You've probably heard of Monaco as this glamorous paradise in the French Riviera. A warm Mediterranean escape where the rich and famous play to their hearts' content. Not to mention that it's the principality where the legendary Hollywood actress Grace Kelly became its most loved princess. But with all that said, there's actually more to this tiny little country in Western Europe than what this glossy reputation shows. Yes, it's warm and sunny here. Yes, it's also a luxurious summer destination. But its many districts prove that the place is far more interesting and more fascinating than you might realize!
Monaco City
Firstly, there's Monaco city. The capital of the principality, it's where the Prince's palace is located. Just one look and you'll know that it's the type of scenic Mediterranean city that's just bursting with beauty, love, and passion. The charm of old Europe reigns supreme here, what with the classic architecture, cobblestone streets, and charming boutiques that sell all sorts of great finds that you won't see anywhere else! Pair all of that with the fresh ocean breezes that often wafts across this scenic district and you've got yourself quite the cinematic retreat! It's no wonder it's often the most crowded area in the principality.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Fontvieille
Just as busy and bustling is the district of Fontvieille. Though Monaco City is widely regarded as the 'country's capital,' Fontvieille is actually more of the principality's business and financial hub.
The big banks, the large and small companies, and all sorts of business have set up shop here. This area is also one of the reasons why Monaco is the rich and luxurious destination it has always been over the years. Ironically enough, however, the most notable hotspot in this part of Monaco is a lot less busy and more peaceful—the Princess Grace Rose Garden. It's a beautiful floral oasis dedicated to the late Hollywood icon.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
La Condamine
More often than not, when you research online and read a book about Monaco, you'll likely see a port city filled with expensive yachts. This sort of image has become somewhat an infamous representation of what the principality is about. But in truth, it's just La Condamine, one of the many wards of Monaco. As such images suggest, this is more of the port area of the principality, often the place where the world's elite dock their yachts and go about exploring the district. Though despite this, the area has retained its classic Mediterranean charm, full of quirky shopping districts, kitschy cafés, and the like!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
La Rousse
Up in the northernmost part of Monaco is the area known as La Rousse. It's also the district nearest to France. Notably, the place is one of, if not the most residential area in all of Monaco. The principality isn't exactly known for its suburban neighborhoods, and truth be told, not a lot of places here actually are. But La Rousse is a different story. Though it's still as busy as the other municipalities, it's a lot more peaceful than them as well. And while it still has its fair share of
luxury apartments, elegant homes, and the like, there are also a lot of more humble houses for the middle class as well!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Larvotto
Out of all the areas in Monaco, Larvotto is your best bet for having a peaceful stay here. The district, which borders Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, is known as one of the best seaside escapes in the principality. Larvotto beach, as well, is regarded as one of the finest, not just in Monaco, but in the entire French Riviera region as well! You'll instantly know it for yourself once you take a stroll on the promenade, where you can feel the whispers of the Mediterranean sea and revel in the serenity of the place.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Les Révoires
Another of the quieter areas of Monaco is Les Révoires. Similar to La Rousse, it's also one of the more residential districts on this list. Houses upon houses, all reeking of classic French-Mediterranean architecture, are all perched on the inclined planes that provide a stunning view of the sea. In fact, this place also houses Chemin des Révoires, a pathway that leads to the highest point in Monaco. Once you get to the top, you'll feel like you're on top of the world! Though the Exotic Garden of Monaco is also an attraction worth visiting!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Moneghetti
Another elevated area in Monaco is Moneghetti. Perched atop the hills of the principality, it's almost weird how they were able to establish quite an urban community in this part of the region. Though a lot of the areas within this ward are actually not as accessible as those in Les Révoires. With that said, it's actually one of the first districts you get to in Monaco if you're traveling by train from France. In fact, the area itself is near
the French Alps and is actually on the pathway that leads from the said mountain region to the Mediterranean Sea.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Monte Carlo
Now, this is, perhaps, the number one ward that you've probably heard of or have seen in movies or on TV! Monte Carlo! A hub of luxury that can rival the likes of
Cannes and
St. Tropez, it's one of the most popular and oftentimes infamous areas, not just in Monaco, but in this part of the world as well. Yes, the opulent buildings and rustic Mediterranean aura have their charms, but a central hotspot in the city is its famous
Monte-Carlo Casino. This is where the rich and famous gamble to their hearts' content. And sometimes, the stakes are unimaginable!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Saint Michel
Finally, there's Saint Michel! The third-largest ward in all of Monaco, it contributes greatly to the tourism industry of the principality. It's a type of place that between peaceful and bustling, with its fair share of urban parts and residential areas. There are countless homes and hotels for accommodation, making it a popular go-to district for a lot of tourists and visitors alike. As for those planning to move to Monaco, on the other hand, the ward also has its fair share of offices and schools for your convenience.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Monaco may be a dream destination for many but it's just as real a place as any! The small but sparkling, glamorous but infamous principality is made up of many districts, also known as 'wards,' that go beyond the state's glossy reputation!
