24 Hours in Monaco: A Luxury Yacht Insider’s Guide

Tiny in size but vast in character, Monaco is one of yachting’s most iconic playgrounds. Surrounded by France on three sides and facing the Mediterranean on the other, this historic principality has long drawn superyachts from around the world, with many making their entrance into the famous Port Hercule – a marina that has become a symbol of luxury on the French Riviera. 

Arriving while on your French Riviera yacht charter itinerary or touching down via private helicopter from Nice to begin, Monaco’s compact footprint makes it the ideal place to explore in a single, well-planned day. Between its glamorous social scene, storied landmarks, and fine dining spots, 24 hours is just enough to get a taste of Monaco. 

The principality’s year-round events calendar means there is always something happening, and timing your visit to coincide with one of the many high-profile events, such as the Grand Prix or the Monaco Yacht Show, can further enhance your Monaco experience. Yet even on an ordinary day, Monaco’s mix of Riviera glamour and authentic charm makes it well worth a stop. 

Here’s how we recommend you experience 24 hours in Monaco, the world’s second-smallest country: 

Morning: Explore New Lands

If you’re anchored just offshore or have just joined the yacht in Port Hercule, start your morning early with a gentle sunrise stroll into Mareterra, Monaco’s newest neighbourhood and a fascinating example of how the principality has cleverly accommodated its famously limited space for residents. 

Built on land reclaimed from the sea, this eco-conscious development, designed primarily for locals, isn’t just impressive engineering but a vision for Monaco’s future. Alongside residential buildings, the development features a promenade, gardens, a small marina, and restaurants and cafes, offering a great way to experience new Monaco before visiting the well-known attractions. 

As you wander here, stop for a coffee and light breakfast at Le Petit Café Robuchon, a sleek cafe concept from the team continuing the legacy of the Michelin-starred Chef Joel Robuchon. Opened last year, it offers some of the best freshly baked pastries, which pair perfectly with a coffee as you people-watch by the sea.

Late Morning: Old Town Discoveries

Head back to the yacht for a quick refresh if you wish, or continue directly to Monaco-Ville, the Old Town. The oldest part of the principality and aptly nicknamed Le Rocher (‘The Rock’), this medieval quarter is perched atop a raised rocky headland, offering a striking contrast between Monaco’s historic roots and its contemporary skyline. It’s easy to reach on foot, though Monaco’s handy network of public lifts and escalators makes the steep inclines far more manageable. 

Once here, wander through the charming cobbled streets full of artisan boutiques and eateries. For one of the most breathtaking views, first head to the Jardin Exotique de Monaco. Opened in 1933, the stunning clifftop botanical garden is home to over 1,000 species of exotic plants, as well as an impressive selection of cacti and succulents from around the world. From here, you can stop to appreciate the panoramas stretching across the Mediterranean below.

Next to explore is the nearby Prince’s Palace of Monaco. Originally built as a fortress in 1215, the Palace was developed into the official residence in the 16th century. Take a guided tour to admire the regal charm, unique architecture, and impressive artworks. Timed perfectly, you can then witness the ceremonial Changing of the Guard here at 11:55, a daily tradition carried out with military precision in the courtyard by guards dressed in white or black seasonal uniforms. 

Afternoon: Iconic Spots & Gourmet Addresses

To save time, jump in a taxi from the Palace and make your way to Casino Square – no trip to Monaco is complete without a visit here. Even if you’re not inclined to test your luck at the tables, Casino de Monte-Carlo is well worth its place on a day’s itinerary. 

Designed by the celebrated architect Charles Garnier, who also designed the Paris Opera House, this Belle Époque landmark features ornate ceilings, mosaic floors, and gold leaf detailing. Take a guided tour before gaming begins at 2 pm to experience the golden age glamour. 

For lunch, secure a table at Le Grill. Sitting on the eighth floor of the Hotel de Paris Monte Carlo, this Michelin-starred restaurant serves refined French cuisine with stunning views of the Riviera. If you only remember one thing from Monaco, it will likely be the restaurant’s signature dessert dish, their elegant Grand Marnier soufflé. Wine enthusiasts will also be excited to know that the hotel’s acclaimed wine cellar, home to over 350,000 bottles, can now be accessed and visited by private appointment for intimate tastings. 

If you prefer to dine alfresco and in a seaside setting, head to the very eastern end of Monaco and arrive at the Monte-Carlo Beach Hotel. Here, you can enjoy lunch at Elsa, which has been awarded for its commitment to using carefully sourced and sustainable ingredients. Indulge in the ‘marine garden’ inspired menu, a balance of sea and land, featuring dishes like confit lobster. 

Late Afternoon: Style & Speed

After lunch, an optional siesta may be on the cards, or if you are keen for some post-dining retail therapy, you are in the perfect place. Opposite the casino gardens is Metropole Shopping, an elegant arcade featuring marble flooring and crystal chandeliers, which hosts a mix of designer boutiques. Or wander the prestigious Avenue de Monte-Carlo, with names like Chanel, Louboutin, and Rolex lining the streets. 

Nearby is the Fairmont Hairpin Curve, where you can pause to take in one of the most notable racing spots in the world. Imagine the buzz of the famous F1 that takes place in May as you continue your journey back to Port Hercules. If you have time, you can also visit the Car Collection of H.S.H. the Prince of Monaco, an impressive selection of vintage cars that raced on this legendary street circuit. 

Early Evening: Local Aperitifs 

Back onboard, you can freshen up for the evening portion of this Monaco itinerary. An exciting pre-dinner stop is Monaco’s first and only distillery, which sources citrus and botanicals from the principality to produce artisanal spirits. 

You can visit for a private tasting or enjoy a cocktail crafted with their blends at the Yacht Club de Monaco. Sample the refreshing L’Orangerie de Monaco, perfect for an aperitif, crafted from hand-picked local oranges. Depending on where you dined at lunch and if you’d prefer to opt for a pre-dinner cocktail complemented by the best sunset views, head to the Blue Gin bar, housed within the Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel. 

Evening: Riviera Nights 

For its pocket size, Monaco’s dining scene is one of the most sophisticated on the coastline. Depending on your preferences, there will be an option to suit, but for a bold new culinary concept book in at L’Abysse Monte-Carlo at the Hotel Hermitage Monte-Carlo. 

Fusing French and Japanese cuisine, this new address has already earned two Michelin stars. The chef also collaborates closely with local fishermen who practice sustainable fishing methods, ensuring top-tier quality and innovative sushi. For an immersive experience, reserve one of the counter seats for prime views of the action. 

After dinner, but before your visit, check the schedule at the Grimaldi Forum, which hosts exhibitions, concerts, and world-class ballets, making it the perfect post-dinner entertainment spot. Or, take an evening stroll along Larvotto Promenade to soak up the last of Monaco before you leave. 

For those with energy to spare, Monaco’s nightlife and bottle service await. The iconic Jimmy’z has been the go-to venue for international DJs for over five decades. Recently revitalised, it offers an exciting new list of performances during the summer. Alternatively, Sass Cafe is the more classic late-night haunt, part piano bar, part restaurant, and part nightclub. It’s open until the early hours, and live music turns into DJ sets.