If you are taking a tour of the South of France, you will most likely stop in Monaco. Now let me clarify Monaco is NOT a part of France. Monaco is its own country with its own government and royal family. Its commonly confused because it’s very easy to go from France to Monaco. If you find yourself having a day in Monaco, there is a lot to see but it can easily be done in a day. Let’s get into it shall we…

Monte Carlo is one of the four administrative areas of Monaco. Its most famous for its casino, I mean if you didn’t know… I’m shocked! You must not watch any tv, but I will gladly fill you in. Built in 1839, its one of the most prestigious casinos in the world and in the private rooms there is no limit on how much you can bet! 

Now if you just want to visit and not gamble make this one of your first stops. Entrance fee is €10, and you can take a tour for €17. There isn’t a specific dress code during the day, but it does say proper attire. No beachwear, shorts or flip flops. Think business casual and you should be good to go. Now, if you’re visiting after 8:00pm it kicks up a notch and jackets for the men are required. 

If you do decide you want to gamble you are more than welcome to the minimum entrance fee is only €5. Once you are done in the casino, take a walk around to check out shops and cafes as well as see Circuit de Monaco which is the location of the Grand Prix. 

After exploring Monte Carlo head to the Oceanography Museum. It is world renown and is truly something out of this world! Every visit I take to Monaco I make sure to stop in! For a full review check it out here.

This lavish palace is home to the current royal family. The Grimaldi family of the 13^th century as well as Princess Grace have all lived here. You can opt to tour the state rooms or just walk by it depending on your time. They do a changing of the guards at 11:55am which is very cool to see! 

I mean you are in Monaco so if there are any high-end things you want to pick up this is the place to do it! There is the Métropole Shopping Center which has everything from boutique shops, jewelers and restaurants. 

The Exotic Garden is really something to see as it sits on the La Condamine’s cliffs. It’s been open for over 75 years with over 1000 species! I am a proud crazy plant lady, so this place was one of my favorite spots of the whole day! 

I personally would end the day with an amazing dinner if you can or catch your train back to whatever city you are staying in. It’s such a quick ride to get from Nice to Monaco and then Nice to the smaller cities such as Antibes and Cannes. A day in Monaco is a good amount of time to take in the city!

Comment below if you have been to Monaco and what your favorite part was!