MONACO
Things To Do
In addition to beach-bumming and champagne-sipping, you can visit the fish at the Oceanographic Museum and Aquarium, the cacti at the Exotic Gardens and the changing guards at the Prince's Palace. You could also experience some spa treatments at Les Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo or try your luck at the slots of Monte-Carlo Casino. You should also whittle off some time to people-watch and to enjoy some Monégasque fare.
1. Larvotto Beach ~ One of Monaco's most popular beaches, Larvotto is a free-to-the-public shore located just a few-minutes' walk from Monte-Carlo. But like many French Riviera beaches, this one has pebbles rather than sand, so bring some sturdy shoes and be prepared to shell out some euros for a chair rental. Several TripAdvisor users recommend this beach for families, and one says, "There aren't strong tides so it's perfect for kids to play in." But families should keep in mind that some beachgoers sun topless. You should also note that this beach is very popular, so if you want a spot in the sand, you should get there early.
2. Monte Carlo Casino ~ Perhaps the attraction that best exemplifies Monaco's capital city is its casino. The building's Beaux-Arts design was overseen by Charles Garnier, architect of the Paris opera. And likewise, this grand casino also contains the city's opera and ballet. If this complex looks familiar, it's because you might've seen it before in the James Bond films, "Never Say Never Again" and "Goldeneye." It was also the inspiration for the casino in Ian Fleming’s first Bond book, Casino "Royale."
To get in, you must be 18 years old, properly attired (the more glamorous, the better) and you must pay the €10 EUR fee. After that, it’s up to you as to how much money you want to lose, ahem spend, at roulette, black jack, the slots, etc. The casino opens at 2 p.m. For more information, visit the official website.
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When To Visit
The best time to visit Monaco is in the spring or fall, especially April and October, when the weather is balmy and the room rates are reduced. This lavish getaway loses some of its luster between November and March, but you will save money on accommodations if you could visit in this chilly winter off-season. Visit in the summer, and yes, the beaches will be packed, the weather will be hot, and the restaurants will have long waits, but you'll also experience Monaco at its liveliest.
| September- November |
You'll find that fall's average highs hover in the 60s and 70s. Although the possibility for showers is a bit higher in October and November, the possibility of finding a reasonable room rate is higher too, so you just might want to risk rain.
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| December-February |
You might be surprised, but, yes, Monaco does experience winter. Average lows skim the 40s, making Mediterranean dips uncomfortable to say the least. Many of the hotels and restaurants that do remain open through the low season cut deals for their patrons.
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March-May | To enjoy the thin crowds and 70-degree temperatures, you need to visit in March or April before the Grand Prix descends on the city. Key Events:
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| June-August |
Summer is Monaco's high season when prices and crowds are at their peak. Make sure to make your room reservations several months in advance; dinner reservations too are a must.
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