Monaco, a tiny principality on the French Riviera, is known for its glamour, luxury, and casinos. But beyond the glitz and the glamour, there are also some hidden gems to be discovered. Here are seven secret places to visit in Monaco in July 2024:
With its mild climate, stunning scenery, and vibrant culture, Monaco is the perfect place to visit in July. The average temperature in July is 24 degrees Celsius (75 degrees Fahrenheit), with plenty of sunshine and very little rain. Monaco is also a great place to people-watch, as it attracts celebrities and wealthy tourists from all over the world.
To get to Monaco, you can fly into Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE), which is just a 30-minute drive from Monaco. You can also take a train from Paris or other major cities in France. Once in Monaco, you can get around easily on foot, by bus, or by taxi.
Monaco is a relatively expensive place to visit, but there are ways to save money. For example, you can stay in a budget hotel or guesthouse, eat at local restaurants, and take advantage of free activities such as visiting the Old Town or the Prince’s Palace.
1. The Japanese Garden
The Japanese Garden is a hidden gem located in the heart of Monaco. It was created in 1994 by Prince Rainier III and is inspired by the traditional gardens of Japan. The garden features a tranquil pond, a tea house, and a variety of Japanese plants and trees. It’s a great place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
2. The Oceanographic Museum
The Oceanographic Museum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Monaco. It was founded in 1910 by Prince Albert I and is home to a vast collection of marine life. The museum has over 6,000 species of fish, invertebrates, and reptiles, as well as a collection of historical artifacts related to oceanography. It’s a great place to learn about the ocean and its inhabitants.
3. The Old Town
The Old Town is the historic center of Monaco. It’s a charming maze of narrow streets, lined with traditional Monegasque houses. The Old Town is home to a number of historic buildings, including the Prince’s Palace, the Cathedral of Monaco, and the Museum of Old Monaco. It’s a great place to explore and soak up the atmosphere of Monaco’s past.
4. The Prince’s Palace
The Prince’s Palace is the official residence of the Prince of Monaco. It was built in the 13th century and has been the home of the Grimaldi family for over 700 years. The palace is open to the public for tours, and visitors can explore the State Apartments, the Throne Room, and the Grand Courtyard. It’s a great way to learn about the history of Monaco and the Grimaldi family.
5. The Exotic Garden
The Exotic Garden is a botanical garden located on the slopes of Mont Agel. It was founded in 1933 and is home to a collection of over 1,000 species of plants from around the world. The garden offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding mountains. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.
6. The Larvotto Beach
The Larvotto Beach is a man-made beach located on the Mediterranean Sea. It’s a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and people-watching. The beach is lined with a promenade, where you can find restaurants, cafes, and shops. It’s a great place to spend a day relaxing and enjoying the sun.
7. The Casino de Monte-Carlo
The Casino de Monte-Carlo is one of the most famous casinos in the world. It was founded in 1863 by Prince Charles III and has been a popular destination for gamblers and tourists ever since. The casino is open 24 hours a day, and visitors can play a variety of games, including roulette, blackjack, and baccarat. It’s a great place to experience the glamour and excitement of Monaco.
Culture, Best Months to Visit, Nearby Transportation, Local Food, and Best Hotels
Monaco is a melting pot of cultures, with influences from France, Italy, and Spain. The official language of Monaco is French, but English, Italian, and Spanish are also widely spoken. Monaco is a predominantly Catholic country, but there is also a significant Jewish population. The people of Monaco are friendly and welcoming, and they are proud of their country’s unique culture and history.
The best time to visit Monaco is during the summer months, from May to October. The weather is warm and sunny, and there are plenty of things to do. However, Monaco is also a popular destination during the winter months, when the weather is milder than in other parts of Europe. The Christmas Market in Monaco is a popular attraction during the winter months.
Monaco is easily accessible by public transportation. There is a train station in Monaco that connects the principality to France and Italy. There is also a bus network that connects Monaco to the surrounding towns and villages. Taxis are also available in Monaco, but they can be expensive. The best way to get around Monaco is on foot, as it is a very walkable city.
Monaco has a variety of local food specialties. Some of the most popular dishes include socca, barbajuan, and stocafi. Socca is a chickpea pancake, barbajuan is a fried pastry filled with meat or vegetables, and stocafi is a salt cod dish. Monaco also has a number of excellent restaurants that serve international cuisine. The principality is also home to a number of Michelin-starred restaurants.
There are a number of luxury hotels in Monaco, including the Hôtel de Paris, the Hôtel Hermitage, and the Monte-Carlo Beach Hotel. However, there are also a number of more affordable hotels and guesthouses available. The best way to find a hotel in Monaco is to search online or contact a travel agent.
Monaco is a unique and unforgettable destination. With its stunning scenery, vibrant culture, and world-class attractions, Monaco is the perfect place to visit for a luxury vacation or a romantic getaway. The principality is also a great place to learn about the history and culture of Europe.
