Nestled between Nice and the Italian border, Monaco is famed for its glamour, epitomised by events like the Yacht Show and the Grand Prix, as well as its iconic Monte Carlo Casino. However, this principality offers much more than opulence and sophistication. Its historic district features a fortress perched atop a rocky promontory, Mediterranean-style residential houses with colourful balconies, and the century-old La Condamine Market, where locals and visitors gather daily to enjoy traditional dishes like socca (a flatbread made from chickpea flour) and barbajuan (a savoury pastry stuffed with ricotta and Swiss chard).
Monte Carlo, the most famous district in Monaco, owes its name to Prince Charles III, who initiated its construction in the 19th century. Once a barren plateau called Spélugues, dotted with olive and carob trees, it is now a global symbol of luxury.
What to do
Begin by ascending to Monaco’s old town and the rocky promontory for breathtaking views of the cityscape and Mediterranean.
The Prince’s Palace of Monaco, dating back to the 12th century, is a must-see. It opens to visitors and hosts summer concerts in its courtyard.
The Cathedral of Notre-Dame-Immaculée, where Grace Kelly married Prince Rainier III, is another essential stop.
For a luxury shopping experience, explore the prestigious Avenue de Monte Carlo and Allée François Blanc. These streets are home to the world’s most exclusive fashion boutiques, haute couture houses, perfumeries, and jewellers, embodying the refined allure of this elite destination.
Where to eat
Flavio Briatore’s Billionaire Monaco is a multidimensional playground for the elite. Launched in 1998, it has become synonymous with luxury dining and entertainment, offering a one-of-a-kind dinner-show experience. Hosted at the Salle des Étoiles in Sporting Monte Carlo, the venue boasts 1,000 square metres of space, panoramic views, and an unforgettable stage for nightly live performances.
At Le Louis XV — Alain Ducasse, located in Hôtel de Paris, the legendary chef Alain Ducasse brings his culinary mastery to Monaco. A Monegasque citizen, Ducasse oversees an empire of over 30 establishments worldwide. His signature vegetable-based menu, Jardins de Provence, introduced in Monaco in 1987, remains a benchmark of French haute cuisine. Today, his protégé, Emmanuel Pilon, continues to create dishes that honour the Mediterranean and its finest ingredients.
Where to sleep
The Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo, an exquisite Belle Époque masterpiece, was built in 1896 by Monegasque architect Nicolas Marquet in collaboration with Gustave Eiffel, who designed its stunning winter garden dome. Acquired in 1928 by the Société des Bains de Mer de Monte Carlo, this five-star hotel is recognised as a historical and cultural landmark. With luxurious accommodations like the Diamond Suite Présidentielle and Diamond Suite Princière, it ranks among the world’s most prestigious hotels.
Another iconic establishment is the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, situated on the Place du Casino. This legendary hotel blends timeless elegance with proximity to renowned attractions, including Michelin-starred restaurants, the Opéra Garnier, Monte Carlo Casino, and the Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo.
