o       Oceanographic Museum and Aquarium- This beautiful building was inaugurated by Prince Albert I in 1910. It houses two floors of amazing marine fauna, either stuffed or in skeleton form, models of Prince Albert’s ships, and craftware made from original products of the sea. The building itself is 279 feet tall and took 11 years to construct. It was built with 100,000 tons of stone from La Turbie. The basement of the building houses the aquarium, where 4,000 species of fish and over 200 families of invertebrates call home. The aquarium is an authority on the presentation of the Mediterranean and tropical marine ecosystem. The most recent exhibit is the “Shark Lagoon”, which displays the colors and inhabitants of a coral reef. In the Conference room on the ground floor, films and exhibitions are regularly presented. The top floor houses the museum’s restaurant, “La Terrasse”, which looks out over the Principality of Monaco and the Italian Riviera. The museum is open daily at hours which vary with the season. Admission is EUR 11.00 for adults and EUR 6.00 for children ages 6-18.

o       The Monte-Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra- The orchestra was established in 1863, but really came into it’s own with the opening of the Garnier Palace in 1879. The orchestra became known as the National Orchestra of the Monte-Carlo Opera until 1979, when it was renamed the Monte-Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra. There have been many great conductors this century who have led music there, including Richard Strauss, Toscanini, Leaonard Berstein, and Lorin Maazel.

o       Opera of Monte-Carlo- The Opera of Monte Carlo was created in 1879 and has become world-renowned as a promoter some of the most beautiful voices in Europe. The Opera has performed works by authors such as Bizet, Franck, and Massenet, who all wrote works especially for the Moneguasque Opera. 

o       Tours- There are several interesting tours to take while in Monaco that will give you an insight into the background and culture of the area. The Design and Architecture Tour specializes in promoting the beautiful architecture that is in Monaco. The tour showcases the Casino and its surrounding glory, the beautiful hotels in Monaco, such as the Hotel Hermitage, the National Museum and Collection of Dolls and the Automats of Yesteryear, and the Le Meriden Beach Plaza. In the Flora and Fauna Tour, you will take in the beauty of the Jardin Exotique where plants cascade down rocks. You will also visit the Observatory Caves, the Museum of Prehistoric Anthropology, and Fontvielle Park. Next you’ll visit the Oceanographic Museum, the Saint-Martin Gardens, and the Japanese Garden. There is also an Old Town Tour that highlights the vaulted passageways and interesting sights of Old Town Monaco. You’ll spend the day taking in the wonders of the Prince’s Palace, see the changing of the guards, and eat lunch on the Palace Square.

o       Spas- There are several spas around Monaco, all which serve the same purpose: to relax and pamper you. The world-renowned Les Thermes Marins de Monte Carlo specializes in seawater treatments and therapeutic massage. They also feature a wholesome, dietetic menu at their restaurant, L’Hirondelle. At the Hotel Mirabeau, you can experience the tranquility of their Jacuzzis with treatments that highlight the use of soothing oils and local products like olive oil, basil, and lavender. The beauty rituals at Les Cinq Mondes can do everything from sooth and relax you to invigorate you. Across the Monaco harbor is the Fleur de Peau Institute, which offers the finest services and specializes in massages and facials. At E’Spa, you’ll experience three levels of ultra-modern fitness facilities and dedicated therapists that have been trained to pamper.

o       Sports- Monaco has something for everyone in the sports department. No matter if you want to lie by the pool or take up a game of squash, your needs will be met. The public beach in Monaco is the Larvotto Beach, but there are also a number of private pools and beaches at the hotels. For deep-sea diving, head over to the Diving Club of Cap d’Ali. They organize diving sessions and are located just outside of Monaco. For general fitness, you can workout at the Physical Beauty Center, the Columbus Tonus Center, or the Monte Carlo Gym. If golf is your game, you’ll love the Monte Carlo Country Club located on the lower slopes of Mont Agel. If mini-golf is more your speed, check out the Princess Antoinette Park. For fishing, sailing, or sailing classes, contact the Monaco Yacht Club. Skiing is available at the nearby Alps. Heli Air Monaco organizes day trips and will bring you to ski stations such as Chamonix or Alpes d’Huez. Tennis enthusiasts can play tennis, squash, or badminton at the Monte-Carlo Country Club.  

 

§        Caposushi- This moderately priced Japanese restaurant serves paninis by day and sushi by night. It is located at 6, impasse de la Fontaine in Monte Carlo.

§        Tchai- Specializing in Thai, Vietnamese, Indonesian, and Chinese cuisine, this restaurant in located in a cozy niche of the Casino atrium. It is located at Place du Casino in Monte Carlo.

§        Mc Carthy’s Irish Pub- This little pub serves up delicious snacks at reasonable prices. Guests will enjoy the live music DJ. It is located at 7, rue du Portier in Monte Carlo.

§        Gerhard’s Café- Gerhard’s is a favorite for Monegasque and Italian snack. They also feature a delightful tearoom. They are located at 42, quai des Sanbarbani in Fontvieille.

§        Le Cote Jardin- This is a wonderful little spot for a power breakfast or a discreet lunch. Dine in a charming, sun-filled room or on the garden terrace. The menu is moderately priced Monegasque and Italian cuisine and the atmosphere is pleasant. Le Cote Jardin is located at the Hotel de Paris in the Place du Casino.

§        Café de Paris-The daily specials here are always delicious. The menu has an international flavor and features items such as steak tartar and fresh oysters in season. Meals are moderately priced. The Café is located in the Place du Casino.

§        Albatros- This French and Italian restaurant is pricey, but offers a delicious menu featuring the catch of the day. It is located in Le Meriden Beach Plaza at 22, avenue Princess Grace.

§        Maxim’s- This restaurant is the ultimate in fine dining and offers an international menu with a Mediterranean touch. They are located at 20, avenue de la Costa.

§        Le Bistroquet- Le Bistroquet has a delicious Italian and French menu and offers Brazilian music on Fridays and Saturdays. They are located at 11, galerie Charles II.

§        Cigale-This local favorite is famous for it’s pasta al dente. It is located on a small, quaint street at 18, rue de Millo and is closed Saturday evenings and Sundays.

References

www.visitmonaco.com

 

After Breakfast- Arrive ate the Oceanographic Museum and Aquarium.

This beautiful building houses two floors of amazing marine fauna, either stuffed or in skeleton form, models of Prince Albert’s ships, and craftware made from original products of the sea. The building itself is 279 feet tall and took 11 years to construct. It was built with 100,000 tons of stone from La Turbie. The basement of the building houses the aquarium, where 4,000 species of fish and over 200 families of invertebrates call home. The aquarium is an authority on the presentation of the Mediterranean and tropical marine ecosystem. The most recent exhibit is the “Shark Lagoon”, which displays the colors and inhabitants of a coral reef. In the Conference room on the ground floor, films and exhibitions are regularly presented. 

 

Lunch- La Terrasse- Located on the top of the museum, this restaurant is a terrific spot for lunch. Dine while overlooking the magnificent panorama of the Principality of Monaco and the Italian Riviera.

After Lunch- Zoological Terraces- This zoo was opened in 1954 by H.S.H. Prince Rainier III. It was built on the couth face of the rock of Monaco and overlooks the Port of Fontvielle. Over 250 animals from 50 different species can be seen here, including: exotic birds, a black panther, a white tiger, a hippopotamus, and lemurs.

 

Dinner- La Cigale- After a full day enjoying the flora and fauna of Monaco, sit back and enjoy an early dinner at one of Monaco’s local Italian favorites. La Cigale is famous for its homemade pasta served al dente. It is a small terrace located on a quaint street in the Condamine.

 

After Dinner- Feeling lucky? If so, head over to the world-famous Monte Carlo Casino. Anything could happen! The Salle Blanche houses the slot machines and the American room hosts craps and blackjacks. High rollers should make their way into the Salon Prives for a game of poker. For a musical extravaganza, check out Le Cabaret, and for drinks, try Stars and Bars.

 

 Children 6-18- EUR 6.00

          Address: Place du Casino, MC 98000

After breakfast- Start your tour at the beautiful Grand Casino. You’ll be amazed at the architecture, with its rococo turrets, green copper cupolas, and gold chandeliers. Next, move on to the Casino Gardens and Terraces. Here you’ll find magnificent flowerbeds and carefully tended lawns interspersed with ponds in which reeds and water lilies grow. Behind the Casino are sunny terraces, where you’ll get a great view of Victor Vasarely’s multicolored Hexa Grace. You may want to stop in Le Bar du Soleil for a mid-morning cappuccino. Before leaving the Casino, be sure to take in the beauty of the atrium, which leads to the Salle Garnier Opera House. The Opera House is paved in marble and has 28 columns made of onyx.

 

Lunch- Le Saint Benoit- This romantic little restaurant offers delicious seafood specialties. Parking is located under the building.

After lunch- After lunch, head off to the National Museum and Collection of Dolls and Automats of Yesteryear located in a 19^th-century villa. This beautiful collection of automats and dolls of yesteryear showcases dolls dressed in period costumes with miniature furniture that recreates the sophisticated atmosphere of the 19^th century. The villa itself was designed by Charles Garnier and is set in a beautiful rose garden decorated with pieces of modern sculpture.   After you seen the displays and watched the performance as the automatons come to life, head over to Le Meridien Beach Plaza and sip cocktails in the Terrace. 

Dinner- Le Castelroc- Since you have spent the day knee-deep in Monegasque culture and architecture, it’s appropriate you eat you evening meal at a local favorite. Le Castelroc is one of the best kept secrets in Monaco and offers a large selection of Monagasque specialties.

 

After Dinner- Stroll through the town and take in the beauty of Monaco at night. Soft street lamps and golden floodlights give the city a magical feel.

          Address: 2, rue Emile-de-Loth

          Admission: Adults: EUR 6.00 Children 6-14- EUR 3.50

After Breakfast- Head to the Old Town and take in the amazing sights and vaulted passageways. Check out the bronze cannons protecting the harbor, a gift from Louis XIV, and the medieval style of the houses. Then, make your way to the Prince’s Palace, which was built in 1215. There are a variety of features to check out here including: the Italian-style gallery, the Louis XV Salon, the Salon Bleu, the Mazarin Salon, the Throne room with its large Renaissance fireplace, the Palatine Chapel, the Sainte-Marie Tower, and the Main Courtyard, which is paved with 3 million white and colored pebbles in a geometric pattern. Before you stop for lunch, be sure and witness the changing of the guards, which happens every day at 11:55pm.

Lunch- Le Pinnochio- This little restaurant located near the Cathredral is a dream for pasta lovers. Sample their amazing menu of pasta dishes and salads.

After Lunch- Take a walk down the colorful and historical Rampe Major, then relax at the Café de Paris at Place du Casino.

Dinner- La Maison de Caviar-   Indulge yourself with this fine-dining experience featuring delicious caviar, just as it’s name implies. The menu has a Mediterranean flavor and offers an interesting array of dishes you’re sure to enjoy.

 

After Dinner- Salle Garnier- After dinner, head back to the Casino and take in a ballet or opera performance at the Salle Garnier. You’ll definitely experience world-class entertainment as you watch some of Europe’s top performers take the stage. You will need to puchase tickets in advance.

 

          Phone Number: (+377) 93 30 96 20

Address: Place du Palais

 

 

References

www.visitmonaco.com