Free things are everywhere, even in the world’s most expensive cities. Sure, Monaco is regarded as the “millionaire’s playground,” but don’t be put off! You don’t need to spend a fortune to have fun in the rich city of Monte Carlo. Here, we’ve gathered the best free things to do in this side of France.
1. Drive around the city that offers scenic views
Monaco can be reached by three picturesque roads: the Basse Corniche (low coast road), the Moyenne Corniche (middle coast road) and the Grande Corniche (great coast road). The last one was where Grace Kelly and Cary Grant drove along in the movie To Catch a Thief by Alfred Hitchcock.
2. Visit the Prince’s Palace in Monaco-ville
This is perched on Rocher de Monaco, also known as “The Rock.” Watch the amazing changing of the guards in front of the palace at 11:55am. This is one of the activities that the tourists wanted to see so line up early for a great view. Also marvel at the statue of Francesco Grimaldi, who disguised as a monk, leading a raid on the castle in the 13th century.
3. Have a glimpse of the tombs of the Royal family
Go to the Monaco Cathedral near the Prince’s Palace and see the graves of the past members of the ruling Grimaldi family including Princess Grace and Prince Rainier, located at 4 rue Colonel Bellando de Castro.
4. Drop by the Monte Carlo Casino
Sure, it will cost you 10 euros to get into the gaming room, but it will cost you nothing wandering around the casino. Just bring your passport to show them that you’re a tourist as Monaco residents are banned here. Check out the posh cars parked outside the Belle Epoque building and the “Sky Mirror sculpture.
5. Stroll around the St. Martin Gardens
Just below the Monaco Cathedral is the St. Martin Gardens where you can smell the beautiful flowers and appreciate the scenic view of the Mediterranean.
6. Relax at the Japanese Garden
Clear out your mind in a Zen garden that has a waterfall and a stream. Located on the Avenue Princesse Grace, it it only open during the day.
7. Jog or Stroll in the Grand Prix de Monaco route
It won’t cost you anything to sweat it out in this part of Monaco. Just go to the tourism center in 2a Boulevard des Moulins and pick up a free map of the route, about 2 miles, passing the Monte Carlo Casino, the famous hairpin turn fronting the Fairmont, formerly the Loews Hotel Monte-Carlo ending in the coast with sights of yacht-filled harbours.
8. Have you passports stamped
Since there is no border checkpoint when visiting Monaco, you can go to the tourism office to have your passports stamped, to make your vacation more legit, or if you just want to have a memento.
