The French Riviera is one of Europe’s most beautiful places to visit. The sovereign nation of Monaco can be found here and is known for much more than the pristine waters of the Mediterranean Sea that gently caress its shoreline.
Known for its low crime rate, high GDP, spectacular malls filled with stores carrying the latest brands, and incredible casinos, the country is listed as one of the wealthiest on the planet.
For these and many other reasons, the tiny nation attracts more than 218,000 tourists annually. While this may seem like a small number, it is relatively large if you consider the country is only 0.78 square miles (or 2.02 square kilometers).
Amongst these tourists are plenty of vacationers from Ireland. Since Irish residents do not require a visa to enter the country, Monaco is an excellent destination for a vacation and adventure. Here are some of the best things Irish citizens can do while they tour this beautiful country.
Experience the Thrill of F1
It is no secret that Irish folk adore sporting events, and Monaco happens to be home to one of the most revered sporting events of all—the Monaco Formula One.
Taking place between May and June of each year, the Monaco Grand Prix (as it is sometimes referred to) occurs on a maze of streets that transform each year into a racing circuit called the Circuit de Monaco.
For Irish fans visiting the country during this time, there is nothing better than experiencing the rush of incredibly engineered cars hurtling at breakneck speeds around the track. Thankfully, these views can be found throughout Monte Carlo, and even multiple eateries offer unobstructed views of the track as you dine.
Try Local Delicacies
Next to sports, food is one of the things Irish nationals love most—which can be found in abundance in Monaco. Not only is the country known for its extravagance and over-the-top lifestyles, but it is also known for its incredible cuisine.
The country is home to many Michelin-star restaurants that offer the best food that would make any trip memorable, even if you didn’t spend the rest of your trip exploring the region’s wonders.
Across these eateries, you can find numerous tantalizing tastes—from those of the Mediterranean to Japanese, French, and Thai. Of course, just as many eateries offer simpler food if you’re just looking for a quick bite rather than an elaborate meal.
Indulge in the Local Acts and Sounds
While Monaco may be a small country, it abounds in local arts and talents exhibited throughout the year. Experiencing the available entertainment, visiting happening festivals, and viewing local artistry is a must.
Spots like the Fort Antoine Theater, built in the 18th century, offer much more than just incredible ocean views. It also houses numerous live music events, particularly during the summer season. Here, you can enjoy beautiful sounds and the stunning architecture of the monument at the same time.
If you’re looking to take some inspiration back home to Ireland, there are also many unique art galleries showcasing art from local and international artists. Among the best is the Galerie Carré Doré, which features talent from artists in over 100 countries.
Find Out More About the Sparkling Waters
While Monaco is famous for its pristine shoreline, the Mediterranean Sea holds many more mysteries and delights to discover. If you want to learn more about the local aquatic history and ecosystem bordering Monaco, one of the best places to visit is the Musée Océanographique de Monaco (or Oceanographic Museum).
Situated right on the water’s edge on the side of a cliff, the historic building will keep you exploring from sunrise to sunset. The aquariums found within houses more than 200 species, and the museum is home to more than 60,000 objects.
Take in the Incredible Gardens
It is not only museums that are built cliff-side in Monaco. The Jardin Exotique (translating to Exotic Garden) is a must-see for any Irish nature lover. These steep and meticulously kept gardens are a sight to see.
At the observatory cave, you can view the many stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over millennia. Guided tours into the cave will also take you deeper into the depths of the cliff where it is believed prehistoric humanity resided.
The garden (opened in 1933) is home to many succulents and cacti from various international locations. Among the plants you can see are those native to Oriental Africa, the USA, Mexico, South America, and the Arabian Peninsula.
Try to Woo Lady Luck
Given that nearly half of the Irish population engages in gambling, it’s clear that gambling holds a special place in Irish culture. Thankfully, visiting Monaco doesn’t mean you’ll have to set your favorite pastime aside until you return home.
Casino de Monte-Carlo is one of Europe’s most famous casinos and the largest of Monaco’s four casinos. Situated in a building of incredible architecture, the casino was launched in 1865 and has since been a hotspot in town.
While staying in your hotel room and taking advantage of the slot bonuses from casinos.com may be more convenient, visiting Casino de Monte-Carlo to experience the atmosphere and incredible gambling options is well worth your while.
Book a Professional Tour
One of the last things every Irish vacationer should do before leaving Monaco is book a professional tour of the city. Doing this will let you see some sights you may miss while following your own itinerary, but it also comes with the knowledge of a charismatic tour guide.
Plenty of tours are available in the city, from bus tours to those that take you to the harbor and out on the calm waters of the Mediterranean. These can help you solidify your memory of the sights and sounds of the country before you return home.
