Covering only 200 acres of France’s Mediterranean coastline, Monaco is the world’s second-smallest country. Since the early 20th-century, it has attracted glitterati from across the globe. As such, Monaco is a paradise for upscale travellers, and enjoying its five-star hotels, Michelin-starred restaurants and indulgent leisure activities is all part of the fun. 

Monte Carlo, is Monaco’s largest district, and its most famous. Amidst the towering skyscrapers, you’ll find pretty harbours hosting superyachts and high-end casinos including the elegant Place du Casino. Monaco’s glamorous casinos earned international fame with appearances in Hollywood movies like the James Bond films Never Say Never Again and Golden Eye, and Alfred Hitchcock’s To Catch a Thief featuring Cary Grant and Grace Kelly.

Make time for the Monte Carlo Casino, and its ornate Salle Garnier opera house. Dating back to the 1870s, this exquisite building is Monaco’s premier performing arts and cultural centre. With golden ceilings and intricate detailing, the decor of this opera house reflects Monaco’s opulence and allure. You can marvel at Russian ballerinas, be moved by the music of celebrated operas, and feel the rhythm at the Monte-Carlo Jazz Festival.

On the southern side of Monaco’s harbour is Le Rocher, Monaco's Old Town. Le Rocher retains much of its original charm with its narrow twisting cobblestone streets, grand palaces, and atmospheric cathedrals. The 19th-century Roman-Byzantine style Palais de Justice and the Cathedral is well worth a visit. You can also catch the changing of the guards at the royal residence of Place du Palais. After you've done a little sightseeing, you can hit the designer shops, or dine in some of Europe's finest restaurants.