The Best Things to do in Monaco and the French Riviera

Monte Carlo Casino: No trip to Monaco is complete without a trip to the Monte Carlos Casino. Even if you're not a gambler, the casino is worth a visit. The casino floors don't open until 4 p.m. for gaming but prior to that you can go on a tour of the building. If you choose to gamble, there is a 17 Euro fee that you will be charged but then you will receive a 10 Euro voucher that can be used on slots or in one of the restaurants there.

Beaches: The beaches in Monaco are incredibly beautiful. I was lucky enough to be able to book a hotel that was on the beach with a balcony that had an ocean view. The water is clear, and the beaches are clean and there are multiple restaurants along the water that you can visit.

Shopping: Monaco is a great place for luxury shopping. Even walking up to the Monte Carlo casino, you will find some of the best boutiques in the world. Just beware, with Monaco being one of the richest countries in the world, you won't be finding budget items.

Museums: Visit the Musée océanographique de Monaco to learn about the marine science in Monaco.

Take a walk: With Monaco being the second smallest country in the world, you can walk from one side of the city to the other in less than an hour. On your stroll through this beautiful city, you'll be able to tell how wealthy the country is with all the luxury vehicles and shops. You are much more likely to see a Lamborghini or Ferrari parked on the street than an economy car.

Private Car Collection of the Prince of Monaco: If luxury vehicles are your thing, you're in luck in Monaco because there is a museum of the luxury cars owned by the Prince of Monaco.

Tours: Take a tour outside of Monaco. You can do a tour of the French Riviera, visit three countries in a day, or visit one of the many wineries that are not too far from Monaco.

Visit Nice: There's a train that you can take from Monaco to Nice, France that takes about 30 minutes. Once in Nice you can explore the Old Town, including the flower market, and take a walk along the beach or swim in the ocean.

MayaBay: One of my favorite restaurants in Monaco is MayaBay. This restaurant offers a unique experience with its decor and Thai Japanese cuisine. You can get anything from sushi rolls to Wagu beef in Thai spices and everything I had there was incredible.

Tip Top: Ater a night of gambling at the Monte Carlo casino, Tip Top is located within walking distance and is open 24 hours. This is a great place for late night food after a night of drinking and gambling.

Monte Carlo Casino: For some incredible cocktails you can enjoy a wide selection of drinks from the Monte Carlo casino but beware, you will pay a premium for cocktails on the casino floor. Usually around 22 Euros.