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10 Must-Do When In Monte Carlo

Author: Steven Cronin

Home to the rich and famous, Monte Carlo exudes style and panache. The locals walk the paths with a swagger; you can smell the affluence. The town is a charming blend of chic city living and wonderful sun-kissed beaches. Monte Carlo is a compact city; the best way to explore is by foot. The narrow streets and tight alleyways are home to a fascinating array of petite shops, bars and restaurants.

1. Monte Carlo Casino Built in 1863, this architectural masterpiece overlooks the Mediterranean and must be a priority on your sightseeing list. It has a remarkable gold and marble atrium designed by the legendary architect Charles Garnier.

2. Walk the Grand Prix Racing Route The Monaco Grand Prix has been held annually since 1929 and is considered one of the most prestigious races in motor sport. The roads are transformed from busy public highways into a Formula 1 circuit in an incredibly short space of time.

3. Prince's Palace The palace is open to the public from June to October. The courtyard is paved with over 3 million coloured pebbles, beautifully arranged in geometrical patterns. Built in 1215, the palace was originally a fortress before being transformed into a luxury home.

4. Monaco Cathedral This magnificent cathedral was constructed in 1875 and is the final resting ground of Princess Grace. The cathedral's fabulous organ was painstakingly restored to its former glory in 1988.

5. Monte-Carlo Thermes Marins For over a century this luxury spa has pampered and delivered the ultimate in relaxation. Treat yourself to a day you will never forget.

6. Metropole Shopping Centre Filled with designer stores to match those of Paris and Rome, the Metropole is a shopper's paradise. A stroll around Casino Square will present you with precious stones of the highest quality.

7. The Old Town An abundance of quality restaurants and bars present themselves in the more traditional parts of town. Here you can tuck into local specialities such as Monegasque cuisine.

8. Café de Paris Located in Casino Square, Café de Paris is the place to be seen. The lively mix of locals and visitors generate a warm atmosphere, whether sitting outside or dining indoors. The menu has an international flavour and daily specials are always recommended.

9. The Grimaldi Forum The stunning Grimaldi Forum is home to a host of cultural events. Watch concerts, opera, ballet, as well as festivals and exhibitions, including the Monte-Carlo Masters tennis.

10. Stade Louis II What the home of AS Monaco Football Club lacks in size, it certainly makes up for in quality. Despite a capacity of only 18,500 (smaller than most top football clubs), the ground's architecture make it one of the more memorable stadia.

About the Author:
Steven Cronin owns the City Breaks website featuring city

break special offers from luxury hotels to budget accommodations.

For further reading please visit http://www.sargas.co.uk

Things To Do and See in Monte-Carlo

Casino of Monte-Carlo, Monte-Carlo
This opulently decorated marble and bronze casino

has all the glitz and glamour that has made this city famous.
Attraction type: Casino

Oceanographic Museum and Aquarium

(Musee Oceanographique), Monte-Carlo
A collection of exotic marine life, from piranhas to

strange sea growths and creatures: this popular attraction is not to be missed.
Attraction type: Specialty museum; Aquarium

Exotic Garden (Jardin Exotique), Monte-Carlo
The Jardin Exotique, home to over 1000 different species

of cacti and agave from around the world, is built on the side of a

cliff and offers amazing views of Monaco and the Mediterranean Sea.
Attraction type: Garden; Cavern/cave

Monaco Cathedral (Cathedrale de Monaco), Monte-Carlo
Magnificent cathedral, built in 1875, is the final resting

place of Princess Grace of Monaco, several important 16th-century

paintings and a wooden altar dating from the Spanish Renaissance.
Attraction type: Religious site; Architectural building

Slammers, Monte-Carlo
This quiet, sophisticated bar oozes elegance, but be prepared to pay.
Attraction type: Bar/club

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