Monaco for 1 day: Luxury and Casino Monte Carlo

How does a day in Monaco look like when you’re not even staying in the city – or actually, in the country? I stayed in an Airbnb in the city of Nice. Luckily, my accommodation was just a few minutes from the airport and also a short walk from the Saint-Augustin train station, where direct trains depart every 30 minutes to Monaco and continue on to Italy. Perfect if you want to combine multiple destinations in one trip.

So I started my day with a journey into this miniature state. Principality? City? Country? Honestly, even I wasn’t sure for a moment what to call it. I hopped on the train in Nice and got off at the first stop in Monaco – Monte Carlo. And right away, the first surprise: the station is way underground. If you think you’ll go up two steps and be on the street, think again – it takes a good set of escalators to get there. But the moment you emerge into the sunlight, it all makes sense: luxury, villas, palm trees, and wealth at every corner.

Did you know? The Gare de Monaco – Monte Carlo is the only train station in Monaco and is almost entirely hidden inside a tunnel carved into the rocks. The train enters a country with a total area of just 2.1 km² – smaller than most airports. How and where to buy train ticked find out more HERE.

Journey to the Old Town: Palaces, Yachts, and a Racing Legend

I left the main train station and headed on foot toward the Old Town – the place where Monaco’s story really began. This area is home to the official Prince’s Palace, a beautiful cathedral, and the famous Oceanographic Museum, which literally clings to a cliff above the sea. But before I started climbing up to all that royalty, something caught my eye that I just couldn’t pass up.

Right by the harbor – where yachts line up for the perfect view of the legendary F1 track – I took a quick break. In front of me: luxury sailboats, a shiny Bugatti behind glass, and what made me smile the most – a statue of Juan Manuel Fangio.

Fangio was one of the greatest Formula 1 drivers of all time – a five-time world champion from the days when seatbelts weren’t even a thing. Monaco was always one of the most demanding tracks, and the statue shows him with the legendary Mercedes W196, a car that made history on these streets.

Bol to jeden z najväčších jazdcov Formuly 1, päťnásobný majster sveta z čias, keď ešte neexistovali ani bezpečnostné pásy, a Monako patrilo medzi najnáročnejšie trate vôbec. Socha ho zobrazuje pri legendárnom Mercedese W196, ktorý v Monaku zanechal silnú stopu.

From that spot, you can take the Rampe Major – a historic walkway that winds up the hill to Monaco’s cliff-top Old Town. The higher you climb, the better the views: the harbor, the palace, and the shimmering sea. So keep your camera ready – you’ll want to capture every step.

In Front of the Prince’s Palace: Where History Breathes Luxury

After a few minutes of walking uphill, the path suddenly opens up and you find yourself right in front of the Palais Princier de Monaco – the official residence of the Prince of Monaco. This palace has stood here since the 12th century, and over the years, many rulers from the Grimaldi dynasty have lived within its walls. And yes – the royal family actually lives here. This isn’t just a tourist prop.

The square in front of the palace feels grand yet peaceful. You can sit on a bench, stroll around, or – if you time it right (usually around 11:55 AM) – watch the changing of the guard.

Just nearby, there’s a souvenir shop where a simple wristband might cost you 5 euros. Not outrageous, but don’t expect Italian market prices. This is Monaco – where even the magnets are upscale. After all, it’s a country filled with millionaires.

And while you’re there, be sure to walk toward the famous “Frame” – a life-sized picture frame where you can snap a photo with all of Monaco stretched out behind you. Sure, it’s not as high up as Tête de Chien (link HERE), but the view is still jaw-dropping. You’ll see the sea, the port, and yachts that look more like floating villas than boats. Take a seat on the wall, breathe it in, and soak up the atmosphere of a principality where royal elegance meets coastal perfection.

A keď už budeš pri paláci, určite sa vyber smerom k známemu “Frame” – je to taký rám v životnej veľkosti, cez ktorý sa môžeš odfotiť s výhľadom na celé Monako pod tebou. Výška nie je síce ako z Tête de Chien (odkaz TU), ale zážitok je stále úžasný. Pred tebou sa rozprestiera more, prístav a jachty, ktoré vyzerajú skôr ako plávajúce vily než lode. Sadni si na chvíľu na múrik, vydýchni si a nasaj atmosféru kniežatstva, ktoré spája kráľovskú noblesu s dokonalým výhľadom.

Le Manteau de la Conscience – A Sculpture That Makes You Pause and Reflect

While wandering through Monaco, I stumbled upon a fascinating sculpture called Le Manteau de la Conscience (The Cloak of Conscience) – a masterpiece by Czech artist Anna Chromy. Carved from a single block of white Carrara marble, this sculpture depicts an empty cloak without a face or body, symbolizing inner reflection and spiritual awakening.

It’s located near the “Frame” and the Oceanographic Museum, and was gifted to Prince Albert II in 2014 by the German International Club of Monaco. Standing silently in its spot, it feels like a moment of calm and contemplation amidst the splendor of the principality.

Oceanographic Museum and the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception

After visiting the sculpture Le Manteau de la Conscience, I continued along the scenic loop atop Le Rocher – the historic heart of Monaco. Along the way, I was greeted by the impressive sight of the Oceanographic Museum, perched dramatically on a cliff above the sea. Founded in 1910 by Prince Albert I, the museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the underwater world – from sharks and corals to seahorses. The building itself is an architectural gem, more like a palace than a research facility. I didn’t go inside though… I was more interested in things that go vroom vroom.

Just a few steps away from the museum stands the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception (Cathédrale de Monaco), the final resting place of Monaco’s royalty – including Prince Rainier III and the legendary actress Grace Kelly. This white Romanesque-Byzantine church feels solemn and majestic, offering a peaceful contrast to the glitz of Monte Carlo. Inside, you’ll find stained glass windows, a grand organ, and a beautifully crafted marble interior.

Od múzea to bolo len pár krokov ku Katedrále Nepoškvrneného počatia (Cathédrale de Monaco), kde sú pochovaní monarchovia, vrátane kniežaťa Rainiera III. a legendárnej herečky Grace Kelly. Biela románsko-byzantská stavba pôsobí veľmi dôstojne a v kontraste s moderným leskom Monte Carla ponúka chvíľku ticha a úcty k histórii tohto malého, no bohatého štátu. Vo vnútri ťa čakajú vitráže, organ a nádherný mramorový interiér.

The Private Car Collection of the Prince of Monaco – A Paradise for Car Lovers

After visiting the sculpture, I headed to the Private Car Collection of His Serene Highness the Prince of Monaco, located in the La Condamine district. You can get your ticket [HERE] or directly at the entrance for about €10. This exhibition, open to the public since 1993, features around 100 vehicles, including historic automobiles, sports cars, and racing machines. And let me tell you – some of the gems I saw (and photographed) were absolutely mind-blowing:

• Bugatti Type 35 – A motorsport legend and winner of the first Monaco Grand Prix in 1929. Current value: approx. €1.8 million.
• Mercedes-Benz 300 SL “Gullwing” – The icon with upward-opening doors, known for its sleek design and performance. Value: around €1.5 million.
• Lamborghini Countach 5000 QV – The poster car of the ‘80s with its sharp lines and brutal power. Estimated at €450,000 – €600,000.
• Porsche 99X Electric – A revolutionary Formula E race car marking Porsche’s full-electric racing era. Price? Still a mystery.
• Rolls-Royce Phantom I – Famously used during the wedding of Prince Rainier III and Grace Kelly. Estimated value: €400,000 – €600,000.
• Aston Martin DB5 – The legendary James Bond car, elegant and lethal. Worth: €1.5 to €3 million.
• Porsche 911 Carrera RS – A timeless classic that couldn’t be missing from the collection. Price: €150,000 – €250,000, depending on the model.
• Porsche 908 – A racing beast from the 1960s that competed in Le Mans and Targa Florio. Value at auctions: €2 to €4 million.
• TAG Heuer Monaco Watch Edition – Yes, the collection includes iconic racing-inspired watches too. Price: around €8,000 – €10,000.

In total, this jaw-dropping collection is worth over €400 million and tells the story of automotive evolution – from chrome-and-steam era pioneers to modern hybrid F1 missiles.

If you’re even half the car enthusiast I am, this place is a must-see. And honestly, for just €10, it’s a steal compared to what’s waiting inside.

Ak miluješ autá aspoň z polovice tak ako ja, túto zbierku jednoducho nemôžeš vynechať. A neboj, vstupné je úplne rozumné – oproti tomu, čo uvidíš vo vnútri, je to doslova za babku, nejakých 10 € cca .

The Port, Yachts Bigger Than Houses, and the Best Beach in Monaco?

After soaking in all that Monaco had to offer, I headed to the port – just a short walk from the Private Car Collection of HSH the Prince of Monaco. And let me tell you – it’s a different universe. Yachts bigger than most homes, the kind where you could host a wedding, christening, and New Year’s Eve party all at once. It felt like walking through a billionaire documentary – except this time, it was real.

From the port, I made my way to Larvotto Beach, Monaco’s public seaside escape. It’s open to everyone and surprisingly relaxing. The surroundings? Pure elegance – luxury hotels, sea views, and supercars parked in front like something out of a childhood bedroom poster.

Following the narrow local streets, I reached the legendary Fairmont Hotel, home to the famous Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix hairpin turn – yep, that super tight one you’ve seen a thousand times on TV or social media. You can easily spend the whole afternoon here just watching Lamborghinis, Ferraris, McLarens, and maybe a Rolls-Royce or two cruise by. Monaco’s free car show, basically.

The Fairmont Monte Carlo is one of the most iconic and luxurious hotels in the principality – and for good reason. It sits directly above the Fairmont Hairpin, arguably the most photographed and slowest turn in the entire Formula 1 calendar.

During the Grand Prix, the place is packed with fans enjoying front-row views from their balconies. The hotel itself offers over 600 rooms and suites with views of the Mediterranean or lush gardens, and the nightly rates can soar beyond €13,000. So if your wallet’s already deep – this place will gladly take it deeper.

Počas pretekov sa tu hemžia nadšenci, ktorí si z hotelového balkóna vychutnávajú tú najlepšiu panorámu. Hotel ponúka vyše 600 izieb a apartmánov s výhľadom na Stredozemné more alebo záhrady, a ceny za noc sa môžu vyšplhať až nad 13 000 € – ak máš hlboko do vrecka, tu ti ho ešte prehĺbia.

Where to Eat? TIP TOP Restaurant

After so much visual luxury, I was starving. So I headed straight to the well-known Tip Top restaurant, located right next to the Monte Carlo Casino. You can find it here. I went classic – pizza and beer. The prices? As expected – Monégasque. Cappuccino €7, latte €7.50, pizza €25, and beer around €10. But when you’re sitting on the terrace, watching Lamborghinis fly by every minute, you realize: food really does taste better with a view of supercars and people in tailored suits wearing €30,000 watches.

I was so mesmerized by all the beauty on four wheels that I completely forgot to take a photo of the beer or pizza – just the drinks menu made it to my camera roll. “For research purposes, obviously.” I was just finishing up when two Americans sat down at the table next to me. It was around 5 PM, and they started talking about… breakfast. I was like, “guys… you’re a bit late, aren’t you?”

As it goes, we started chatting – small talk turned into real conversation – and by the time the bill came, they just casually paid for my entire meal. Two cappuccinos for them, pizza and beer for me. Their part came to around €17 with tip, and my more that €30 tab? On their card. “You made our day,” they said. I mean… who could be mad at that kind of generosity?

Ale ako to už býva, dali sme sa do reči – najprv small talk, potom väčší talk – a nakoniec, keď platili, mi úplne z fleku zaplatili moju večeru. Dve cappuccina pre nich, pizza a pivo pre mňa. Za dve ich cappucina platili aj s tringeltom cca 17 € a môj účet za nejakých viac ako 30 € išiel na ich kartu. Vraj preto, že som im spravil deň. No povedz, kto by sa nehneval na takú galantnosť?

Monte Carlo Casino

With a full belly and a smile on my face, I headed to the Monte Carlo Casino – an iconic building where history, luxury, and the chance to turn €10 into a Michelin-star dinner… or not, all come together. For me, it was a total first: my first-ever casino, my first bet, and my first drink in the lobby bar – a place open even to mere mortals. I went classic – vodka martini, shaken not stirred. When in Monte Carlo, go full Bond mode.

Entry to the actual casino is €18 at the time, and you had to show your national ID (if you’re from the EU) or a passport – a driver’s license won’t help you. You also get a voucher, which you can use either for a drink inside or for betting. Naturally, I used mine on the slots – only to find out later I could have exchanged it for a cocktail. Oh well… you live and learn.

Monte Carlo Casino isn’t just any gambling hall – it’s a legend. It opened in 1863 to save the principality from bankruptcy. And guess what? It worked. The profits from the casino built the foundation for Monaco’s wealth. The biggest twist? Monegasque citizens aren’t allowed to gamble there. That’s right – the government banned its own people from playing, so they wouldn’t lose their fortunes. The casino is exclusively for tourists – who are more than happy to leave a few euros behind.

The building itself looks more like a royal palace than a casino. Gold, marble, chandeliers – and that unmistakable Bond vibe. James Bond himself gambled here in GoldenEye and Casino Royale. Monte Carlo Casino is pure Monaco: where elegance meets adrenaline, and the scent of Rolls-Royces lingers at the door.

Ako som (ne)vedel hrať v kasíne a čo som zistil neskoro

How I (Didn’t) Know How to Gamble and What I Learned Too Late

Only later did I find out that when you stop playing, you can print a voucher from the slot machine – a little ticket with your balance, which you can either take with you or insert into another machine to continue playing. Of course, I didn’t know that, so I printed like five of them and brought them all back to the cashier to cash out. Well… lesson learned. 😄

What really caught my eye, though, was a game I just stood and watched – craps (back then, I didn’t even know what it was called). You throw two dice, and if you roll a 7, the round ends. Before that, players bet on various numbers or combinations – and if your number comes up before the 7, you win. Some people were just watching and betting without throwing dice themselves – and when their numbers hit, they got paid. Super intense and fun to watch, especially with the crowd yelling and cheering. 💥

I ended up spending nearly three hours at the casino – gambling, sipping drinks, and people-watching. And don’t worry – you don’t need a passport if you’re from the EU; your national ID is enough. What about dress code? A T-shirt and jeans will do – just no shorts. I personally wore a shirt because I thought it would be super formal, but then I saw a guy from Switzerland strolling around in a plain T-shirt… and he later got into a McLaren. So yeah, relax – it’s chill.

They’re actually not that strict – I was worried they wouldn’t let me in without a blazer, but long pants and a shirt were totally fine. As for the casino entrance hall, which I’ll show you in some photos – that area is free to enter, and you can walk in wearing shorts. Grab a drink in the lobby bar, watch the cars and stylish people roll by. But if you want to go into the actual gaming rooms, it’s an €18 entrance fee – and you’ll need trousers, no beach shorts, buddy. Oh, and heads-up – no photography allowed inside.

In the next part, I’ll show you how to spend an awesome half-day in Nice if you’re waiting for an afternoon flight and don’t feel like just wandering around the airport. So don’t forget – follow me on Instagram and sign up for the newsletter, so you won’t miss a thing!

Cross your boundaries – that’s where the treasure you’re seeking is hidden.

Flying Easterner