Monte Carlo Cruises

Overview

Wealthy, extravagant and incredibly chic, Monte Carlo is one of those destinations that never grows old. It’s home to some of the world’s most expensive properties, is home to more casinos per head of population than Las Vegas and has a flotilla of expensive yachts that make its marina their permanent berth. Add to that the thrill of Formula One racing, some of France’s best loved restaurants and designer shops galore, and you’ve discovered the essence of Monte Carlo – extravagant living.

Sightseeing in Monte Carlo

Monte Carlo isn’t a particularly old city, only dating back as far as 1866, and although it does have some sights of cultural interest to visit most travellers make their way here to enjoy the heady atmosphere that comes from the wealth and power you can see on every street corner. This pretty hillside city overlooks the harbour, so it’s a short step off your cruise ship to explore its streets.

Monte Carlo Tours: The best way to see as much as you can of Monte Carlo is by joining a tour, so for something a little different why not choose to discover the streets and surrounding hillside by chauffeured Ferarri? You can pre-book your vehicle and driver to meet you at the port, and with tours lasting from 15 minutes to several hours, you can get a real sense of the place from your own luxury transport.

St Tropez: Almost as synonymous with wealth as Monte Carlo, St Tropez can boast some fabulous beaches that are worth exploring. Travelling to St Tropez is easy by bus and takes just over an hour and a half. There’s plenty more shopping to do here as well.

The Casino de Monte Carlo: Of all the gambling houses in all the world, the Casino de Monte Carlo is considered the most exclusive. It has an old-fashioned air of luxury about it, and is designed in a truly opulent style. It offers most traditional gambling games, but don’t forget to check the rules before you take part.

Shopping in Monte Carlo

You can’t walk anywhere in Monte Carlo without coming across another big name designer in clothing or accessories, and whether you’re here to spend big or indulge in some window shopping, there’s plenty to see. The Carre d’Or is the fashion centre of the city, where every designer imaginable has their boutique shop. Visit Dior, Chanel, Prada and many others as you wander around this pretty square.

Staying nearer the port, there are a few streets where local artists, independent designers and jewellers have set up their shops. Rue Millo and Rue Grimaldi are home to several pretty stores with slightly cheaper items than their expensive designer neighbours, while the port itself has a weekly market that’s always lively and worth a visit.

Eating Out in Monte Carlo

Monte Carlo has a reputation for offering some of the best French cuisine, and its location on the Mediterranean means seafood often tops the menu. For a very extravagant meal, disembark your ship and head to the Fairmont Monte Carlo which sits on the sea front, overlooking the harbour. The hotel has an outstanding reputation in a city where everything is considered excellent. Start your evening with a cocktail in their Billionaires Bar before indulging in some fabulous cuisine in their al fresco Horizon Deck restaurant.