MONTE-CARLO TRAVEL BOOKS

Established in 1866, Monte-Carlo was named in honour of Prince Charles III and is the richest of the country’s four quarters. For years, Monte-Carlo has been the playground of the rich and famous, from Hollywood starlets to royalty, and business people dodging the taxman. It is also one of Europe’s foremost holiday resorts, but certainly not for the humble backpacker. The city has several attractions, such as the Oceanographic Museum and Aquarium, the Monaco Cathedral and the Prince’s Palace, as well as several gardens, and other attractions centred on the country’s famous Royal Family, such as an exhibition of HSH Prince of Monaco’s Private Collection of Classic Cars.
There are some interesting diversions, such as catamaran trips, watersports, yachting and the Azur Express tourist train that links up the city’s attractions accompanied by multi-lingual commentary. Worth exploring is the Old town, with its attractive City Hall, and of course when one is bored of sightseeing, the best diversion (and the cheapest) is merely to settle down with a fancy cocktail and people-watch.

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Montecarlo Video Guide

Palais du Prince Video Guide

Palais du Prince
Established in the 13th century, Monaco’s royal palace has been the residence of the ruling Grimaldi family ever since. The most famous resident was Grace Kelly, who was married to Prince Rainier III. Every generation has left their mark on the place, and as a result this is not one of Europe’s most elegant castles from the outside. It is worth taking a look inside though; 15 rooms, including the Throne Room, are open to the public. In the south wing of the palace is the Mus?e des Souvenirs Napol?oniens, which contains a collection of Napoleon’s memorabilia. The changing of the guard takes place in front of the palace every day, lasting just two minutes, so take care to be on time.

Oceanographic Museum and Aquarium Video Guide

Oceanographic Museum and Aquarium
Monaco’s Oceanographic Museum and Aquarium was opened by Prince Albert I in 1910 and houses his personal collection of marine life, models of the Prince’s laboratory ships and other crafts made from marine products. The imposing building is perched dramatically on a cliff and faces the sea, providing lovely views. The basement houses an impressive aquarium with over 4,000 fish species and 200 invertebrates, as well as the Shark Lagoon.

Monaco Cathedral Video Guide

Monaco Cathedral
The Monaco Cathedral is a beautiful structure that was built in 1875, and rests on a site of a 13th-century church that was dedicated to Saint Nicholas. The Cathedral houses the tombs of the much-loved Princess Grace, as well as the former Princes of Monaco. During religious festivals and religious holidays, the sounds of the Cathedral’s splendid four-keyboard organ can be enjoyed, as well as the Sunday mass, which is sung by the Cathedral Choir.

Monte-Carlo Casino Video Guide

Monte-Carlo Casino
The opulent and world-renowned Monte-Carlo Casino was built in 1878 by Charles Garnier, architect of the Paris Opera House. The Salle Garnier hosts ballet, opera and concerts, while the Gaming Rooms are filled with all the glitz and glamour one would expect from a top-class casino. The Rooms sport stained glass windows, sculptures, and of course, the rich and famous. Jacket and tie are required for men.