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.
Worth getting out of bed for
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.
