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Lisa Mackinnon, Senior Short Break Specialist

"Soak up the glamour and beauty of the Monte Carlo coastline on a yacht cruise or put on your best and join the high rollers at the lavish Monte Carlo Casino and Opera house. The city is also home to the Oceanographic Museum and Aquarium, a must-see for its impressive collection of species from the Med, as well as art exhibitions related to sea life."

Monte Carlo at a glance

The principality of Monaco, and its prestigious district of Monte Carlo, maintain a world-renowned reputation as a glamorous home to the rich and famous. Situated on the coast of the mesmerising Mediterranean, Monte Carlo is only a short 7 minute helicopter ride away from Nice airport (there are 70 flights a day with Heli Air), though you can easily access this beautiful and unique sovereign state by bus, train or car.

An attractive city break destination, Monte Carlo rests on a prominent slope at the base of the Maritime Alps, providing a stunning landscape of mountains and sea. Officially established in 1866, records of the port area go back as early as 43 BC. Today, the region offers an engaging mix of historical and modern attractions including the pedestrianized medieval village of Monoco-Ville, the stunning Opera House and the popular Grand Casino. 

Perfect if you’re looking for:

  • Luxury short break
  • Picturesque setting
  • Beachfront attractions

Getting around

There is a bus service that operates throughout Monaco, but the region’s picturesque setting makes it a perfect place to explore by foot. Sights resting at higher elevations can be easily reached by using one of seven free public lift systems.

It is worth noting you cannot hail a taxi in Monaco. They must be hired from one of the two main taxi stands open 24 hours a day.

Shopping in Monte Carlo

Though Monaco is often thought of as an exclusive destination, you don’t have to be royalty to shop here. While designer labels can readily be found in Monte Carlo’s Golden Square, there are also plenty of funky, chic boutiques, fruit and flower stalls and bric-a-brac flea markets to explore.

Dining in Monte Carlo

Monaco is a mecca for gourmet cuisine and award-winning chefs. With a huge variety of excellent cafes, restaurants and bars to choose from, indulgence is at the core of the regions gastronomy which is heavily influenced by French and Italian cuisine.

Must-try local dishes

  • Bouillabaisse – a provincial fish stew with vegetables, often served with a rouille
  • Barbagiuan – an appetizer pastry filled with either pumpkin or spinach and rice
  • Fougasse – a sweet pastry infused with orange and topped with nuts

Get your tailor-made short break itinerary

Osprey Holidays can create a fabulous short break to Monte Carlo designed completely around your needs. We can arrange whatever you need, including:

  • All travel and transfers on days of your choice
  • Accommodation from our handpicked range of Monte Carlo hotels, to suit your budget and requirements

Our award-winning team can provide expert advice and recommendations, from general questions to tiny details. Contact us now for your tailor-made itinerary.

Important information
Population 37,579
Languages French
Currency Euro
Visa Information No visa required for UK citizens
Average temperatures

(monthly highs °C)

Interesting facts

Visit the local town of Grasse to watch exclusive perfumes being made.

Distance from airports
Nice Côte d'Azur Airport 32 km
Railway stations
Monaco - Monte-Carlo

Tours and Excursions

Monaco & Eze Small-Group Tour

Enjoy spectacular views along the Mediterranean coast as you travel from Monaco to the medieval village of Eze. Perched up high amid stunning scenery, Eze is known for its craft shops and perfumeries, one of which you will visit during the tour. Monaco is a renowned playground for the rich and famous and you will take a drive through its charming streets, famous for making up the circuit of the annual Formula One Grand Prix before having a stroll round exclusive Monte Carlo.
 

French Riviera Full Day Tour

Discover the most picturesque towns on the French Riviera. In Antibes you will explore the charming streets, beautiful harbour and historic old town, and admire the yachts in Billionaire’s Quay. In chic Cannes, drive down the Boulevard de Croisette and stop at the Festival Palace where the Cannes Film Festival is held. As you return to Monaco you will pass through beautiful countryside and make a stop at the charming town of Saint-Paul-de-Vence admire the views from Eze.