All four of Monaco’s districts offer something of merit to tourists: the old town (Monaco Ville) has all the charm and major attractions; Monte Carlo has the casino and flashiest restaurants; La Condamine the even flashier port and harbour; and industrial Fontvieille has mid-range hotels and a fine park.

Fontvieille Park
Fontvieille Park covers 10 acres of prime land in Monaco and is somewhat of a botanical garden, with its impressive plant collection of worldly specimens. The Princess Grace Rose Garden is the main highlight of the park, with its thousands of rose bushes across many species, and the park also features a pretty pond in the centre loaded with swans and ducks.

Monaco Cathedral
Monaco Cathedral was built in 1875 and doesn’t look out of place in modern Monaco, with its distinct white stone. The cathedral was positioned on the site of a former 13th century church and features the tomb of Princess Grace and the former princes of Monaco. Phone: +377 93 308 770.

Monte-Carlo Beach Club
The Monte Carlo Beach Club is part of the exclusive Monte Carlo Beach Hotel on avenue Princesse-Grace in the north of the principality. With its fine sands, which are frequently topped up, are two large pools (one for children), dressing rooms, an expensive restaurant, a café and a bar. Be advised that the beach closes during winter. Phone: +377 4 93 286 666.

Monte Carlo Casino
With more features than simply a gaming house, the 1878 Monte Carlo Casino is the most recognisable and lavish icon of the Principality of Monaco. Its opulence is made even more striking with its gold and red décor, and mural-covered walls. The gaming area itself is sublime, while the gardens and the opera house add further appeal. Phone: + 377 98 062 121; website: en.montecarlocasinos.com.  

Monaco Ville
Lying behind Monaco Port and stretching into the hills of the city state, Monaco Ville is the city’s old quarter and a district of charming, narrow streets and alleys well stocked with shops and cafés. There are many attractive buildings and squares here, including the Royal Palace and the Oceanographic Museum, while the Saint Martin Gardens is a picturesque park facing the sea and offering respite.

Royal Palace
With its perfect setting overlooking the city and sea, the Prince’s Palace is one of Monaco’s top sights. It was built in 1215 by the Genoese and has many fine aspects, including the Throne Room, the Palatine Chapel and the Saint Marie Tower. The Changing of the Guard ceremony takes place daily in the courtyard just before noon. Phone: +377 93 251 831; website: www.palais.mc/monaco/eng.

Prince of Monaco’s Private Collection of Cars
Monaco’s most interesting museum for car buffs features Prince Rainier’s impressive collection of over 100 cars, which have been well looked after. Among Prince Rainier’s favourites are a 1929 Bugatti and the 1903 De Dion Bouton. There is also a 1952 Rolls Royce as well as many other rare and vintage cars. Phone: +377 92 052 856.