Most famous for its Grand Prix event and lavish casino, Monaco is a tiny coastal independent city-state which is surrounded by France on three sides. Small enough to fit into London’s Hyde Park, Monaco is known as a playground for the some of the world’s wealthiest people including many famous stars of the sporting world, music business and silver screen. Simply taking a stroll along the port-side, where many luxury multi-million dollar yachts belonging to these prestigious and elite bob in the waters, will make this aspect very evident.
Ruled over by a crown prince, Monaco is home to the world’s oldest continuous monarchy which all began in the 13th century when an ancestor disguised as a monk and concealing a sword tricked his way into the fortress and took it for himself. And the royal family element is also another of Monaco’s most famous features. Prior to the 1950s most were unaware that this pint-sized sovereignty even existed but when Hollywood actress Grace Kelly was to encounter her very own Prince Charming in the form of Monaco’s ruling monarch Prince Rainier everything changed. The couple married in 1956 and this fairytale-like story suddenly put Monaco on the radar of populations the world over, with the entire history often billed as one of the greatest love stories of all time.
Monaco may be small but it has all kinds of highlights and attractions to keep its visitors busy. These range from touring the incredible beauty of the palace state rooms to walking the medieval alleys of its old town or gazing in awe at the magical underwater world at the Oceanographic Museum’s aquariums to clambering around cliff-side gardens planted with incredible cacti.
While Monaco has plenty within the ultra-luxurious and extreme opulence categories for visitors who want a glimpse into the world of the fashionably elite it also offers an abundant supply of options for those who do have to check their bank balance occasionally. Monaco, despite its reputation, can be very affordable. This includes the wonderful array of restaurants and dining experiences which can put you beach-side, at the harbor or taking in the views of Monaco, France and Italy from a roof terrace.
Monaco is small enough that everything can be covered on foot although because of its terrain do be prepared for some climbing and lots of steps.
A Morning in Monaco
Your Monaco adventures begin with an easy stroll past the famous port, taking in a couple of the sights along the way and arriving at the enchanting gardens known as Jardin Exotique. Your morning continues after a pause for coffee with a visit to the palace and a tour of its exquisite state rooms.
Port Hercule
You can begin your Monaco morning with a quick visit to the charming little Roman Catholic chapel of Saint Devota – dedicated to the principality’s patron saint. Away from Monaco’s main action, the 16th century restored chapel with its stained glass windows is a little slice of calm and tranquility. Its roots actually stretch back to the 11th century, with the chapel having been raised on the very site where, according to legend, the earthly remains of the saint arrived by boat around 303 AD after having been saved from burning by her persecutors. During the night of 26 January every year a boat burning ceremony is held to mark this event.
These days, dating from the wedding of Grace Kelly in the 1950s, it has become traditional for local brides to present their wedding bouquets to the chapel’s Virgin Mary as a mark of respect.
By walking less than 100 meters you will have arrived at Port Hercule in the La Condamine area of Monaco – home to a collection of spectacularly luxurious yachts owned by the rich and famous. These include the craft of the principality’s reigning monarch – Prince Albert II – along with superstars such as Formula 1 giant Lewis Hamilton, ex-James Bond actor Roger Moore and Leonardo di Caprio.
Strolling the port gives you a window onto the world of the wealthy and moneyed-elite and is also home to the fabulously prestigious Yacht Club.
For those without their own craft there is the possibility of taking a catamaran tour of the coastal area or stepping aboard the Aquavision. This craft offers its passengers the opportunity of exploring the fascinating world beneath the waves through its underwater viewing windows in the hull.
Jardin Exotique
Within walking distance of the port can be found a garden of succulent and desert species from every corner of the globe – hence the ‘exotic’ in the title. Even if you are not normally especially interested in such places the word garden here doesn’t really begin to describe this magical coastal-perched place which might be rather more at home as a film set for a fantasy movie. Jardin Exotique‘s location is elevated and literally carved into the cliff. Together it is a wonderful whole of weaving pathways, intriguing stairways, picturesque bridges and little nooks and crannies in which you can find the largest collection of such arid-condition exotic plants anywhere in the world. The human planting which utilizes the natural rocks of the cliff face for effect has been beautifully done and the results are enchanting.
The oldest specimens here have notched up more than 100 years of growing while the size and fantastical shapes of others make them impossible to miss. No less fascinating are the more delicate smaller species. The splashes of color provided by the flowers of the plants make up a gorgeous palette of color when set against the blue Mediterranean sky and sparkling sea and present photo opportunities at every turn. As you might expect with such a location the views from here are nothing short of sensational taking in port, expanses of sea and the iconic casino of Monte Carlo in the distance.
The Jardin Exotique, even though one of the country’s main attractions, offers good value for money and an opportunity to enjoy something in this playground for the wealthy which doesn’t place too much of a strain on your budget. This is especially true as your admission price also includes a guided tour of a stalagmite-filled cave and the Musée d’Anthropologie. The Grotte de l’Observatoire – a lovely subterranean water-carved cavern filled with lots of natural formations – is known to have been used by prehistoric man; animal bone fragments were discovered here which would have been part of the meals of these early men. The cave is entered from 100m up and descends to almost sea level, unusually getting warmer the lower you go by way of its hundreds of steps.
An Alternative Garden
Monaco actually has several gardens, all of which are worth a visit for different reasons. Another option is the Fontvieille-located Princess Grace Rose Garden. Planted in the 1980s following the tragic death of the wife of the then reigning monarch – Prince Rainier – the gardens serve as a memorial to this Hollywood actress-turned-princess.
The gardens, along with their statue of Princess Grace, have over 4,000 roses representing hundreds of different species – including the Princess Grace de Monaco rose – which together fill the air with a heavenly scent. If you want to visit both here and the Jardin Exotique they are within walking distance of each other, providing you don’t mind the steps involved.
Morning Coffee in Monaco
Although it is known for its glamor and glitz not everything in Monaco and Monte Carlo is about the dazzle. When it comes to a morning coffee break and if you know where to look there are also a good helping of cozy and relaxed venues too. Of course if you do want glamorous you will have no problem finding that.
One coffee break spot which gives you a little of both world’s is Fredy’s International. This peaceful St Nicolas Square-located spot actually functions as a French and Italian restaurant but like many places in the Mediterranean they are just as happy to welcome those who want nothing more than a coffee break. Fredy’s lovely open-air terrace is the perfect place to take a tranquil pause, listen to the watery music of the St Nicolas Fountain a few meters away and watch the world go by. Located in the heart of the lovely medieval Monaco-Ville, you are a stone’s throw from the beautiful cathedral and a short walk from the palace which you’ll be heading to next.
Gerhard’s Cafe
If you are looking to escape the Monaco crowds for a while and don’t mind a slightly longer walk Gerhard’s Cafe in the Fontvieille area is a perfect pick. Located quayside, this spot offers views of the Fontvieille Port and in the distance the majestically cliff-perched and exceptionally beautiful Oceanographic Museum. Gerhard’s is all about slowing things down and, while avoiding the pretentious in this playground of the rich can sometimes be an issue, you won’t have that problem here. The cozy maritime-themed interior is watched over by the welcoming owner whose business tag-line is ‘a place where you can be yourself’.
If you are not keen on expending too much energy to hunt down a cafe between your Jardin Exotique visit and your next stop – the palace – the best thing to do is simply go for a wander once you reach the top of the Rock. This old town area is a labyrinth of little medieval alleys and streets and, if you avoid the three main tourist arteries, you will easily be able to locate some little cafe gem which suits your mood.
The Palace
Almost the whole of the area south of the port and facing Monte Carlo is given over to the Monaco ward of Monaco-Ville, otherwise known as the Rock or Le Rocher. This headland is home to the country’s preserved old town – where it all began – as well as the location for its cathedral and palace. All of this sits high above the sea which means some unbeatable views.
Coming from the port the best route to the palace is by way of the Rampe Majeure steps. This ascent is not too lengthy and the lovely views of the port as you climb tend to serve as a rewarding distraction.
Once at the top you emerge straight into Palace Square or Place du Palais where the first thing you will encounter is the bronze sculpture of Francois Grimaldi. This was the man who tricked his way into the Genoese-founded ramparts in the 13th century disguised as a monk and after taking control of the fortress thus founded the house of Grimaldi which survives to this day.
Before entering the palace be sure to take full advantage of the spectacular views which your elevated position gives you. The look outs from either side of the square together offer far-reaching panoramas which not only take in Monte Carlo and its huge casino, the harbor and the Mediterranean but also glimpses of both France and Italy.
The Prince’s Palace of Monaco is today the official residence of the reigning monarch, a direct descendant of that first Grimaldi who took the fortress unaware and so making it the oldest monarchy in the world.
Since Francois Grimaldi’s time the palace has seen a great deal of action. The Grimaldis successfully fought off attacks by many would-be invaders from France, Italy, Germany and England while during the French Revolution the palace became a military hospital. Having undergone many restorations and been variously extended over the centuries, the glorious state of the palace today is mainly due to the efforts of Prince Rainier III during his years on the throne.
Interestingly, from outside, the palace doesn’t have a particularly prepossessing appearance – both the casino and Oceanographic Museum have more regal and grander facades. However, once you step inside the opulence, grandeur and beauty leave you in no doubt that this is a royal residence.
From June to October Monaco visitors can tour a series of apartments which between them will almost certainly take your breath away.
Influenced by the grandly opulent style of Louis XIV, the palace is a never-ending vision of marble floors, mosaic decorations, incredible ceilings, centuries-old frescoes and stunningly luxurious fixtures and fittings – some of them dating from the 13th century. Ancestors gaze down majestically from their huge paintings, spiral staircases disappear into the distance, Venetian chandeliers hang in sparkling cascades from up above and rich fabrics and tapestries drape the walls.
The palace is really nothing short of one long tour of highlights but there are a few stand-out features. These include the Hercule Gallery with its 16th century frescoes depicting figures from mythology, the Mirror Gallery with its incredible visual effects copied from the Palace of Versailles and the incredible Throne Room. Unsurprisingly home to the silk-canopied throne, this room also has magnificent centuries-old ceiling frescoes and beautiful Italian marble floors. One apartment notable for its distinctly different style when compared to the other rooms of the palace is the Mazarin Room. Named in honor of a royal marriage in the 1700s, the walls are covered in highly decorative and exquisitely-colored wood paneling with another spectacular ceiling and lovely marble floors.
If you happen to be at the palace at 11.55 you can watch the regal pomp of the guard-changing ceremony which is accompanied by drum and bugle playing.
Lunch in Monaco
Once you have finished exploring the palace you can start thinking of lunch and you couldn’t be better placed for some of the state’s most lovely restaurant offerings.
The trick in Monaco is finding something which ticks the boxes for great food and great location without having a price tag which puts you off instantly. Additionally, the old town, as such a highly tourist-populated area, is known for having some rather sub-standard fare at highly inflated prices.
U Cavagnetu
One great option in the heart of the old town is U Cavagnetu which offers a very reasonably-priced two-course lunch menu. As much frequented by locals as country visitors, U Cavagnetu gives you the opportunity of trying some traditional Monegasque dishes such as barbajuan which is a kind of stuffed ravioli. Take your pick of dining atmospheres – its outdoor terrace leans towards the intimate and romantic while its indoor seating is both modern and cozy.
Castelroc
With its sought-after location right next to the palace you might be forgiven for giving Castelroc a wide berth assuming it is one of the costlier options around. However, despite it easily falling into the fine dining category Castelroc’s prices are highly affordable, offering some of the best value two or three course set lunch menus around. French-fare Castelroc’s surroundings leave you in no doubt you are in a quality establishment and the sunny terrace is simply gorgeous but the service is warm and friendly and the views wonderful.
La Montgolfiere
Another old town restaurant which has higher prices than the other options but still won’t break the bank is La Montgolfiere, tucked away down a traffic-free Monaco-Ville alleyway but conveniently close to the palace. Run by a well-respected chef with an impressive list of top restaurants along the coast included on his CV, La Montgolfiere is essentially a French restaurant but includes some interesting Asian influences and also has some traditional Monegasque inclusions. You can choose from the set menu or the blackboard options which feature seasonal specials which come and go and both the indoor and outdoor seating choices are lovely.
An Afternoon in Monaco
On the Way to the Cathedral – The Old Town
Before you head off to begin your afternoon’s exploration at the cathedral take a little time to meander around the old town’s alleys, weaving lanes and pretty little squares. The picturesque houses here date from medieval times and together give the town a predominantly salmon-pink hue as they are almost all painted in the same color.
During the day the three main streets – Basse, Felix Gastaldi and Emile de Loth can all get a little crowded with tourists (something not helped by their narrowness) and are known for their excessive prices and tourist-aimed souvenir goods. However, stray away from these main arteries and you will be able to discover a little more medieval charm and unspoiled atmosphere.
While you are here you can also visit the Roman Catholic Chapelle de la Misericorde or the Chapel of Mercy. Dating from the 17th century, this quaint church houses an ancient statue of Christ which is part of a street procession which takes place every Good Friday.
Another of the principality’s lovely gardens is also found in the old town vicinity – the Jardins Saint Martin which are more than 200 years old. Originally created to provide work to the locals suffering the hardships of a famine, this beautiful area – the state’s first public gardens – are free to enter. Harmoniously weaving together art and nature, the Jardins de Saint Martin are a mix of mature trees, shrubs and plants representing both Mediterranean garden and exotic species. Meander the twisting pathways of this cliff-side gem to discover some lovely statues, pause for a while at one of its many resting places or simply enjoy the sensational views of the bright blue Mediterranean which forms a constant backdrop. Make sure you visit the statue of the ‘Navigator Prince’ – Prince Albert I – who was responsible for the creation of the Oceanographic Museum and is depicted here at the wheel of his ship. From this lowest area you can also see the cliff-edge museum itself in a fascinating side view which makes it appear almost flat.
As the gardens lie between the cathedral and the Oceanographic Museum which you will be visiting afterward you may prefer to visit these gardens after the cathedral to keep legwork to a minimum.
Saint Nicholas Cathedral
Venue of Princess Grace’s wedding to Prince Rainier in the 1950s and later the resting place of them both along with many other members of Grimaldi royalty, the state’s cathedral and main religious building dates from the 1800s. Constructed of light stone brought from France which appears dazzling in the Mediterranean sun, the cathedral has an ornate Romanesque-Byzantine design and is home to a lovely medieval altar made of marble,
The Oceanographic Museum
Purpose-built more than 100 years ago and on such a grand scale the project took 11 years to complete, the Oceanographic Museum‘s existence is entirely due to the vision of Prince Albert I – the reigning monarch of the time and nicknamed the Navigator Prince. One of this tiny state’s brightest jewels and respected the world over, the museum is one of the most famous aquariums on the planet. Although Prince Albert I died in 1922 his brainchild still manages to exude a strong impression of his guiding passion and life work. From the very beginning not simply a museum and aquarium but also an education, research and science institution, the Oceanographic Museum plays a proud role in helping to protect the world’s oceans and conserve its priceless eco-systems.
The Neo-Classical building itself is astonishingly beautiful, looking rather more like a stately palace than the actual palace itself. However, it isn’t just its general aesthetic which makes it remarkable but its location. The Oceanographic Museum has been integrated into its cliff-face giving the impression, when viewed from the seaward side, that it is merely an organic extension. As an extremely tall building with relatively limited width in relation to the height, it also appears almost flat or 2D when viewed from the side.
The museum is organized over four floors with the famous aquarium at basement level. Although for many visitors this is the principle draw the rest of the museum is nothing short of spectacular.
The vast aquarium is made up of three distinct sections – the ‘Shark Lagoon’, the ‘Mediterranean’ and the ‘Tropical’. While strategically placed benches allow you to simply sit and gaze at the marvelous assortment of marine creatures swimming, floating, weaving or crawling around in an intricate ballet this is also a place to learn if you choose to do so. Features such as interactive screens for species identification or the behind-the-scenes processes involved in nursing a turtle back to health, for example, are all part of the conservation, science and education elements of this wonderful place. Taken simply as something beautiful to look at, the rainbow effect of this underwater world is fantastical at times with the natural coral, sea anemones and plants contributing in no small part to the effect.
The Shark Lagoon serves as what is arguably the museum’s biggest tourist draw. Interestingly, and unlike so many other places in the world which give you the chance to get up close and personal with these awesome predators, the museum strives to correct some of the most common misconceptions surrounding these ocean creatures. While often perceived as ferocious monsters, here you will learn that across the globe sharks are responsible for only 10 deaths annually while jellyfish account for five times that number and the tiny mosquito kills hundreds of thousands of humans every year.
While exploring the rest of what is nothing less than a venerable temple of the sea you will encounter such highlights as an impressively huge 90ft whale skeleton at foyer level, the first floor Oceanomania cabinet which is so beautifully put together it appears as a huge work of art and the Salle Albert which showcases the marine and scientific works of Prince Albert I. These include artifacts brought home after his Arctic explorations.
The building itself is so full of stunning architecture and decorative features it is worthy of a visit in its own right. As a purpose-built construction dedicated to the sea and its creatures, everywhere you go you will encounter references to this theme, one of which is the lovely curving monumental staircase which leads to the first floor foyer. This has adornments of squid and octopus and other marine-themed sculptures within its balustrades while the museum’s magnificent foyer is another highlight with its gorgeous ceilings and Prince Albert I statue.
At the end of your visit you can make your way to the second floor where you will find the roof terrace complete with its 360 degree awe-inspiring views of mountain, blue seas and coastal scenery with the Italian Riviera in the distance.
Other Museums
While few would argue that the Oceanographic Museum is the principle treasure of Monaco’s museum scene there are other choices too. Split across two locations – Larvotto and Moneghetti – and incorporating the beautiful Villa Sauber with its original décor and the Villa Paloma is the Nouveau Musée National de Monaco which both feature contemporary art.
Monaco Top Cars Collection
Antique automobile fans may like to check out the Monaco Top Cars Collection which is an almost 100-strong display of vintage cars collected by Prince Rainier III. Begun in the 1950s, the collection eventually outgrew the palace’s capacity to house them which is when the prince decided to create a space in which to share them with them the public. This museum which today features everything from a 1903 De Dion-Bouton Button to a Lotus F1 of the 21st century is also home to Rolls Royces, Ferraris, Lambourghinis and all kinds of other car-world and Grand Prix treasures.
Monaco is also home to the Stamp and Coin Museum, the Naval Museum and the small Museo del Antiguo Monaco which is only open on Wednesdays and Fridays.
Pre-dinner Drinks and Dinner in Monaco
When the time arrives to start winding down your day and considering enjoying a pre-dinner drink somewhere you are going to be very spoiled for choice. Idyllic sundowner locations with sensational views abound – choose from beach-front, harbor-side, right next door to the famous casino in the lively Monte Carlo area or within the romantic and meandering alleyways of the old town.
Once you decide it is time to dine you may be interested to know you are in one of the corners of the world with the highest concentration of gourmet options. However, if you would feel more comfortable with laid-back than lavish you are not going to struggle for choices in that category either.
Pre-dinner Drinks
Stomping ground of the mega-rich and the super-famous, Monaco is packed with places to see and be seen in with a host of glamorous venues ranging from the elegantly sophisticated to the ultimate in glitz and flashy ostentation. Enjoying a drink in such places can involve a final check which reflects the bottomless resources of their elite clientele but it isn’t always the case and things are not always what they seem here. It can be easy to assume by appearance alone that certain establishments will be outside the average person’s price range and dismiss them instantly but it pays to check out prices before jumping to any conclusions. Some of them have prices that are no more than you would pay back home even though they do present a certain exclusiveness. Others, although hardly budget-friendly, do offer the opportunity to experience a slice of Monaco glamor which won’t break the bank, ideal for a special occasion.
Saphir 24 lounge bar
One such in this category is the hotel Fairmont’s Saphir 24 lounge bar, so called because this is one of the Monte Carlo spots which never sleeps. Built out over the water and incorporating huge picture windows, the inside cocktail lounge features sensational views of endless Mediterranean blue, coastal scenery stretching off into France and the comings and goings of the luxury yachts belonging to film stars and royalty. If you prefer to be outside to take in the sunset views there is also an exceptionally lovely open-air deck or alternatively you can head to the hotel’s seventh floor where you will find a champagne bar with the breathtaking views taking in the Prince’s Palace and the famous casino.
Le Baobab
In the same vicinity of Larvotto Beach but at the extreme other end of the scale is Le Baobab. You are steps from the beach here and at sundowner drinks time all is calm and tranquil. A simple, unpretentious beach bar with budget-friendly prices, Le Baobab also offers tables within a lovely little garden-setting. There is also food for when the hunger pangs kick in and you just can’t bear to tear yourself away from the lovely little corner of beach serenity you’ve found.
Café de Paris
Of course no mention of Monaco drinking venues could be complete without mentioning the iconic and famous-around-the-globe Café de Paris. Describe it how you will – chic, elegant, sophisticated – this legendary spot places you right in front of Monte Carlo’s grand casino and bang-smack in the heart of Monaco’s most vibrant goings on. Designed to resemble an old-time Parisian bistro complete with Art Nouveau details, there is no doubt the ambiance of the Cafe de Paris is atmospheric and generally lovely. It offers seating on either its famous seen-and-be seen outside terrace or inside its elegant and sophisticated sunlight-flooded interior. Wherever you choose to enjoy your sundowner cocktail or chilled wine be aware that the Cafe de Paris waiters are well-known for their somewhat arrogant attitudes and service-without-a-smile. For most people this is a small price to pay in order to tick something off the bucket list.
Dinner
Each of the options suggested for drinks allow you to transition smoothly from drinks to dining should you wish to keep things simple and energy expenditure at a minimum. Otherwise, Monaco offers a wide range of dining possibilities. As you might expect in this playground of the wealthy haute cuisine and fine dining options are plentiful and here the very highest end of the scale comes complete with giant helpings of the ultimately lavish.
Monégasque
However, these are not the only places in which you can have an exceptional dining experience. Monaco also offers high quality food in smaller, more intimate venues which are free of pretence or exclusive menu prices. French and Italian fare are the most typical but you should also check out some of the Monégasque traditional offerings. The most notable of these is the barbajuan which is a kind of outsize ravioli filled with vegetables, seasoned with herbs and then fried.
Loga
One highly-respected Monaco restaurant which has some of the best barbajuan going as well as some wonderful French and Milanese Italian fare on its large menu is the elegant Loga.
One of the best areas to head for if you want to sample such fare is the old town of Monaco-Ville. Sometimes uncomfortably heaving with tourists in the day, the lovely medieval lanes of the old town with their plethora of small, typical restaurants become more peaceful and atmospheric in the evenings. Alfresco terraces abound so just stroll until you find something which looks just right for you.
La Maree
For seafood fans who like dining with a view head to port-located La Maree. Although not one of the cheapest options, this rooftop restaurant atop the Hotel Port Palace offers, as you might expect, sensational views from its alfresco terrace and also exceptional food. The vast diversity of uncooked fish and shellfish ranging from sea bass to lobster is displayed on a huge bed of ice from which you can pick directly. You then decide how much of it your appetite can take and also your chosen cooking method such as grilled, steamed or salt-crust for example.
An Evening in Monaco
The largest portion of Monaco tourists are day trippers which means as the sun starts to sink the entire state becomes emptier and things generally take on a less hurried and more tranquil air. Monaco however does have a night-life scene – especially centered around Monte Carlo’s Casino Square and the vibrant port area – which means you can pick whether your evening is full of buzz or something rather more tucked away and serene.
The Casino
Whether you have any intention at all of trying your luck at the blackjack, baccarat, roulette or slot machines, the world’s best known (and arguably its most beautiful) casino has to be included somewhere in your time in Monaco. While not the state’s only casino, the Casino de Monte Carlo is its most famous, housed inside a stunningly majestic building which many on first seeing take to be the palace. Built in the 1800s, the casino is a Belle Époque vision of turrets, cupolas and architectural detailing while inside its lavish rococo interior you will find salons full of gorgeous paneling, soaring columns, incredible ceilings and enormous chandeliers spilling their light over a prestigious clientele dressed in tuxedos and gowns.
The entire complex is made up of public gambling rooms, private lounges, bars, restaurants, outdoor terraces and sumptuous gardens complete with fountains, flowers and sculpture, fantastically lit at night. You really can’t say you have had the full Monte Carlo experience until you have at least seen the casino both inside and out.
Should the casino appear somewhat familiar even if you have never been here before this can be easily explained. The casino has served more than once as a movie set with perhaps the best known those of several James Bond blockbusters such as the 1995 Golden Eye.
Concerts and Opera
Salle Garnier
The Salle Garnier, part of the Monte Carlo Casino, is home to the state’s opera house which dates back to the 1800s. Under the patronage of the prince, the Opera de Monte Carlo had its heyday in the early 1900s when it hosted some of the biggest names in the opera and stage world such as Sarah Bernhardt and Nellie Melba.
The red and gold theater with its frescoes and sculptures is itself quite beautiful – designed by the same architect who was responsible for the Paris Opera House. If you want to catch a performance here check out the company’s calendar of events to see what is on while you are in town.
Besides having its own opera company this miniature state also has its own philharmonic orchestra. Now celebrating its 50th year, the Monte Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra has annually performed a series of outdoor concerts in the idyllic setting of a Palace courtyard. Known for its exceptional acoustics, this lovely venue becomes enveloped with the music of classic works by Mozart, Beethoven, Brahms and Strauss on certain July and August nights with ticket prices starting from highly affordable rates.
If you’re ready to experience the beauty of Monte Carlo and Monaco in person, contact one of our vacation planners today!
