Monte Carlo: The Gem of the Mediterranean

Introduction

Set between the sparkling Mediterranean Sea and the majestic Alps, Monte Carlo rises from the natural splendor as a tribute to man-made beauty.  Monte Carlo is a district of Monaco, the second smallest independent state in Europe at 0.76 total square miles.  This tiny Mediterranean gem sees more than 300 days of sunshine a year and very rarely sees temperatures fall below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Monte Carlo is the ultimate vacation destination in Europe, there's a reason why millions of visitors are attracted to its treasures every year.  The epitome of class and culture, Monte Carlo boasts everything from gambling to historical sites and first-rate entertainment.  The attractions in this small state have lured royalty, movie stars, and vacationers since gambling was legalized in 1863. 

Before you go: Noteworthy topics about Monte Carlo

Vacationers from the European Union and the United States do not need visas to enter this European hotspot.  Making your way around the city is simple due to its small size and dozens of elevators.  There are fourteen hotels in the district, and nine of them are ranked at four stars and above. 

The official language is French but English and Italian are regularly understood.  All major credits cards are accepted in Monaco and the official currency is the Euro.  The only independent state in Europe smaller than Monaco is the Vatican.  Citizens are exempt from taxes but also forbidden to enter the gambling rooms.  Monaco's government is a constitutional monarchy.               

The History of Monte Carlo

The Grimaldi family established their reign in Monaco one night in the year 1297.  Francois Grimaldi, disguised as a monk, led an army into the fortress of Monaco and defeated the Italian faction that has been controlling the land.  Visitors to Monaco today can see the tribute to this feat on the country's coat of arms which bears two monks wielding swords. 

During the following centuries, the natural beauty and fertility of the land and the port's central location in European trade allowed the country to grow and prosper.

In 1861, Prince Charles III gave up half of the official land of Monaco in exchange for freedom and money from France.  Realizing that almost all of the natural resources were gone, Prince Charles III decided to boost economic growth to Monaco through tourism and gambling. 

Two years later, in 1863, the Monte Carlo Casino opened and led to the beginning of Monte Carlo as a world-class vacation destination. 

The most famous of Monaco's rulers, Prince Rainier III, took the throne in 1949 and became an international sensation when he married actress Grace Kelly.  More recently, the country made headlines when the Grimaldi family celebrated 700 years on the throne of Monaco in 1997.    

The Monte Carlo Casino: Glamour and Gambling

Charles Garnier, the architect of the incredible Paris Opera house, designed and built the Monte Carlo Casino in 1863 with a prime location overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.  The gorgeous waters are the perfect background for the architectural masterpiece of the casino. 

Designed specifically for elegant gaming, it goes far beyond this.  Included in the building is the Monte Carlo Opera which still hosts magnificent shows to this day. 

Players are surrounded by frescoes, bas-reliefs, and sculptures while they play casino games including slot machines, punto-banco, craps, roulette, and blackjack.  For slots lovers, Monte Carlo is home to exclusive slot machines that can't be found anywhere else in the world.  

Entertainment - Monte Carlo Style

The Monte Carlo Casino, the Salle Garnier Opera House, the Oceanographic Museum, the Prince's Palace, Monaco Cathedral, Sporting Club, and the Princess Grace Rose Garden are just the beginning.  The amazing shows, five star dining, luxurious hotels, world-class spas, and shopping can satisfy even the most discriminating tastes.

Each May, the winding streets of Monaco become the race track for the world famous Formula One Grand Prix.  Drivers race around the twisting roads 77 times and millions of spectators make their way to watch this annual event that began in 1929.

Thrill seekers in Monte Carlo won't lack in high energy activities with skiing, water sports, and a lively nightlife scene.  If the discos don't capture your interest in the evening, there are always the theater, opera, ballet and cinemas to choose from.          

In the area; Sightseeing around the Riviera 

With gorgeous yachts in the Mediterranean, ski slopes on the Alps and medieval French villages all visible from Monte Carlo, it's no wonder that there is an array of attractions surrounding the district. 

If you need a break from the casino, the museum, the opera house, the palace, Cathedral and dozens of other sites, Monte Carlo is a few minutes drive from the French and Italian Rivieras.

Visitors can choose between the Museum of Nice and the Picasso Museum.  Historical enthusiasts can also take a tour around the surrounding medieval villages.  Tourists seeking great shopping won't have to look far, either.  The famous streets of Cannes and the boutiques of San Remo are both nearby.   

Vacation-goers can even experience the glamour and luxury of Monte Carlo through cruises.  Travel around the Mediterranean, and dine and enjoy the attractions from the unique perspective of a cruise.

Casinos in Monte Carlo