IF YOU’VE ever dreamed of casting off your current persona and adopting a dashing, new
cover in the vein of James Bond, Monaco might be the very place to begin your transformation.
You’ll also be surprised about how a place that extends only 4km along and encompassing only
202-hectares along the Mediterranean coast delivers such a varied number of attractions.
The Principality of Monaco is a delight and everything within its boundaries exudes ‘chic’ and
‘elegance’. Not so long ago, cruisers would usually access Monaco from another French port, but
the construction of a cruise ship pier means that many travellers step off their ship directly into
Monaco, and from this point, you’ll easily navigate yourself about.
Sailing along the coast and into Monaco is wonderful, so ensure you’re up on deck for arrival or
departure. Once ashore, you’re amongst the luxury yachts you’d expect to see here. A quick stroll
around the marina is enjoyable and if you’re visiting around Grand Prix time, you’ll quickly see
that Monaco succumbs to it. Just above your ship is “The Rock”. The area boasts regal attractions,
including a stunning Oceanographic Museum with colourful aquariums and natural science
exhibits. From there, stroll along the tranquil gardens until your reach the imposing Monaco
Cathedral, a Roman-Byzantine building housing the resting places of Prince Rainier and Princess
Grace of Monaco. Meander through the streets loaded with small shops, cafes and restaurants and
the Prince’s Palace will soon appear before you where you can experience the daily changing of
the guard. One of the best views is also captured from here.
On the other side is Monte Carl, home to the famous Monte Carlo Casino and Opera House, along
with the Cafe de Paris and Hotel de Paris, a legendary hotel which contains Alain Ducasse’s Louis
XV restaurant, a gastronomic wonder. If you’re hoping to win your next cruise fare, pay the €10
Carlo has them all. You’ll love it here, and most of what you want to see can be seen on foot.
Roger’s Quick Tips
Best Months: May – Sep
Don’t Miss: Strolling The Rock and its treasures
Tour or Not: On your own, but there’s also a Petit Tourist
Train
Sightseeing: All of it, plus the Prince’s vintage car collection
Food: Dinner at Louis XV, seafood
Language: French
Shopping: Everything designer name
Cash or Card: Credit Card or Euro