Immerse Yourself in the Glitz and Glamour of the French Riviera with This Guide

Orlaith Costello
June 06, 2024

Travel Guide: Monaco

The glitz and glamour of the French Riviera is exemplified in this small but mighty principality.

Monaco, a dazzling gem on the Mediterranean coastline, offers a unique blend of luxury, scenic beauty, and cultural richness.

Known for its glamorous hotels, upscale shopping and the prestigious Monaco Grand Prix, the second-smallest country in Europe has plenty to captivate visitors.

Whether exploring historic palaces or indulging in high-end recreation (cost of living be damned), Monaco promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of the French Riviera.

In partnership with HSBC, we’ve put together this helpful starter guide to the country so you can start planning your itinerary.

The glitz and glamour of the French Riviera is exemplified in this small but mighty principality.

PLANNING AHEAD

Before you launch into weeks (or months) of responsibility-free fun in Europe, you’ll need to get some adult stuff out of the way, like sorting out your payment plan. With an HSBC Everyday Global Account, you can spend fee-free around the world everywhere Visa is accepted. Plus, transfer and spend in up to 10 local currencies (including EUR). Take advantage of real-time exchange rates and preload your all-in-one Visa Debit Card before you even arrive in Europe.

GETTING AROUND

Everything is within walking distance here, made easier by the city’s free public escalators and elevators. Buses operated by CAM offer a budget-friendly way to get around and its fleet includes a solar-powered boat bus. ClicBus is an on-demand bus service for areas not covered by the regular bus routes. You can borrow an electric vehicle via sharing schemes MonaBike and Mobee. Be aware parking is mostly below ground and all car parks offer one hour free.

LOCALS LOVE

La Condamine Market, opened in 1880, is a beloved spot for Monegasques. Renovated in 2012, it retains its warm Provençal spirit, featuring terracotta paving and vibrant decorations. Open daily, it hosts about twenty traders, market gardeners, and local producers. Enjoy Monegasque specialities like socca (chickpea pancake) and barbagiuan (pastry fritter). From here, stroll to Port Hercule and enjoy the waterfront views.

DON’T MISS

Monaco’s Old Town, with its fortress on the Rock (le Rocher) and colourful houses, is a must-see. The Prince’s Palace, a 13th-century marvel remodelled during the renaissance, overlooks the city and hosts the daily Changing of the Guard at 11.55am. Visitors can explore the State Apartments, decorated with 16th-century frescoes and luxurious furnishings. Nearby, the Saint Martin Gardens and Monaco Cathedral offer serene spots to enjoy the area’s rich history and stunning views.

Five of the Best

Tick these must-visit haunts off your bucket list.

Restaurants and Eateries

The principality is a treasure trove of Mediterranean eats with French and Italian influences across all dishes.

1. L'Express

At this long-running joint, tucked down an alleyway by Saint Nicholas Cathedral, locals dine on Monégasque cuisine.

2. The Pearls of Monte-Carlo

Dine on locally grown oysters by the water underneath the stunning Prince's Palace.

3. Polpetta

This low-key Italian eatery is a breath of fresh air, serving up quality eats without the Monaco price-tag.

4. Blue Bay

Luxury fusion dishes await at this Michelin-starred diner with Indian, Caribbean and French influences.

5. Mada One

Enjoy small bites from this eatery dreamed up by award-winning chef, Marcel Ravin.

Bars

Here's where to enjoy a tipple or two in Monaco, from beachside clubs to cosy waterfront bars.

1. Monaco Brewery

It doesn't matter how much you like the finer things, sometimes a beer and a burger is the finest combo in town.

2. La Rascasse

This buzzing bar situated on the Grand Prix circuit is the best place for a tipple on race weekend (and almost any other time).

3. Club La Vigie Monte-Carlo

This swanky club is built into a cliff face — and you must wander through a pine forest to visit it.

4. Le Bar Américain

Enjoy live jazz, signature cocktails and excellent water views from this Gatsby-esque watering hole.

5. Blue Gin

A beachfront terrace known as the "Waterfront of Monaco" serving up a creative drink selection and finger food.

Unique Activities

Get to know the area via its must-visit spots from the royal residences to the public spaces.

1. Oceanographic Museum of Monaco

Dive deep into marine life at this museum and aquarium, which is situated on a cliffside.

2. Larvotto Beach

You don't need to have a reso at any of the fancy hotels in Monaco's downtown to relax on its only public beach.

3. Heritage Tree Trail

Take a respite from the hustle and bustle of luxe downtown Monaco and stretch your legs in this cherished green space.

4. Private Cars Collection of H.S.H. Prince of Monaco

Peruse the ultra-rare vehicles collection which includes a Bugatti that raced in the first Monaco Grand Prix.

5. La Maison du Limoncello

If you love the bright citrusy digestif, pick up a bottle made with juicy lemons from Côte d'Azur here.

Hidden (and Not-So-Hidden) Gems

Be sure to cross these local favourites from best bakeries to private beaches.

1. Cap d'Ail

Technically across the border, but this small but stunning cove is definitely worth the (short) trip.

2. Princess Grace Irish Library

Princess Grace took immense pride in her Irish heritage. Peruse her private collection of Irish literature at this well-known spot.

3. Crique des Pêcheurs

Escape down the steps to this hidden beach just below the Rock of Monaco.

4. Buddha-Bar

East meets west at this late-night drinking and dancing spot inside the iconic Monte-Carlo Casino.

5. L'Épi d'Or Boulangerie

Stop in at this local haunt for delectable pastries, frangipane tarts and Fougasse Monégasque.

Museums and Galleries

Spend some time perusing some of the greatest artworks and buildings in Europe.

1. Maison d'Art

Explore the artworks of masters old and new at this gallery at the helm of Monaco's creative scene.

2. Opera Gallery

Part of a network of galleries around the world, this gallery showcases contemporary art from local and international artists.

3. Octopus Gallery

This unique gallery showcases artists and artwork that share common themes: water, the sea and conserving the environment.

4. New National Museum of Monaco

Explore the works of local artists alongside those by the likes of Andy Warhol, Steve McQueen and Claude Monet.

5. Grimaldi Forum

From art exhibitions to musicals and film festivals to concerts, there's always something on at the Forum.

Luxe Eco-Friendly Accommodation

Live like a prince without any environmental guilt at these stunning hotels in Monaco.

Five of the Best

Tick these must-visit haunts off your bucket list.

Further Afield

If you've got a little extra time, here are five day trips you should plan from Monaco.

Èze

Venture to this stunning medieval village along the French Riviera, just a 15-minute drive from the principality. Amble up the cobblestoned streets and marvel at the historic buildings, the collection of flora at Le Jardin Exotique and the gorgeous views from the town's height.
Nice, France

Nice is a very nice place to spend a day or two when you are exploring the French Riviera. The city has a bit of everything: sun, sand, a great culinary scene and a beautiful historic quarter. It's only a 30-minute drive or train ride or a 45-minute ferry trip to Nice from Monaco.
Bordighera

Head 45 minutes east up the coast to the Italian border to reach this slow-paced pastel-coloured town. Known as the 'City of Palm Trees', this gem is renowned for its stunning views and diverse flora. Spend a day chilling on the beach or exploring the old town.
Mercantour National Park

Pack your hiking boots so you can stretch your legs in this French national park. Set out for the most epic picnic spots with many peaks reaching over 3000 metres high. It takes 1.5 hours to get to the national park, but even the drive itself is stunning.
Cannes

Most famous for its glitzy film festival, this city has plenty to offer. Visit the mini Hollywood Walk of Fame, relax on the beach and indulge in a little retail therapy at this coastal city in the French Riviera — just over an hour's drive from Monaco.

Get Started

Ready to start planning? We've found four experiences you can book right now, fee free, using your HSBC Everyday Global Account Visa Debit Card.

Villefranche sur mer Boat Cruise

Spend a day exploring the crystal clear waters of the French Riviera aboard this cruise from Villefranche sur mer to the Port of Monaco. Book now .
Party Bus

Go all out with a luxe party bus to celebrate your glitzy getaway to this stunning principality. A private DJ can be included. Book now.
Formula One Circuit Guided Walking Tour

Monaco is probably best known for its ties to Formula One. Join a guided walking tour of the famed race track and learn all about the history of this iconic sport. Book now .
La Distillerie de Monaco

Enjoy sampling the liqueurs, spirits and other drinks at the first and only distillery in Monaco. Be sure to try the liqueur l'orangerie made with locally harvested oranges. Book now .