Things to do in  Monte-Carlo

Immortalized on screen as the preferred nightspot of choice for James Bond, Monte Carlo Casino (Casino de Monte-Carlo) is famous for its glamorous clientele and decadent decor. Its Belle Epoque facade along the seafront in the tiny city-state of Monaco draws visitors from all over the world.

The glamorous principality of Monaco is one of the highlights of the French Riviera and a hugely popular cruise destination, welcoming some of Europe’s biggest cruise lines. Arriving at Hercules Port (Port d'Hercule) is an experience in itself, as you dock beneath the dramatic Rock of Monaco, gazing out across the glittering Mediterranean.

Opened in 1879, the Monte Carlo Opera is a grand auditorium in the Monte Carlo Casino complex that hosts not only operas but ballets and performances by the Monte Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra. It has premiered many works by composers including Massenet and Saint-Saëns.

Rising majestically from the cliffs above the Mediterranean, Monaco’s Oceanographic Museum (Musee Oceanographique) is one of the most renowned marine science centers in the world. Discover a highly varied collection of marine life and objects, and come face-to-face with your favorite sea creatures in the aquarium.

One of Monaco’s highlights, Casino Square (Place du Casino) is home to the world-famous Monte Carlo Casino, as well as the glamorous Hôtel de Paris and other storied landmarks. A popular destination for both high rollers and curious visitors, the square has a reputation for opulence that’s known the world over.

Though Monaco is limited in real estate area, the small principality is home to quite a few green spaces, including the beautiful Japanese Garden (Le Jardin Japonais). It was created in 1994 following strict Zen design rules at the wishes of Princess Grace of Monaco. The almost 2-acre (0.8-hectare) garden hosts a waterfall, small mountain, pond, and tea house.

Prince Rainier III of Monaco was passionate about cars and had a wide collection which is now open to the public. Not only does this carefully curated collection showcase some of the most desirable cars in the world, but it also offers a fascinating insight into the history of motoring.

Home to over 250 model ships, as well as numerous naval objects and artworks, the Monaco Naval Museum was founded in 1993. Drawn from the collection of shipbuilding enthusiast Professor Claude Pallanca and supplemented with artifacts owned by Prince Rainier III, it remains one of the city’s most fascinating and unusual institutions.

Petite Monaco’s only public beach, pebbled Larvotto Beach offers one of the best places to swim, sunbathe, and soak up the city’s rarefied ambiance. Located on the eastern edge of Monaco’s coastline, the beach is renowned for its clean, crystalline water. Go for a dip, though wear your best bathing suit—Larvotto attracts glamorous types.