Best Things to Do in Monaco for a Week (The Ultimate Summer Guide)
- Andre Cheah
- Mar 3
- 6 min read
From Monaco Grand Prix to Yacht Show + Where to Stay
If you’re searching for the best things to do in Monaco, planning a Monaco summer itinerary, or looking for a luxury Riviera escape packed with iconic events, beaches, world-class dining and nightlife — this is your complete guide.
Nothing says "GLAMOUR" Like Monaco. If you are after understated or boho beach chic, this is not it, but if you want load, OTT luxury, world class people watching and watching the billionaires playground, then you are in for a treat! There is nothing like Monaco in the world and coming here, especially during a bucket list event like the Monaco F1 Grand Prix should be on every Luxe traveller's list.
We are fortunate enough to stay on the water in Port Hercule where the superyachts are docked, every year for a full week for many years and we know the rhythm of Monaco well, from morning coffees and workouts on the harbour to sunset apéros overlooking the yachts.
Over the years, we’ve built local connections who have given us the inside guides as well as shared inside stories of all the goings on in this luxury kingdom. We have discovered the best restaurant tables, and experienced Monaco across every major summer event.
This guide is designed to help you plan a 7-day Monaco itinerary, especially during the vibrant summer season, beginning with the Monaco Grand Prix in late May and ending with the prestigious Monaco Yacht Show in September
After reading, make sure you explore our Top 10 Best Luxury Hotels in Monaco guide to find the perfect place to stay.
Why Monaco Summer Is the Ultimate Luxury Escape and a bucket list destination for luxury lovers.
Monaco summer runs like a crescendo.
It starts with the roar of it's world famous Formula 1 engines and flows through equestrian elegance, peak Riviera beach season, and finishes with superyachts lining the harbour.
Unlike the outdated “flashy 80s” stereotype, Monaco today is sleek, refined and modern.
The Principality has undergone billions in redevelopment, including:
Complete renovation of the Larvotto seafront with a whole upgraded man-made beach and dining precinct.
The transformation of Casino Square now fully renovated and living up to it's world class people watching location.
The full redevelopment of the Café de Paris Monte-Carlo complex
Major urban and hospitality upgrades across the city, from shopping to restaurants and hotels.
Monaco now feels contemporary, sophisticated and globally relevant , while still retaining its old-world glamour and charm that made it world famous in the first place.
Monaco Summer Events Calendar. Monaco is known for hosting annual luxury events.
This is people and luxury toy watching at it's finest and when you are here during one of these events, it's a once-in-a-lifetime spectacle.
Monaco Grand Prix (Late May / Early June)
The legendary Monaco Grand Prix is the highlight of the Formula 1 calendar and one of the most iconic sporting events in the world.
During Grand Prix week:
The streets become the circuit
The biggest and best Harbour yachts host private parties
Beach clubs and terraces are fully booked and party until the early hours of the morning
Nightclubs run until sunrise continuting the day time adreneline all night long
Casino Square becomes a supercar showcase
If you want high-energy Monaco, this is the week to visit. If you only do Monaco once in your lifetime the Grand Prix is the ultimate week!
We were lucky to attend the 2025 season and it was one of the ultimate bucket list travel events for us even though we come every year.
It was one of the most exciting and memorable weeks we have ever had in our life!
Longines Global Champions Tour (June / July)
The Longines Global Champions Tour transforms Port Hercule into an equestrian arena — Olympic-level showjumping set against a backdrop of yachts and the Mediterranean.
It’s elegant, intimate and uniquely Monaco.
Monaco Yacht Show (Late September)
The season closes with the Monaco Yacht Show, where Port Hercule fills with the world’s most extraordinary superyachts.
Designers, brokers and UHNW visitors descend on Monaco. Even walking the harbour during this week is unforgettable.
7-Day Monaco Itinerary:
What to Do in Monaco for a Week
Day 1 – Arrive & Explore Port Hercule
Base yourself near Port Hercule, the heart of Monaco.
Walk the harbour loop.Have lunch overlooking the yachts.Ease into Riviera time.
Sunset drinks here are essential.
SEO tip: If you’re searching for where to stay in Monaco for walkability and harbour views, Port Hercule is unbeatable.
Day 2 – Prince’s Palace & Monaco-Ville
Visit the historic Prince's Palace of Monaco and catch the traditional changing of the guard.
Wander Monaco-Ville’s narrow streets and panoramic viewpoints.
Then head to the dramatic cliffside Oceanographic Museum of Monaco — one of the most iconic cultural attractions in Monaco.
Day 3 – Larvotto Beach & The New Seafront
Spend the day at Larvotto Beach.
The Larvotto district has been fully renovated into a modern, design-led seafront promenade lined with beachfront restaurants and cafés. This redevelopment alone shows how Monaco has evolved into a contemporary Mediterranean luxury destination.
Swim.Long lunch.Promenade walk.Repeat.
If you’re looking for the best beaches in Monaco, Larvotto is the easiest and most iconic.
Day 4 – Casino Square & Café de Paris Experience
This is the Monaco you’ve seen in films.
Head to Casino Square and sit outside the newly redeveloped Café de Paris Monte-Carlo.
The entire Café de Paris complex has undergone a major transformation — expanded terraces, refreshed interiors and a seamless connection to the revitalised square. It retains Belle Époque elegance but feels fresh and world-class.
Order a coffee or enjoy a long lunch and people-watch:
Ferraris rolling through
Chic travellers arriving at Hôtel de Paris
Effortlessly elegant locals
Afterwards, step inside the iconic Casino de Monte-Carlo — one of the most beautiful casinos in Europe.
Golden hour in Casino Square is unforgettable.
Day 5 – Coastal Walk to Cap d’Ail & Plage Mala
Walk the coastal path toward Cap d'Ail.
The Mediterranean views are stunning — cliffs, turquoise water, hidden coves.
Arrive at Plage Mala and enjoy lunch at Eden Plage Mala.
This is one of the most beautiful beach escapes near Monaco and the reward after a long coastal walk from Monaco, or a private boat transfer if that is more your style!
If you’re researching day trips from Monaco, Cap d’Ail is a must.
Day 6 – The Monaco Nightlife
(Especially During Grand Prix Week)
Monaco nightlife is legendary — particularly during the Monaco GP. It's excess like you have never seen before.
Top spots include:
Jimmy'z Monte-Carlo
The most iconic club in Monaco. International DJs, garden terrace and serious energy.
Buddha-Bar Monte-Carlo
Dinner-to-dancing vibe with dramatic interiors.
Twiga Monte Carlo
High-energy atmosphere that starts with dinner and ends on the dancefloor.
La Rascasse
Located directly on the Grand Prix circuit. During race week this becomes one of the liveliest party venues in Monaco.
If you’re searching for best nightlife in Monaco, these are the essential stops and the vibe during Grand Prix week is just electric
Day 7 – One Last Swim & Harbour Lunch
Final morning dip.Slow harbour walk.Long farewell lunch overlooking Port Hercule.
Monaco has a way of pulling you back — which is why we return every year.
Where to Stay in Monaco
Choosing the right hotel defines your Monaco experience — whether you prefer:
Harbour views over Port Hercule
Casino Square glamour
Beachfront luxury at Larvotto
Quiet hillside elegance
We’ve personally reviewed Monaco’s top properties and curated the ultimate list.
Read our full guide: Top 10 Best Luxury Hotels in Monaco
Final Thoughts: Why Monaco Belongs on Your Luxury Travel List
Monaco delivers an experience every luxury traveller should visit:
✔ Iconic sporting events
✔ Beachfront Mediterranean lifestyle
✔ Historic architecture
✔ World-class dining
✔ Legendary nightlife
✔ Walkable compact luxury
✔ The ultimate in People watching and luxury toy spotting
It’s no longer a dated Riviera relic, it’s a modern, design-forward, globally sophisticated destination.
If you’re planning a luxury Monaco holiday, start with the right hotel, then build your week around harbour life, beach days, Casino Square evenings and the unforgettable Monaco summer events calendar.
And if you time it right, you’ll experience the Principality at its absolute best.
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