Monaco Majesty: A 3-Day Guide to High Rollers and Hidden Harbours (2025)

Monaco is a paradox wrapped in luxury. It is the second-smallest country in the world yet it casts a shadow of influence that rivals nations a thousand times its size. To arrive in the Principality is to step into a world where the streets are cleaner than your kitchen floor and where the police drive cars most people only see in magazines. It is a place of vertical ambition with skyscrapers clinging to the limestone cliffs of the Maritime Alps as they plunge dramatically into the azure Mediterranean Sea.

But look past the superyachts and the roar of Ferraris and you will find a city with deep roots. The Grimaldi family has ruled from "The Rock" since the 13th century creating a unique micro-culture that blends Italian warmth with French sophistication and a distinct Monegasque identity. The air smells of salty sea spray and expensive perfume while the light has a golden quality that has captivated artists for centuries.

Moments in Monaco, wrapped in luxury and Mediterranean breeze.

If you are seeking a city break Europe offers that is unapologetically glamorous, surprisingly walkable and steeped in a fascinating royal history then a trip Monaco is the ultimate choice. This expert-crafted 3 days in Monaco itinerary is designed to take you beyond the velvet rope. We will explore the medieval alleys of Le Rocher, the serene beauty of Fontvieille and the electric atmosphere of the Golden Square. It is the definitive Monaco travel guide for planning your journey detailing exactly what to do in Monaco during your unforgettable Monaco weekend itinerary.

Day 1: The Rock and the Princely Heart

Day one focuses on Monaco-Ville which is known locally as "Le Rocher" or The Rock. This is the oldest part of the principality and is a fortified headland where the narrow medieval streets feel a world away from the high-rises of Monte-Carlo.

Morning: The Palace and the Guards

Start your day with a steep but scenic walk up the Rampe Major from Place d'Armes. This 16th-century brick staircase offers sweeping views over Port Hercule and is the traditional entrance to the old city. At the top you will find yourself on the Place du Palais which is the expansive square in front of the Prince's Palace.

The Palace has been the residence of the Grimaldi family for over 700 years. It was built on the site of a Genoese fortress and its architecture is a mix of medieval defensive walls and Renaissance elegance. If you are visiting between April and October you can tour the State Apartments to see the Gallery of Mirrors and the Throne Room. Even if you do not go inside you must be in the square by 11:55 AM sharp. This is when the Changing of the Guard takes place. The Carabiniers du Prince who are dressed in pristine white in summer or black in winter perform a precise and traditional military ritual that is a beloved symbol of Monegasque sovereignty.

Lunch: Monegasque Specialities

After the ceremony head into the narrow and winding streets of the old town. Avoid the obvious tourist traps right next to the palace and explore the deeper alleys like Rue Basse.

For lunch you must try Barbagiuan. This is the national dish of Monaco which is a delicious deep-fried pastry filled with Swiss chard, ricotta, leeks and herbs. Grab a handful from a local bakery or sit down at a restaurant like U Cavagnetu which specialises in local cuisine. Pair it with a slice of Pissaladière onion and anchovy tart or Socca chickpea pancake for a truly authentic meal.

Afternoon: Oceans and Gardens

Walk through the Saint-Martin Gardens. These cliffside gardens offer shaded paths, sculptures and benches with unobstructed views of the Mediterranean. It is a peaceful respite from the crowds where the scent of pine and sea salt mix in the air.

The gardens lead you directly to the Oceanographic Museum. Built into the sheer cliff face this "Temple of the Sea" was founded by Prince Albert I who was a pioneer of oceanography. The building itself is a masterpiece of Baroque Revival architecture. Inside you will find aquariums teeming with Mediterranean and tropical species along with a shark lagoon and a roof terrace that offers perhaps the best view in the entire principality.

End your afternoon at the Monaco Cathedral also known as Saint Nicholas Cathedral. This Roman-Byzantine church is the final resting place of the Grimaldi family including the beloved Princess Grace and Prince Rainier III. It is a place of quiet reflection and stunning white stone beauty.

Evening: Port Hercule and Brasserie Dining

Descend from The Rock to Port Hercule. This is the main harbour where the world's most impressive superyachts dock. Walking along the quay in the early evening is a spectacle of wealth and engineering.

For dinner choose a brasserie along the Quai Albert 1er. The atmosphere here is lively and casual. Enjoy fresh seafood or a steak tartare while watching the lights of the palace glowing above you on the cliffs.

Practical Details: Day 1

Activity	Time	Cost (EUR)	Cost (GBP) *	Detail
Prince's Palace State Apartments	10:00 AM – 11:30 AM	€10 avg	£8.60 avg	Seasonal opening (Apr-Oct).
Changing of the Guard	11:55 AM	Free	Free	Arrive by 11:30 AM for a good spot.
Lunch – Barbagiuan & Local Food	12:30 PM – 2:00 PM	€20 avg	£17.20 avg	Try local bakeries in old town alleys.
Oceanographic Museum	2:30 PM – 5:00 PM	€19 avg	£16.30 avg	Stunning aquariums and roof terrace. Book here
Monaco Cathedral	5:30 PM – 6:00 PM	Free	Free	Tomb of Princess Grace.
Dinner – Port Hercule	8:00 PM	€45 avg	£38.70 avg	Brasserie style with yacht views.
Total Estimated Transport Cost:	Walkable	0	0	The Rock is best explored on foot.

• GBP prices are approximate conversions based on a rate of €1.00 = £0.86, for planning purposes.

  
  

Day 2: The Golden Square and Modern Glamour

Day two crosses the harbour to Monte-Carlo which is the district that gave Monaco its reputation for glitz, gambling and high stakes.

Morning: The Casino and The Café

Start your day at the Place du Casino. This is the "Golden Square" or Carré d'Or and it is the epicentre of luxury. Even if you aren't a gambler the Casino de Monte-Carlo is an architectural wonder designed by Charles Garnier who also built the Paris Opera. In the morning you can often visit the atrium and sometimes the gaming rooms for a tour without playing. The Belle Époque decor with its frescoes, gold leaf and crystal chandeliers is breathtaking.

Directly next door is the Café de Paris. Grab a coffee on the terrace. Yes it is expensive but you are paying for the supreme people-watching spot. You will see a parade of rare supercars cruising past and high-fashion on display.

Lunch: Japanese Tranquillity

Walk away from the noise towards the coast to find the Japanese Garden. Created at the request of Prince Rainier III this oasis was designed by a Japanese landscape architect but uses Mediterranean plants pruned to Japanese principles. It features a tea house, waterfalls and a Zen garden.

For lunch enjoy a picnic in the garden if permitted in designated zones or head to a nearby sushi spot or light lunch venue on Avenue Princesse Grace.

Afternoon: Shopping and The Beach

Spend the afternoon browsing the Metropole Shopping Monte-Carlo. This shopping centre is opulent with marble floors and giant chandeliers. Even if the designer price tags are out of reach the window shopping is world-class.

Afterwards head to Larvotto Beach. This is Monaco's newly renovated public beach. The water is clean and there is a beautiful shaded promenade. Relax on the sand or rent a sunbed at one of the beach clubs. It is the perfect place to soak up the Riviera sun and cool off in the sea.

Evening: Chic Dining and The American Bar

In the evening dress up a little. Monte-Carlo is the place to see and be seen. For dinner explore the restaurants around the Grimaldi Forum or back near the Casino.

Conclude your night with a drink at the American Bar in the Hôtel de Paris if budget allows or one of the chic bars in the area. The jazz music, the signature cocktails and the history of the venue make it a bucket-list experience.

Practical Details: Day 2

Activity	Time	Cost (EUR)	Cost (GBP) *	Detail
Casino de Monte-Carlo (Tour)	10:00 AM – 12:00 PM	€18 avg	£15.50 avg	Magnificent Belle Époque interiors.
Japanese Garden	12:30 PM – 1:30 PM	Free	Free	Peaceful Zen garden near the sea.
Lunch – Avenue Princesse Grace	1:30 PM – 2:30 PM	€30 avg	£25.80 avg	Upscale casual dining.
Larvotto Beach	3:00 PM – 5:30 PM	Free	Free	Public beach access is free.
Metropole Shopping	6:00 PM – 7:30 PM	Free (browsing)	Free	Luxury window shopping.
Dinner & Drinks	8:30 PM	€70 avg	£60.20 avg	High-end dining in Monte-Carlo.
Total Estimated Transport Cost:	€2 (Bus)	£1.70	Use CAM bus or walk.

• GBP prices are approximate conversions based on a rate of €1.00 = £0.86, for planning purposes.

  
  

Day 3: Fontvieille, Gardens and Local Living

Your final day explores Fontvieille which is the "new" district built on land reclaimed from the sea. It offers a quieter, greener and more residential side of Monaco.

Morning: Cars and Roses

Start with the Collection of Cars of H.S.H. the Prince of Monaco. Located on Port Hercule this exhibition displays the private collection of Prince Rainier III. It features everything from vintage De Dions to Formula 1 racers and rally cars. It is a must for petrolheads and history lovers alike.

Next take the bus or walk to the Princess Grace Rose Garden in Fontvieille. This heart-shaped garden was created by Prince Rainier III in memory of his wife. It contains over 4,000 rose bushes and is filled with the scent of flowers and the sound of fountains. It is a touching tribute and a lovely place to walk.

Lunch: The Local Market

For lunch experience the most authentic local vibe at the Condamine Market (Marché de la Condamine) at Place d'Armes. The indoor hall and outdoor square are where the locals actually eat.

Here you will find the best value food in the principality. Order a plate of pasta, fresh pizza or more Monegasque specialities from the various stalls and sit at the communal tables in the sun. The atmosphere is vibrant and friendly.

Afternoon: Naval History or Zoo

In the afternoon stay in Fontvieille. You can visit the Museum of Stamps and Coins if you are interested in philately as Monaco's stamps are world-famous or the Naval Museum which houses a huge collection of model ships.

Alternatively visit the Jardin Animalier or Zoological Acclimatisation Centre. Founded by Prince Rainier III this small zoo houses animals that were abandoned or seized by customs. It is built on the terraces of the rock and offers great views.

Farewell: A Final Sunset

Conclude your trip Monaco by walking along the sea wall in Fontvieille or taking the Tête de Chien view if you have a car for a final panoramic look at the glittering city-state below.

Enjoy a farewell dinner at a restaurant overlooking the Port of Fontvieille which is quieter and more intimate than the main harbour watching the masts of the sailboats sway in the evening breeze.

Practical Details: Day 3

Activity	Time	Cost (EUR)	Cost (GBP) *	Detail
Prince's Car Collection	10:00 AM – 11:30 AM	€10 avg	£8.60 avg	Rare and vintage cars.
Princess Grace Rose Garden	11:45 AM – 12:30 PM	Free	Free	Beautiful floral tribute.
Lunch – Condamine Market	1:00 PM – 2:30 PM	€15 avg	£12.90 avg	Best value authentic food.
Naval Museum / Zoo	3:00 PM – 4:30 PM	€6 avg	£5.15 avg	Interesting collections in Fontvieille.
Fontvieille Harbour Walk	5:00 PM – 6:30 PM	Free	Free	Scenic and quiet.
Farewell Dinner	7:30 PM	€40 avg	£34.40 avg	Portside dining in Fontvieille.
Total Estimated Transport Cost:	€2 (Bus)	£1.70	CAM bus to Fontvieille.

• GBP prices are approximate conversions based on a rate of €1.00 = £0.86, for planning purposes.

  
  

Where to Stay: Accommodation Suggestion

For a stay that combines vibrant design with a smart and strategic location, this hotel is a brilliant choice for the modern traveller.

Hotel Napoléon (Book here)

• Location: Situated in Menton-Garavan in France, this hotel sits right on the border just minutes from Monaco. It offers the perfect strategic base. You are a mere 10-minute train ride or short bus journey from the heart of Monte-Carlo yet you escape the intense city centre crowds at night. The hotel faces the seafront and is steps away from the Menton-Garavan train station making your daily commute into the Principality effortless and scenic.

• Style & Amenities: The Hotel Napoléon boasts a vibrant and artistic personality inspired by Jean Cocteau. The interiors are colourful, modern and uniquely designed. Guests can enjoy a lovely outdoor pool which is a luxury in this region along with a fitness corner and a lush garden where breakfast is served with a view of the glistening sea. The rooms are stylish and many feature balconies with bay views.

• Rates: Offering exceptional value for the Riviera double rooms typically start around €90–€140 (£77–£120) per night depending on the season making it a smart budget-savvy base for exploring the region.

  
  

Final Section: Tips and Local Insights

Your glamorous trip Riviera is planned. Here are essential logistics and local insights to ensure your visit is seamless.

Mastering Transport in a Vertical City

Monaco is built on a steep cliffside which can make walking daunting. However the principality has a secret weapon: Public Lifts.

• Lifts & Escalators: There are dozens of free public elevators and escalators connecting the lower streets to the upper boulevards. You can cross the entire country on foot without climbing a single stair if you know the route. Look for the "Ascenseur Public" signs.

• CAM Buses: The bus network is clean and efficient. You can buy tickets on board for approximately €2 or use contactless payment. The Monapass app allows you to buy tickets on your phone.

• Bateau Bus: A solar-powered electric boat bus shuttles passengers across Port Hercule for the price of a standard bus ticket. It is a scenic shortcut.

  
  

Connectivity and Culture

• Currency: Monaco uses the Euro (€).

• Data Roaming: Monaco is not in the EU. Your "Europe-wide" roaming plan likely does not cover Monaco. Check with your provider before you arrive or turn off data roaming to avoid a massive phone bill. Wi-Fi is widely available in public spots via "Monaco Wi-Fi".

• Dress Code: Monaco is conservative. Beachwear is for the beach only. Do not walk around the city in swimwear or bare-chested as you will be fined. For the Casino in the evening jackets for men are often required and smart dress is mandatory.

• Safety: Monaco is one of the safest places on earth with a very high density of police and cameras. You can feel secure walking anywhere at any time of night.

  
  

Monaco is a stage set where you can be a star for a few days. It is dazzling, pristine and surprisingly welcoming if you know where to look. Bon voyage!