Monte Carlo’s best tours mix efficiency with local insight. The Hop on Hop Off bus hits all 12 major sights – perfect for first-timers who want flexibility and a good overview. I especially love the evening tours, when the city glows and the crowds thin out. The 5-Hour Night Tour shows you exactly why Monaco earned its glamorous reputation.
For those who prefer a personal touch, private guided tours are worth every euro. You’ll learn fascinating stories about the Grimaldi family and get practical tips about Monaco’s hidden corners. The shore excursion from Villefranche is particularly well-organized, taking you straight to the must-sees: Old Town, Prince’s Palace, and Casino Square.
The following tours stand out as our top picks for exploring this sparkling Mediterranean principality.
Key Points
- The Monaco Hop on Hop Off Sightseeing Bus Tour covers 12 stops, including major landmarks, with frequent bus service and multilingual audio commentary.
- The Monaco and Monte Carlo by Night 5-Hour Tour offers an immersive experience highlighting iconic landmarks and the city’s vibrant nightlife.
- The Private Tour in Monaco provides a personalized experience led by a knowledgeable guide, focusing on the principality’s rich history and captivating architecture.
- The From Villefranche: Private Monaco & Eze Shore Excursion offers a comprehensive tour of Monaco and the nearby town of Eze, with convenient pickup and drop-off.
- The Private Tour: Personal Travel Photographer Tour in Monaco provides a professional photographer to document your experience, with an online gallery of the photos.
Monaco Hop on Hop Off Sightseeing Bus Tour
Although a popular way to see the top sights in Monte-Carlo, the Monaco Hop on Hop Off Sightseeing Bus Tour provides a mixed experience.
On the positive side, the tour offers a convenient way to visit 12 designated stops, including the Princes Palace, Monaco Cathedral, and Monte Carlo Casino. The buses run every 30 minutes, and passengers can access multilingual audio commentary and the Bateau Bus service across the Monaco Harbour.
However, the tour has received some negative feedback. Some passengers have reported issues with overcrowding, difficulty hearing the audio commentary, and long waits or bus breakdowns.
Plus, the lack of information on meeting points has caused confusion for some visitors. At €24.00 per person, the tour may not offer the best value for money, especially given the mixed reviews.
Read our full review: Monaco Hop on Hop Off Sightseeing Bus Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Monaco and Monte Carlo by Night 5-Hour Tour
For those looking to experience the glamour and excitement of Monte Carlo after dark, the Monaco and Monte Carlo by Night 5-Hour Tour provides a captivating alternative to the daytime hop-on hop-off bus.
This evening tour takes visitors on a journey through the principality’s most iconic landmarks and hidden gems, illuminated by the city’s dazzling nighttime ambiance.
Guests can expect to visit the legendary Monte Carlo Casino, the opulent Hôtel de Paris, and the stunning Prince’s Palace, all while learning about the region’s rich history and culture from a knowledgeable guide.
The tour also includes a stop at the breathtaking Jardin Exotique, where visitors can admire the intricate landscaping and panoramic views of the city.
With a duration of 5 hours, this tour offers ample time to take in the glamorous nightlife of Monte Carlo.
From witnessing the high-stakes gaming tables to exploring the upscale shops and restaurants, this experience promises to leave a lasting impression on all who participate.
Read our full review: Monaco and Monte Carlo by Night 5-Hour Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Tour in Monaco
Providing an intimate and personalized exploration of the Principality of Monaco, the Private Tour in Monaco offers visitors a comprehensive glimpse into the nation’s rich history, captivating architecture, and lively culture.
With a duration of 2-3 hours, this private tour whisks guests through the nearly entire territory of Monaco, showcasing major attractions like the Cathedral, Monte-Carlo Casino, and hidden gems.
Led by the highly knowledgeable and enthusiastic guide, Milana, the tour provides an authentic local experience, sharing insights into Monaco’s unique history, Formula One racing, and lifestyle.
Travelers are treated to a comfortable pace with ample opportunities for photo stops and breaks.
Boasting a 95% recommendation rate from 20 reviews, this tour is praised for its thoroughness, engaging content, and overall exceptional experience.
Priced at $53.04 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the Private Tour in Monaco offers an unparalleled way to discover the principality’s captivating charms.
Read our full review: Private Tour in Monaco Review
Book now: Check availability
From Villefranche: Private Monaco & Eze Shore Excursion
Departing from the picturesque port of Villefranche-sur-Mer, this private shore excursion offers travelers an immersive exploration of Monaco’s glitz and Eze’s medieval charm.
Priced from £428.37 per group of up to 8 participants, the 4-hour tour showcases the region’s top sights. In Eze, guests can wander through artisan shops and enjoy panoramic vistas before an optional visit to the Parfumerie Fragonard.
The excursion then continues to Monaco, where visitors can discover the Old Town, the Prince’s Palace, and the Cathedral, catching the changing of the Palace Guards. Guests also enjoy a lap of the iconic Formula One Grand Prix circuit in Monte Carlo.
With convenient pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transport, and high customer ratings, this shore excursion provides an exceptional value for those seeking an immersive experience of the Côte d’Azur.
Wheelchair-accessible options are available, and free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: From Villefranche: Private Monaco & Eze Shore Excursion Review
Book now: Check availability
Monaco & Monte Carlo Tour Review
Travelers seeking an immersive journey through the captivating world of Monaco and Monte Carlo have an exceptional option in the 3-hour “Monaco & Monte Carlo Tour – F1, Grace Kelly & Royal History.”
This small-group excursion, limited to a maximum of 6 participants, offers a comprehensive exploration of the region’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems. Highlights include the renowned Monte Carlo Casino, the Formula 1 Grand Prix track, the Royal Palace, and the Oceanographic Institute, among others.
The tour also features a water taxi ride, local snacks, and personal photo opportunities, as well as surprises along the way. Led by the enthusiastic and knowledgeable guide, Jenny, the tour has received unanimous 5-star ratings from travelers, who praise its informative, engaging, and personal nature.
Accessible via public transportation and suitable for moderate fitness levels, this tour is highly recommended for first-time visitors seeking to uncover the rich history and stunning scenery of this iconic destination.
Read our full review: Monaco & Monte Carlo Tour Review Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Tour: Personal Travel Photographer Tour in Monaco
For travelers seeking to immortalize their Monaco experience, the Private Tour: Personal Travel Photographer Tour in Monte-Carlo offers a unique opportunity. This private tour provides visitors with a professional photographer who’ll document their trip, capturing stunning images tailored to their individual preferences.
Boasting a 100% recommendation rate from 11 reviews, the tour promises access to an online gallery where guests can freely download their personalized photographs.
The tour’s meeting point is conveniently located at Cartier in the heart of Monte-Carlo, with the experience ending back at the same location. Priced at $282.20 per group of up to 10 people, the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it family-friendly.
While food, drinks, and travel costs aren’t included, the tour company will contact guests within 48 hours to provide further details. With the option to reserve now and pay later, and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, this tour offers flexibility and convenience for those eager to preserve their memories of Monaco.
Read our full review: Private Tour: Personal Travel Photographer Tour in Monaco Review
Book now: Check availability
Sum Up
Monaco and Monte Carlo offer a variety of sightseeing tours that cater to different interests and budgets. Visitors can choose from hop-on hop-off bus tours, private tours, and even a private photography tour to explore the principality’s iconic landmarks, such as the Grand Casino, the Prince’s Palace, and the Formula One circuit. Whether you’re looking for a guided experience or the flexibility to explore at your own pace, there are plenty of options to make the most of your visit to this picturesque destination.