Best Time to Visit

Discover Monaco's glamorous events from Grand Prix to dazzling fireworks.

The prestigious F1 event, the Monaco Grand Prix, takes place on the Circuit de Monaco winding through Monte Carlo. The first Grand Prix was in 1929 and the event has been held annually since 1950. The race is challenging and the iconic race has the slowest average speed on the F1 timetable because of the winding streets the cars must navigate. The event is filled with glitz, glamour, and elegant parties and it occurs in late May.

Larvotto Beach is a stunning sunbathing and swimming destination by the crystal clear water of the Mediterranean with a white sandy beach and a wonderful assortment of restaurants and cafes. It’s the only public beach in Monaco and offers lots of water sports like surfing lessons, kitesurfing, yacht cruises, kayaking, jet skiing, scuba diving. It’s best from June to September when the weather is at its warmest.

The International Fireworks competition features spectacular pyrotechnic displays from countries around the world set to music. It lights up the skies with several nights of explosions in July and August. Beginning in 1991, the Monaco Yacht Show draws 30,000 in Port Hercules and showcases luxury yachts, super yachts, marine technology, and eco-friendly sea faring vessels. The high-end nautical experience takes place in September.

In late January, the legendary auto race, the Monte Carlo Rally, is a part of the World Rally Championship and features stages through the French and Italian Alps. This technical and challenging race often faces unpredictable weather, starts in various nearby cities, and its finish line brings the racers to Monaco.

An annual international Circus Festival that began in 1974, also occurs in January. This fun event features acrobats, clowns, animal trainers, and breathtaking stunts and acts. Princess Stephanie, daughter of Grace Kelly, is heavily involved in putting on this event.

And the Rose Ball, an institution since 1954, is a prestigious and elegant charity event organized to raise money for the Princess Grace foundation. In March or April, celebrities, royalty, and philanthropists attend an evening of elaborate decor, music, and floral themes.