A scintillating destination, one of glamour and glory – the Principality of Monaco is the perfect escapade along the Mediterranean Sea and the French Riviera. With no shortage of places to explore, we highlight the six most fascinating spots here, which you cannot afford to miss on your visit to the Principality.
1. Casino Square
Also called the Place du Casino, Casino Square is a ravishing park area surrounded by Haute Hotels, stunning structures, and uber-fine dining spots. Since it lies adjacent to the famous Grand Prix course, one can simply enjoy the views sitting by the many cafes and restaurants, plan a shopping spree at designer studios, have a go at the palatial Casino Monte Carlo, or gaze in awe at some of the fanciest wheels hovering past. There is something for everyone here.
2. Fort Antoine
An 18th century fort turned open theater, Fort Antoine is one of Monaco’s most stunning architectural marvels. Located at an elevation just beside the Mediterranean waters, this destination offers a taste of old-world military charm with a pyramid of cannonballs at its centre, and pittosporum bushes fencing the area. The fort also serves as a venue for many theatrical performances that take place in summers.
3. The Japanese Garden
Imagine being transported to the Land of the Rising Sun whilst nestled in the Principality. The Japanese Garden, established back in 1994 per request of Prince Rainier III, does just that. Flaunting a stellar mix of traditional Japanese and modern Mediterranean elements, a stroll in this garden assures that you will spot exotic plants, flowers, fish, and architecture including a tea house and waterfalls – all reminiscent of the beauty of Eastern cultures.
4. Jardin Exotique de Monaco
Translating to ‘The Exotic Garden of Monaco’, this attraction is located at one of the highest points in Monaco – making it worth a visit for the grand views alone. The garden act as home to a diversity of cacti and succulents, and one can even find caves to explore here. What sets it apart is the extending views of the sea and Monte Carlo’s glimmering glory under the night sky.
5. Gateway To Rock
A popular landmark of the Principality, Gateway to Rock, or the Rock of Monaco, is a 52-metre tall monolith leading straight to the famous Place du Palais. A 15th-century marvel, this historic landmark offers scenic views of Monaco’s bustling harbor and gorgeous seascapes – a perfect spot for ending the day in quiet reflection.
6. Monaco Naval Museum
The Naval Museum is a veritable visual encyclopedia for anyone seeking an interesting day out in the Principality. This slice of Nautica brings in 250 model ships, stellar paintings, and maritime objects from the magnificent personal collection of H.S.H. Prince Rainier III of Monaco. With collections dating as far back as the 16th century, the museum also houses models for Titanic and Nimitz – one of the biggest military ships in the world.
