Worth getting out of bed for
Highlights the best Monte Carlo has to offer, from art and culture to fun-packed activities; we've even found the most inspiring place to enjoy the views from.
- Viewpoint
- From the exotic gardens, and from the square in front of the Prince’s Palace.
- Arts and culture
- In the Fontvieille Harbour, it’s worth visiting the Prince of Monaco’s private collection of classic cars (www.palais.mc).
- Something for nothing
- The changing of the guard, every day at 11h55, at Place du Palais.
- Shopping
- The main retail area is around Boulevard des Moulins and in the Metropole Mall; folk with simple sartorial tastes may find what’s on offer overly glitzy and glam. If you fancy shopping in San Remo instead, you can charter a helicopter to Italy for the day through Heli Air (92 05 00 50; www.heliair.monaco.com).
- And...
- Kick off your break Dynasty-style and take advantage of the half-hourly helicopter shuttle service from Nice airport; it takes just six mins and costs €70 or €135 return with Heli Air (92 05 00 50; www. heliair.monaco.com), or book with Monacair (97 97 39 00).
Diary
- January Monte Carlo International Circus Festival in Fontvieille Big Top. February Primo Cup sailing competition (www.yacht-club-monaco.mc). April Tennis Masters (www.masters-series.com/montecarlo); Spring Arts Festival. May Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix (www.monte-carlo.mc/formule1); Classic Car Grand Prix (www.acm.mc). November National Day. December Dance festival at Grimaldi Forum and Salle des Variétés.
