One Day in Monaco: Glitz, Glamour, and Gastronomic Delights
My partner hired a new business coach to work with who sold his recruitment business for millions and set up a new life as an Ex-Pat in Monaco. They were arranging their first Discovery coaching session, which is normally a four hours Teams call – but my partner decided a trip to Monaco for a face to face meeting was a far more appealing option! So our one day in Monaco adventure idea was born.
The dates just so happened to coincide with my birthday, so obviously I had to go along for the ride. Our flights were quickly booked, so was a room with a view at the Monte Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort, my new Beis Weekender travel bag was having its first outing and we were off to spend two nights and 72 hours in Monaco.
Monaco, is a sovereign state in the French Riviera, known for being the playground of the rich and famous, brimming with luxury, beauty, and style. Even if you’ve only got one day in Monaco to spare, you can easily soak in all the luxury without missing out on much, bearing in mind it’s only 2km squared.
We did our research before travelling to discover things to do in one day in Monoca, got recommendations of where to eat and booked in advance, asking his coach (being a local) if you only had one day in Monaco – how would you spend it? In reality we had two and a half days in Monaco, but really wanted to make sure we made the most of it!
Here’s how we spent One Day in Monaco
Accommodation at the Monte Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort
We chose to stay at the Monte Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort, which is a four star hotel overlooking the Mediterranean ocean. Driving up to the hotel valet, the first thing you notice are the luxury cars in the parking bays, Ferrari, Rolls Royce, Lamborghini and Porches seem to be the standard cars here in Monaco. The next thing I noticed walking into the hotel reception was the sheer smell of luxury – the hotel smelt AMAZING! I want the scent to be my home scent now.
Our room was stunning. We had a balcony and room with a sea view – a must for me whenever I am near the ocean. The Monte Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort has it all, with beautiful outdoor gardens, lagoon-like pools spa facilities as well as the coolest art – which I loved. Hotel reception were very friendly and welcoming, since it was my birthday when we visited I was kindly gifted chocolates and treat, it’s always the extra thoughtful gestures that make a stay special. I’d highly recommend it for anyone who is looking to stay there.
For Monaco – it may have been the time of year we visited – February the room rate was really reasonable, our room was £350 per night.
Midday Sunday Brunch at La Môme Monte-Carlo
Brunch at La Môme Monte-Carlo is a must if you happen to be in Monaco on a Sunday – it definitely felt like ‘The Destination Place to Be’ in Monaco on a Sunday afternoon. It was popular with the locals, which is always a good sign, and the atmosphere was amazing with a live band and singer singing famous dance anthem classics.
La Môme Monte-Carlo overlooks the Mediterranean and the Marina full of luxury yachts, so the views are amazing.
The brunch selection was huge, with seafood, salads, light bites and sweet treats like crepes and macaroons for after.
The brunch deal offers an alcohol or non-alcohol option. My partner is a wine drinker so he went for the brunch which included alcohol around 118 euros, I prefer Gin which wasn’t included, so I went for the non-alcohol option around 80 euros.
Great service, fun atmosphere and good food – highly recommend for a Sunday brunch.
Afternoon visit to the Japanese Garden
The Japanese Garden is on the Avenue Princess Grace and is a lovely little oasis in the middle of Monaco, there is a lovely small lake and a Japanese Tea House in it as a place you can sit peacefully in to enjoy the beautiful garden setting
Have lunch at Plage du Larvotto, Monaco’s only beach
Late afternoon stroll around the Marina
A leisurely stroll here isn’t just about the boats; it’s about experiencing the lifestyle that defines Monaco. The Marina offers a glimpses into the world of wealth that is everyday life in Monaco and the natural beauty that surrounds this tiny principality.
Late Afternoon Gamble at Casino de Monte Carlo
No visit to Monaco is complete without stepping into the legendary Casino de Monte Carlo. It felt like being on the set of a movie scene standing outside it, as it is just so familiar from film sets like Casino Royale. The architecture in Casino Square is just stunning, whether you’re there to place a bet or simply to soak in the ambiance, the Casino de Monte Carlo is testament to Monaco’s grandeur and absolutely worth a visit.
Evening Dinner at Cafe de Paris
We opted for dinner in Cafe de Paris at the end of the day as we had been recommended we visit and it didnt disappoint! In the heart of Casino Square the surroundings were just stunning and the restaurant had a lovely atmosphere to it -the food was delicious too. Dining here is not just about the food; it’s about the experience of people watching from the terrace as tourists and locals stroll up to the Casion to enjoy their evening. The outdoor terrace provides a front-row seat to the comings and goings in the square, making our meal here an event in itself.
One day in Monaco final thoughts
Although in reality we were in Monaco for three days, two nights, I’ve summarised our best bits into one day – and even then, there is so much more we could have done. I still cant believe we never got round to visiting the Prince Palace of Monoca – but I see that as another excuse to visit again – which is definitely part of our plan!
Being in Monoca felt expansive – when you surround yourself with so much wealth it expands your mind to think bigger about your potential and what is possible as you know that it’s within your reach too – I love expansive thinking, helping you to step into Your Next Level Self.
Questions about One Day in Monaco
Can I explore Monaco in just one day?
Absolutely! Monaco is the second smallest country in the world, so it’s possible to see the main attractions in a single day. Plan your itinerary carefully to include top sights like the Casino de Monte Carlo, the Marina, and the Prince’s Palace.
Do I need to speak French to visit Monaco?
While French is the official language, Monaco is a cosmopolitan place where English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. Knowing a few French phrases can enhance your experience, but it’s not essential.
Is Monaco expensive to visit?
Monaco is known for its luxury and, accordingly, can be quite expensive. However, budget-friendly options are available, including affordable dining spots and free attractions like the stunning gardens and the changing of the guard at the Prince’s Palace.
Can I visit the casino even if I don’t gamble?
Yes, the Casino de Monte Carlo is open to visitors for tours during certain times of the day, allowing you to admire its Belle Époque architecture and lavish interiors without gambling.
