Monaco lies on the French Riviera, Monaco has long been known for its uber-luxury, luxury cars, super yachts, big casinos, and expensive Hotels. While there are less luxurious activities for travellers on a budget, Monaco is known for its elite lifestyle, Many cruise ships make this a port of call in this region, Visit Monaco for a glimpse of the worlds rich and famous.
Things to know before visit Monaco
Monaco has a Mediterranean climate with mild and wet winters and hot and dry summers. The hottest months are July and August while the coolest are January and February. Summers are between May and September while winters are between November and February.
Originally built in the 13th century, the Palace was renovated in the 16th and 17th centuries and is a part of the Old Town. It has been the stronghold and home of the Grimaldi family who captured it first in 1297. Glamour was added to the palace when American film star Grace Kelly became chatelaine to the palace in 1956. Presently, it is the abode of the current monarch of Monaco, Prince Albert II. The palace is a fine blend of architectural style. The principal facade appears to be a terrace of Renaissance style palazzi from different period of the Renaissance era.
A quick visit to the Cathedral is a must whilst at Monaco. Located in Monaco Ville near the Oceanographic Museum, the Monaco St Nicholas Cathedral was built in 1875 on the site of a medieval church built in 1252. It is a Romanesque-Byzantine church dedicated to St. Nicholas and has the remains of the Monaco royal family, including Princess Grace and Prince Rainier.
Located beautifully high above the sea, the Palais du Prince has the oldest monarchy in the world. Originally it was a Genoese fortress built in the 13th century as a defense mechanism in the Middle Ages, now it offers panoramic views. The fortress was renewed over centuries and now it has been transformed into a beautiful Louis-XIV-style palace.
Located in a strategic place, the museum is about 90 meters above sea level and stands on huge foundations. It is one of the oldest aquariums in the world that was started in 1901 by Prince Albert I. t has some of the rare species of fish and marine life. The Oceanographic Museum has famous exhibits of oceanography and marine science as well as valuable collections of Prince Albert I and also the discoveries of Jacques-Yves Cousteau.
No trip to Monaco is complete without a visit to the Formula One Monaco Grand Prix race in Monte Carlo that takes place every year in the last weekend of May. It is the only place where the car race is held on city streets. It is one of the most popular sporting events in the world with a pulsating atmosphere seeing swanky cars zip across at phenomenal speeds.
Travel Advisory: For the latest information and advice on safety and entry requirements please consult your travel agent well in advance of your departure and visit the following government website:
Department of Foreign affairs and trade www.dfat.gov.au
Smart Traveler website www.smartraveler.gov.au
Electricity: While traveling to Monaco it is advisable to carry an international power plug adapter with multiple plug configurations. The standard voltage is at 230V and the frequency is 50 Hz.