Day 1 in Monte Carlo, Monaco

Welcome to Monte-Carlo, Monaco! Upon arrival, you will go through customs and immigration. Should you opt to purchase a transfer to your hotel; a representative will be waiting for you as you exit immigration. Arrive at your hotel, check in and do not give in to jet lag! There is so much for you to see and do.

Begin the afternoon with a pleasant lunch with a view at one of the restaurants or cafes along the marina. Afterward, we recommend that you get acquainted with the area with an `Open-Top Bus Tour,` showcasing the main sights of the area. The bus allows you to hop-on and hop-off at the Principality`s 12 main sights.

As night falls, enjoy the glamorous atmosphere in the district of Monte-Carlo which stands on a rocky promontory to the north of the Port of Monaco. There are breathtaking seaside views from the gorgeous terrace of Place du Casino. As Monaco`s wealthiest district, Monte-Carlo attracts the rich and famous and is a great place for people-watching and enjoying some fine dining. You have your choice of three Michelin-starred restarants, as well as a variety of other exceptional options. There are many fashionable shopping streets, such as the Avenuede la Costa with its luxury boutiques great for browsing and window shopping.

Day 2 in Monte Carlo, Monaco

Start the day off early and head to Jardin Exotique, the garden is situated in the Fontvieille area (the more modern section) of Monaco, just outside the historic center. The Exotic Garden boasts lush vegetation and breathtaking views of the sea. Here you`ll find amazing plants from Africa and Latin America and more than 7,000 varieties of succulents that thrive due to the ideal conditions. The gardens include an Observatory Cave, the vicinity of the cave was once inhabited by prehistoric man and is filled with stalactites and stalagmites. The Anthropology Museum is also located in the gardens providing more about the prehistoric era and the history of early civilization with pre-Roman and Roman period objects.

As you leave the gardens head over to the Princes Palace of Monaco (Palais du Prince), home to the oldest monarchy in the world. Originally built in the 13th-century as a Genoese fortress, the site boasts magnificent views, which provided defensive purposes in the Middle Ages. The State Apartments of the Palais Du Prince is open to the public when the Prince and family are away (when the flag on the tower is not raised). Visitors can see the glorious décor including the Blue Room, Mazarin Room and the Empire-style Throne Rooms. During the summer months, concerts are held in the Main Courtyard. The Changing of the Guard tradition takes place every day at 11:55 am in front of the Palace.

Just a two-minute walk from the Princes Palace is the beautiful Roman-Byzantine-style Monaco Cathedral, the famous burial place of the Princes of Monaco. It also contains the grave of Grace Kelly, the actress-turned-princess of Monaco. Built between 1875 and 1884, you`ll be impressed by the beauty and regal features which include a white altar, dating from 1500, and an exquisite grand organ that is used for religious services which take place every Sunday at 10 am. The cathedral is open to the public with free admission.

As the evening approaches, make your way to Monaco`s harbor. Packed with luxury yachts, including the Prince`s private vessel, the port is a pleasant area to stroll. There are many restaurants with outdoor seating to enjoy the lovely setting. We recommend you take a one-hour catamaran ride around Monaco to see the impressive coastline.

Day 3 in Monte Carlo, Monaco

Begin your day at the Musee Oceanographique, one of the world`s oldest aquariums opened in 1910, the building is quite impressive situated almost 300 ft above sea level offering a dramatic setting. The museum boasts valuable scientific collections with finds from the exploration of Prince Alber I and the discoveries of Jacques-Yves Cousteau. There are three Aquariums here (the Tropical Aquarium, Mediterranean Aquarium, and the Shark Lagoon) and over 6,000 specimens to be discovered.

In the afternoon, take a tour of the Monaco Grand Prix. The famous Formula One Monaco Grand Prix race takes place in Monte-Carlo every year on the last weekend in May. This is the only car race in the world that is held on city streets. First organized in 1929, it has become one of the most prestigious and glamorous races in the world by film stars, celebrities and millionaires. With its tight corner, changes in elevation and a tunnel, it is also one of the most dangerous despite being the shortest track of the Formula One roster.

Continuing with the car theme, from the Grand Prix tour we recommend taking a short walk over to the Museum of Antique Automobiles (Collection of Vintage Cars). This collection exhibits Prince Ranier III of Monaco`s vintage cars, bringing together a total of 85 antique cars of various vintages and models, all made by prestigious European and American car companies. Car enthusiasts will love it and even non-car enthusiasts will find the museum an enjoyable experience.

On your final night in Monaco head out for an extravagant night at the Monte-Carlo Casino, an architectural delight. This is the attraction that best exemplifies Monaco`s capital city. The grand casino was featured in the James Bon films, `Never Say Never Again` and `Goldeneye.` It was also the inspiration for the casino in Ian Fleming`s first Bond book, `Casino Royale.` This building is a must-see when you`re in Monaco due to its grand décor, the variety of gaming options, and excessiveness in every way. It is the most elegant place in town to have a cocktail and hear live music.

The grand casino also contains the city`s opera and ballet, fitting right into this elegant scene. The auditorium of the Opera House is entirely decorated in red and gold. Here you can enjoy mostly classic operas such as works by Mozart, Rossini, and Puccini but also hosts other musical recitals, concerts, and ballet performances. The Opera Season runs from November through June.

Additional Days in Monte Carlo, Monaco

Should you be able to spend additional days in Monaco make a day trip to an Ancient Town or Village nearby, such as La Turbie or Peille, or visit the city of Nice closeby, a great place to soak up the Riviera vibe.

Tour the delightful old township of La Turbie, located just 5 miles northwest of Monaco. The ancient town gates of this Medieval village date back to the 13th-century. The central part of the village offers quaint shops, restaurants and hotels. Another attraction is the 18th-century Saint Michael Archangel. This Baroque church has a beautiful interior offering two paintings by Jean-Baptiste van Loo. Also make sure to visit the Trophee des Alpes monument, erected by the Roman Senate in 6 BC to commemorate the Emeror Augustus. The grounds around the monument have been laid out as a park and there are marvelous views of the coast.

Alternatively, head to the charming perched village of Peille, that stands high above the River Peillon. The village boasts quaint narrow streets and medieval architecture including a 12th-century Romanesque church and the ruins of a 13th-century castle.

Another option is the city of Nice, the `unofficial` capital of the Cote d`Azur, located just 30 minutes from Monaco. You`ll love the mix of good-looking, culture and grit this coastal city has to offer. Here you`ll find fabulous markets, numerous museums, glorious architecture and a wealth of spectacular restaurants. It`s also a great place to soak up the Riviera sunshine on one of their many pebbly beaches.

Your Last Day in Monte Carlo, Monaco

Depart your hotel for the airport for your return home. We recommend that you purchase a private transfer, if so a representative will meet you at the hotel, in time to take you to the airport for your flight out.