NOV 04th TO 08th, 2024
PARIS, FRANCE
NOV 04th TO 08th, 2024
PARIS, FRANCE
A photograph of the region
France DMCs share with DUCO tips on gastronomy, landscapes, and secret treasures
Thursday
A long weekend in the capital of seaside glamour merits a stylish arrival. For the thrill of it, don your riding gloves and slip into a sleek convertible to cruise the winding coast on your way to the Principality. Breathtaking views of the sparkling Mediterranean Sea will accompany you along hairpin turns all the way into town, where you can drop your bags and breathe in the fresh sea air.
After a day of travel, stretch your legs and fall into the rhythm of coastal life along the routes of one of Monaco’s gorgeous gardens. The Jardin Exotique, perched at the top of town, is bursting with thousands of tropical plants. The Rose Garden inside Fontvieille Park—dedicated to Hollywood star Grace Kelly who became Princess of Monaco when she married the Principality’s young ruler, Rainier III, in 1956—boasts over 300 varieties whose perfume intoxicates. Or choose to take a long stroll along the shady cliffside paths of St. Martin Gardens while contemplating the best table for champagne and oysters this evening.
Friday
Slip on your sunglasses and grab your latest read: it’s always a perfect beach day in Monaco. Larvotto Beach is a long stretch of white sand dappled with beach clubs and steps away from cafés, restaurants, and bars. Among the most coveted parasols are those of La Note Bleue, which offers excellent fresh fare via its in-house restaurant. Alternatively, head to the luxurious Monte-Carlo Beach hotel boasting sea access, an Olympic-sized seawater swimming pool, and Michelin-starred organic restaurant L’Elsa for an experience that is très exclusive.
Following an afternoon of sunbathing, grab an apéritif at Le Bar Américain before heading across the street to the decadent Opera Monte-Carlo for an evening of music: whether echoing with the notes of classic arias, Jazz Festival titans, or international pop stars, the Salle Garnier never disappoints.
Saturday
Head to Port Hercule this morning, where your private yacht awaits, and gain a new perspective of the coast. Gliding out of Monaco’s natural harbor, you’ll sail out past the glitterati and into the glittering blue as your skipper expertly weaves in and out of the many natural inlets along the coast. If you’re game, hop out for a swim in one of the pristine coves along the Côte d’Azur, where the simplest snack shacks often offer the freshest seafood.
Back in town, dedicate this evening to the incomparable Casino de Monte-Carlo. Its sensational Belle Èpoque architecture serves as the backdrop for endless games, thrills, and surprises where you just might hit the jackpot! If you want to take a break from charming croupiers and massive crystal chandeliers, head to the world-famous Buddha Bar housed within the complex, where exceptional cocktails and East-meets-West fusion cuisine will quickly make you feel like a winner.
Sunday
Take a leisurely step back in time at the Prince’s Palace, the Grimaldi family’s official residence since 1297. Walking through the richly decorated halls and ornate state apartments is like taking a stroll through the centuries, with paintings and artifacts spanning from the Renaissance to the Napoleonic period. If you’re in a more contemporary mood, visit The Cars Collection of H.S.H. the Prince of Monaco, which features more than a hundred examples of impeccable design.
Of course, you couldn’t leave this capital of glamour without a few souvenirs! Pay a visit to the Monte-Carlo Shopping Promenade, where elite names like Cartier, Bulgari, Dior, Alexander McQueen, Chanel, and more stand shoulder-to-shoulder in a singular shopping experience. Grab a final bite at the Michelin-starred Le Grill atop the Hôtel de Paris, where you’ll dine like royalty as you watch the yachts drift in and out of the harbor. When you’ve had your fill, make your Bond-style getaway aboard a swift helicopter, providing the most stunning views for your adieux.
