Our first stop is the city of Monte Carlo, but there is time enough to see the entire principality of Monaco while we are there. It is, after all, the second smallest independent state in the world. It is divided into four traditional quarters: Monaco-Ville is the old city atop the hill where the palace sits; Monte Carlo is the primary residential and resort area where you will find the casinos; La Condamine where the port is located; and Fontevieille is to the south.
Since we will be in Monte Carlo with 2 other ships, and there is only room for one to actually dock, this will be a Tender Call for us, but the tenders will bring us right to the dock inside the harbor. Hercules Port is a natural bay at the foot of the ancestral rock of the princes of Monaco.
It is one of the few, if not the only deep-water port of the French Riviera. It was used as a trading port by the Greeks and Romans but had the disadvantage of being poorly sheltered from the easterly winds. This prompted the erection of two piers in the early twentieth century which went some way to providing better protection.
Monaco is very hilly so this will be no port for cute shoes. Many podiatrists have ocean front homes here because of CSBS (Cute Shoe Bravado Syndrome). Walking is by far the best way to get around Monaco; however, there are some areas, such as the Exotic Gardens, that require a large change in elevation and therefore make for rather strenuous hikes.
There are also seven public escalators and elevators (all free) that help negotiate the steep slopes of the city. If you find yourself afoot and wanting to reach the opposite bank of Port Hercule, look for the small pedestrian-only ferry that runs each 20 minutes or so during daylight; it costs only one Euro.
Some interesting thngs to do in Monaco:
Discover Monaco from the sea during this fascinating boat tour! “Aquavision” is a catamaran type boat equipped with two windows in the hull for underwater vision, thus allowing the passengers to explore the natural seabed of the coast in an unusual way. The boat can take up to 120 people per journey. Cost for adults are 11€, while the cost for children and for children and students ages 3-18 are 8€. Boarding at the Quai des États-Unis or the Cruise Terminal.
Fun tourist trains called the Azur Express make daily tours all over Monaco. You will visit the Monaco Port, Monte-Carlo and its Palaces, the famous Casino and its gardens, the Old Town for City Hall and finally the royal Prince’s Palace. Commentaries are in English, Italian, German and French. This enjoyable tour runs about 30 minutes long and cost is 6€, children under age 5 ride free. The departures and arrivals point is situated opposite the Oceanographic Museum.
Take a panoramic flight of discovery over the principality of Monaco and its surroundings with a scenic helicopter flight on HeliAir Monaco.
Pretend to be a Formula One Grand Prix driver cruising the streets of Monaco in a Ferrari.
Or take a leisurely strolll through the Exotic Gardens, the Japanese Garden, Princess Grace's Rose Garden or many more located throughout Monaco.
Channel your inner Jacques Cousteau at the Oceanographic Museum and Aquarium.
Or walk in the shoes of royalty at the Prince's Palace with its many museums.
Or visit the Cathedral of St. Nicholas where Grace Kelly married Prince Rainier, and where they are buried.
Monaco is not just about money. It’s about having money. Shopping in Monte Carlo is usually quite exclusive and is certainly no place for bargain shopping. There are plenty of places to melt your credit cards alongside Europe's high rollers. The chic clothes shops are in the Golden Circle, framed by Avenue Monte Carlo, Avenue des Beaux-Arts and Allees Lumieres, where Hermes, Christian Dior, Gucci and Prada all have a presence. The area on and around Place du Casino is home to high-end jewelers such as Bulgari, Cartier and Chopard. You will find, however, that simply wandering the area and window shopping is quite enjoyable, even if you don't buy anything. The normal shopping hours are from 9AM to noon and 3PM to 7PM.
Anyone keen to soak up the authentic atmosphere of a traditional southern European market should try the La Condamine. The market, which can be found in the Place d'Armes, has been in existence since 1880 and is lively and attractive - many hours can be spent simply wandering around the stalls where traders set out their colourful wares every day from 6 am to 2 pm. Enjoy bargaining for souvenirs from the many tiny shops, boutiques and friendly locals.
If you want to learn more about what there is to do in Monaco try clicking on one of these brochures. Get a detailed map of Monaco here.
Next stop....
Florence!
