Things to do in Monaco: the attractions worth your time

The old town sits on the Rock, a raised promontory reached by public lift, stairs or road. It holds the Prince's Palace, the cathedral and the narrow streets that most photographs of Monaco come from.

The Changing of the Guard takes place daily in front of the palace and draws a crowd, so arrive early if you want a clear view. State Apartments open to visitors seasonally, so check current opening before planning your morning around them.

Built into the cliff face on the Rock, the Oceanographic Museum is Monaco's most substantial indoor attraction and works well for mixed-age groups or a hot afternoon.

Allow around two hours. The rooftop terrace gives one of the best sea views in the principality and costs nothing extra once you are inside.

Casino de Monte-Carlo, the Hôtel de Paris and the Café de Paris frame the square. Even without gambling, the square is worth walking through for the architecture and the cars.

Entry to the casino gaming rooms requires identification, a minimum age of 18 and appropriate dress. Beachwear, shorts and sportswear are not accepted, and standards are stricter in the evening.

The harbour is the natural link between the Rock and Casino Square, and the walk along the quays is flat and short. It is the best place in Monaco for lunch with a view without a formal reservation.

In late September the port hosts the Monaco Yacht Show, and in May it becomes part of the Grand Prix circuit — both weeks change access, prices and availability across the principality.

The Jardin Exotique clings to a cliff above the city with succulents, a cave system and long views along the coast. It sits well above the centre, so factor in the climb or a bus.

Larvotto beach, the Japanese Garden and the Sainte-Dévote chapel fill gaps in an itinerary without adding pressure to the day.

Monaco is walkable but vertical. A network of free public lifts and escalators connects the levels; using them turns a punishing climb into a two-minute ride.

A car is more trouble than it is worth for sightseeing. Parking is expensive and traffic in the tunnels is slow at peak times.

Restaurant tables in the port and around Casino Square go quickly in summer and during event weeks. Fix your lunch and dinner bookings before you fix anything else.