In Monaco, family holidays can open young minds to nature, history, culture, science, and sport, all within one compact and easily explored destination. Across just over 2 square kilometres, families can travel effortlessly between museums, gardens, beaches and attractions using public lifts, escalators, buses, electric bikes or the tourist train, while the Principality also makes an ideal base for exploring the Riviera.
- Become a young explorer
Monaco’s iconic Exotic Garden has reopened after 6 years of renovation, welcoming families back to its spectacular cliffside setting. Children can wander among thousands of cacti and succulents, discover the fascinating Observatory Cave, enjoy the new playground and continue their adventure at the nearby Museum of Prehistoric Anthropology to uncover the region’s earliest inhabitants.
Where to stay: Fairmont Monte-Carlo with the Little Explorers Club, family pool and babysitting service.
- Become a marine scientist
The Oceanographic Museum transforms marine conservation into an unforgettable adventure. Families can explore the immersive Méditerranée 2050 exhibition before children join the Ocean Club, where they discover biodiversity, prepare meals for marine animals and venture behind the scenes of the aquariums. The experience continues on the Mediterranean with solar-powered boat excursions and sustainable whale watching in the Pelagos Sanctuary.
Where to stay: Hotel Métropole Monte-Carlo offers a dedicated Just for Kids suite and an after-hours Night at the Museum experience at the Oceanographic Museum.
- Live Like Monaco royalty
Young princes and princesses can step inside the Prince’s Palace, follow a children’s activity trail and witness the daily Changing of the Guard. Throughout the year, families can immerse themselves in Monaco’s traditions during the colourful U Sciaratu summer carnival, Printemps des Arts Monte-Carlo (free entry under 25) and the annual European Heritage Days, when 40 cultural landmarks open their doors to the public.
Where to stay: Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo, where the Very Important Kids (VIK) programme welcomes young guests with creative workshops, pastry classes, games and family experiences.
- Follow sporting champions
Walk part of the legendary Formula 1 Grand Prix circuit, admire around 100 historic vehicles at the Car Collection of H.S.H. Prince Rainier III, then visit Stade Louis II, home to AS Monaco Football Club and AS Monaco Basket. Families can complete the day at Larvotto Beach, the Rainier III Nautical Stadium or enjoy paddleboarding and kayaking along Monaco’s coastline.
Where to stay: Le Méridien Beach Plaza, Monaco’s only hotel with a private beach, featuring Le Méridien Family kids’ club, banana boats, water skiing and seasonal water sports.
- Become an artist
Creativity comes naturally in Monaco. At the New National Museum of Monaco, children can enjoy guided tours, holiday workshops, treasure hunts and weekly Family Weekends at Villa Sauber and Villa Paloma. Families can also discover Monaco’s open-air art collection (over 200 sculptures) by following the Rainier III Sculpture Trail through the Principality’s gardens and parks.
Where to stay: Novotel Monte-Carlo, offering spacious family rooms, an outdoor pool and a central location within walking distance of Monaco’s major attractions.
- Become a gourmet Chef
Young food lovers can roll up their sleeves and discover Monaco’s culinary scene through a range of workshops led by some of the Principality’s most talented chefs. At Hôtel Métropole Monte-Carlo, Michelin Guide Executive Pastry Chef Patrick Mesiano leads the “Little Chefs Green” workshops, where children learn zero-waste pastry techniques and seasonal cooking while creating delicious treats to take home. Meanwhile at Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer, expert pastry chefs, chocolatiers and Meilleur Ouvrier de France artisan bakers introduce families to the art of chocolate making and French baking.
Where to stay: Columbus Monte-Carlo, Curio Collection by Hilton, provides a family suite for up to 6 children under 12, Kids Club and slumber parties.
Across the Principality, children are welcomed as VIP guests with immersive activities, inspiring cultural experiences and hotels designed with the whole family in mind, offer far more than just a Mediterranean getaway.
