10 Great Things to do in Monaco on a Budget

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Monaco: An Expensive Little Country with Amazing Views

While in the south of France, I couldn't resist not going to this city that is also a country. I had heard of all the extravagances, and I had to see for myself. And when I arrived, I quickly saw just how expensive this city is. So I decided to make the most of it, but on a budget. Skipping the fancy restaurants for grocery stores, I saved the money for the actual sites. So here are some great things to see while on a budget.

A City Famous for Cars

10. Japanese Garden: away from the hustle and bustle of the city, this garden offers some serenity along with some great views. Showing off the blue water down below and surrounded by the mountains above, this garden is a nice blend of the Japanese style and the surrounding nature.

9. Saint Nicholas Cathedral: if you're a fan of royal history, this is the church where many of the royals are buried, including Princess Grace. So naturally this church is extravagantly beautiful, fit for kings and queens.

8. Place du Palais: if you go here at the right time, you get to witness the changing of the guard. Otherwise, this square is a great place to try and catch a peek a royal life, admire the city from above, or take a photo with a guard dressed in white.

7. Princess Grace Rose Garden: this garden is away from the city center and is almost like an oasis. With beautifully manicured rose bushes, this garden adds beauty to already stunning views. It is a nice stop for those looking for something new to see that's free.

Place du Casino

6. Larvotto Beach: this beach is a bit away from the city center, but it can still get crowded as it is the only major beach in the city. But it is beautiful thanks to the blue water and surrounding mountains along with the green trees and bushes everywhere.

5. Oceanographic Museum of Monaco: though this museum costs money, it is not the most outrageous thing to do. And it is world famous, so of course many go to check it out. The aquarium portion offered a great variety of animals and was very educational. But the museum portion was also a great experience as you can admire the beautiful architecture of the building and learn a bit about oceanography.

4. Place du Casino: since gambling costs money but this world famous casino is not one to be missed, check out the square just in front of it. That way you get to admire the extravagance but for free. And once in a while an expensive car, such as a Ferrari or Lamborghini, will drive by.

3. Monte Carlo Harbor: strolling along the harbor is beautiful and humbling. As you pass yacht upon yacht, you begin to wonder just how many people can fit on this huge boats and how much they cost. Nevertheless, this is a beautiful walk since the water is such a gorgeous deep blue.

View from Saint Martin Gardens

2. Fort Antoine: this fort overlooks the ocean, which means that it gives a breathtaking view of the harbor. With deep blue and huge boats, the climb of this steep hill is rewarded with these amazing sights.

1. Saint Martin Gardens: these gardens overlook another port and blend the beauty of manicured gardens with the deep blue sea and colorful background of the city. With views like these, who needs to spend money on a museum?

View from Fort Antoine