The South of France is just one of those places in the world that is special. It portrays unrestricted wealth, glamour and prestige, and is epitomized by its most popular destination – the sovereign-state of Monaco.

Although also technically a country in its own right, Monaco has a population of around just 38,000, and boasts the third-highest GDP per capita out of any other country in the world. Its warm climate, illustrious range of shops, tax haven-like qualities, high class gaming facilities and stunning coastal views have made it one of the most appealing places to both live and visit in Europe. 

History

Monaco is steeped with a long and interesting history. Since the end of the 13th century, the state has been ruled by the House of Grimaldi, with France currently being in charge of its defence.

Invasions from the French in the early 19th century and Italy during the Second World War meant control was temporarily relinquished at certain times throughout history, but Monaco has always managed to fight back to reclaim its independence.

It became a member of the United Nations in 1993, and Prince Albert II has ruled over Monaco since the death of his father and predecessor, Prince Rainier III.

Attractions 

One main attraction in Monaco is the Monte Carlo Casino. It has a strong and lengthy relationship with poker. The EPT Monaco is held there each year, and consists of over 70 individual tournaments and a total prize pool of around $30 million. Throughout the year, smaller tournaments and events are also held there, with a combination of stunning architecture and formidable wealth offering a very unique experience.

Another site to see is the Prince’s Palace. Think of it as Buckingham Palace, located in the center of London but a bit more low-key and on top of a hill. It has been home to the Grimaldi family for over 700 years. Not only does it give you a decent view of the coastline, but you can also see the changing of the guards and learn a lot about the history of the rulership of Monaco.

There’s also the Oceanographic Institute which is an aquatic museum. Established as far back as 1903, it boasts over 6000 species of different sea life so you can truly experience an array of beautiful fish from the Mediterranean. There’s also lots to learn from an educational side of things too, so it’s worth a visit.

Sport 

As with many European nations, football (soccer) is the main sport in the state. Monaco does have an international side, but by not being a member of UEFA nor FIFA means they’re limited to friendlies and tournaments for other small regions – they cannot enter the World Cup or European Championships. The football club, AS Monaco, is far more renowned, competing under the French Football Association. They play their home matches at the Stade Louis II, a beautifully-structured stadium that is another popular landmark of interest.

Away from football, a Grand Prix race has been held annually in Monaco since 1929. It is widely considered as the most entertaining and challenging race in the entire season due to its tight turns and narrow track.

Elsewhere, the Monte-Carlo (tennis) Masters is held annually in nearby Roquebrune-Cap-Martin. Also, the headquarters of the world governing body for athletics (International Association of Athletics Federations) is in Monaco.

Shopping

As you’d expect, KMart and shops of a similar caliber aren’t seen in Monaco – there are far too many people wanting designer brands for that. So, despite officially being the second smallest country in the world behind Vatican City, Monaco is one of the most desired shopping destinations.

The shopping district is known as La Condamine. Gucci, Dior, Prada, whatever name you can think of, Monaco has it. Few can actually afford most of the items for sale, but a bit of window shopping without the purchasing side of things is still going to be entertaining in an eye-opening sort of way.

Dining in Monaco 

You’d be forgiven for thinking that eating out in Monaco will be pricey. Albeit, some places will require you to sell yachts for a living to be able to pay the bill, but there certainly are places to eat that offer reasonable pricing for the rest of us mere mortals – most of which are predictably French and Italian cuisine.

In terms of the upper-end restaurant, places like Blue Bay and Louis XV offer outstanding views with, of course, some great food as well. Other places such as Il Terrazzino and La Montgolfiere Henri Geraci also have spectacular acclaim. Ultimately, if you are willing to spend a little on what you eat, it is going to be difficult to find a disappointing meal.

All-in-all, there’s a reason why Monaco is on the top of so many people’s bucket lists. Despite its constant comparisons with places like Las Vegas and Macau, renting a place in Vegas is nothing like visiting Monaco. Once there, it’s easy to get carried away with the wealth and lavish lifestyles that surrounds you. It offers a nice escapism into what seems like another world entirely. With the charm of the Italian/French Riviera, mixed in with the uniqueness of being its own country, Monaco really is a spectacle.