All that glitters is gold in Monte Carlo. Although it's in the world’s second-smallest country, Monaco, this glamorous city doesn’t do things by halves. Million-pound yachts, glitzy high-rises and flamboyant casinos dominate its French Rivera coastline. But away from the riches, you can find a charming old town to explore, quaint public gardens with tropical plants and views of the ocean.
Many hostels in Monte Carlo are near the coast, where you'll have views out to sea from a roof terrace. There are usually modern touches such as air con, satellite TV and a minibar in Monte Carlo hostels. Free Wi-Fi and free breakfasts each morning mean you'll have more money to spend on doing the things you love, such as exploring the little stores for bargains or even getting into the Monte Carlo spirit by playing a few games of roulette.
Monte Carlo is one of Monaco’s four quarters. The other three quarters are Monaco-Ville or Le Rocher, Fontvieille and La Condamine. Le Rocher is where you'll find the old town, which perches on top of a towering rocky headland and is made up of winding cobbled streets and al-fresco cafés. Fontvieille and La Condamine both sit along the seafront – it's the perfect place for spotting all those yachts. At only 200 hectares, this tiny country can be driven from end to end in less than 15 minutes, giving you the perfect opportunity to explore the country inside out.
In terms of things to see and do, there's a wide variety. The Casino de Monte Carlo is an elaborately-built casino which will make you feel like you’re on the set of James Bond. For an example of fine architecture, check out Monte Carlo’s Opéra de Monte Carlo (also known as the Salle Garnier), the Prince's Palace and Monaco Cathedral. Whatever season you visit, Larvotto Beach and gardens such as Jardin Exotique and Les Jardins Saint-Martin are worth a visit given Monaco’s year-round mild Mediterranean climate.
The nearest airport is Nice Côte d’Azur Airport in France. From here, you can either get a taxi or a bus (roughly a 45-minute journey). You can also take the train – you’ll need to get the shuttle bus to Nice-Ville station first. You’ll probably find that walking is the easiest way to get around Monte Carlo but there's also a bus service, and street lifts to take you to the steeper parts of the city.
