2 Best Sights in Monaco

Perched dramatically on a cliff, this museum is a splendid Edwardian structure, built under Prince Albert I to house specimens collected on amateur explorations, including Jacques Cousteau–led missions from 1957 to 1988. The main floor exhibits the skeletons and taxidermy of enormous sea creatures, early submarines and diving gear dating to the Middle Ages, and a few interactive science displays. The main draw is the famous aquarium, a vast complex of backlighted tanks containing more than 6,000 species of fish, crab, and eel in pools running 100–450,000 liters.

Most of Monaco's sights are concentrated—with tidy, self-conscious charm—on the broad plateau known as Le Rocher, or the Rock. Here, in the medieval heart of Monaco, you'll find the cathedral, palace, Musée Océanographique, and the delightful St- Martin Gardens, the country’s first public garden (open since 1816). Only vehicles with Monaco license plates can drive through the gate, but the No. 1 or 2 buses will get you to the top. If you're feeling energetic, climb the 42 steps of the Rampe Majeur from Place d'Armes, behind the right corner of the port. You can also approach the Rock by elevator from the seafront at the port's farthest end, though this, too, requires some walking.

Although area businesses are predominately souvenir stores that cater to cruise visitors, there are a few unique establishments, including Chocolaterie de Monaco, which has been open since 1920; the award-winning La Montgolfière restaurant; and Les 5 Saveurs ( 6 bis, rue Basse), a shop that sells Panier des Sens natural, made-in-Marseilles cosmetics and soaps that are favored by Monaco residents.