Marvelously Monaco

There’s something about this small nation, which immediately captures your heart


Manal Waqi July 03, 2016
View of the Monaco beach Editorial Credit: Alexander Leonov / Shutterstock.com

There’s something about this small nation, which immediately captures your heart. Whether it’s the serenity of the azure

Mediterranean Sea, the rocky terrain or the lavish shopping, everything in Monaco is simply divine — even the ketchup here tastes better!


Sidewalk cafe in Monaco, Monte Carlo
Editorial Credit: InnaFelker / Shutterstock.com

the Gourmet Foodie

Where To Stay:

Hotel de Paris, Monte-Carlo

The ultimate luxury hotel experience is promised at Hotel de Paris, situated in the centre of all the action. In close proximity to important landmarks and sights to see, this hotel is simply perfection. You won’t have to go far to savour the best in fine dining, so tantalise your taste buds with the hotel’s selection of gourmet restaurants.

What To Eat:

Baccarat

The Italian restaurant Baccarat is a luxurious dining experience not to be missed. The opulent interiors, high-rise ceilings and larger-than-life glass chandeliers are straight out of the sets of The Great Gatsby. The Andalusian Gazpacho is highly recommended. 

Things To Do:

Stroll on the Golden Circle

The cafés in Golden Circle have a delightful selection of teas and juices, and the restaurants scattered on the cliffs, overlooking the sea, are simply divine. Stop by any of these food haven while exploring the streets of Monte-Carlo, and you will not be disappointed.

Experimental restaurants

If you enjoy experimenting with new cuisines, Monaco is the right place for you. With a plethora of fabulous restaurants and cafés, you can spend your trip hopping from one eatery to another. In exploring you may discover never-seen-before dishes such as seafood pasta, made by shaking herbs, vegetables, fresh seafood and soft pasta in a bottle right in front of you. However, don’t be mistaken by the unusual method of serving, once you taste the food, it will most likely be unbelievably scrumptious.


View from the Le Jardin Exotique de Monaco
Editorial Credit: Tomsickova Tatyana / Shutterstock.com

the Natural Soul

Where To Stay:

Le Méridien Hotel

The modern, yet deluxe Le Méridien Hotel is situated right by the water. Indulge in deep-sea diving, sunbathing or laid-back swimming, with the hotel’s private beach opening into the vibrant Mediterranean Sea. You’ll feel at one with nature in this exceptional retreat.


Saltwater aquarium of the Oceanographic Museum
Editorial Credit: Rostislav Glinsky / Shutterstock.com

What To Eat:

L’Inattendu

Pass by L’Inattendu for a wholesome meal. This café offers a variety of natural and organic foods. That said, don’t be fooled by its all-natural image, each and every dish on the menu is a work of art. Be it a rice dish or a vegetable salad, the texture and taste of the dishes will leave you enthralled.

Activities:

Le Jardin Exotique de Monaco

Beautifully perched upon one of Monaco’s many cliffs, the Jardin Exotique must make it on your itinerary. The lush gardens are home to some of the most phenomenal and rare species of plants, including a variety of cacti, which can only be found in select dry-zones. What is even more remarkable is the mesmerising view, overlooking the Monegasque coast.

Oceanographic Museum

Wishing to discover more about the Mediterranean Sea? Head over to the Oceanographic Museum! Inaugurated over 100 years ago, the museum and aquarium display a variety of expositions, showcasing  flora, fauna and a multitude of species.


Editorial Credit: Andersphoto/ Shutterstock.com

the Glamour Brigade

Where To Stay:

Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo

Hôtel Hermitage is the perfect holiday sanctuary, with striking views of the Mediterranean Sea. A historic landmark, the luxury hotel offers everything from an award-winning Crystal Terrace, to an assortment of luxurious spa services.

What To Eat:

Café de Paris Monte-Carlo

The ultimate hotspot in Monaco, Café de Paris is always a good idea. With an exclusive location in the Casino Square, the terrace is the perfect spot to sit and observe the regular brigade of exotic cars. If you’re lucky, you may even spot a celebrity or two. Don’t miss out on the ‘Crème Caramel’, a delectable homemade dish you won’t be able to resist. 

Activities:

Shopping at Golden Circle

To all the shopaholics, what is a vacation without a bit of damage on your credit card? Monaco has an abundance of lavish, upscale stores, sure to keep you occupied. Visit the Golden Circle, to shop the latest runway looks of the season and the best in fashion.

La Condamine

For a look at the world’s most opulent yachts head over to La Condamine. To experience the nautical lavishness, hire a catamaran, and take a tour of Monaco’s coasts. Alternatively, you can even take a day trip to the charming town of Nice.

Opéra de Monte-Carlo

Book a seat at the Opéra de Monte-Carlo, to enjoy a world-class symphony performance. This illustrated opera is home to a variety of chefs-d’oeuvre, which you simply cannot miss.


Historic door of the Oceanographic museum
Editorial Credit: Sergii Zinko / Shutterstock.com

the Art Connoisseur

Where To Stay:

Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel and Resort

Looking for some R&R time? Stay at the highly acclaimed Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel and Resort, for a peaceful experience. The contemporary neo-classical architecture, the grand interior and the long arcades, will be an art experience in itself. If you wish to try your hand at painting, set up an easel on the terrace, facing the depths of the ocean, for a picturesque landscape.

What To Eat:

Sphere Café

Enjoy a delightful selection of pastries at the Sphere Café. Whether you’re a caffeine junkie or a tea-lover, this endearing café has a fine selection certain to satisfy your cravings. For the health-conscious individual, don’t forget to try Sphere’s all-encompassing nutritious meals.

Things To Do:        

Amongst many other things, Monaco is globally recognised as an art capital. From prized heritage pieces to the best in contemporary paintings, art enthusiasts will find the Monegasque art galleries to be hidden jewels.

The Marlborough Fine Arts Gallery

The Marlborough Fine Arts Gallery, founded by Frank Lloyd and Henry Fischer, is often listed as the best art gallery to visit. The highly acclaimed art space is home to pieces by maestros including Claude Monet. Additionally, from time-to-time, the gallery also displays the most specular jewellery pieces from across the globe.

The Opera Gallery

A haven of celebrated contemporary artists, as well as young newcomers, The Opera in Monaco is a must visit to discover artwork by the likes of Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse and Andy Warhol.

Exhibition of HSH The Prince of Monaco’s Vintage Car Collection

Don’t forget to visit the Exhibition of HSH The Prince of Monaco’s Vintage Car Collection. Even if you’re not a car fanatic, you’ll enjoy exploring over 100 of the most spectacular vintage car models, including treasured vehicles from the royal family’s personal collection.

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