Share to Facebook Share to Twitter Share to Linkedin There is much to explore along the French Riviera. Adobe Stock-Mirko Sandwiched between the mountains and sea on the edge of the French Riviera, Monaco’s allure dates back nearly 150 years, when the James Bond-famous Casino de Monte-Carlo swung open its gilded doors. While the Belle Époque beauty symbolizes the principality — and crowns Monaco’s most famous district, Monte Carlo — there’s plenty more to check off your list once you’ve tried your hand at the card tables.
Monaco may be the world’s second-smallest country (behind Vatican City), but the petite principality packs everything from a world-class oceanographic museum to top-notch restaurants into a space that could comfortably fit into Central Park. That said, there’s plenty to keep you busy for days. But if you only have a weekend in Monaco, here’s how to squeeze in the best that the country has to offer.
The iconic Casino de Monte-Carlo. iStock-Travel Faery Friday Check into the 150-plus-year-old Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo , a Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star property that sits catty-corner to the Casino de Monte-Carlo. Take a seat for jazz and apéro (pre-dinner drinks) on the terrace of 1930s-era Le Bar Américain , where everyone from Josephine Baker to Lady Gaga has performed.
Sip on the signature Condamine (named after the neighborhood behind the port), a blend of passionfruit juice and orange liqueur that’s locally crafted, while sampl.