Which Monaco is your Monaco?

Four ways to experience this glamorous destination

Monaco doesn’t just symbolize quintessential luxury; it is quintessential luxury. From the Formula 1 Grand Prix de Monaco each May … to the legendary Monte-Carlo Casino … to the fairy tale Prince’s Palace, this French Riviera gem conjures debonair trendsetters, sophisticated displays of car design & engineering at its best, and yachts with their own style and aplomb.

Accessible via a quick and easy 7 minute helicopter ride available every fifteen minutes from Nice Airport, Monaco boasts four distinct experiences. The beauty is that this principality is so small (second only to Vatican City) that you can take advantage of all four in even the briefest of visits.

In short, Monaco is divided into four quarters: Monaco-Ville, Monte Carlo, Fontvieille, and La Condamine. Some note “Moneghetti” as a fifth district, but many still consider it a part of La Condamine. Each has a unique flair and feel.

Monaco-Ville

This old medieval quarter is called “The Rock” due to its narrow alleys, intimidating hills and breathtaking views. The Rock is where you’ll find the Place du Palais. Look for the changing of the guard each day at 11:55 am. When the Prince and his family are away, indicated when the tower flag is not raised, the breathtaking Palace’s state apartments are accessible to the public. While visiting the Palace don’t miss concerts held in the Main Courtyard throughout the summer.

Just as spectacular is the nearby Oceanographic Museum (pictured), which boasts remarkable finds from Prince Albert I’s explorations, as well as Jacques-Yves Cousteau discoveries. The Museum’s three aquariums are the most amazing feature. You’ll discover the Tropical Aquarium, Mediterranean Aquarium, and Shark Lagoon. Children will love Turtle Island and a Touch Tank as well. Need a break? Linger at the rooftop La Terrasse Restaurant for incredible views of the Museum’s fitting seaside setting.

One last Monaco-Ville must: Les Jardins Saint-Martin, which feature small paths perfect for meandering the rocky slopes while taking in wonderful views. 

Monte Carlo

To some, Monaco and Monte Carlo are interchangeable. As the wealthiest district, Monte Carlo’s glamour reigns supreme along the Place du Casino. Here, you’ll find the Monte-Carlo Casino (pictured) if the sway of chance beckons. Monte Carlo’s fine dining, stunning hotels, and Avenue de la Costa luxury boutiques are the appeal of this famous quarter for many visitors.

Two exclusive hotels include the Hotel Metropole, which opened to guests in 1886, and the Hotel de Paris. The Hotel Metropole features the Joël Robuchon Monte-Carlo restaurant with Mediterranean cuisine served from a wonderfully accessible open kitchen and Yoshi for unparalleled Japanese cuisine, including sushi. For some true downtime, you can enjoy the Karl Lagerfeld-designed spa where you can choose from Greek-themed treatments. And don’t miss the Metropole Shopping Centre in the building’s commercial gallery. If you happen to be visiting in May, you can watch the race cars zoom by from the Metropole’s terraces.

The Hotel de Paris is just as luxurious and famous. Its fine-dining includes Chef Alain Ducasse masterpieces, including Le Louis XV for selections influenced by the French and Italian Rivieras and Le Grill for Mediterranean fare. Each evening Le Bar Americain attracts guests as well with its live music.  And, if you ask, you might be privy to the Hotel’s private wine cellar, with an impressive 450,000 bottles.

Note that the Opera House is also in this district for a Monaco experience that touches all senses. The Opera Season runs from November through June.

Fontvieille

For an oasis of serenity, head to Monaco’s southeast quarter. Fontvieille’s Princess Grace Rose Garden (pictured) is a true haven with almost 200 varieties and 4,000 roses. The palm and olive trees add to the calm and beauty. Don’t stop here! Stroll the whole district to discover contemporary sculptures here and there. The Sculpture Path pleases visitors with almost 100 works. Plan for a two-hour stroll.

If fast-paced is your nature, perhaps you should visit The Prince of Monaco’s Vintage Car Collection. You’ll see about 100 vehicles, including the De Dion Bouton 1903 and a 1952 Rolls Royce.

La Condamine

You may have arrived by a private jet, but many visitors access Monaco via the port area: La Condamine. Specifically, the numerous yachts that align Port Hercule remind everyone that the Côte d’Azur is a yachter’s paradise. The oldest commercial quarter of the principality, La Condamine features the Condamine market—an appealing place to visit in the morning for a bite and the morning paper. Throughout this district, travel afoot is most popular.

Located along the cliffs, the Exotic Garden of Monaco (pictured) is an essential part of your morning stroll. The extraordinary succulents bloom along the mountainside. If you’re feeling adventurous, check out the prehistoric Observation Cave below, where you’ll discover both stalagmites and stalactites.

Also in the La Condamine quarter is Moneghetti, a residential area that also features the Parc Princesse Antoinette known for its 100-year-old olive trees.

Medieval and royal. Glamourous and gourmand. Peaceful and precious. Seafaring and meandering. Find your own favorite Monaco today.

Monaco-Ville photo courtesy of the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco.

All other photos courtesy of Visit Monaco, Monaco Press Centre Photos.