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Have you ever had a preconception about a particular destination? I imagine so—nowadays, the amount of information we absorb from social media is overwhelming. We see countless videos and images every week, which can easily make us believe we already know what a place will be like—before even visiting it or speaking to anyone who has.
This article is my first personal “mea culpa.” And I’m sharing it publicly because, even after ten years of experience as a tailor-made travel consultant, I’m still human. And in this case, I’m happy to admit that I had the wrong idea about this incredible little state.
Let’s start with the basics: Monaco?
It’s the second smallest sovereign state in the world, after the Vatican. It spans just 2 square kilometers. That’s right—you read that correctly: two. The demonym is Monegasque, the language is French, and there are fewer than 10,000 people who actually hold Monegasque citizenship.
But has the Principality of Monaco always been what it is today?
The truth is, no. In the mid-19th century, Monaco was going through a deep economic crisis. The terrain was (and still is) very rocky and rugged. It wasn’t suitable for farming or for raising livestock—not even goats or sheep. During this time of hardship, Prince Charles III made the decision to sell a large portion of Monaco’s territory to France. With the money from that deal, and thanks to the visionary François Blanc, everything began to change:
- Thermal baths: Due to its geographical location and rocky formations, Monaco has a microclimate, making it a year-round destination. Imagine the European aristocracy in the 19th century, tired of the harsh February winters, suddenly able to escape to the Mediterranean for thermal spa treatments.
- The Monte Carlo Casino: At the time, gambling was prohibited in neighboring countries for moral or religious reasons. As a sovereign state, Monaco changed its laws to allow it. This move launched Monaco to fame—it quickly became known as a destination of glamour, luxury, and exclusivity among Europe’s elite.
- And to keep the momentum going, they needed visitors to stay longer. So the iconic Café de Paris was created, followed by the luxurious Hôtel de Paris.
With these key “ingredients,” Monaco began to evolve into the place we associate today with casinos, glamour, luxury, high-end cars, and yachts. And yes, like me, you probably already had all that in mind.
But Monaco is so much more than that.
Many travelers stay in nearby cities and visit Monte Carlo (a district within the principality) just for the day or for a few hours. They only see the most well-known parts.
And I used to think that was enough, too. But it’s not.
I won’t dive into a detailed hour-by-hour guide on what to do in Monaco—but believe me, I stayed two nights and still ran out of time. And I know without a doubt that I’ll return.
You can stay in Monte Carlo, either at the gorgeous Hôtel de Paris or the serene Hôtel Hermitage. From there, everything is just steps away: world-class restaurants, Michelin-starred cuisine, live shows. There are bars and clubs for every taste— from wild parties till cozy lounges with background music perfect for conversation (more my style!). And of course, the legendary Monte Carlo Casino.
Just getting dressed up, going out to dinner, and then visiting the casino makes you feel like you’ve traveled back in time. And that’s something you won’t experience on a quick day trip. This is something I increasingly encourage my clients to consider: embracing “slow travel.” Taking time to soak in a city’s nature, its personality, its style. Going beyond what social media or travel magazines show us. Walking along the promenades, gazing at the Mediterranean, feeling the warm sun and breeze in April… or enjoying the Monte Carlo Beach Club in July and being transported to the golden years of the French Riviera—those years filled with class and glamour, like something out of a Grace Kelly film.
Monaco has many sides. If you’re traveling as a couple or with family and want to relax, the Monte Carlo Beach Hotel is a great choice. Its rooms are almost at sea level, offering stunning views of the private beach club. Can you imagine spending your summer there? Of course, the hotel also has a fantastic seafood restaurant.
Its historic center is also worth exploring, with its narrow streets and charming little shops tucked into old buildings. Be sure to visit the Prince’s Palace of Monaco to better understand the heart of the principality’s history. Watch the changing of the guard at 11:55 AM every day, then enjoy a refreshing lemonade on a nearby terrace. And since Monaco’s luxury cars are among its most iconic sights, a visit to the Prince of Monaco’s Car Collection Museum is a must. This impressive collection was started by Prince Rainier III in the 1950s.
Let’s not forget Monaco’s location: nestled between France and Italy. You have the French and Italian Rivieras at your fingertips—those cliffside villages and beaches, that never-ending Mediterranean charm that also defines Monaco. As a travel base, it’s absolutely perfect.
So, let’s recap. In addition to glamour, luxury, casinos, yachts, and ultra-high-end vehicles… we have private beach clubs, restaurants with the best gastronomies in the world, impeccable service, charming streets, ocean views, a delightful climate for most of the year… and you’re right in the middle of the European Rivieras.
Monaco has much more to offer than you probably imagined, right?
If this article has you curious about visiting the Principality, reach out to me. Let’s chat about your travel style and find the best options so you can truly enjoy your precious time off in one of the world’s most iconic places.
Until next time,
Mónica