Imagine waking up to Monte Carlo. Awestruck, I gazed at the blue harbor full of glitzy superyachts with prismatic skyscrapers along the mountainside, glistening in the hot Riviera sun… As an Acupuncturist-at-Sea, I was elated for my day off to explore the luxurious Monaco. I enjoy sharing my experiences and tips, so read on to learn about the top Monte Carlo attractions.
Monaco is a sovereign state on the Mediterranean’s French Riviera and bordered by France. It is the second smallest country in the world, after the Vatican City. Monaco’s most famous city, Monte Carlo, lies on its deep-water Port Hercules on an escarpment at the base of the Maritime Alps. Furthermore, Monaco has four traditional quarters: Fontvieille, Monaco-Ville (Old Town), La Condamine, and Monte Carlo.
Its iconic landmark is the monolith, Rock of Monaco at 62-m high. On top of this rock is the Old Town and the Prince’s Palace looking out over the Mediterranean Sea. It is especially well-known because this is where the famous Hollywood actress, Grace Kelly, lived as the wife to Prince Rainier III. Additionally, Monte Carlo is famous for its lavish and legendary casinos at its western end, including the world-renowned Place du Casino, the gambling center. Also, the Formula One Monaco Grand Prix is considered one of the most prestigious automobile races in the world, taking place on the Circuit de Monaco on the last weekend of May.
Top Monte Carlo Attractions
Attractions on The Rock or Le Rocher at Old Town aka Monaco-Ville
Firstly, the quickest and most scenic way to the top of the rock is the steps along the path called Rampe de la Major. You will see the Porte d’entrée au Rocher or Gateway to Rock.
Prince’s Palace of Monaco:
Perched on top of The Rock is the royal residence, the Prince’s Palace of Monaco where the Grimaldi family has lived since the 13th century. This includes the most famous residents, Grace Kelly and Prince Ranier III. The state apartments are open for tours March – October. Even more, every day at 11:55 am visitors can watch the Changing of the Guard. The palace was built in 1191 as a Genoese Fortress, besieged many times by foreign powers. Because the Grimaldi Family has remained in this one residence since the 13th century, it reflects the complete evolution of their reign.
Monaco Cathedral or Cathedral of Our Lady Immaculate:
This Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Monaco is a Roman-Byzantine style built in 1875. It houses the tombs for many of the Grimaldi’s, including Grace Kelly and Prince Ranier III. Furthermore, in the tours I observed the famous tombs.
Jardin St. Martin:
These beautiful gardens make up numerous paths on the southwest face of the Rock of Monaco. It includes various flora, such as, yellow agaves and Aleppo pine trees along with statues on its terraces.
Oceanographic Museum and Aquarium of Monaco:
Built over 100 years ago, the Oceanic Museum and Aquarium is dedicated to marine sciences and research. Prince Albert I (also a Sea Captain) founded it along the edge of the cliffs of the Rock of Monaco and Mediterranean Sea. The Aquarium is one of the best in Europe including more than 90 tanks.
Monte Carlo, Fontvieille and La Condamine Attractions
Larvotto Beach:
This is one of the most popular and glamorous beaches in Monaco, so stake out your spot early. Like many French Riviera Beaches, it is made out of pebbles instead of sand. So, wear sturdy shoes. There are plentiful loungers and umbrellas for rent, as well as clean facilities and cafes for amenities. Being immersed in the atmosphere, the mountains loom as a backdrop with the harbor full of glitzy yachts, high-rise apartments and sparkling waters. So, grab a lounger, umbrella and glass of champagne to make a toast for the moment.
Botanical Gardens:
Fontvieille’s Princess Grace Rose Garden is a wonderful sanctuary from the hustle bustle of Monte Carlo. Overall, this garden displays about 315 species of 6,000 rosebushes with a gorgeous bronze statue of Princess Grace. Additionally, the Exotic Garden is a dream world along the La Condamine’s Cliff, showcasing a collection of rare plants and cacti of more than 1,000 plant species. Also, there is an underground cave here.
Place du Casino:
The legendary reputation for a lively culture bustling with high rollers at the luxurious casinos since 1863. This is one of the ultimate ways to explore Monte Carlo from the heart of it all at the Place du Casino. Here you can explore the landmarks, such as, the Casino de Monte Carlo, Casino Café de Paris, and Sun Casino aka “Little Vegas.”
Overall, Top Monte Carlo Attractions
Monaco is an extravagant destination in every sense of the word with natural and culture wonder. The glitzy and luxurious money displayed here is a haven for material wealth. It’s a reminder of what they mean when they say the top 1% in context to financial wealth. However, I was much more impressed with the wealth in culture and nature of the French Riviera, from which everyone gets a slice.
Read More!
Historic Valletta, Malta’s Top Sites to See
The Iconic & Historic Rock of Gibraltar Highlights Tour
A Fantastic Walking Tour in Bordeaux Old Town & Wineries
