Monte Carlo… If you’d like to live the high life for a day (or two), wander around the charming streets lined with ultra-luxurios designer clothes shops, see the world’s biggest private yachts and enjoy the magic of one the last remaining monarchies in the world – you have to come to this place.
This unique city is nested in an idyllic spot on the French Riviera, on a short stretch of a rocky coastline, with rising mountains right above the Mediterranean Sea.
This dream-like port-state is a 700-year old monarchy, ruled by Grimaldi family for more than 7 centuries.
Its colorful history includes wars, cunning twists, violence, emperors, and a movie star – basically lots of swords, glamour and yachts. 🙂
Port of Monte Carlo
The Principality of Monaco is a picturesque castle on a large rock stretching into the sea, in direct view of the approaching super yachts and cruise ships.
The city itself stretches to the east of the castle, and is the home to some of the richest and famous people of the world.
Panoramic View of Monte Carlo, Monaco
It is the second smallest country in the world (after Vatican City), but it “boasts” the largest population density in the world, as many people choose to live here due to a favorable tax regime (0% personal income tax).
Casino in Monte Carlo, Monaco
It also boasts the famous Casino and the Monaco Grand Prix (Formula 1), the madness that happens every May through the streets of this city.
Where is Monte Carlo?
- 13 miles/ 21 km from Nice, France
- 6.8 miles/ 11 km from Menton, France
- 35.4 miles/ 57 km from Cannes, France
- 16.1 miles/ 26 km from Ventimiglia, Italy
- 26 miles/ 42 km from San Remo, Italy
- 19.8 miles/ 32 km from Nice Airport, France
- 201.9 miles/ 325 m from Milan Malpensa Airport, Italy
- 195.1 miles/ 314 km from Milan Linate Airport, Italy
- 225.5 miles/ 363 km from Milan Bergamo Airport, Italy
Things to See
- Prince’s Palace
Prince’s Palace in Monte Carlo
- Monte Carlo Casino
- Oceanographic Museum (Musee de l’Oceanographie)
- Monte Carlo Grand Prix
- Mega yachts
Beaches
Monaco beaches are not many nor special. Larvotto beach is the only public beach, and is located in the eastern part of the city.
You can go to many beaches in the vicinity, such as in Menton, Villefranche-Sur-Mer or Nice (Baie des Anges, Promenade des Anglais).
Monte Carlo, Monaco
Excursions
- Monaco and Monte Carlo tour on foot
- Nice
- Cannes
- Menton
- Eze
Monte Carlo is a unique place with many old-style townhouses, super expensive sports cars and mega yachts.
It is definitely an experience worth affording yourself as you get to see what the glamour and the fuss is all about! 🙂
We wish you a fantastic Mediterranean cruise!