Exotic Gardens, Photo Credit: Monaco Press Center Photos
Monte Carlo is a playground for the rich and famous, but the luxe destination on the French Riviera has something for kids, too. From exploring the renowned Oceanographic Museum to checking out Prince Rainier III’s vintage car collection, your children will have plenty to explore.
Here are our Forbes Travel Guide editors’ picks of the five best things to do with kids in Monte Carlo:
Oceanographic Museum. The 1910 building that houses the Oceanographic Museum in nearby Monaco-Ville towers cliffside above the Mediterranean Sea. Your kids will love exploring the 90 pools of rare Mediterranean and tropical species and visiting the Shark Lagoon — it has bright, colorful fish on one side of a coral reef and predators on the other.
The beach. Larvotto, Monaco’s only public beach, is a great place to take the little ones. Set in front of Avenue Princess Grace, the popular beach features a playground and calm waters for swimming or snorkeling. A lifeguard is on duty in July and August to ensure a safe beach day.
Classic cars. Prince Rainier III’s classic car collection will impress both you and your kids. Located in the Fontvieille district, the Monaco Top Cars Collection is home to all sorts of beauties — everything from sports cars to horse-drawn carriages. Around 100 vehicles are on display from names like Ford, Maserati and Rolls-Royce.
Exotic Gardens. Even if your children aren’t budding botanists, they will enjoy the Exotic Gardens. It’s a lovely display of stalactites and cacti in a glorious setting overlooking the French Riviera. Kids will especially like touring the cave at the cliff’s base. Be sure to also visit the Anthropology Museum, which sits within the gardens.
Zoological Gardens. While this zoo is on the smaller side, it is a fun activity for tykes. Founded in 1954 by Prince Rainier III, the zoo is home to approximately 50 different species of exotic birds, primates, hippopotamus, black panthers and more.
