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An Insider’s Guide to Monaco

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Published
06/24/2019

The Formula 1 circus may have departed but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do in Monaco. The tiny nation is a playground to the uber-wealthy with its lavish attractions and stunning views. Whether you’re a French heiress or just want to live like one, here’s an insider’s guide to Monaco.

Where to Stay

Monaco is the home of many luxurious hotels. The Monte Carlo Beach Hotel is one of them with its rocky sea views but there are many others. The Hotel de Paris Monaco is perhaps the best known of the lot. Opened in 1863, the historic building has 99 rooms of varying luxury. It has been the setting for Hollywood films and glamorous photography alike.

But it is another lesser-known hotel which gets the recommendation. The Hotel Hermitage Monte Carlo is the discreet sibling of the Hotel de Paris but is no less luxurious. The Hermitage has over 270 rooms as well as numerous bars and a Michelin-starred restaurant. There is even an underground spa accessible via a series of secret tunnels. But if you prefer the sun on your back, the Hermitage has stunning rooftop terraces to relax and take in the sights.


What to Do

A historic city, Monaco is so much more than fast cars and yachts. The Palace of Monaco is the home to the Sovereign Prince. First constructed over 800 years ago, the Palace was once a fortress but now welcomes visitors in for guided tours. It is still very much an operating palace and the headquarters for its resident.

Monaco and Formula 1 are forever connected. The city’s cramped and curving streets are closed for one day a year as race day takes over. State-of-the-art million-dollar cars wind around the urban city streets at speeds of over 180 miles-per-hour. Motorheads will want to visit the Private Collection of Antique Cars of H.S.H. Prince Rainier III. There is everything from a 1903 De Dion Bouton to a 21st century F1 car. Rolls Royce, Lincoln, Ferrari, Maserati, and Lamborghini are all on display at this impressive collection.


But there are alternatives if the sound of car engines becomes too loud. There are areas of quiet and tremendous natural beauty. The Japanese Gardens are a popular destination but of course, the main natural attraction is the water. The Fisherman Cove is a tiny secluded spot with wonderful sprawling views of the Mediterranean. Of course, the best way to see the water is in person. Monaco has no shortage of yachts to charter for an afternoon or longer. Check out Yacht Charter Fleet to see some of them.


In terms of nightlife, who can beat an evening at the historic casino? The Monte Carlo Casino is a lavish 150-year-old establishment which has served as a setting for three James Bond films. But is still very much an operating casino complete with tables, games, and slots. Just be sure to brush up on your skills at an online casino like Betway prior to your visit.


There is no shortage of places to spend money in Monaco. The indoor Metropole Shopping Centre is home to designer brands from all over the world. The Marché de La Condamine is at the other end of the spectrum. It’s an open-air street food market with a 150-year history. Some great alternative forms of entertainment include a trip to the Oceanographic Museum or the Monaco Open Air Cinema.


Where to Eat

Naturally, there is no shortage of places to eat in Monaco. The south of France is a food haven with Michelin Stars aplenty. The three-star Le Louis XV at l'Hôtel de Paris is the standout. Run by chef Alain Ducasse, the restaurant is amongst the best in the world. The two-star Joël Robuchon Monte-Carlo is an excellent alternative.

Being on the coast, seafood is prevalent in the city-state of Monaco. La Vistamar is another Michelin-starred restaurant in the area which serves up delicious fish and crustacean dishes. Being so close to France and Italy, wine is the norm in Monaco. The city is flanked by some of the best wine regions on the planet so a good bottle is never too far away.

There are plenty of other great restaurants and eateries which may not be on the Michelin Food Guide. Coya is a popular spot on the coast, providing a Mexican twist on the region’s ingredients. Another lively location is Buddha Bar. It's an Asian fusion restaurant which becomes a bouncing bar after dinner service concludes.

But the previously mentioned Condamine Market is also a great place to grab a snack. Local delicacies include the barbajuan, a cheese, spinach, and meat-stuffed fried pastry parcel. Truffle pasta is a common sight and is often served with socca, a flattened chickpea bread which is common in the region.

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