'Timeless appeal': Why Monaco is more than just a 'playground for the rich and famous'
So, you want to live like the rich and famous? Well, welcome to Monaco.
I think we can all agree, Monaco has done rather well for itself over the years.
Back in the mid-1800s the Monte Carlo Casino was built to lure Europe's big spenders - and it worked. Aristocrats, royalty, even rockstars came here in droves.
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Monaco has been a playground for the rich and famous. BVergely
The heart of the action: Casino Square
Today the Golden Square is still at the heart of it all. Home to the legendary casino, the Café de Paris, and a secret underground wine cellar with more than 350,000 bottles.
The recently renovated Café de Paris is a must-stop, and just above it you'll now find the super glam Amazonico Monte-Carlo rooftop, where you have to try the Monkey Business cocktail… at least to get things started.
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Casino Square is at the heart of the action. BVergely
History on the rock: The Grimaldi legacy
But Monaco isn't only about the glitz and glamour. Climb up to the Rock and you'll feel the centuries of history.
The Grimaldi family has ruled here since 1297, when the first Grimaldi, nicknamed "Malizia," disguised himself as a monk and seized the fortress. Crafty. Their story is etched into the palace walls and even the coat of arms.
A visit to the Prince's Palace Apartments reveals frescoes beautifully restored, and every day at 11:55am the changing of the guards takes place with perfect precision on Palace Square.
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Climb up the Rock and visit the Prince's Palace Apartments. BVergely
A temple to the sea: The Oceanographic Museum
As an ocean lover, one of my favourite stops was the Oceanographic Museum, founded by Prince Albert I more than a century ago.
This "temple of the sea" is both a beautiful attraction and a serious hub for marine research, a legacy continued passionately by today's Prince Albert II.
Most recently, the museum unveiled Mediterranean 2050 - an immersive exhibition that lets you step into the future. It's a journey through time that shows how the choices we make today can keep the Mediterranean rich in biodiversity for generations to come.
As an ocean lover, one of my favourite stops was the Oceanographic Museum. M.Dagnino
Everyday Monaco: Markets, gin, and oysters
Of course, to really feel Monaco though you have to dive into local life and sustainability seems to be hot on everyone lips.
The Condamine Market is where the locals shop, snack on Barbajuan pastries, and catch up over coffee. Nearby I met Philip at La Distillerie de Monaco, who turns fallen oranges from the city's streets into a gin unlike anything else.
The Condamine Market is where the locals shop and snack. BVergely
Down by the port, Les Perles de Monte-Carlo serves up oysters straight from the Mediterranean. It's a casual hangout loved by the locals and even Princess Charlene.
And on rooftops and terraces across the city, Terrae's urban farms are producing vegetables, honey, and eggs as part of Monaco's push toward carbon neutrality. It's all happening… in a good way.
Sparkling waters and colourful buildings along the port. BVergely
Stay in style: Hotels for every taste
For a country that's only two square kilometres, Monaco offers a really great range of places to stay.
Whether it's palace-style hotels around Casino Square, chic spots like the Columbus Hotel Monte-Carlo, Curio Collection by Hilton, or resorts right on the beach like the Meridien Beach Plaza and the Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort, there's something for every taste… and thankfully budget.
And when it comes to food, the scene is incredible. From Smakelijk and Amazónico Monte-Carlo, to the stunning experience at Elsa Marcel Ravin, who now proudly own a shiny 2025 Michelin star to put on the mantle.
There are resorts for every taste and budget. BVergely
Small but mighty: Monaco's timeless appeal
Monaco may be small, but it's full of surprises - a blend of rich history, luxury, sustainability, and warm hospitality.
It's little wonder it's still one of the world's ultimate travel hotspots.
David travelled as a guest of Visit Monaco.
