Travel guide Monaco

Painting, music, dance, theater, architecture, sculpture... The Principality enjoys an exceptional heritage and is a lover of art in all its forms. From the Philharmonic Orchestra concerts to the Monte-Carlo Ballet and the Printemps des Arts, Monaco offers at least one artistic event every day

Between rallies and Grand Prix, the Principality gives to the automobile competition a place of choice in its sporting events. Despite the small size of Monaco, the streets are laid out to accommodate the drivers and the thousands of spectators who do not hesitate to make the trip, especially for the Formula 1 Grand Prix.

As you approach the Princely Palace, you will see guards in white clothes and helmets. These are the Carabinieri, who guard the Princely Family on a daily basis. They are relieved every day in the Palace Square at 11:55 am. Created in 1817, the company has 124 Carabinieri whose motto is "Honor, Fidelity, Devotion".

It is difficult to talk about Monaco without mentioning its famous casinos, where tourists from all over the world flock to try their luck on the green carpet. Since 1863, beginners and experienced gamblers alike have been visiting these luxurious gambling houses, with the exception of Monegasques themselves, who are forbidden by law to gamble

Very attractive thanks to its living environment and events, the Principality has had to face certain challenges in order to meet the growing demand for housing, on only two square kilometers. The Fontvieille district, under the reign of Rainier III, was built on the sea, as was the future residential and commercial area Mareterra.

From Francesco "Malizia" Grimaldi in the 13th century to the current Prince Albert II, via Albert I and Grace Kelly, the Princely Family of Monaco is both close to the residents and very involved in local life. Many businesses display a photo of the princely couple in their window, so appreciated is the House of Grimaldi.

Elegance, prestige and refinement contribute greatly to the Principality's international reputation. Starred restaurants, yachts, casinos, palaces, spas, beautiful cars and luxury boutiques make Monaco a sumptuous setting, without vulgarity, where you can put down your suitcases and enjoy a magnificent setting, which makes the whole world dream.

Often confused with Monaco, Monte Carlo is a district created in 1860 by Prince Charles III. First called Plateau des Spélugues (caves, in Monegasque), it became famous for its hotels, stores and casino. In 1866, the district was renamed in honor of the Prince and became Monte-Carlo, the Mont-Charles

With its Oceanographic Museum and the famous Yacht Club, the Principality has woven a true love affair with the Mediterranean. Challenges, cups and championships are regularly organized in Monaco to honor the various sailing or motor boats that come from all over the world to sail off the Monegasque coast.

Overlooking the Monegasque territory, it is on the Rocher, or "Monaco-Ville", that one finds the Princely Palace and the other political authorities. With its old and narrow streets and historical buildings, the Rocher is the oldest district of the Principality, whose authentic charm attracts its share of tourists every year

The Société des Bains de Mer is an essential company in Monaco. Founded in 1863, it has contributed to the growth and influence of the Principality internationally, thanks to the construction of casinos, which were forbidden in France at the time. Today, SBM manages several high-end establishments such as palaces, restaurants and spas in Monaco.

Halfway between Nice and Italy, Monaco enjoys the exceptional climate of the Côte d'Azur, with an almost omnipresent sun, a perfectly blue sky, and beaches to enjoy the good weather and the warmth of the Mediterranean in spring and summer. In autumn and winter, the climate remains pleasant with rather mild temperatures.