I’m a big Formula 1 fan for years. One of the most iconic races is the one in Monaco. While planning my trip one the things I wanted to do was driving the streets of Monaco with my own car! So after the Cannes area, I drove to Monaco to spend the day. This Monaco blog is under the header of France, I know it is a independent state, but easier this way.

Monaco is a tiny independent sovereign city-state located on the Mediterranean coast, with France borders on all sides. Despite Monaco’s small size, only 2 square kilometers, it’s packed with attractions and tall buildings. The principality is ruled by the Grimaldi family, headed by Prince Albert II at the moment. Monaco is also famous for its favorable tax laws; Monaco charges no income tax on residents! That is why a lot of the F1 drivers “live” here too.

Monaco is a magnet for the rich and famous, so curious if I will spot one, which I didn’t. Visitors from across the globe are attracted by the luxurious lifestyle and stunning scenery and an extensive port with the most luxurious yachts. Monaco is a must see when you are visiting the French Riviera.

What to do in Monaco?

Monaco’s has a unique setting, located between the mountains and the sea. The Principality of Monaco is steep and hilly, which makes it difficult to walk in the heat of the sun but offers stunning views at every turn. Use the public escalators and elevators to get up and down the levels in the city. The luxurious buildings, even building in the sea at the moment to expand the area have also green gardens. Stroll along the winding streets of the old town, harbor and stare at the Mediterranean sea.

1. Visit the Monte Carlo Casino

A must do when in Monaco is visiting the world-famous Monte Carlo Casino. The Casino opened his doors in 1863. The casino’s architecture and atmosphere are worth visiting. It is all over the top decorative and all gold that is blinking. The building is designed by Charles Garnier and is an architectural masterpiece with beautiful decoration that perfectly fits in Monaco! To enter the Casino you must pay an entrance fee but in the hall you can admire the glamor for free if you arrive before 14:00. You can book guided tours as well.

2. Spot celebrities at the Hotel de Paris

Adjacent to the Monte Carlo Casino, the Hotel de Paris is an iconic luxury hotel that has hosted numerous celebrities and dignitaries. The cars parked in front of the Hotel are an eye candy for many! The prices are not in my budget, but great to see and dream.

3. Shop in High-End Brand Stores

Monaco is a shopper’s paradise, all high-end brands have stores in this little kingdom. Stroll along the Carré d’Or district, where you’ll find boutiques from brands like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Gucci. Did you spot a celebrity while shopping, I didn’t, at least I didn’t recognize one hahah

4. Swim in the Iconic Pool

The Stade Nautique Rainier III is an iconic Olympic-size pool where you can take a refreshing dip while enjoying stunning sea views over the harbor. The pool, filled with saltwater, is a favorite among both locals and visitors for its stunning setting and relaxing atmosphere.

5. Visit the Boutique Formula 1

Monaco is synonymous with the Grand Prix, one of the most prestigious Formula 1 races. Visit the Boutique Formula 1 Store to pick up exclusive merchandise, from racing jackets to memorabilia, and immerse yourself in the world of motorsport. Located in the heart of Monte Carlo, the store offers a range of high-quality products from many teams. So of course I had to check it out!!

6. Watch the Prince’s Car Collection

I parked my car at the Monaco Parking in the harbor. This car parking is next to the Piscine, pool as describes above. A part of this parking area on the Terrasses de Fontvieille is a museum too. The Prince’s private Car Collection are displayed here in the museum. The museum is displaying over 100 vintage and classic cars, from iconic Bugattis to rare Rolls-Royces and even F1 cars. This impressive collection is a testament to Monaco’s love affair with luxury automobiles and reflects Prince Rainier III’s passion for cars. The entrance fee is 10 EUR.

7. Visit the Harbor with Luxury Yachts!

The Port Hercules harbor is a remarkable sight, filled with luxury yachts and boats. Take a stroll along the marina, admire the huge vessels, and perhaps even charter a yacht for a day to explore the Mediterranean coastline. This tour was not part of my budget,  so I walked up to the boulevard Louis II. From here you have a perfect view over Monaco and the harbor. The same harbor often hosts prestigious events, such as the Monaco Yacht Show, which was going on at the moment I was there and of course the F1 event from where you can spot the racing cars from your yacht!

Be careful how you walk in Monaco, the levels are significant, there are elevators that will bring you to a different level in the city.

8. The Condamine Food Market

The Condamine Market, located in the heart of Monaco, offers local product, fresh seafood and several lunch options. I loved and enjoyed the vibrant atmosphere of this bustling market, of where you can buy a reasonable priced lunch. The market, established in 1880, is also a great place to mingle with locals and experience the everyday life of Monaco. Nice to see a place not as posh as the rest of Monaco.

9. Tour the Prince’s Palace

I didn’t pay a visit to The Prince’s Palace. The Palace is home to the ruling Grimaldi family. You can do a guided tour of the state apartments, watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony, and enjoy panoramic views of Monaco from the palace grounds. The palace, which dates back to the 13th century, has been restored.

10. Driving the Streets of the F1 Monaco track!

The driving is difficult and strange too, a lot of tunnels and curves in the roads make it difficult to find you way in Monaco as a first timer. I wanted to drive the streets of Monaco but found I rather difficult to find my way to be honest. I saw the location where the pit boxes are located. I wanted to drive in the famous tunnel but I couldn’t find it. It doesn’t help that I was driving by myself, which made it difficult to find the way.

Great to see Monaco but after a full day strolling the streets I drove to Nice for my last days in the South of France before heading to Corsica.

Where are you heading next? Nice, Saint-Tropez or Corsica?