and do some reading in advance, you’re likely to have a much better time in Monaco when you visit.
First Things First, What is So Special About Monaco?
Everyone knows Monaco is a haven for the uber-wealthy, and has a reputation for glitz and glamorous people. Most people also know that Monaco hosts a famous F1 car race every May.
But dig a bit deeper, and you’ll realize just how special Monaco really is.
Monaco is the size of a postage stamp
Monaco is tiny. Just 1.3 miles or 2.1km in size. The capital city is Monte Carlo.
Monaco is not a country per-se, it’s a sovereign city-state (like Singapore), or a “micro-state”.. It’s a principality, yes, with a royal family, even to this day. Located in the South of France, just east of Nice, it is a haven for the wealthy because there is no tax.
The Grimaldi family ruled Monaco since 1297, and for awhile, was part of France, gaining full sovereignty in 1861. Today, the Grimaldi family still rules over Monaco, by His Royal Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco.
Grace Kelly, the American Connection
In 1956, one of the most famous actresses in Hollywood at the time, and one of my personal favorites, Grace Kelly of Philadelphia, married Prince Rainier Albert I. She came to live in Monaco and start a family here, the wedding of Grace Kelly and Prince Rainier was seen by millions over the world and to this day her wedding gown is considered one of the most beautiful ever worn.
When I walk around Monaco, I think about Grace a lot, and what it must have been like for her to arrive via oceanliner to this beautiful, tiny place, marry a prince and leave America behind. Due to my fascination with her, Monaco means a lot to me, and if you see any of her films, you’re likely to fall in love with her, too.
Her films with director Alfred Hitchcock are amongst the most memorable of the 1950s, and she filmed To Catch a Thief here in Monaco.
Now that we have a bit of history out of the way, what should you visit when you arrive to Monaco?
Monte Carlo Casino
Probably the most famous building in Monaco, the casino is stunning!
Considered one of the most iconic casinos in the world, featuring stunning architecture and a glamorous atmosphere. Even if you don’t gamble, you can admire the lavish interiors and there is a restaurant on the premises.
This is a place of class, so no shorts, flip flops and t-shirts are allowed inside. Dress to impress. Part of the gaming floor has no entrance fee, but the black jack and other gaming takes place in another part of the casino and you must pay to enter.
The architecture alone is worth stepping inside, and despite it being lavish, it’s actually quite tiny. Don’t expect a Vegas style casino!
The Prince’s Palace
To get to the palace, you have to climb Le Rocher (The Rock). It’s a bit of a hike to the upper town of Monte Carlo from the casino, but it’s absolutely worth it.
Once on the top, you can see the outside of the small, but impressive Prince’s Palace, where the Grimaldi family lives to this day.
Part of the palace is open for touring, and contains interesting artifacts and oil paintings of the royal family throughout the years. Take some time to explore and enjoy.
A Walk Around Monte Carlo
The views from Monte Carlo are spectacular. Check out the old town near the palace and take a walk along the trail with views of the Mediterranean Sea. It’s shaded in most spots, offers a cool respite from the heat, and there are some benches to sit, too.
There’s a gorgeous garden next to the Oceanographic Museum, it hosts beautiful varieties of cacti and pretty statues and fountains. It’s a great place to relax and take in breathtaking views. It’s one of my favorite spots in Monte Carlo.
Just across the street is the stunning Saint Nicholas Cathedral. This is the church where Grace Kelly and Prince Rainier were married, and it’s also where Princess Grace and Prince Rainier were laid to rest, so you can pay your respects.
Stroll Around the Port Hercules
If you love yachts, like huge yachts, then you’ll want to walk around Port Hercules. This is a port where the very wealthy park their homes-at-sea, and it’s quite fun to the vessels and imagine what it must be like to travel, or even live on one.
These yachts come in all sizes and all styles and color, the port is incredibly colorful and beautiful and worth a stop.
The Prince’s Classic Car Collection
If you’re even a tiny bit interested in classic cars or F1, make a stop at this museum.
The Prince of Monaco’s Car Collection, known as the “Collection de Voitures de S.A.S. le Prince de Monaco,” is a remarkable exhibition of classic and vintage automobiles amassed over more than 40 years. Initiated by Prince Rainier III in the late 1950s, the collection has grown to encompass around 100 vehicles, showcasing a diverse array of models from leading manufacturers in Europe and the United States.
You’ll find the exhibition space at Port Hercule, near the iconic Formula 1 circuit. This modern venue houses approximately 70 vehicles, displayed in a dynamic setting designed to enhance the visitor experience.
The collection features a wide range of automobiles, including:
- Antique Vehicles: Such as a 1903 De Dion-Bouton, the first car acquired by Prince Rainier III, and a 1924 Ford Model T.
- Classic American Cars: Including a 1928 Lincoln and a 1935 Packard.
- Royal Family Vehicles: Notably, the 1956 Chrysler Imperial used by Grace Kelly during her official welcome to Monaco.
- Sports and Racing Cars: Such as the Bugatti Type 35 that won the inaugural Monaco Grand Prix in 1929 and Sébastien Loeb’s Citroën DS3 WRC from the 2013 Monte Carlo Rally.
This collection offers a unique opportunity to delve into automotive history and the personal passions of Monaco’s royal family, making it a must-visit attraction for car enthusiasts and history buffs alike. I personally really enjoyed my visit here!
Remember Your Day in Monaco with a Professional Photo Shoot
So there you have it, 5 Things You Absolutely Can’t Miss When Visiting Monaco! You know what else is fun to do? A photo shoot! As a professional photographer serving the French Riviera, I love capturing joyful moments of couples visiting Monaco, these are memories you’ll cherish forever.
Capturing your love story on the streets of Monte Carlo, it’s so fun and so worth it. Don’t hesitate to reach out for more information!
bonjour, i'm karina!
Your incredible English speaking Wedding & Couples professional photographer in France!
I'm here to help you plan & capture your precious memories & moments in Paris, Provence & the French Riviera.
