Monaco is famous for the glamorous Monte-Carlo Casino, the Grand Prix and its princely family. The Principality of Monaco is the second smallest country in the world. Although it may be small, it is a destination with a remarkable heritage and outstanding wealth. The kingdom is about half the size of New York’s Central Park.
Situated on a rocky promontory, the Prince’s Palace of Monaco is perhaps the most famous building in the Principality. The palace has been the home of the Grimaldi dynasty since the end of the 13th century.
In Place du Palais sentries and cannons guard the entrance to the palace. The white-uniformed guards are changed outside the palace at 11.55am each day. This event is called ‘la relève de la garde’ (the changing of the guard) is a tradition that has been passed down through the centuries.
The Old town is full of picturesque spots and housed glued closely together which feels a world away from Monte Carlo’s skyscrapers and super yachts. On the opposite side of Palace Square are fabulous views of the new harbour and the residential neighbourhood of Fontvielle built entirely on reclaimed land.
Monaco and Monte Carlo are known for its upscale casinos, yacht lined harbours and prestigious Grand Prix motor race, which runs through Monaco’s streets once a year. Monte-Carlo is home to the elegant belle-époque casino complex and ornate Salle Garnier opera house. It also has many luxe hotels, boutiques, nightclubs and restaurants.
A magnet for high-rollers and hedonists since the early 20th century, it’s also one of the world’s most notorious tax havens. The super yachts are a spectacle on their own; some have helicopters while all have a runabouts that you and I would be proud to own!!!
Precious as a collector’s postage stamp, as safe as a medieval fortress and as romantic as Prince Rainier’s marriage to the glamorous Hollywood legend Grace Kelly, Monaco is surprising at every turn of its historic streets.
