Our Favorite Monaco Tours
A Family Trip to Monaco
Cultural Discovery of Monaco
A Romantic Getaway to Monaco and the Riviera
An Unforgettable Trip to Monaco
Experience Provence, the French Riviera, and Monaco
Luxurious Escape to Monaco
Monaco in Depth
Discover Monaco’s Allure
Monaco, a jewel on the Mediterranean, boasts its own unique charm within the glittering realm of the French Riviera. This tiny principality seamlessly merges opulence with timeless elegance. Under the radiant sun, its azure waters beckon, promising a taste of true Mediterranean luxury. Indulge in Monaco’s extravagance with Michelin-starred dining, glamorous yacht cruises, legendary nightlife, and the world-renowned Monte Carlo Casino. From the enchanting village of Roquebrune-Cap-Martin to the glitzy heart of Monte Carlo, Monaco’s allure has consistently captivated celebrities and the jet-set crowd.
Luxury yacht and sea in Monaco
Each May, the world’s elite converge on Monaco for the prestigious Formula 1 Grand Prix, an event that ignites the city’s streets with roaring engines and excitement. In September, the Monaco Yacht Show showcases a stunning array of yachts along the iconic Port Hercules, a testament to the area’s maritime prestige. Saint-Rainier’s Day in November is Monaco’s National Holiday where events take place across the principality to celebrate their heritage.
History
The complex history of Monaco stretches back to 1297 when it became an independent principality. This is when François Grimaldi seized the fortress now known as the Prince’s Palace, and the Grimaldi family has ruled Monaco ever since. The opening of the Casino de Monte Carlo in 1863 put the Monaco on the map and established the principality as a destination for discerning travelers. For many, when you think of Monaco you think of the famous American princess, Grace Kelly. Monaco’s enduring appeal as a playground for the wealthy and influential is exemplified by its tax haven status, which has drawn both high-rollers and business magnates.
Neighborhoods of Monaco
Monaco Ville – The Rock: Monaco’s historic heart is situated on a rocky promontory with sweeping views overlooking the entire principality. Monaco-Ville is known for its medieval architecture, narrow winding streets, and landmarks such as the Prince’s Palace, the Monaco Cathedral, and the Oceanographic Museum. Come to this quarter for stunning panoramic views of the sea.
Monte-Carlo: This upscale neighborhood is famous for its luxurious lifestyle, upscale shopping, and world-renowned Casino de Monte-Carlo. It also features beautiful parks, gardens, and high-end restaurants, making it a hub for the international jet-set and a popular tourist destination.
Larvotto: Larvotto is Monaco’s beachfront neighborhood, known for its beautiful sandy beach, seaside promenade, and high-end beach clubs. It’s a popular spot for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. Head here for afternoon drinks with views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Logistics:
When to go: Monaco enjoys a predominantly dry and sunny climate throughout most of the year, making it a year-round destination. Spring and fall are particularly enchanting, with pleasant weather and fewer crowds, offering a more intimate experience. While certain coastal hotels close during the winter months, Monaco remains accessible and inviting, making it possible to explore its captivating allure throughout the entire year.
Getting to Monaco is a breeze, thanks to its excellent transportation infrastructure. As the country is only a 30-minute drive from Nice, most visitors arrive at Nice Cote d’Azur Airport, France’s second busiest international airport. If you prefer to arrive in style, the best way to get to Monaco is by private helicopter transfer directly from the airport. Travelers can easily make their way to the principality with direct train connections across France. Monaco’s accessibility by air, land, and sea ensures a seamless start to your unforgettable journey along the French Riviera.
What to eat and drink:
Monaco’s culinary scene is as exquisite as the principality’s surroundings combining influences from the neighboring countries of France & Italy. The local fare celebrates the abundant sun-soaked produce of the region and an emphasis on fresh seafood. To savor the authentic flavors of the principality, try Monaco’s street food such as the savory Barbaguian Pastry (a delectable pastry filled with Swiss chard and ricotta), Socca (chickpea pancake), or Tarte aux Noix (Walnut Tart). In addition to local specialties, the Monégasque culinary scene offers an array of contemporary international restaurants, six of which are Michelin-starred. Monaco even has it’s own cocktail, the Monaco Spritz, a refreshing combination of L’Orangerie (Monégasque orange liqueur) & Champagne.
Experience Monaco
Prince’s Palace
Explore the Palace which has a long history and has been extended and renovated several times over the centuries. Its origins date back to the early thirteenth century – 1215 to be exact. Following a succession of transformations, the ancient Genoese fortress became one of the most luxurious residences of the seventeenth century, in a style extremely characteristic of the Louis XIV era.
Casino of Monte-Carlo
Explore the casino of Monte Carlo which has breathtaking decor, the casino unveils to all history lovers with its mythical decor. It is a venue of all the legends of the Principality, you will discover the gaming rooms, the Atrium, and the Café de la Rotonde in a unique setting, the symbol of the Luxury of Gaming. Extraordinary memories are just waiting to be created.
Oceanographic Museum
Monaco’s Oceanographic Museum is an extraordinary monumental jewel constructed 130 years ago by Prince Albert I of Monaco. In the history of its existence, museums and marine ecosystem researchers have assembled a richest collection of ocean flora and fauna, as well as objects directly associated to the marine business: copies of ships, weapons and tools. Out of curiosity, tourists will find a large scale fish species, two hundred copies of sea invertebrates and countless corals.
Roquebrune & Menton
To appreciate the authentic Monaco you must understand how an isolated perched village became a prosperous country that attracts the largest fortunes of the world. For that, head to Menton, the Pearl of France and to Roquebrune, a typical medieval village with the oldest castle in France. Both were part of Monaco until 1848, and both are equally splendid.
Favorite Hotels
Hotel Hermitage Monte Carlo
Hotel de Paris Monte-Carlo
Monte-Carlo Beach
Hotel Monte-Carlo Bay
The Maybourne Riviera
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