Le Casino de Monte-Carlo
Place du Casino
Tel. +377 (0) 92.162.000
www.casinomontecarlo.com
François Blanc envisioned this legendary icon of high rolling out of a rugged wasteland in the mid 19th century, and it was built by the famous architect Charles Garnier. Along with the Hotel du Paris and Cafés Divan and Paris, the Casino complex also hosts the Monte-Carlo Opera. Gambling aficionados play Les Jeux Europeens (Trente et quarante, Chemin de fer, Banque à deux tables, English roulette) and Les Jeux Americains (Punto-banco, Craps, American Roulette and Blackjack 21) with aplomb. If you're not a gamble, the casion is always good for fantastic people watching as well. Proper attire required.
Musée Océanographique de Monaco
Avenue St.-Martin
Tel. +377 (0) 93.153.600
www.oceano.mc
Perched on top of the Rock, the Edwardian-style structure Musée Océanographique is the beautiful vision of Prince Albert I, who was an amateur ocean explorer. The museum and its research facility were run by Jacques Cousteau in the mid 20th century. While skeletons of unusual sea life and a model of the Titanic sinking are nice, the main attraction is the aquarium, with various species of the sea within the backlit tanks. Be sure to check out the piranha pond.
Larvotto’s Beaches
These crescent-shaped beaches are the best place to sunbathe and swim. Located on the east side of the tiny principality, Larvotto has both public and private facilities. Rent cozy lounge chairs and umbrellas here. A Champagne service will set the mood.
Eze
This beautiful medieval village, perched high atop a hill and overlooking the Mediterranean, is just several kilometers from Monaco on the Moyenne Corniche (RN7), the main road connecting Nice and Monaco. Catch a whiff of the fresh herbs for sale.Visit the little squares and clock towers or dine at one of the classy little terrace cafes.
Jardin Exotique du Monaco
62 Boulevard du Jardin Exotique
Tel. +377 (0) 93.152.980
www.monte-carlo.mc/jardinexotique/presentation_en.html
Approximately 7000 species of plants on more than 11,000 square meters of beautiful hillside vistas make this garden a savory experience. Various exotic cacti and other plants bloom year round.