Welcome to Monaco, the pearl of the Côte d’Azur, where luxury, culture and breathtaking scenery meet. Whether you’re drawn to the historic treasures of the Rock, the glamour of Monte Carlo or the natural beauty of the gardens, Tour Azur offers you the opportunity to discover this iconic principality in one unforgettable day.
Enjoy top-of-the-range service, optimal comfort and the freedom to explore at your own pace with our private and shared excursions, tailored to your desires.
Monaco's must-sees in a day
The choice is so delicate! We have selected for you four exceptional visits to Monaco.
The Prince's Palace
Monaco’s Palais Princier is one of the principality’s must-see attractions, offering exceptional panoramic views from its position overlooking the city. This masterpiece of late Renaissance architecture, with its sumptuous furnishings, is still inhabited by the princely family.
Only the Grands Appartements are open to the public, and they’re packed with treasures to discover, including a magnificent courtyard of honor, 16th-century frescoes and the majestic Throne Room.
Don’t miss the Changing of the Guard, a fascinating military ceremony that takes place every day at 11:55 am. The Prince’s Carabinieri perform maneuvers across Palace Square, to the sound of drums.
The Palace is open between 10am and 6pm as a general rule, with closing times varying according to the season. There is a charge for admission (€10 per adult, €5 per child).
Monaco Cathedral
Monaco Cathedral, built in 1875, is a magnificent example of Romanesque-Byzantine architecture. It is a major symbol of the Principality’s history and houses the tombs of the princely family.
Built on the site of the former Church of Saint-Nicolas, a monument demolished after the separation of the Nice diocese from Monegasque territory in the 19th century, today’s cathedral embodies Monaco’s spiritual and historical heritage.
The visit is free of charge. The cathedral is a 5-minute walk from the Palais Princier, a 20-minute walk from the train station, and a 30-minute walk from Place du Casino.
The Oceanographic Museum
Monaco’s Oceanographic Museum is a must-see for marine life enthusiasts. The museum houses a vast collection of fish and marine animals, as well as captivating exhibitions on oceanography.
The museum also offers a number of interactive activities to enhance your visit, including :
- Observation of seaside animals,
- An immersive virtual reality experience with “Immerseave 360°,”
- An escape game for a fun and educational adventure.
Prices are €19 for adults and €12 for children.
Le Jardin Exotique
Monaco’s Jardin Exotique is an iconic venue with three distinct areas to explore:
- The Garden, born of the passion of the Head Gardener of Saint-Martin Gardens for succulent plants. His enthusiasm soon attracted the attention of Prince Albert I, who decided to devote an entire garden to these plants. Officially inaugurated in 1933 by Prince Louis II, the garden boasts an exceptional collection of succulents and a breathtaking view of the sea.
- The Grotte de l’Observatoire, discovered during the construction of the Garden, was opened to the public in 1950. The guided tour of the cave, included in the entrance ticket, takes you down 300 steps from 98 meters to 40 meters above sea level.
- The Botanical Center houses an impressive collection of cacti and succulents, among the largest in the world. The greenhouses, located outside the main garden enclosure, preserve this important botanical heritage.
💡 Note: the Garden and Grotto will be closed in 2024 for renovation and security work.
Cultural attractions in Monaco
There’s no shortage of them, and the choice is a difficult one. In one day, we recommend three cultural sites.
Casino de Monte-Carlo
We have written a comprehensive article on the Monte-Carlo casino Its history, architecture, traditional table games, slot machines and poker tournaments will no longer hold any secrets for you.
We also provide details of luxury restaurants and bars, as well as shows and special events. And, of course, we mention VIP services and private lounges, before offering our best advice on how to make the most of your visit.
The Monte-Carlo Opera
The Opéra de Monte-Carlo, also known as the Salle Garnier, is a performance space adjacent to the Casino. The venue boasts a varied repertoire, combining traditional opera with contemporary music. Thanks to its exceptional acoustics, the Opéra de Monte-Carlo hosts prestigious events such as the Monte-Carlo Jazz Festival, which brings together the greatest jazz artists every autumn.
The New National Museum of Monaco
The Nouveau Musée National de Monaco (NMNM) showcases the Principality’s heritage and promotes contemporary art through temporary exhibitions at two emblematic sites: Villa Paloma and Villa Sauber.
Both villas have magnificent gardens that are open to visitors. Villa Sauber is one of Monaco’s last remaining Belle Époque villas.
You’ll find modern art (performing arts, fauvism) and contemporary art (landscapes, performances).
The museum is open from 10am to 7pm (or 6pm depending on the season). Admission is €6 for a combined ticket to both villas. Admission is free on Sundays and for children under 26.
Monaco's best panoramic views
If you enjoy unbeatable spots, discover three of Monaco’s most beautiful panoramas in a single day.
The view from the Rocher
The “Rocher” or “Monaco-ville” is the oldest part of the Principality of Monaco. Although the Principality is equipped with numerous elevators, only one can take you up to the Rocher, accessible from the Chemin des Pecheurs underground parking lot.
Three key locations offer breathtaking views:
- Ruelle Sainte-Barbe: a splendid view of the Mediterranean, the port and the Fontvieille district.
- The promontory near the statue of Prince Albert I: an ideal vantage point from which to admire the sea and the Oceanographic Museum.
- Fort Antoine, at the end of the Rocher: a must-see photo spot with panoramic sea views.
The view from the Jardin Exotique
Monaco’s Exotic Garden, perched on a cliffside, offers one of the Principality’s most spectacular views. From its pathways, you can admire a panorama that extends over several emblematic points:
- the Rock of Monaco, where the Prince’s Palace proudly stands,
- the lively Fontvieille district with its picturesque port,
- the French and Italian rivieras.
The view of Port Hercule from Tête de Chien
For a bird’s eye view of Monaco, this promontory is located just outside Monaco. Here you can admire :
- Port Hercule, Monaco’s main port, famous for its luxury yachts.
- The Rock of Monaco with the Prince’s Palace, Monaco Cathedral and the Oceanographic Museum.
- The Casino de Monte-Carlo, located near the Place du Casino.
- The Fontvieille district, a modern neighborhood built on land reclaimed from the sea.
- The French Riviera, with towns like Cap d’Ail and Beaulieu-sur-Mer, as well as the surrounding mountains
Practical tips for a successful day in Monaco
Here we answer the questions most frequently asked by our customers.
When is the best time to visit?
Thanks to its mild climate and wide range of cultural and sporting activities, the Principality of Monaco can be visited all year round. The Formula 1 Grand Prix, the Printemps des Arts Festival and the European Poker Tour regularly attract visitors. There’s always a reason to visit Monaco! If weather is an essential criterion, we advise you to come between May and October.
Our clothing advice
It is strictly forbidden to wear a bathing suit or go topless on public roads in Monaco.
For the dress code specific to the Casino de Monte-Carlo, please consult our dedicated article.
Transport and logistics
Exploring Monaco on foot is the ideal way to appreciate its heritage. Thanks to a large number of elevators and staircases, every district can be reached in just a few minutes. Crossing Monaco from east to west takes just 45 minutes.
Other transport options are also available:
- Bus.
- Monabike (self-service electric bicycles).
- Bus boat.
Tour Azur services for your visit to Monaco
We take care of everything, while you enjoy your day.
Private and group tour options
Our private tours
A private tour is a customizable guided tour, with you and your loved ones, that includes a private driver-guide. He accompanies you to each site for a guided tour.
If the Rock of Monaco is at the heart of your interests, we offer three private tour options.
Monaco by night from Nice or Cannes
At dusk, follow the coastal road to the Rock of Monaco, then explore the iconic Formula 1 Grand Prix circuit.
Monaco Monte-Carlo & Eze from Nice
Visit the village of Eze and a perfume factory, admire the Princely Palace, the Monaco Grand Prix track and the legendary Place de Monte-Carlo.
Monaco, Monte-Carlo & Eze
Visit the village of Eze and a perfume factory, admire the Princely Palace, the Monaco Grand Prix track and the legendary Place de Monte-Carlo.
Our shared tours
Shared tours involve traveling with other people in a common vehicle, following a predefined itinerary. The driver takes you to the various places on your itinerary, but does not give guided tours. To discover Monaco, we offer two tour options.
Monaco, Monte-Carlo & Eze from Cannes
Visit the village of Eze and a perfume factory, admire the Princely Palace, the Monaco Grand Prix track and the legendary Place de Monte-Carlo.
Monaco, Monte-Carlo & Eze from Nice
Visit the village of Eze and a perfume factory, admire the Princely Palace, the Monaco Grand Prix track and the legendary Place de Monte-Carlo.
Tour Azur promises you an unforgettable travel experience by combining comfort and safety on board its luxury vehicles. Whether you’re traveling in a Mercedes Luxury Vito Tourer minivan, a Mercedes Prestige Class V minivan or a Porsche Panamera sedan, you’ll enjoy leather seats and air conditioning.
Our multilingual drivers ensure your comfort and safety. They are trained in first aid and comply with strict safety standards.
Luxury vehicles for optimum comfort
Our suggestions for a personalized tour with Tour Azur
Private tours allow you to fully customize your tour, according to your own desires. Here are a few ideas to choose from.
Discover emblematic neighborhoods
Did you know that Monaco, with an area of just 2 km², is home to seven distinct districts?
- Monaco-Ville: “Le Rocher” is full of picturesque little streets. Here you’ll find major historical sites such as the Prince’s Palace, the Oceanographic Museum and the Cathedral.
- Monte-Carlo: renowned for its famous casino, Monte-Carlo is a constantly evolving district, known for its hotels, restaurants and luxury boutiques.
- Le Jardin Exotique: located in the hills above Monaco, this residential neighborhood is close to the Monaco train station.
- Fontvieille: often perceived as Monaco’s industrial zone, Fontvieille is nevertheless home to interesting attractions such as the Stade Louis II, the heliport, a shopping center, the Musée du Timbre et de la Monnaie, and Monaco’s second port.
- La Condamine: considered to be the heart of the Principality, this district is distinguished by its shopping street, Rue Caroline and Avenue Albert 1er, where you’ll find numerous restaurants and nightlife venues.
- Le Larvotto: this seaside district is renowned for its buildings and hotels with direct access to the beaches, as well as iconic landmarks such as the Salle des Étoiles and the Grimaldi Forum.
- Saint Roman: this quiet residential area is home to the Monte-Carlo Country Club.
Finally, a new district, “Le Portier,” is currently under construction and is due to open in 2025. It will add six hectares to the Principality, with numerous luxury villas and apartments, and will be located between the port of Monaco and the Larvotto district.
A tasting of local specialities
Discover the authentic flavours of Monaco through some of the unmissable local specialities:
- Barbajuan: a small fried roll stuffed with chard, spinach, ricotta and parmesan is a classic of Monegasque cuisine.
- Perles de Monaco: oysters caught in the port of Fontvieille with a delicate hazelnut taste.
- Pavés du Rocher: sweets made with cream, honey, citrus fruit and almonds, carved in the shape of a rock.
- Galapian: a sweet tart with almonds and cherries, flavored with vanilla.
- Bière de Monaco: a beverage brewed from organic malts at Brasserie du Port Hercule.
- Monaco Cocktail: red and white, made with grenadine and white beer, it reflects the colors of the Principality’s flag.
Free time for shopping
Monaco is a top destination for shopping enthusiasts, with unforgettable locations:
- The Métropole Shopping Monte-Carlo, a shopping center or rather a veritable temple of luxury, offers access to haute couture boutiques and jewelry shops.
- The Pavillons Monte-Carlo are home to major fashion and design brands. Their futuristic architecture makes them a highly sought-after venue.
- The Promenade Monte-Carlo Shopping is lined with luxury boutiques and internationally renowned designers.
- The Carré d’Or brings together the most prestigious haute couture and jewelry houses.
For more casual shopping, you have :
- Fontvieille Shopping Centre: clothing, sports and electronics stores, a supermarket and a number of local boutiques.
- The Grimaldi and Princesse Caroline pedestrian streets offer a variety of stores.
Why choose Tour Azur for your visit to Monaco?
For more than 25 years, we’ve been accompanying travelers and professionals alike.
The benefits of a guided tour
Choosing Tour Azur means discovering Monaco in a very different way than you would by cab, for example. Our advantages are :
- Excellence: we are committed to offering top-of-the-range service to make your trip to the Côte d’Azur an unforgettable experience.
- Know-how: our dedicated team pays attention to every detail to ensure a smooth and memorable travel experience.
- Experience: over the years, we’ve fine-tuned our offering and taken on board our customers’ recommendations to offer you an unrivalled tourism experience.
Professional drivers and expert guides
Our drivers take on a dual role: they are not only experienced drivers, but also specialized guides.
We chose them for their driving skills, their foreign language skills, and their real knowledge of the Côte d’Azur.
Thanks to rigorous training, they have become true ambassadors for the places you’ll discover alongside them.
Book your 1-day tour of Monaco with Tour Azur
Booking your tour with Tour Azur is quick and easy. Our team is available 7 days a week and will get back to you within 24 hours to finalize all the details. Don’t hesitate to contact us.
In conclusion, Monaco offers a unique experience. With Tour Azur, every detail has been thought of to offer you the best of the Principality. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience an exceptional day in the heart of Monaco. Book your tour today and let us guide you through the hidden treasures and must-sees of this exceptional place. Your Monaco adventure starts here!
