Discover Monaco: A Luxe Traveler's Guide

1. See the iconic Monte Carlo Casino: Visiting Casino Square in Monaco offers a captivating glimpse into opulent architecture, upscale boutiques and the famous Casino de Monte-Carlo. From luxury shopping in Monte Carlo One to sitting inside Cafe de Paris and car spotting, the views around the Casino are always breathtaking.

2. Explore the Prince’s Palace and Old Town: With stunning views overlooking Monaco and the port, Monaco-Ville (Old Town) has plenty to offer. Walk the narrow streets, see the Prince’s Palace and catch the changing of the guard ceremony for a glimpse of royal traditions.

3. Sunbathe along Larvotto Beach: Enjoy stunning views of the Mediterranean along the iconic Larvotto beach. Rent a sunbed and enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants along the water, or lay down a towel and catch some sun and enjoy the clear blue water!

4. Lunch at Cafe Milano + Port Hercule: Want to see all the superyachts that Monaco has to offer? Enjoy lunch at Cafe Milano (ask to sit on the terrace) and have an incredible view of the Port and all the boats it has to offer. After, explore Port Hercule (and see a bit of the F1 Track while you’re down there!)

5. Shop the iconic boutiques of Metropole and the Carré d’Or: Indulge in luxury shopping in the Carré d'Or district, home to designer shops and exclusive fashion houses. After, venture over to the Jardin Exotiques and then Metropole Shopping Center for a look at the upscale boutiques the mall has to offer, then head down to Hotel Metropole for a post–shopping drink in their lobby bar.

6. Oceanographic Museum: Discover marine life and fascinating exhibits at this historic museum located on a cliffside overlooking the Mediterranean.

7. Car spotting at the Hairpin: For all the car enthusiasts out there, sitting around the iconic Monte Carlo Hairpin is the perfect place to catch all the supercars Monaco has to offer (and there’s a lot!)

8. Walk along the Formula 1 Grand Prix Circuit: For my F1 fans, Monaco is the perfect place to be. Experience the thrill of walking or driving on the iconic Formula 1 track that winds through Monaco's streets, and visit the Prince’s Car Collection to see the private collection of Prince Albert.

Day trips

1. Villefranche-Sur-Mer: Venture out of Monaco with a day trip to charming Villefranche-sur-Mer. Explore the picturesque Old Town, climb the Citadel for panoramic views and savor a leisurely lunch by the waterfront. Relax on the beach, stroll along the promenade and enjoy a delicious dinner in the charming town.

2. Nice: A vibrant city on the French Riviera, Nice boasts stunning beaches, beautiful architecture and a rich cultural heritage. Stroll along the iconic Promenade des Anglais, explore the charming Old Town and relax on the pebbly beaches. Visit the Musée Matisse or the Musée Marc Chagall, and enjoy shopping along Jean-Medecin. Nice offers a perfect blend of relaxation, culture and vibrant nightlife.

3. Eze: Eze Village, perched on a clifftop overlooking the sea, offers breathtaking views and a charming medieval atmosphere. Explore the narrow cobblestone streets, discover hidden gardens and visit the Fragonard Perfume Factory. Enjoy panoramic views from the top of the village and savor a delicious meal at one of the many restaurants with stunning terraces. Eze Village is a must-visit for its unique beauty and enchanting atmosphere.

4. Cannes: Cannes, easily accessible from Monaco, is a glamorous city renowned for its prestigious film festival. Stroll along the iconic La Croisette, lined with luxury hotels and designer boutiques. Relax on the beautiful beaches, explore the charming Old Port and visit the Palais des Festivals, where the magic of cinema unfolds. Cannes offers a blend of glamour, culture and Mediterranean charm.

Breakfast/brunch:

1. Mada One: Perfect for a relaxing coffee or light breakfast, this cafe located in Monte Carlo One is the place to be for all of the locals. Exceptional service in a charming cafe makes for the perfect start to your morning.

2. Cova Palais de la Plage: Situated across from the iconic Larvotto Beach, Cova is an essential spot to try in Monaco. With a broad selection of pastries and coffees, this cafe is a must-try for a simple yet elegant experience. And, come back later in the day for a glass of wine and aperitivo, just like the locals do!

Lunch/dinner:

1. BeefBar: Eating at Beefbar in Monaco promises a culinary journey focused on premium cuts of meat from around the globe, expertly prepared and served in a sleek, contemporary setting. Renowned for its dedication to quality and innovation in meat cuisine, Beefbar offers a luxurious dining experience that appeals to discerning palates and lovers of fine food alike.

2. Cafe de Paris: Located next to the iconic Casino de Monte Carlo, this restaurant provides both the laid-back cafe and the luxury fine dining experience. With a menu that is known to be excellent, Cafe de Paris never fails to differentiate itself from its competitors. Pro tip: Ask to sit upstairs by the windows or on the terrace for the best view of Casino Square.

3. Maya Bay: This restaurant offers a unique dining experience blending Thai and Japanese cuisine. It features a sophisticated ambiance with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients and authentic flavors. You can expect a menu featuring a variety of dishes, from delicate sushi and sashimi to flavorful curries and stir-fries.

4. La Note Bleu: La Note Bleue is a renowned beach restaurant in Monaco, offering a relaxed and chic ambiance. It's known for its prime location on Larvotto Beach, providing stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. The menu features a blend of Mediterranean flavors with international influences, and the restaurant often hosts live music performances, creating a vibrant and enjoyable atmosphere.

Drinks:

1. Amazónico: Amazónico in Monaco offers a unique and unforgettable cocktail experience. The bar features a vibrant atmosphere inspired by the Amazon rainforest, with exotic ingredients and innovative concoctions. Expert mixologists craft signature drinks, each with a distinct Amazonian twist, using rare and unique elements from around the world.

2. Trinity: The Trinity Cocktail Club in Monaco offers a sophisticated and intimate setting for enjoying expertly crafted cocktails. The bar features a refined atmosphere, with a focus on high-quality ingredients and innovative mixology. Expect a carefully curated selection of spirits and a menu featuring both classic and creative cocktails. Pro tip: For a more laid-back night, head just across the street to the Trinity Irish Pub, a more traditional take on the pubbing experience in Monaco.

3. Blue Gin: Located inside the Monte Carlo Bay Hotel, Blue Gin is a renowned lounge bar with a creative drink selection and a food menu designed by Chef Marcel Ravin. It's known for its sophisticated ambiance and innovative cocktails, offering a unique and memorable experience.