HOLIDAY IDEAS
10
REASONS
Monaco
TO VISIT
It may be known as a playground for the rich and famous but there are many fantastic sights
to be seen in Monaco, even without a bottomless pocket, as Nina Richards discovers...
1
Sun and sand
With 300 days of sun a year, it is easy
to pass time on one of Monaco’s beautiful
beaches – the main public beach is the
Larvotto Beach but there are many private
beaches; or take a stroll along the world’s most
famous port where millionaires’ yachts sparkle
in the sunshine. The best time to visit Monaco
is spring before the summer crowds arrive.
2
Try your luck
Pleasure is a serious business in Monaco
and whether you fancy your chances or not,
you can’t go there without seeing the majestic
Monte Carlo Casino built in 1878. Paved
Clockwise, from above: Monaco’s famously glittering port; The Princely Palace and glitzy Casino
in marble, the building is surrounded by 28
Ionic columns in onyx. of Monaco to see the glamorous and exciting
The “gaming rooms” Grand Prix considered “the jewel in the Formula 8
Fruits of the sea
Both French and Italian influences
are spectacular, featuring One crown”. Taking place from the 13th-16th combine to create delicious Mediterranean
stained glass windows, May 2010, it is the perfect time for motor sport dishes in Monaco, where fresh seafood is
splendid decor and enthusiasts to visit the principality. a staple. Some of the most famous and
sculptures. expensive restaurants can be found opposite
the Casino and in the Hôtel de Paris, while
3
Treat the senses 6
Royal intrigue
Monaco has the longest ruling royal family the waterfront is home to more affordable
For more than a century, outstanding in Europe – the House of Grimaldi, who have restaurants and cafés.
international performances of opera, ballet reigned for over 700 years. In 1956, Prince
and concerts have been staged at the Monte Rainier brought Hollywood glamour to Monaco
Carlo Opera House. In particular, the Monte when he married American 9
Shop til you drop
Known worldwide as a tax haven,
Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra based at Garnier actress Grace Kelly. Royal you can shop in designer boutiques for a little
Palace and famous children’s choir, the Little influence can be seen less in Monaco. And despite all the labels you
Singers of Monaco, are music to the ears. throughout Monaco, from don’t have to be a celebrity to shop there, as
the Princely Palace to the more high street shops have opened in recent
4
M
aritime moments Princess Grace Rose Garden. years. The open-air markets in Monte Carlo
The Musée Océanographique de Monaco give a taster of authentic Monaco and are a
is a must-see. The museum has been built into
the cliff face and has breathtaking views of 7
Arts capital great place to pick up a souvenir.
Monaco is rich with artistic splendour. The
Monaco and its coastline. Inside, exotic sea Princely Palace houses an Italian-style gallery
life and historical artefacts are displayed on and 15th century frescoes, and inside Monaco’s 10
Spoilt for sport
Not only can fans of sport attend
several levels, and marine mosaics embedded cathedral there is much to admire, including an events of international stature, such as the
in floors and walls enhance the experience. altarpiece by the Niçois painter Louis Bréa dating Monte Carlo Tennis Masters, but they can also
from 1500. Contemporary art lovers should be participate in a wide range of activities, from
5
Feeling racy sure to visit the Monaco Modern Art Gallery and watersports to golf. Magnificent venues such
Each year since 1929, spectators from Marlborough Gallery, while the New Museum as the open-air Rainier III Nautical Stadium
all over the world have taken to the streets organises cultural events throughout the year. do not reflect the size of this tiny country. fm
● For more holiday ideas in Monaco, please go to
www.visitmonaco.com
36 ■ french magazine
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