Monaco

The principality of Monaco, or the city-state Monaco, is located between the Alps and the Mediterranean Sea, bordered to the east and west by the French Riviera, with the Italian Riviera just a few kilometers to the east.

This is the world’s second-smallest sovereign state (after the Vatican) and is nearly completely urban. Monte Carlo is a government district, not the capital of Monaco. Monaco-Ville (the ancient city), the Condamine (the port district), Monte-Carlo (business and leisure), and Fontvieille are the four regions of the nation (recreation and light industry). With no natural resources to exploit apart from its position and temperature, the principality has evolved into a tourist destination and a tax shelter for companies. Monaco is six times the size of the Vatican and the most densely inhabited nation on the planet. While its boundaries have not changed since 1861 (when it de jure lost more than 80% of its territory to France), Monaco has continued to expand its territory by constructing artificial land from the sea, which is how the Fontvielle region came to be.

If your bank account allows it, try your luck at the Grand Casino and gamble alongside the world’s wealthiest and frequently most famous people. You’ll need your passport to enter (Monégasque nationals are not permitted to gamble at the casino), and entrance costs vary greatly depending on which room you visit – frequently ranging from 30€ to hundreds of euros. You may also go to the casino without playing for a little charge. Inside, the dress code is very strict: males must wear jackets and ties, and casual or ‘tennis’ shoes are not permitted. The game rooms themselves are breathtaking, with stained glass, paintings, and sculptures adorning every surface. In Monte Carlo, there are two additional Americanized casinos. There is no entrance charge for either of these, and the dress code is more relaxed.

The most well-known Formula One Grand Prix is held on the streets of Monaco. It is also one of Europe’s most important social events of the year. Every year, the Automobile Club of Monaco hosts this magnificent Formula 1 event. The Grand Prix lasts 78 circuits through Monte Carlo’s most tight and twisty streets. The closeness of the fast Formula One vehicles to the race fans is the primary draw of the Monaco Grand Prix. The thrill of roaring engines, burning tires, and desperate drivers adds to the excitement of the Monaco Grand Prix, making it one of the most thrilling races in the world. More than 3,000 tickets are available for purchase on the circuit, with prices ranging from 90€ to more than 500€. Monaco residents often rent out their terraces for the four-day festival, with rates ranging from 8000€ to 140,000€. During the off season, you may stroll around the circuit. The path is well indicated on tourist office maps, but believers won’t need them! Those who can afford it may also take a trip around the track in a high-performance vehicle.

The Azur Express is a fun tourist train that makes daily excursions around Monaco. The Monaco Port, Monte-Carlo and its Palaces, the renowned Casino and its gardens, the Old Town for City Hall, and lastly the royal Prince’s Palace will be visited. The commentary is available in English, Italian, German, and French. This pleasant trip lasts about 30 minutes and costs 6€; children under the age of 5 ride free.

In the summer, Monte-Carlo comes alive with spectacular performances at the elite Monte-Carlo Sporting Club. Among those who have performed at the club have been Natalie Cole, Andrea Bocelli, the Beach Boys, Lionel Richie, and Julio Inglesias. The club also has a tiny casino with basic casino games. The cost per person is 20€ if no one under the age of 18 is present.

Monaco has a hot-summer Mediterranean climate that is affected by both the oceanic and humid subtropical climates. As a consequence, it has hot, dry summers and moderate, wet winters. Cool and wet interludes may break up the dry summer season, which is also shorter on average. Summer afternoons are seldom hot (temperatures over 30 °C or 86 °F are uncommon) since the atmosphere is moderate due to continuous sea breezes. The evenings, on the other hand, are extremely pleasant owing to the relatively high temperature of the sea in July. Temperatures seldom fall below 20 °C (68 °F) throughout this season. Frosts and snowfalls are very uncommon in the winter, occurring just once or twice every 10 years.

Monaco is a sovereign city-state on the French Riviera in Western Europe, comprising 5 Quartiers and 10 Wards. It is bounded on three sides by France’s Alpes-Maritimes département, with one side touching the Mediterranean Sea. Its center is about 16 kilometers (9.9 miles) from Italy and just 13 kilometers (8.1 miles) northeast of Nice, France. Monaco is the world’s second smallest and most densely inhabited nation, with an area of 2.02 km2 (0.78 sq mi) or 202 hectares (500 acres) with a population of 36,371. The nation has a land boundary of just 4.4 km (2.7 mi), a coastline of 4.1 km (2.5 mi), a marine claim of 22.2 km (13.8 mi), and a breadth ranging from 1,700 to 349 m. (5,577 and 1,145 ft).

At 164.4 metres (539 feet) above sea level, the entrance to the Patio Palace residential building (Jardin Exotique area) from the D6007 (Moyenne Corniche street) is the highest point in the nation. The Mediterranean Sea is the country’s lowest point. Saint-Jean is the longest flowing body of water, measuring about 0.19 km (0.12 miles), while Fontvieille is the biggest lake, at approximately 0.5 hectares (1.24 acres). The most populous Quartier in Monaco is Monte Carlo, while the most populous Ward is Larvotto/Bas Moulins. Monaco’s total area has increased to 2.02 km2 (0.78 sq mi) or 202 hectares (500 acres) following the recent expansion of Port Hercules; as a result, new plans have been approved to extend the district of Fontvieille by 0.08 km2 (0.031 sq mi) or 8 hectares (20 acres) using land reclaimed from the Mediterranean Sea. Extending the Fontvieille district is one of the current land reclamation initiatives. Monaco has two ports: Hercules and Port Fontvieille. Monaco’s sole natural resource is fishing; since virtually the whole nation is urban, Monaco lacks any commercial agricultural sector. Near Monaco, there is a nearby French port named Cap d’Ail.

Monaco has the world’s second highest GDP nominal per capita of US$153,177, GDP PPP per capita of $132,571, and GNP per capita of $183,150. It also has a 2% unemployment rate, with over 48,000 employees commuting daily from France and Italy. Monaco has the world’s lowest poverty rate and the greatest number of millionaires and billionaires per capita, according to the CIA World Factbook. Monaco was the world’s most expensive real estate market in 2012 for the fourth year in a row, at $58,300 per square metre.

Tourism is one of Monaco’s major sources of revenue. Every year, a large number of foreigners are drawn to its casino (where residents are prohibited access) and nice temperature. It has also developed into a significant banking hub, with over €100 billion in assets under management. The principality has been successful in diversifying its economic basis by focusing on services and small, high-value-added, non-polluting businesses such as cosmetics and biothermics.

The government maintains monopolies in a number of industries, notably tobacco and the postal service. The state used to control the whole telephone network (Monaco Telecom); it currently owns just 45 percent, with the remaining 55 percent held by both Cable & Wireless Communications (49 percent) and Compagnie Monégasque de Banque (6 percent ). It is, however, still a monopoly. The quality of living is excellent, approximately equivalent to that of wealthy French urban regions.

Monaco does not belong to the European Union. It is, nevertheless, extremely tightly connected to France through a customs union, and as such, its currency, the euro, is the same as that of France. Monaco used to manufacture its own coins, the Monegasque franc, until 2002. Monaco has obtained the authority to manufacture euro coins featuring Monegasque patterns on the reverse.

GAMBLING INDUSTRY

During Florestan I’s rule in 1846, a casino gambling scheme was proposed. However, under Louis-petite-bourgeoisregime, Philippe’s a dignitary like as the Prince of Monaco was not permitted to own a gaming establishment. All of this altered under Napoleon III’s dissolute Second French Empire. The House of Grimaldi was desperate for funds. The cities of Menton and Roquebrune, which had been the Grimaldi family’s primary sources of wealth for generations, had become used to a considerably better quality of life and liberal taxation as a result of Sardinian involvement and clamoured for financial and political concession, even independence. The Grimaldi family believed that the newly legal business would help them overcome their problems, particularly the heavy debt they had acquired, but Monaco’s first casino would not open until after Charles III inherited the king in 1856.

The grantee of the princely concession (licensed) was unable to attract enough business to maintain the enterprise and sold the concession to French casino magnates François and Louis Blanc for 1.7 million francs after moving the casino numerous times. The Blancs had previously established a very profitable casino (the biggest in Europe) in Bad-Homburg, a tiny German principality similar to Monaco, and immediately petitioned Charles III to rename a poor coastal region known as “Les Spelegures (Den of Thieves)” to “Monte Carlo (Mount Charles).” They subsequently built their casino in the newly renamed “Monte Carlo” and cleaned away the area’s less-than-savory features to make the neighborhood around the business more tourist-friendly.

In 1858, the Blancs constructed Le Grand Casino de Monte Carlo, which profited from the tourist traffic generated by the newly developed French railway system. Monaco ultimately recovered from the preceding half-century of economic depression thanks to the combination of the casino and the railways, and the principality’s prosperity attracted new companies. Monaco established the Oceanographic Museum and the Monte Carlo Opera House in the years after the casino’s inauguration, 46 hotels were constructed, and the number of jewelers working in Monaco almost five-folded. By 1869, the casino was generating so much money that the principality could afford to stop collecting taxes from the Monegasques – a brilliant move that would draw wealthy people from all across Europe.

Today, the Société des bains de mer de Monaco, which controls Le Grand Casino, continues to operate in the same structure that the Blancs built and has been joined by many additional casinos, including the Le Casino Café de Paris, the Monte Carlo Sporting Club & Casino, and the Sun Casino. The Monte Carlo Bay Casino, which lies on 4 hectares of the Mediterranean Sea and, among other things, features 145 slot machines, all equipped with “ticket-in, ticket-out” (TITO); it is the first Mediterranean casino to utilize this technology.

TAXES

Some have attempted to utilize Monaco as a “tax haven” from their own nation’s taxes, owing to the fact that Monaco, as an independent country, is not required to pay taxes to other countries. Individuals in Monaco are not liable to income tax, subject to certain circumstances. The absence of a personal income tax in the principality has drawn a significant number of wealthy “tax refugee” residents from European countries who derive the majority of their income from activity outside Monaco; celebrities such as Formula One drivers attract the most attention, but the vast majority are lesser-known business people. The no-personal-income-tax provision does not apply to French citizens.

The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) published its first study on the financial systems of tax havens in 1998. Monaco did not appear on this list until 2004, when the OECD became outraged with the Monegasque situation and denounced it in its most recent report, along with Andorra, Liechtenstein, Liberia, and the Marshall Islands, emphasizing its lack of cooperation regarding financial information disclosure and availability.

In 2000, a report by French parliamentarians Arnaud Montebourg and Vincent Peillon claimed that Monaco had relaxed money laundering policies, including within its famed casino, and that the government of Monaco had placed political pressure on the judiciary, resulting in alleged crimes not being properly investigated.

The Financial Action Task Force on Money Laundering (FATF) said in 2000: “Monaco has a robust anti-money laundering system. However, nations involved in international investigations into severe crimes that seem to be connected to tax issues have run into complications with Monaco. Furthermore, the FIU of Monaco (SICCFIN) is severely under-resourced. Monaco’s government have indicated that they would give SICCFIN with more resources.” The Principality, along with all other jurisdictions, is no longer implicated in the 2005 FATF report. However, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has designated Monaco, along with 36 other territories, as a tax haven since 2003.

The Council of Europe also agreed to publish studies that identify tax havens. Thus, twenty-two territories, including Monaco, were assessed in the first round between 1998 and 2000. Monaco was the only territory that declined to carry out the second round, which was scheduled to take place between 2001 and 2003, while the other 21 territories intended to carry out the third and final round, which was scheduled to take place between 2005 and 2007.

Monaco imposes hefty social insurance levies on both businesses and workers. Employers contribute between 28 percent and 40 percent (on average 35 percent) of gross income plus benefits, with workers contributing an additional 10 percent to 14 percent (averaging 13 percent ).

Although not officially part of the Schengen Area, there are no border restrictions when entering or leaving Monaco from France, thus it may be considered part of the Schengen Area for all practical reasons.

The closest airport is Nice Côte-d’Azur International in neighboring France, some 40 kilometers (25 miles) from the city center. It has daily flights to almost all of Europe’s major cities, including London and Paris. Regular Rapide Cote D’Azur buses connect Monte Carlo to both terminals at Nice Cote-D’Azur airport, and taxis are always available outside the terminal buildings – but make sure a fee is agreed upon in advance or the meter is turned on at the start of the journey, as shady French taxi drivers are notorious for charging tourists whatever they see fit.

The principality’s sole railway station is Monaco-Monte Carlo. The French railway company SNCF operates it. It’s approximately 300 meters away from Port Hercule. There is no such thing as left baggage.

There are excellent links to neighboring areas of France and Italy, mostly through SNCF and Trenitalia. 2-4 services per hour are available to Nice, Cannes, Menton, and Ventimiglia (Italy).

The ‘Ligure’ (Marseilles-Milan), the ‘Train Bleu’ (Paris-Ventimiglia), the high-speed TGV (Nice-Paris, 6h30min), and the longest train trip entirely in Europe (Nice-Moscow, 47h) operated by Russian Railway all stop in Monaco.

It is easier not to use the Trenitalia counters or machines from Ventimiglia. Go to the sole travel agency within the station, which is marked with an SNCF sign (French Railways). Return tickets are also available that are not linked to a particular train. Remember to verify your tickets using the devices on the platforms shortly before boarding.

In Monte Carlo, there is no bus terminal. International buses, on the other hand, stop at different locations around the city. Regular buses, operated by Rapide Cote D’Azur, link Monte Carlo to Nice and other French cities. Many significant French towns and cities have frequent service. Route 100 departs every 15 minutes from Nice’s major bus terminal (Gare Routière) and costs €1. Route 110, an express shuttle, connects the Nice Côte d’Azur Airport with the principality. A bus departs every half hour and costs €18 for a single ticket (Jun 2009). €28.50 round-trip (September 2009), including stops at all important hotels in Monaco, not just Monte Carlo.

Monaco is readily accessible by road from France or Italy through a network of highways, the most popular of which is the A8, which goes west from Monte Carlo to Nice and Marseilles, and east to the Italian border.

There are three more scenic roads between Nice and Monaco: the Basse Corniche (Low Coast Road – Highway 98), which runs along the sea, the Moyenne Corniche (Middle Coast Road – Highway 7), which runs through Eze-Village, and the Grande Corniche (Great Coast Road), which runs through La Turbie and Col d’Eze (Eze Pass). All of these scenic roads provide breathtaking views of the coast. Rent a convertible sports vehicle from one of the numerous airport rental businesses and enjoy the French Riviera in style.

Taxi rides to and from Nice are likewise reasonably priced.

Several helicopter charter companies provide frequent flights between Monaco and the remainder of the French Riviera, the Italian Riviera, Switzerland, and the Alps. Because Monaco lacks an airport, helicopter transfers are the most convenient method to reach the Principality from Nice, where major helicopter carriers such as Heli Securite and Heli-Air Monaco conduct frequent charter flights from Nice to Monte Carlo. You head to the helicopter service waiting room after retrieving your baggage at Nice airport. The helicopter ground crew transports you and your baggage by van from the Nice airport to the Nice heliport, which is located on the opposite side of the airport. The trip down the coast is breathtaking, and you arrive right on the water’s edge at the Monaco heliport, where a vehicle service will whisk you straight to your hotel. Aside from coming by boat, this is the finest method for an international visitor to enter Monaco. Seasonal rates range from €100 to €300. However, they may reach €700 or more at the Cannes Film Festival, which is typically held in late May.

The two harbors of Monaco are no strangers to luxury boats. Port Hercule is particularly attractive, with mooring and anchoring options for up to 500 boats, some of which are quite big and exquisite (in fact, many tourists often take time out of their day to simply have a drink by the water and admire the fantastic super yachts). The Port of Fontvieille, which is part of the new area, can accommodate up to 60 boats of at least 30 meters in length. Both are spacious and well-appointed.

Monaco also acts as a cruise embarkation and port-of-call, thus small cruise ships may often be seen sailing into or out of Port Hercule, while bigger ships moor/anchor offshore. If guests are stranded offshore, tenders will transport them to and from either port, with Port Hercule providing much shorter walking distances to the most popular attractions.

The Port of Cap d’Ail, which is near by, is also a popular location for pleasure boats.

The “Sentier du bord de mer” (seaside trail), a 45-minute walk on a concrete route in a natural and quiet environment, is a nice way to arrive in Monaco. Take the train to Cap d’Ail and get out at the Cap d’Ail railway station (the latest before Monaco when coming from Nice; not all the trains stops there). Follow the road a few meters outside the railway station and use the steps on the left to cross beneath the tracks. Once on the little road, go a few meters to the left, then climb the steps on your right next to “La Pinède” restaurant to join the path.

If you wish to take the route from Monaco to Cap d’Ail station, go west of Fontvieille ward, pass the French border to the Cap d’Ail port, and then follow the coastline. After a few minutes, you’ll reach the ” Sentier du bord de mer (Monaco-side)” right after a last parking lot. In case of severe weather, it may be hazardous and closed. In this scenario, you’ll have to either return to the railway station or stroll on the road. It should be noted that there is no illumination at night.

Walking is by far the best method to travel about Monaco; nevertheless, certain places, such as the Exotic Gardens, need a significant shift in elevation and therefore demand hard treks. There are also seven public escalators and elevators (all of which are free) to assist in navigating the city’s steep hills. If you’re on foot and want to go to the other side of Port Hercule, search for the tiny pedestrian-only boat, which operates every 20 minutes or so throughout the day and costs just €1.

The Compagnie des Autobus Monaco operates an urban bus service via the city’s five bus routes (designated 1, 2, 4, 5, and 6) that serve 143 stops. Each stop displays the bus number(s) that stop there, and most have a real-time display that shows the wait time for the next service. Each stop includes a name and a map of the network. The service typically begins at 6 a.m. and continues until about 9 p.m. Tickets may be bought on board the buses (2€) or at numerous news vendors, businesses around the city, and auto ticket machines at the stops (1.50€) – frequently, this will be announced. A day pass costs €5 (7/2012) and enables you to ride the buses all day. It may also be bought on the bus. From 22.00 to 04.00, a night bus service runs on a round circuit.

You may simply hire a scooter in Nice and ride it east along the coastline towards Monaco. The sights are breathtaking, and the trip down the winding coastal road is thrilling. There are many free parking areas. Theft is not a problem since there are cameras and cops everywhere. To rent one while you’re there, you must be at least 16 years old.

Private vehicles are completely worthless for travelling about Monaco, since you’ll spend more time looking for parking than you would if you walked or hired a cab instead.

International automobile rental firms have offices at both the Nice airport and in Monte Carlo. These companies include Avis, Gare Monte Carlo, Europcar, and Hertz; drivers must have had a national driving license for at least one year, and the fee is typically paid using the driver’s credit card. Driving in Monte Carlo’s city center may be frightening due to high traffic – but, it is frequently worth it to drive alongside the city’s most costly cars! If you are not accustomed to driving manual, be sure you request a vehicle with an automatic transmission.

Taxis cannot be hailed on the streets (they will not stop), and there are two major taxi stands operating 24 hours a day at the Avenue de Monte Carlo and the train station, but it is always better to agree on a price ahead of time or ensure the meter is running. The majority of hotels will provide cabs or courtesy drivers. It is important to get the taxi service phone number so that you may summon a cab from wherever you are.

The principality of Monaco has an excellent mix of ancient and contemporary attractions. There are museums, palaces, retail malls, and casinos to visit. Monaco also has places to rest along the port and even near the attractions. If you take the time to understand where the different “short cuts” are, you will find it quite simple to traverse Monte Carlo and Monaco. City maps are usually available for a nominal charge at most news vendor booths and stores. Before going out to explore the city, the tourist information may be a nice place to start.

Monte Carlo Casino

(Grand Casino), Place du Casino,  +377 98062121, e-mail: vip@montecarlocasinos.com. 14:00-04:00.

The Monte Carlo Casino is a gaming and entertainment complex that contains a casino, the Opéra de Monaco, and Les Ballets de Monte Carlo’s headquarters. The Société des bains de mer de Monaco (SBM), a public corporation in which the Monaco government and royal family own a majority stake. In addition, the business owns the majority of the hotels, sports clubs, foodservice outlets, and nightclubs in Monaco. If your bank account allows it, try your luck at the Grand Casino and gamble alongside the world’s wealthiest and frequently most famous people.

You’ll need your passport to enter (Monégasque nationals are not permitted to gamble at the casino), and entrance costs vary greatly depending on which room you visit – frequently ranging from 30€ to hundreds of euros. For a charge of 10€, you may also enter the casino without playing. Inside, the dress code is very strict: males must wear jackets and ties, and casual or ‘tennis’ shoes are not permitted. The game rooms themselves are breathtaking, with stained glass, paintings, and sculptures adorning every surface. In Monte Carlo, there are two additional Americanized casinos. There is no entrance charge, and the dress code is more relaxed.

Opéra de Monaco (Monaco Opera House)

(On the backside of the Casino),+377 98 06 28 00. 10:00-17:30; Su,Mo off. 

The renowned architect Charles Garnier designed the Monaco Opera House, often known as the “Salle Garnier.” The opera house’s auditorium is adorned in crimson and gold, with paintings and sculptures all around. The magnificent murals on the auditorium ceiling will take the visitor’s breath away. The opera house is extravagant but yet extremely lovely. For more than a century, the opera house has hosted some of the most prestigious worldwide performances of ballet, opera, and concerts; consider seeing a production during your stay… but be prepared to spend top money!

Monaco-Ville (Monaco City)

Take a stroll through Monaco-Ville, commonly known as “Le Rocher” or “The Rock.” Monaco-Ville is still a medieval town at heart and a breathtakingly beautiful location. It is nearly completely made up of pedestrian walkways and alleys, with most previous-century homes still standing. Tourists may stay, dine, and buy at a variety of hotels, restaurants, and souvenir stores. The Prince’s Palace, the Cathedral, the Oceanographic Museum, the City Hall, and the Saint Martin Gardens are well worth a visit.

Palais Princier (Prince’s Palace)

+377 93 25 18 31, e-mail: visites@palais.mc. 10:00-18:00; Jul,Aug 10:00-19:00; Oct 17-Mar 25 off.

The Palais Princier, located in ancient Monaco-Ville, is well worth a visit. The palace offers self-guided audio-guided tours. The palace also has a stunning panoramic view of the Port and Monte-Carlo. Every day at 11:55 a.m., tourists may witness the “Carabiniers” conduct the changing of the guard ritual in front of the Palace’s main entrance. “Carabiniers” are not only in charge of the prince’s protection, but they also provide him with a guard of honor and serve as his escorts on important occasions. The “Compagnie des Carabiniers du Prince” has a military band (Fanfare) that plays at public concerts, official events, sporting events, and international military music festivals. 8€.

Cathédrale Notre-Dame-Immaculée(Saint Nicholas Cathedral)

+33 7 93 30 87 70, e-mail: cathedrale@cathedrale.mc. 08:30-18:00; May-Sep: 08:00-19:00. 

The Monaco Cathedral was constructed in 1875 on the site of an older church from the 13th century. It is a Romanesque-Byzantine chapel dedicated to Saint Nicolas and contains the ashes of previous Princes of Monaco and Princess Grace. Some of Monaco-best Ville’s restaurants may also be found around the church plaza.

Jardins Saint-Martin (Saint-Martin Gardens)

Saint-Martin Avenue (south of the Cathédrale Notre-Dame-Immaculée). Beautiful park along the ridge at Le Rocher’s southern end.

Musée océanographique(Oceanographic Museum and Aquarium)

(Oceanographic Museum and Aquarium), Avenue Saint-Martin,  +33 7 93 15 36 00, e-mail: musee@oceano.org. Oct-Mar: 10:00-18:00; Apr-Jun,Sep: 10:00-19:00; Jul 10-20; Dec 25 off.

The Oceanographic Museum and Aquarium is a well-known tourist destination. The museum, which is located 279 meters above sea level, has magnificent collections of marine fauna, many specimens of sea animals (stuffed or in skeleton form), replicas of Prince Albert’s laboratory ships, and artisan items created from natural sea materials. Exhibitions and film projections are shown in the conference room on the ground level on a daily basis. Visitors may enjoy magnificent displays of aquatic plants and wildlife in the basement. With over 4,000 fish species and over 200 invertebrate groups, the aquarium has established itself as an expert in the display of the Mediterranean and tropical marine ecosystems. Finally, visitors may have lunch at “La Terrasse” and purchase in the museum gift shop. The admission charge varies according upon the month of the visit. Students may get a discount by presenting a valid student ID. To get to this aquarium, take bus number 1 or 2 from the Monaco Monte Carlo railway station. 11€ (low season), 16€ (high season) (high season).

Musée de l’automobile de Monaco (The Prince of Monaco’s Vintage Car Collection)

Les Terrasses de Fontvieille,+377 92 05 28 56, e-mail: mtcc@mtcc.mc. 10:00-18:00; Dec 25 off.

This is the place to go for any automobile aficionado. From carriages and antique vehicles to Formula 1 racing cars, there is something for everyone. There are about 100 cars on exhibit here. Adults pay 6.50€, while students pay 3€.

Jardin Exotique (Exotic Gardens)

62, Boulevard du Jardin Exotique, +377 93 15 29 80, e-mail: jardin-exotique@mairie.mc. Nov-Jan: 09:00-17:00; Feb-Apr,Oct: 09:00-18:00; May-Sep: 09:00-19:00; Nov 19,Dec 25 off.

The Jardin Exotique is one of the numerous gardens available in Monaco. It is also one of Monaco’s most popular tourist attractions. Several thousand unique plants from across the globe are shown in a walking tour that is remarkable for both the vistas and the flora and plants. Because of the elevation change, there are not only numerous displays of desert plants, but also a few exhibits of subtropical vegetation. There is also a grotto (cave) with guided excursions available. The tour begins at the top of each hour and lasts about 25 minutes. You will have to ascend the steps equal to a 6-story structure in the cave. To go to this Garden, take bus number 2. You may get this bus from either the railway station or the Oceanographic Museum. The admission fee is €7.20 unless you are under the age of 16 or a student (€3.80).

Yacht Club Monaco

Quai Louis II,  +377 93106300. 

The Yacht Club of Monaco, founded in 1953 by Prince Rainier and presided over by Prince Albert II since 1984, has approximately 1200 members from 60 countries. The Yacht Club de Monaco’s burgee may be seen on many of the world’s most renowned private boats, attesting to the club’s unique position on the worldwide yachting scene. Lord Foster’s new facility is situated in the center of Port Hercule, just across from the YCM Marina. The YCM Gallery is a brand-new public space.

La Condamine

After Monaco-Ville, this is the second oldest district in Monaco. Stop here to see the numerous luxury yachts and cruise ships that typically decorate the marina’s piers. La Condamine is a bustling commercial area where you can visit the Condamine Market and the pedestrian route Rue Princesse Caroline. La Condamine, with its pleasant manicured grounds and contemporary structures, is definitely worth a visit.

Grimaldi Forum

10, Avenue Princesse Grace,  +377 99 99 20 00, e-mail: gf@grimaldiforum.mc. 

Monaco’s conference center is the Grimaldi Forum. The sun-filled structure on the sea, completed in July 2000, features a spectacular glass entrance, two conference restaurants, an auditorium for ballet and opera, and two additional auditoriums for meetings and other events. In addition, the Forum has two huge exhibition rooms that may be utilized for trade fairs or other exhibitions. It is just a short walk from the neighboring hotels.

Champions Promenade

The winner of the “Golden Foot” football player of the year award has his footsteps permanently imprinted on the beachfront promenade. Didier Drogba, Andrés Iniesta, and Samuel Eto’o were the previous year’s champions.

Jardin Japonais (Japanese Garden)

The 0.7-hectare park includes a stylized mountain, hill, waterfall, beach, stream, and a Zen garden for meditation. Yasuo Beppu, the winner of the Osaka Flower Exhibition in 1990, created the garden as a tiny depiction of Shintoist ideology.

Marlborough Fine Arts Gallery

4 Quai Antoine 1er,  +377 097 70 2550. 

Frank Lloyd and Harry Fischer established the Marlborough Fine Arts Gallery in London. A second gallery was established in Rome, a third in New York, and a fourth in Monaco. The gallery has an impressive collection of postwar artists, including works by Pablo Picasso, Joan Miró, Jules Brassai, Louise Bourgeois, Dale Chihuly, David Hockney, and Henri Matisse. Group exhibits are also available at the gallery. There is no admission charge.

• Hike or drive up Tête de Chien (“Dogs Head”). Enjoy one of the most breathtaking views of Monaco. Another excellent spot nearby with an amazing view can be found just north of the “Fort de la Tête de Chien.”
• Hike along the coastal path from Monaco to Carnoles. A lovely stroll with stunning views of Monaco. It takes around 2 hours to circle Cap-Martin and eventually arrive at Carnoles railway station, where you may board a train back to Monaco. Bus 100, which covers a distance of 9 kilometers, is another option for returning.
• Azur Express (Departure opposite the Oceanographic museum),  +377 92 05 64 38, e-mail: contact@monacotours.mc. Daily excursions of Monaco are provided by amusing tourist trains. The Monaco Port, Monte-Carlo and its Palaces, the renowned Casino and its gardens, the Old Town for City Hall, and lastly the royal Prince’s Palace will be visited. Commentaries are available in English, Italian, German, French, and eight additional languages. This pleasant trip lasts about 30 minutes and does not allow you to exit the train. Adults pay 9€, children pay 5€.
• In the summer, Monte-Carlo comes alive with spectacular performances at the elite Monte-Carlo Sporting Club. Among those who have performed at the club have been Natalie Cole, Andrea Bocelli, the Beach Boys, Lionel Richie, and Julio Iglesias. The club also has a tiny casino with basic casino games. The cost per person is 20€ if no one under the age of 18 is present.
• Aquavision: This interesting boat trip allows you to see Monaco from the water! The “Aquavision” is a catamaran-style boat with two underwater vision windows in the hull, enabling passengers to explore the natural bottom of the coast in a unique manner. The boat can transport up to 120 passengers on a single trip. Adults pay 11€, while children and students between the ages of 3 and 18 pay 8€.

The food in Monaco is generally superb. From the Cafe de Paris across the street from the casino to the waterfront eateries along the Port de Fontvieille, there are many excellent restaurants to choose from. During the winter months, the restaurants are reasonably priced—for Monaco. The bouillabaisse is delicious here.

Budget

There are a plethora of other restaurants and cafés in the city that are reasonably priced and provide great cuisine. Along the marina, there are a few basic cafés that offer simple dishes like pizza, salads, and hotdogs throughout the day. These are great for just relaxing back during the hot noon sun with a cool drink or glass of wine, a snack to replenish your batteries after a day of seeing the city, with the soothing lapping of the Mediterranean (and sometimes the roar of supercars) in your ears. The majority of these eateries have water-misters in the ceilings that softly cool and refresh the patrons.

Mid-range

Splurge

Dining in Monaco may be an eye-opening experience for whomever is footing the cost. The Louis XV Restaurant and the Le Grill de L’Hotel de Paris, both focused on the extremely elite Hotel de Paris, are two of the city’s most exclusive and renowned restaurants. You’re almost certainly going to be seated next to a member of the wealthy and famous, and the gourmet cuisine is absolutely out of this world – but these experiences come at a heavy price!

Champagne is considered a national beverage of Monaco. In a trendy restaurant, a single glass may cost up to €40!

The euro (€) is used in Monaco, and it is split into 100 cents.

Currency exchange is simple for a variety of currencies. ATMs are widely available.

Shopping in Monte Carlo is generally very exclusive, and it is not a place to go on a budget. There are many locations where you may burn your credit card alongside Europe’s high rollers. The elegant clothing stores are in the Golden Circle, which is bordered by Avenue Monte Carlo, Avenue des Beaux-Arts, and Allees Lumieres, and is home to Hermes, Christian Dior, Gucci, and Prada. High-end jewelers like as Bulgari, Cartier, and Chopard may be found in and surrounding Place du Casino. Most visitors, however, will just enjoy strolling the neighborhood and window shopping, even if they do not purchase anything. Normal shopping hours are 9 a.m. to noon and 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Try the Condamine Market for a more refined shopping experience in Monte Carlo. The market, located in Place d’Armes, has been in operation since 1880 and is vibrant and appealing – several hours may be spent just walking about, haggling for gifts from the numerous small stores, boutiques, and friendly people. If you want more contemporary shopping, take a short stroll down the esplanade to the rue Princess Caroline pedestrian mall.

The Fontvieille Shopping Centre offers a more “typical” shopping experience, with 36 stores offering electronics, CDs, furniture, and clothing, as well as a Carrefour supermarket and a McDonald’s. The tourism bureau also publishes a free shopping guide for the city.

• Monaco Grand Prix (Grand Prix de Monaco),  +377 93 15 26 24, e-mail: location@formula1monaco.com. The most well-known Formula One Grand Prix is held on the streets of Monaco. It is also one of Europe’s most important social events of the year. Every year in mid-May, the Automobile Club of Monaco stages this magnificent Formula 1 event. The Grand Prix lasts 78 circuits through Monte Carlo’s most tight and twisty streets. The closeness of the fast Formula One vehicles to the race fans is the primary draw of the Monaco Grand Prix. The thrill of roaring engines, burning tires, and desperate drivers adds to the excitement of the Monaco Grand Prix, making it one of the most thrilling races in the world. On race day, there are almost 37,000 seats available for purchase on the track, with prices ranging from 310€ (at Boulevard Albert 1er) to 600€ (at Casino Square). Monaco residents often rent out their terraces for the four-day festival, with rates ranging from 8000€ to 140,000€. During the off season, you may stroll around the circuit. The path is well indicated on tourist office maps, but believers won’t need them! Those who can afford it may also take a trip around the track in a high-performance vehicle.
• Festival International du Cirque (International Circus Festival), 5 Avenue des Ligures. Every year in January, this spectacular circus event takes place. The world’s top performers in their respective fields compete. 30-190€.
• Monte Carlo Tennis Masters, +377 97 98 70 00, e-mail: info@smett.mc. This event is held each year at the end of April at the Monte Carlo Country Club in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, just outside of Monaco. Rafael Nadal has the record. Single-day prices range from 25€ to 185€.
• Top Marques Monaco, 10, Avenue Princesse Grace (Held in the Grimaldi Forum), +377 97 70 12 77. An expo showcasing luxury airplanes, automobiles, banks, boats, footwear, handbags, jewelry, real estate, and wine. The utilization of the nearby Formula 1 Grand Prix racetrack to show vehicles in action and perform test drives distinguishes Top Marques Monaco from other automotive exhibits. Adults pay 36€-50€, while children pay 18€-25€.
• Rallye Monte Carlo, +377 93 15 26 00, e-mail: info@acm.mc. Perhaps the most well-known rallye event in the world. The rallye’s stages take place in and around Monaco and the French Riviera. The vehicles congregate in the “tire fitting zone” in Casino Square on the day before the first stage. Every year in late January, this event is held.
• Monaco Yacht Show (MYS), Route de la Piscine (Entrance close to the swimming pool),  +377 93 10 41 70, e-mail: info@monacoyachtshow.mc. Every year in September, Port Hercules hosts one of the world’s largest superyacht exhibitions, with approximately 130 vessels on display. Stroll along the blue carpet along the harbourfront and gaze at boats with a combined net value of nearly $3 billion. 150€ (for a one-day ticket. Just make sure you have a few million dollars on hand if you want to purchase anything.)

Monaco is a secure, crime-free environment with a robust police presence. It boasts the lowest murder rate of any nation in the world, as well as one of the lowest total crime rates. Because of their prosperous status, every public area is covered with cameras, and any kind of disturbance may result in a quick response and the presence of numerous police. Although homosexuality is allowed, there are no recognized gay establishments in Monaco.