48 hours in Monaco in winter

Day 1

Welcome to the Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo! In the heart of Monaco, this hotel for connoisseurs, with its Belle Époque architecture, embodies elegance, tranquillity and discretion.

9.00 am

What better way to start your stay than with breakfast at the Hotel…?  First thing in the morning, you’ll be spoilt for choice: enjoy it in the winter garden, bathed in the soft light filtering through the Eiffel dome; on the terrace to enjoy the view; or at Le Limùn , a restaurant that regularly changes its décor and offers a brand-new ‘healthy breakfast’ menu.

10.00

Monaco-Ville, Le Rocher, the Old town… there are many ways to describe this neighbourhood and just as many ways to be amazed! Let yourself be swept away by the unique atmosphere of the Jardins Saint-Martin & Sainte-Barbe gardens overlooking the sea, with their picturesque paths and breathtaking views.

Nestled between these two havens of peace stands the Oceanographic Museum , inaugurated in 1910 by Prince Albert I, where you can discover thousands of species of tropical and Mediterranean fish. Turtle rehabilitation pools facing the sea, informative temporary exhibitions and fun activities: you’ll find yourself both enthralled and learning.

Another unmissable event is the Changing of the Guard on the Place du Palais. Every day at 11.55 am, the Prince’s gendarmes perform this solemn ritual, offering a unique glimpse into the history of the Principality of Monaco.

12.30 pm

A well-deserved lunch break! You can ‘head down’ from the Rock via the Fort Antoine steps to reach the Esplanade des Pêcheurs: a short but pleasant journey on an electric water bus then takes you to the other side of the harbour. On the roof of the Hôtel Port Palace , La Môme Monte-Carlo restaurant offers breathtaking views of Port Hercule and serves sun-kissed Mediterranean cuisine in a setting inspired by the iconic Grace Kelly, who played an undeniable role in the development of the Principality’s culture.

2.00 pm

Strolling along the harbour on Quai Albert Ier, ‘ ’ – the Collection of Cars of H.S.H. the Prince of Monaco – takes you on a marvellous journey through time, exploring automotive culture from a 1903 De Dion-Bouton to the 2013 Lotus F1 car! A priceless collection started in the late 1950s by Prince Rainier III, a car enthusiast.

3.30 pm

The Principality is also characterised by the eclectic nature of its museums and monuments. By staging several exhibitions a year at each venue, the New National Museum of Monaco showcases a little-known heritage and collection whilst promoting an appreciation of the contemporary scene. The NMNM thus comprises two venues situated on either side of Monaco. In the Larvotto district, Villa Sauber is one of the country’s last remaining Belle Époque villas. Having passed through the hands of several owners, since 2009 it has hosted temporary exhibitions centred on the overarching theme of ‘art and performance’, and presents fascinating contemporary exhibitions.

4.30 pm

Tea time! Relax at Cova , the iconic Italian patisserie whose first café opened its doors in Milan in… 1817! On the menu for this traditional tea time, held on the elegant Boulevard des Moulins with its distinguished boutiques, is a selection of teas accompanied by artisanal pastries and scones. To make this afternoon tea in an elegant and timeless setting last a little longer, opt for the option including a glass of champagne…

As you leave this Italian-style afternoon tea and before returning to your Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo , take a moment to admire the architecture of Boulevard des Moulins, in contrast to that of the One Monte-Carlo , which stands next to the Place du Casino and its gardens. Enjoy an exclusive, entirely pedestrianised area where the world’s leading luxury brands are gathered amidst lush greenery.

7.30 pm

After enjoying your Hotel and treating yourself to some well-deserved rest, an aperitif in a legendary bar is a must… With its unique décor and cosy ambience, the Bar Américain at the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo welcomes guests into a 1920s-style atmosphere. Before an evening at the Opera, why not opt for a drink inspired by the ballets, such as a Pulcinella cocktail with fresh mandarin or a Nutcracker hazelnut syrup…?

8.30 pm

The Principality hosts the most prestigious events in exceptional venues… including the famous Opéra Garnier Monte-Carlo , the jewel in the crown of the Casino de Monte-Carlo. An unmissable experience to fully appreciate this red-and-gold Italian-style theatre, where great stars have performed, from Sarah Bernhardt to Prince, not to mention the Monte-Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra and the Ballets de Monte-Carlo.

11.00 pm

To continue delighting your senses, head to Le Train Bleu for dinner in an exclusive setting inside the Casino de Monte-Carlo. In a dining carriage evoking the Belle Époque atmosphere, enjoy a journey right into the heart of Monaco and savour gourmet Italian-inspired flavours with the Place du Casino as your backdrop. To round off the evening, head to the gaming tables in the James Bond-style atmosphere of the Salle Renaissance, the Salle Europe or the Salle des Amériques. Entertainment, surprises and thrills guaranteed…!

Day 2

10.00 am

Numismatists and philatelists, it’s your turn! A cultural institution par excellence, the Museum of Stamps and Coins displays the private collections of the Princes of Monaco. At the heart of this museum, situated on the Terrasses de Fontvieille, history unfolds through the objects on display, such as the first Monegasque stamps created by Prince Charles III in 1885 or the first coins minted by Prince Honoré II in 1640. 

11.00

The exploration of the Fontvieille district continues with a pleasant stroll along a pedestrian path that showcases sculpture. Created from a 23-hectare reclamation of land from the sea in the 1970s and 1980s, Fontvieille allows walkers to discover artists’ works in the heart of a large landscaped park and several green spaces. It is a delight to stroll amongst works by Botero, Rodin and Fernand Léger, set against the green of the gardens and the blue of the Côte d’Azur sky.

12.00

The culture of a city, a region or a country can also be understood through its cuisine, so head to the Place d'Armes, in the heart of the La Condamine district. From late morning onwards, the market reveals its colours, its scents and its typically Mediterranean atmosphere. You simply cannot leave without trying barbagiuàn, a true icon of Monegasque cuisine. Amidst the fruit and vegetable stalls, local specialities and the bustling terraces lining the square, this is the ideal spot to soak up the daily life of the locals. Whilst enjoying a socca, a pissaladière or a fougasse, take the time to admire the elegant surrounding façades or look up at the Prince's Palace , which towers over the Rock.

2.30 pm

Head up to the Exotic Garden district. To combine relaxation with sightseeing, the Exotic Garden Botanical Centre is home to the world’s largest collections of cacti and succulents – over 10,000 in total! Stroll through its three-storey glass-and-iron structure – a perfect haven of peace, complete with panoramic views of the Principality. A must for anyone seeking a break from it all…

Directly opposite is a neighbour with a keen interest in our long and rich shared history: the Museum of Prehistoric Anthropology. Founded in 1902 by Prince Albert I, it is Monaco’s oldest museum. It takes visitors on a journey through the ages thanks to its on-display collections, which trace the major stages in the evolution of humankind. A journey through time well worth taking!

6.30 pm

Head to the Hôtel Métropole Monte-Carlo for an elegant aperitif. Glamorous, elegant and welcoming, the Lobby Bar is the perfect spot for all your culinary desires. Amidst ever-changing ambiences, floral touches and a display of antique and collectable art, you can savour delicious cocktails. The décor, designed by Jacques Garcia – who has been behind numerous architectural projects around the world – creates a cosy, hushed atmosphere where you’ll feel right at home. Take a closer look at the various profiles displayed on the walls; you might recognise a few famous faces…

8.00 pm

The evening continues with a cultural twist. From January to December, the Principality offers the chance to marvel at a host of eclectic shows. Feel free to choose the programme that suits you best! Fancy some jazz? The Monte-Carlo Jazz Festival welcomes music lovers and curious visitors alike to the Opéra Garnier Monte-Carlo for some exceptional concerts. Prefer classical music? Discover the talent of the musicians of the Monte-Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra , voted Orchestra of the Year 2021, and enjoy a timeless evening. And if you’re visiting in January, enjoy the world-renowned performances at the Monte-Carlo International Circus Festival! Before or after this visual feast – depending on the programme – it’s time for a culinary delight… Take a seat at the Pavillon Monte-Carlo , a restaurant run by triple-Michelin-starred chef Yannick Alléno at the Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo. Light, flavourful cuisine and a resolutely local culinary identity await you there!