Thanks to films such as Never Say Never Again and Golden Eye, Monaco has gained quite a reputation for its debonnaire charm and luxury. From its high-end casinos and grand buildings, to its beautiful harbour filled with luxurious yachts, there’s plenty to see and do in this exotic principality located by the azure blue waters of the Mediterranean coastline.
Stay at Hôtel de Paris
Enter a world of old-world opulence at the king of palaces: the Hôtel de Paris in Monte-Carlo. Built in 1863 to be the most luxurious in the world, the hotel boasts a total of 207 rooms – 60 percent of which are suites – and include two of the most exceptional ones on the Riviera; the Suite Princess Grace and Suite Princess Rainier III. After its recent 270-million-Euro revamp, a stay here will promise that you feel just like royalty.
Visit the Casino de Monte-Carlo
The gem in the crown of Monte-Carlo, you can’t miss a stop at the Casino de Monte-Carlo – where several James Bond films and Ocean’s Twelve was shot. Since 1863, the legendary casino has offered only the best to its prestigious customers, so it’s the best place to get the full Monte-Carlo experience. Dress code is a bit more contemporary these days, and tuxedos are no longer required. The Casino also witnesses a spectacular thematic refresh every season, launched through an unreal evening enjoyed by members of royalty and high rollers.
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Party at Jimmy’z
For more than 40 years, Jimmy’z Club has attracted the crème of the crop, thanks to its outstanding setting, electric atmosphere and cutting-edge programming, which have seen some of the hottest names in EDM hit the club’s turntables, including Robin Schulz, Lost Frequencies and Bob Sinclar. This is where you go to see and be seen.
Enjoy fresh local produce at Marché de la Condamine
Fully renovated, the famous Marché de la Condamine reopened in June 2012, faithful to its Mediterranean style and retaining the warm friendly Provencal spirit. Open every day, all year round, it features more than 20 stalls offering fresh local cuisine. Three zones within the market are fully equipped with colourful metal furniture and cosy lighting, encouraging mingling with the locals and sellers on site. Don’t miss out on trying the Monegasque specialities such as socca, barbagiuans, and fougasse. On the market square outside of the pavilion, a range of gardeners, florists and small local producers abound – a feast to the eyes and ready for you to take away.
Pamper yourself at Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo
Priding itself as a haven of luxury dedicated to wellness, beauty and performance, step into bliss at the Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo, where innovation and a 160-year old savoir-faire come into one at this luxurious facility. Take your pick from a range of treatments, from a table shower massage using shea butter to an ‘Absolu Spa’ – the quintessential spa package with three body treatments, complemented by a 60-minute facial treatment. If you’re game, try the famous Cryotherapy treatment which has served stars like Daniel Craig and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Lounge at Twiga at Le Meridien Beach Plaza
The newest addition to Monaco’s beach and nightlife entertainment is the Twiga Beach Club at Le Meridien Beach Plaza Hotel. Located on Avenue Princesse Grace, the prestigious Le Meridien enjoys a privileged waterfront position. Twiga Beach Club occupies a wide area on Le Meridien’s ground floor all the way down to the hotel’s private beach – equipped with 200 sun beds and 4 VIP tents. A mix of authentic Italian cuisine and contemporary Japanese cuisine by the award-winning Sumosan Restaurant flanks the space, giving guests the ultimate beach time experience.
Enjoy the best seafood at Les Perles de Monte-Carlo
If freshly shucked oysters, sea bass and lobster are everything your dreams are made of, say no further. Les Perles de Monte-Carlo is an oyster bar located at the very tip of the Port de Fontvieille jetty in Monaco. Delectable seafood delights come your way, served by friendly team members who are also Marine biologists. With a brilliant view of the sea, who could say no?
Play pétanque at Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel and Resort
The French would have had you believe that they invented the game, but the origins of Pétanque can be traced as far back as Ancient Greece when people played games which involved tossing coins and stones. To date, it is arguably one of France’s most popular sports, but it is equally popular in Monaco. How to play like a local? Have yourself a sip from a glass of Pastis, get in line and throw a metal ball (called boule) as close as you can to a small wooden target ball (the jack/cochonnet).
Arrive and depart – James Bond style – via Monacair helicopter transfers
There’s nothing that screams James Bond more than a swanky arrival and departure via a helicopter transfer and thanks to Monacair, a Monaco-owned helicopter service, you can now enjoy true James Bond treatment. Enjoy the charms of the Cote d’Azur from the skies with sweeping views from Cannes (France) to Bordighera (Italy), while away to the north the snow-capped Alps mountains greet your arrival to the most exclusive place on the Mediterranean.
