[French Riviera] MONACO - GLAMOROUS COUNTRY ON THE FRENCH RIVIERA
- Oct 31, 2017
- 3 min read
Let’s continue our journey on the “French Riviera”.
Today, I talk about my trip to Monaco and give you some tips to enjoy your time there!
Monaco is one of this places you must see once in your life. Thus, even if Monaco does not belong to France, you definitely have to take advantage of your travel to the French Riviera to visit the second smallest country in the world!
HOW TO GO THERE?
As, I was in Antibes at this time, I took the train to go to Monaco.
But you have several options: Bus, Train or Car.
My recommendations:
- Go by bus if you are close to Monaco, it’s the cheapest
- Go by car if you plan to stay overnight in Monaco (no bus, no train late at night)
- Otherwise go by train. It’s the best relation Time/Money. You can enjoy a beautiful view from the train and you don’t have to park, which is difficult and costly in Monaco.
FOR HOW LONG?
1 entire day from morning to sunset/beginning of night was totally enough for me.
However, if you really want to take your time and visit everything. 2 days may be the best option for you.
WHERE TO EAT?
Honestly, I ate Macdonald’s… not high gastronomy I recognize but sometimes it just happens haha. However, from what I saw, as Monaco is a wealthy city/country, everything is quite expensive including restaurants! Also, if you don’t want to spend too much, I advise you to go in the green area on the map below to find a restaurant, where it’s cheaper. Otherwise, remember to bring your own lunch/picnic.
WHAT TO DO THERE?
Organize your journey there according to the 2 main areas of Monaco: The Rock & Monte Carlo.
THE ROCK OF MONACO (“Le Rocher” – in French)
OCEANOGRAPHIC MUSEUM
The best and most beautiful aquarium I have visited so far! The aquariums are huge and contain a wide variety of species of fish and of marine mammals.
There are also vast and beautiful galleries with explanations on marine habitats and life. Very interesting!!
The highlight of the visit is the rooftop of the museum with a splendid view on the whole city. There is even a coffee shop where you can rest in the calm while enjoying the sun and a gentle breeze.
PRINCE’S PALACE OF MONACO – GRIMALDI PALACE
It is the official residence of the Sovereign Prince of Monaco. That’s why photos are forbidden inside! The visitors don’t have access to the private rooms of the family, but to the state apartments among which the main courtyard, galleries, Galerie des Glaces, the Throne Room, the State Hall, etc.
It’s really impressive and pretty! A must-seen place according to me!
PALACE CHANGING GUARDS
Every day at 11.55am precisely, on the square in front of the Palace, the traditional ritual of the Changing of the Guards called Carabiniers du Prince in French.
CATHEDRAL – NOTRE DAME IMMACULEE DE MONACO
Beautiful architecture !
THE OLD TOWN,
Be sure to go through the street called “Rue des Remparts” as she offers a beautiful view spot of Monaco
MONTE CARLO
MONTE CARLO HARBOR
Promenade. Be amazed of the luxurious and gigantic yachts.
CASINO AND ITS SQUARE
If you like luxurious cars, you will be served with a steady ShowOff of the owners who park in the front of the casino.
Otherwise, the architecture and the square also deserve attention.
MONTE CARLO OPERA
Once again, you can admire the beautiful building and enjoy a nice view.
BEST VIEW SPOTS
The Rock, « Rue des Remparts »
The Exotic Garden
Oceanographic Museum Rooftop
Jetée Lucciana & Hercule Harbour (particularly beautiful at night)
DID YOU KNOW?
1. The Principality of Monaco is the second smallest country in the world, just behind Vatican City.
2. Monaco is a constitutional monarchy ruled by a descendant of Grimaldi family.
3. Monaco gained its independence from France in 1489. The official language remains French. France and Italy are the only two countries to have an embassy in Monaco.
4. People native to Monaco are called Monegasque. A person born in a foreign country but resident in Monaco is a Monacoian.
5. Monaco is famous for its casino in Monte Carlo. However, residents of Monaco are not allowed to gamble or even enter the casino.
6. In 1956, glamorous American actress Grace Kelly and Rainier III, Prince of Monaco, get married.
7. Monaco’s flag is the same as Indonesia’s one. The only difference is that the Indonesian flag s wider. Red and white are the colors of the Grimaldi House.
Share & Comment
Comments