Monaco — The City-State of Superlatives
Monaco is absurd, fascinating, and unique. The second smallest country in the world (after the Vatican) has only 38,000 inhabitants on 2.02 square kilometers — but the highest millionaire density in the world, no income tax, a Grand Prix right through the streets, and a casino that should belong to the UNESCO World Heritage of architecture.
Monte-Carlo & the Casino
The Casino de Monte-Carlo, designed by Charles Garnier (the architect of the Paris Opera), opened in 1863, is the most famous gambling casino in the world. The facade is a masterpiece of the Belle Époque: marble, stucco, gilded ornaments. The lobby (atrium) is freely accessible — and the chandeliers, frescoes, and marble columns alone are worth the visit. For the gaming rooms, there is a 17€ entrance fee (from 18 years, bring ID, dress code: no shorts, no flip-flops). James Bond played here — will you?
In front of the casino lies the Place du Casino — one of the most famous squares in the world. Here, Ferraris, Bentleys, and Bugattis are parked in a row (deliberately — Monaco is a showcase). The Hôtel de Paris next door houses Alain Ducasse's three-star restaurant Le Louis XV.
The Prince's Palace (Palais Princier)
On the rock Le Rocher stands the Palais Princier — residence of the Grimaldis since 1297. The changing of the guard (Relève de la Garde) takes place daily at 11:55 AM and is free. In summer, the state rooms are accessible (10€). The old town on the rock (Monaco-Ville) is a labyrinth of narrow alleys with souvenir shops and restaurants — touristy but charming.
Oceanographic Museum
The Musée Océanographique, founded in 1910 by Prince Albert I and spectacularly located on the edge of the rock above the sea, is one of the best marine museums in the world. 6,000 species in 100 aquariums, including a shark tank, a coral world, and a lagoon with sea turtles. Jacques Cousteau directed the museum for 31 years. Admission: 18€.
The Grand Prix Circuit
The Grand Prix de Monaco (May/June) is the most legendary race in Formula 1 — and unique because it takes place on normal city streets. The famous hairpin turn at the Fairmont, the tunnel, the chicane at the swimming pool section — you can walk the entire track (about 3.3 km). On race day, grandstand tickets start at 120€, but from the rock, you can see parts of the track for free.
💡 Tipp
Monaco is surprisingly affordable if you know how: Most attractions on the Rocher cost little or nothing. Food is expensive in Monte-Carlo, but at the Condamine Market (Marché de la Condamine) there is Socca, pizza, and pasta at normal prices. The public elevator from the harbor to the Rocher is free.