Ahh, Monaco! One of the most beautiful principalities in all of Europe. Because of its history and heritage, it's become somewhat of a fairytale-like paradise for many people, one that's full of glamour, luxury, elegance, and nostalgia. A stunning city-state along the French Riviera, it's become a go-to summer destination for the rich and famous, as well as a top European hotspot for millions of tourists. However, it does seem like you can only do so much here, right? How can you enjoy your time in Monaco? Well, even if you only have a day to spend here, there are still a lot to see and do!
Gamble at Casino de Monte Carlo
Money plays a huge part in Monaco. And it's not just because it's considered a 'tax haven.' In truth, Monaco is one of those exotic yet elegant places where gambling is the main game. Particularly, the famous
Casino de Monte Carlo! A palatial arcade of bets and risks, it's where people either lose their fortunes or win big time. It's the type of place you'll often see in James Bond movies: mysterious, sophisticated, yet a little bit sinister at the same time. Just don't forget to dress up when you get here. There's a strict dress code you have to adhere to!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
See The Prince's Palace
If you're up to seeing more palaces in Monaco without the risk of losing a lot of money, you can always visit the Prince's Palace! Home of the Royal Family of Monaco, it's a Genoese fortress that dates all the way back to the 13th-century. Though you can only visit it when the current monarch, Prince Albert, is not in the residence. You'll know this when the flag is not raised. If it is, it means he's home, therefore the palace is not open to the public at that time. Still, if you do get lucky with your timing, you won't want to miss the majesty of this palace!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Watch The Grand Prix
Admit it, you've heard of Monaco before because Monte Carlo, one of its most illustrious
districts, hosts the
Grand Prix every May. Don't worry, you're not alone! In fact, this international
Formula 1 race is practically the main reason why even a lot of the world's elite go here. They travel all the way to Monaco to watch the race but stay to enjoy and indulge in the finest things the city-state offers. Either way, watching this iconic international event should be part of your bucket list. It's something you won't want to miss when you get a chance to go here—hopefully in May!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Go Shopping
Of course, shopping is also a great way to spend your time in Monaco. If you have lots of money to spare and you want to best clothes, accessories, shoes and more, the many shopping districts and malls in Monaco are all on offer. The
Metropole Shopping Monte-Carlo,
Monaco One, Centre Commercial de Fontvieille are just some you can go to and splurge. With a ton of
French designer brands, Italian leather goods labels, and British tailors all on offer, there's no way you won't end up with a truckload of shopping bags by the end of the day!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Bask in Botanical Bliss
If you think the view of the Mediterranean sea from along the
French Riviera is the only natural beauty you'll see in Monaco, think again! The principality actually has a handful of gardens that can make even botanists wheeze with excitement. Beautiful, beguiling, and some, even educational, they're the perfect natural paradises when you need to take a break from the hustle and bustles of the city-state. Jardin Exotique, for instance, in Fontvieille, is home to around 7,000 different species of flora worth studying. While the more famous Princess Grace Rose Garden, on the other hand, is a romantic retreat to escape to with your significant other.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Relax in A Yacht
The quintessential way to relax in Monaco is to rest in your yacht as it's docked by the harbor. Year after year, the rich and famous take their most expensive boats and head on over to Monaco for some luxurious rest and relaxation. You'll see it at the peak of summer, when the harbors of Monaco are filled with yachts, perfectly lined up in a row, as if they're about to race or something. And inside each and every one of them are bottles of champagne, the best food money can buy, and a whole lot of wealth! Now, this is the life!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Swim at Larvotto Beach
If you don't have your own yacht, however, you can still relax, swim, and get a tan on Larvotto Beach! Though Monaco has a number of beaches, Larvotto Beach is undoubtedly the most popular. The white sands are so bright, it almost feels like your actually stepping on the sun. The waters here are so clear, you'll almost want to drink it. And, of course, an
array of great restaurants, cafes, and bistros are just a hop and a skip away! Convenient and comfortable, it's no wonder this beach gets busy every summer!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
If you're ever in Monaco, even for just a day, know that you can do so many things even in just that limited amount of time. You'd be surprised by how many wonderful experiences this tiny principality in the French Riviera can actually offer you!
After spending a busy day in Monaco, nothing would feel better than relaxing in your
luxurious home here!
