🇲🇨 Why Visit Monaco?
Monaco might be known for luxury, yachts and Formula 1, but it’s also one of the easiest destinations to explore in a short space of time.
If you’re planning a trip, this Monaco weekend itinerary covers exactly how to spend 2 days in Monaco, including the best things to do, must-see spots, and travel tips to make the most of your visit.
✈️ Getting to Monaco:
The easiest way to reach Monaco is by flying into Nice, France, and taking a short train or taxi along the coast.
The journey itself is part of the experience — with incredible Mediterranean views the whole way.
📍Day 1 : Best Things to Do in Monaco
Monte Carlo & Casino Square ✨
Start your Monaco weekend itinerary in the heart of it all — Monte Carlo, home to the iconic Casino de Monte-Carlo.
Even if you’re not planning to go inside, this is one of the top things to do in Monaco. The square is surrounded by luxury hotels, designer boutiques, and some of the most impressive cars you’ll see anywhere.
👉 What to do here:
- Walk around Casino Square and take it all in
- Snap photos with the architecture and supercars
- Pop inside the casino (dress code applies in some areas)
👉 Why it’s worth it:
- One of Monaco’s most famous landmarks
- Instantly recognisable and perfect for content
- Great starting point for your itinerary
👉 Where to eat & drink nearby:
- Café de Paris Monte-Carlo — perfect for coffee, brunch or people-watching.
Walk the Monaco Grand Prix Circuit 🏁
One of the most unique experiences in Monaco is walking parts of the Monaco Grand Prix circuit.
This is a must for your 2 day Monaco itinerary, especially if you’re into F1. You can follow sections of the track through the city, including the famous Fairmont hairpin and the tunnel.
👉 Why it’s worth doing:
- Completely free activity
- You’re literally walking an F1 track
- One of the most searched Monaco attractions
👉 Tips:
- Start near Port Hercules and follow the route uphill
- Go early morning or evening to avoid traffic
Monaco Old Town (Monaco-Ville)
For a completely different side of Monaco, head up to the Old Town, known as Monaco-Ville.
Visit the Prince’s Palace of Monaco, which sits at the top of the rock overlooking the harbour.
The area is full of narrow streets, viewpoints, and quieter corners — making it an essential stop in any Monaco weekend itinerary.
👉 What to do:
- Explore the Old Town streets
- Take in panoramic views over Monaco
- Watch the changing of the guard (just before midday)
👉 Why it’s worth visiting:
- Adds history and culture to your trip
- One of the best viewpoints in Monaco
- A break from the fast-paced Monte Carlo vibe
Evening in Monaco
Evenings are when Monaco really leans into its reputation.
Head back down towards Monte Carlo or Port Hercules and enjoy a slower, more atmospheric end to your first day.
👉 How to spend your evening:
- Dinner in Monte Carlo
- Drinks around Casino Square
- Walk along Port Hercules and see the yachts lit up
👉 Where to go:
- COYA Monte-Carlo — lively, great for dinner + drinks
- Buddha-Bar Monte-Carlo — a full Monaco night-out vibe
📍Day 2 : Monaco Hidden Gems & Relaxed Spots
Prince of Monaco’s Car Collection 🚗
One of the most underrated things to do in Monaco is visiting the Prince of Monaco's Car Collection
(Collection de Voitures de S.A.S. le Prince de Monaco).
This museum houses over 100 classic and luxury cars collected by Prince Rainier III — including vintage models, Formula 1 cars, and rare classics.
If you’re even slightly into cars or F1, it’s 100% worth adding to your Monaco weekend itinerary.
👉 Why it’s worth it:
- A mix of historic and modern cars
- Includes Formula 1 vehicles
- Less crowded than Monaco’s main attractions
- Great indoor option if the weather isn’t ideal
It’s located near Port Hercules, so it’s easy to combine with a walk around the marina.
Japanese Garden & Rose Garden 🌿
For a slower, more relaxed side of Monaco, start your day at the Japanese Garden Monaco.This peaceful garden blends traditional Japanese design with Mediterranean surroundings - think koi ponds, wooden bridges, and perfectly landscaped greenery. It’s one of the best free things to do in Monaco and a great contrast to Monte Carlo’s energy.
From here, head over to the Princess Grace Rose Garden, a beautiful tribute filled with hundreds of rose varieties.
👉 Why add these to your Monaco weekend itinerary:
- Completely free attractions
- Ideal for slower travel moments
- Perfect photo spots (especially in spring/summer)
Larvotto Beach
If you’re visiting Monaco in warmer months, spending time at Larvotto Beach is a must.
This is Monaco’s main public beach, with a mix of private beach clubs and free areas. It’s clean, easy to access, and gives you that classic French Riviera feel right in the city.
👉 What to expect:
- Calm, clear water
- Beachfront restaurants and bars
- A more relaxed side of Monaco
💡 Tips for Visiting Monaco:
- Monaco is small — you can walk almost everywhere
- Use public lifts to avoid steep hills
- Visit outside peak summer for fewer crowds
- You don’t need a huge budget to enjoy Monaco
✨ Is 2 Days in Monaco Enough?
Yes, 2 days in Monaco is the perfect amount of time.
This Monaco weekend itinerary gives you enough time to:
- See the main attractions
- Experience the Monaco lifestyle
- And still enjoy slower moments
Monaco is one of those places that feels completely unique.
From walking the Monaco Grand Prix circuit to relaxing by the sea, it offers a mix of experiences you won’t find anywhere else.
If you’re looking for a short but memorable European getaway, a weekend in Monaco is hard to beat.