Cruising to Monte Carlo, Monaco

Monte Carlo tourist information.

Monte Carlo is a popular resort destination in Monaco, an independent microstate on France’s Mediterranean coastline. Steeped in 700 years of Grimaldi royal history, Monte-Carlo’s location is stunning, tucked between French medieval villages and the Alps. This glamorous palace is full of frescoes, sculptures, and features an astonishing gold and marble atrium. While the strikingly pretty architecture undoubtedly plays a part, what Monte Carlo is really about is money. And for those who have cash to splash, there’s plenty of choice – whether it’s browsing upmarket boutiques, chancing luck in the glitzy casino or partying on the fabulously glamorous yachts crammed into Monte Carlo’s natural harbour. . Monte Carlo, its major district, has an elegant belle epoque casino complex, ornate opera house and luxe hotels, boutiques, nightclubs and French and Italian restaurants.

You can start up on the Rock of Monaco where Monaco itself started. Be before the Princely Palace at 11.55am for the daily changing of the guard. Then wander the narrow streets of the old town – buffed up as if for a royal visit at any moment. Take in the wonderful Oceanographic Museum, before descending to the Port Hercule – and up the other headland to Monte Carlo, the casino, the limos, the posh shops and magnificent gardens. That’s it. You’re through with the essentials.

Monte Carlo’s two ports are no strangers to pleasure-boats. Port Hercule is exceptionally beautiful and offers mooring and anchoring possibilities for up to five hundred vessels, some of which are extremely large and elegant. This port also serves as a regular starting point or terminus for many Mediteranean cruises, so cruise ships can often be spotted sailing in or out of the marina. The Port of Fontvieille, integrated into the new district, can receive as many as 60 vessels of at least 30 meters in length. At close proximity, the Port of Cap d’Ail is also a choice destination for pleasure-boats.