Monaco, the second smallest and densely populated nation in the world has its capital city in Monaco also. Monaco is a city state which is divided into four areas: Monaco-Ville, the Condamine, Monte-Carlo, and Fontvieille. The best travel time to visit Monaco is in the Spring or Fall, when the weather is pleasant and warmer. Summer in Monaco is usually very warm and sunny, it is the best time to experience Monaco at its liveliest. Monaco is less crowded with tourists in the winter and the weather is milder also. Monaco's culture is greatly influenced by the French, Italian and Spanish cultures. It's ethnic groups are made up of the Italians, French, Monegasque and Occitan, while Christianity is predominately practised here. It's popular foods include rice, chickpea flour pancakes, stocafi, and barbagiuan. While French is the official language spoken, some of the locals often speak English, Italian, Occitan and Monegasque.
Monaco has no airport of its own, the Nice Côte-d'Azur International Airport is the only airport you can use to fly into Monaco. You have to stop at the airport in France and then take a bus into Monaco. For getting around the country, walking is the best way to get around Monaco. You can also get around with taxis, buses, car rentals, bicycles and motor scooters. Monaco is considered to the safest travel destination in Europe and the crime rate is relatively low.
Monaco is famous for its luxurious hotels, resorts and casinos. In the bustling district of Monte Carlo, which is its main residential and resort area, you will find the best of stores and shopping centers in Europe and also the famous Monte Carlo Casino. It's oldest commercial area is in the district of La Condamine, which features the ports and the Condamine market. The Fontvieille district is the economical and industrial area of Monaco, with a large array of industries from bakeries, chocolate plants and flour mills here. The old town of Monaco-Ville is home to small boutiques selling souvenirs and local arts and crafts as well as charming restaurants serving a large selection of regional cuisines. Whenever you are visiting Monaco, there are a lot of great and fun festivals you should attend like, the International Circus Festival, Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix, Monte-Carlo International Fireworks Festival, and the Spring Arts Festival which showcases music, dance, arts, and theatre performances held in world-class venues across Monaco.
Fascinating attractions to see whenever you are exploring Monaco include :
The Oceanographic Museum, one of the most beautiful landmarks in Monaco and which houses various exhibitions throughout the year as well as an impressive aquarium.
The Sculpture Path in Fontvieille district which is a pedestrianised street solely for impressive pieces of art and sculptures.
The Monte Carlo Casino, one of the most famous casinos in the world. You can take in the Vasarely’s colourful mosaic, Hexa Grace on it's roof or take in the chandeliers and the stunning artworks. It also offers an incredible view of the Mediterranean Sea with its super yachts and cruise ships.
The Jardin Exotique Garden, where you can just take a walk or see the 7,000 species of plants on show and even explore an Observatory Cave that is covered in stalactites and stalagmites.
The Collection of Voitures Anciennes which is an exhibition featuring some of the private cars in the collection of the Prince of Monaco. There are around 100 cars and models here. There is also a display of old fashioned coaches and this is definitely a must see for every car enthusiast.
There are over 10,000 hotels and apartments to stay in Monaco so you will be spoiled for choice especially when in Monte Carlo.
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