The district located inside the minuscule country of Monaco, Monte Carlo is synonymous with sophistication. With 30 of residents as millionaires, it’s easy to say that this destination is reserved for the elite, the rich and the famous. It is situated on a cliff at the base of the Maritime Alps along the French Riviera, on the Mediterranean, just northeast of Nice, France, and has been a timeless playground for the see-and-be-seen crowd for more than 150 years.
LANDSCAPE
A country with an unusual layout, to say the least, the scenery of Monaco is quite dashing. It has one of the best locations on the Mediterranean which affords the country a perfect climate all year round and is surrounded by France from the north, east, and west, while the Mediterranean occupies the entire southern side. Monaco’s territory is small and is almost entirely a narrow coastline with amazing beaches, but it’s also surrounded by tall mountains from the mainland which tower above the streets of Monte Carlo.
GASTRONOMY
Due to its location and inherent connectivity to France and nearby Italy, the cuisine of Monaco is quite colourful, but with a unique speck of fanciness. Centuries of influence from its neighbours means that pastries and pies are a mainstay, as well as some fish-based delicacies. The uniqueness in Monaco’s cuisine comes from its duality because many of the local dishes are either sweet or sour – and some are even both – which has led to a very interesting popularity in the international kitchen.
CULTURE
While Monaco has an interesting and colourful history which dates even to Ancient Greek legends, it finally set into its own after the introduction of casinos in the 19th century. Since then it’s grown into a haven for the rich and wealthy and is considered a premium destination, but besides that, it’s a very calm country with deep-rooted religious beliefs. The influence of France can’t be denied, however, as Monaco is also a haven for many modern cultural and artistic endeavours, and its many galleries and theatres are proof of that.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
As a resort town with beaches and beautiful stretches of scenery and bustling ports, it makes sense that the warm, summer months are the best time to visit Monaco. The shoulder seasons in early May and September and October are best when the weather is still optimum and the crowds are calmer. Remember to cover up after leaving the beach, you’ll need to wear proper attire in the city or risk a hefty fine.
There are two reasons to visit Monaco around the biggest event of the year in May. To watch the Grand Prix, or avoid it. Every year the race takes to the streets to thrill crowds from far and wide. Avoid visiting around this time in May unless you’re here for the big day.
