Monaco's tourism is the main driver of events and activities in Monaco all year round. Expatriates working in Monaco will have plenty of choice in terms of leisure activities over weekends, during holidays and festivals. There are several major events each season – from sporting events (Grand Prix, PGA Golf Tournaments, Tennis Masters, Car Rallies) to arts and culture (Ballet, Opera and Philharmonic seasons; theatre and live performances) and festivals (International Circus Festival, International Fireworks Festival, Fete de la Mer or Festival of the Sea).

Many expatriates also travel extensively along the Riviera and other parts of Europe, given the relative ease to travel by rail, car or bus. Traveling within Europe is common and regular among expatriates and locals alike, especially during the holidays and usually over the weekends.

When living on the Riviera, it is imperative to soak in some of its beach and maritime culture. The main public beach is the Larvotto Beach. Not all beaches in Monaco are free – some beaches are private and reserved for exclusive use (e.g. Monte-Carlo Beach Club). Water sports (jet skiing, windsurfing, para-sailing) is possible during summer months at the Monte-Carlo Beach Club. There are also swimming pools – the Rainier III Swimming Pool, and the Prince Albert Swimming Pool in Louis II Stadium in Fontvieille. If you would like to learn how to sail, The Monaco Yacht Club conducts sailing classes. The Monte-Carlo Country Club is an all-rounded club with facilities for golf (18-hole, par 71), squash courts, 22 tennis courts, a swimming pool, fitness gyms, billiards, sauna, and so on.

Apart from the exclusive clubs, sports is very much part of Monaco living for the locals. The Monaco Sports Association operates a huge sports complex for all kinds of sports from basketball to judo to weight-lifting. Locally, petanque (or boules) is a popular sport played in parks all over the Riviera. In some cases, there are competitive tournaments, and teams come dressed in matching outfits.