Monaco might be one of the smallest countries in the world, but it still offers an incredible number of things to see and do. Many of Monaco’s most lavish offerings are well documented, from its award-winning Michelin-starred restaurants to the iconic Monte-Carlo Casino. But what is there to see in Monaco beyond the well-trodden path? Here we explore some of the best things to do in Monaco that offer an alternative glimpse into this fascinating destination.
What is there to see in Monaco?
Explore the La Condamine Market
Enjoy a glimpse of traditional Monegasque life at Monaco’s only farmers market in La Condamine. A staple in the lives of many Monegasques, this traditional market is held daily in place d’Armes and offers locally grown and made produce, including bread, fruits, meats, vegetables, flowers, wine, and cheeses. The attractive square is lined with café’s, making this one of the best things to do in Monaco for those who want to enjoy a leisurely time people-watching while enjoying a local delicacy. The market has been in operation since 1880, offering visitors a warm and friendly Provencal atmosphere.
Cruise Port Hercules
Port Hercules is Monaco’s only deep-water port, with depths of up to 40-metres. It is home to some of the world’s most lavish superyachts and hosts the annual Monaco Yacht Show, making it a must-see in Monaco. If you’re wondering what is there to see in Monaco, then why not enjoy this spectacular destination by solar-powered boat? The solar-powered boat service operates daily from the end of Quai Antoine 1 and offers a leisurely cruise across Port Hercules while providing some of the best views of the world’s finest yachts.
Visit Monaco’s gardens
Despite Monaco’s compact size, the city-state offers plenty of green space. Two not-to-be-missed gardens are the Zen-like Japanese Gardens and Jardin Exotique. The Japanese Gardens are in the district of Larvotto and offer the perfect respite from busy day-to-day life. This green oasis has been designed according to the strictest principles of Zen and includes a pond, waterfall, bridges, tea house, and lanterns. The Jardin Exotique is perched high up on the rock face and is best known for its exotic cacti and spectacular views of Monaco. For those seeking a moment of respite, a visit to the principality’s gardens is without question one of the best things to do in Monaco.
Walk Monaco’s legendary F1 circuit
If you’re wondering what is there to see in Monaco that’s a bit different, then why not walk Monaco’s legendary FI circuit. The Monaco Grand Prix is considered one of the most challenging circuits in Formula One. While the racing cars may fly around it in just a matter of minutes, it will take you about an hour to leisurely walk the 2-mile circuit. The track passes such famous sites as the Monte-Carlo Casino located in Monaco’s famed Golden Square, the yacht studded Port Hercules, and the quaint Saint Devote, a gorgeous chapel dedicated to Saint Devota, the patron saint of Monaco.
Stroll the Sculpture Path
Art enthusiasts will delight in walking the Sculpture Path, considered one of the best things to do in Monaco for those seeking an activity beyond Monaco’s big attractions. There are more than 100 works of art that are dotted across the principality, many by internationally renowned artists from across the world. The Sculpture Path is in the district of Fontvieille and includes some of the principality’s most iconic pieces of art, including A Woman with a Cigarette, by Colombian painter and sculptor Fernando Botero, and The Sitting Couple, by English sculptor Lynn Russel Chadwick.
Check out local producers
One of the best things to do in Monaco beyond the big attractions is to check out some locally made in Monaco products. At Brasserie de Monaco in port Hercules, you can quench your thirst with award-winning made in Monaco beer. At L’Orangerie Monte-Carlo, you can find some delicious made in Monaco liqueur, which is made from hand-picked fruits from the orange trees that fill the principality’s avenues. Finally, on The Rock, discover La Chocolaterie de Monaco, you can choose from a delectable range of high-quality chocolates and Monaco-themed bonbons.
Explore luxury real estate
Of course, one of the best things to do in Monaco is to browse local real estate for sale and find your next home in one of the world’s most luxurious destinations. La Costa Properties Monaco is a luxury real estate agency in Monaco that offers some of the principality’s finest properties for sale, from luxury apartments to lavish penthouses.
What other best things to do in Monaco would you add to our guide?
