Monte-Carlo

The Place du Casino is home to the Casino, designed around an Atrium surrounded by 28 onyx columns, and the Salle Garnier, an Italian-style theatre sumptuously decorated in red and gold that is a miniature replica of the Opéra de Paris, and the only opera house in the world where spectators can admire sea views. Every season, the venue hosts the finest opera performances. The stunning Place du Casino also hosts major concerts and events such as the Red Cross Gala.

This district is also perfect for walking and shopping. Near the Place du Casino at the One Monte-Carlo complex, some of the world's biggest luxury fashion houses have their boutiques, whether you're looking to treat yourself or merely window shopping. The occasion parfaite pour rêver ou faire plaisir. A short distance away, via a stroll through the verdant parks, the Jardins des Boulingrins and the Jardins de la Petite Afrique, you'll find the Métropole mall with its 80 shops and six restaurants.

Continue along Avenue des Spélugues to the famous hairpin bend on the Formula 1 circuit, immediately outside the Fairmont Monte Carlo hotel. Along the way, you will no doubt have spotted the Buddha-Bar, a well-known nightlife spot with an Oriental theme, where you can sip a "signature" cocktail or dine on fine Asian cuisine, before carrying on your evening on the dancefloor with music provided by the resident DJ. 
For fine gourmets, Monte-Carlo is the place to find the most exceptional cuisine, concocted by some of the world's greatest Michelin-starred chefs, including Alain Ducasse at the Louis XV, at the Hôtel de Paris, Yannick Alléno at the Pavyllon at the Hôtel Hermitage, or the Table d’Antonio Salvatore at the Rampoldi and the Yoshi at the Hôtel Métropole, the only Japanese restaurant on the Côte d'Azur to have won a coveted Michelin star.

©Benjamin Vergély