Contrary to popular belief, there is so much more to Monaco than its world-renowned Grand Prix and its bustling and glamorous casinos. Located on the French Riviera between Nice and Menton, this independent state offers everything from relaxing spas to yacht shows, and circuses to tranquil outdoor gardens.
Here’s our run down on why Monaco should be on your travel bucket list for 2022.
1. Printemps des Arts
In March, discover the Principality’s mythical concert halls with the Printemps des Arts, a way to see Monaco from another angle. The festival will take place from 10th March – 3rd April, where you will be able to discover new concert formats, with performers who take risks and go off the beaten track. The programme includes performances with music from great composers such as Beethoven or Mozart, ballet shows, and music conferences.
2. Rolex Master
In April, tennis is firmly in the spotlight with the Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters, which will certainly satisfy all tennis fans. The competition will be held from 9th – 17th April at the Monte-Carlo Country Club, and is one of the oldest and most prestigious competitions in the world, where some of the best players in the world compete. It is the event of the season not to be missed.
3. The Monaco Grand Prix
If there is one time of the year you should visit the Principality, it is undoubtedly May. Monaco will be hosting three Grand Prixs during this month, which will no doubt delight all F1 fans. The Historic Grand Prix will launch this F1 season and will take place between 13th-15th May. It is the perfect race for lovers of vintage cars. The E-Prix will also be back this year with only electric cars on the track. Finally, The Monaco Grand Prix will take place from 26th-29th May, and is considered as the slowest yet hardest of the Formula One World Championships. Attending the Monaco F1 Grand Prix is truly an unforgettable moment.
4. Oceanographic Museum
Set against the mythical Rock of Monaco, the Oceanographic Museum is the ‘flagship’ of the Foundation and raises awareness among more than 650,000 visitors per year. Beyond its remarkable architecture, it stands out for its world-renowned aquarium, its exhibition events and the alliance of both art and science. A place of culture and exchange of ideas, the Oceanographic Museum organises and hosts a variety of international conferences.
The Polar Mission exhibition will be on display at the Oceanographic Museum from 4th June 2022. Five thematic areas, spread over two levels, give rhythm to this new tour. From the discovery of the Poles to the wildlife they shelter, along with the people who occupy and explore them; objects and documents, digital content and sensory devices are combined to create a unique 360-degree experience.
5. New exhibition of the Grimaldi Forum
![Christian Louboutin, L'Exhibition[niste] exhibition](https://www.luxurylifestylemag.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/1©Jean-Vincent-Simonet-pour-Christian-Louboutin.jpg)
Monaco goes hand in hand with fashion, with many designers and luxury houses in the Principality benefitting from the Monegasque notoriety. This year, the Grimaldi Forum convention centre welcomes Christian Louboutin from 9th July to 28th August 2022. Christian Louboutin, L’Exhibition [niste], redesigned by its curator Olivier Gabet (Director of the Museum of Decorative Arts), will offer the public a new perspective, and follows an initial exhibition at the Palais de la Porte Dorée in Paris in 2020.
The exhibition was conceived as a joyful odyssey through three decades of abundant creativity, imbued with curiosity for all cultures and all arts. Shoes will be in the spotlight with a selection of exceptional pieces on display, and offers a chance to pay tribute to those who inspired him.
6. Discover Monaco’s luxury spas
Take advantage of this summer on the French Riviera to discover one of Monaco’s unique spa venues. The Spa Métropole by Givenchy is one of the three unique creations in the world. Designed by the interior architect Didier Gomez, it reflects the sophistication and modernity of the house down to the smallest detail. Each treatment is a ‘Haute Couture’ creation offering a unique sensory signature.
Like an ode to the benefits of the sea and the Mediterranean climate, the Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo is a haven of peace and luxury. Guests can enjoy sublime views of the sea from its heated pool, whilst the outdoor Jacuzzi faces the port and the rock. Elsewhere, guests can enjoy the solarium, hammam, sauna and fitness room. A gourmet restaurant, l’Hirondelle, is also available with a menu focussing on healthy Mediterranean cuisine.
Treat yourself to a wellness and beauty interlude in Monaco with ancestral rituals at the Cinq Mondes spa at the Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel and Resort, where tradition, beauty, quality and authenticity are its key values. Whether you are looking for haute couture treatments, anti-aging or ancestral rituals, you are bound to find what you are looking for in the Principality.
7. The Monaco Yacht Show
The Monaco Yacht Show is the event of the year that brings together the yachting world in the Principality. This year, the event will be held from 28th September to 1st October. The Monaco Yacht Show is divided into two main exhibition areas: afloat and on the quayside. At Afloat, over 100 superyachts and over 50 luxury tenders are displayed by the most renowned builders and brokers in the market. 450 hand-picked companies, representing excellence and innovation in yachting, exhibit on the quayside: with a mix of designers and naval architects, yacht suppliers and service providers, manufacturers of tenders and nautical gadgets.
In recent years, the show has extended its exhibition offering to the ultra-high-end markets, which are intrinsically linked to the art of living super yachting by showcasing luxury products, cars and motorcycles, as well as helicopters and private jets.
The Monaco Yacht Show is world-renowned for the exceptional quality of its superyachts and their impressive length. The show has become an emblematic event for private visitors who come to discover an outstanding concentration of superyachts available for purchase or charter and to meet the industry experts in the festive and glamorous atmosphere of the Principality of Monaco.
8. Spend your October weekend in the Principality
October is the perfect season to enjoy the Principality without the hustle and bustle of summer. Take the opportunity to stroll through the streets of Monaco-Ville and discover the Principality’s many gardens. October offers the opportunity to discover Monaco from another angle, a more authentic Monaco, with visits to the Condamine Market a must. Here, guests can try local dishes and specialties such as the famous Barbagiuan. At this time of the year, you will also be able to discover a funfair on the Port Hercule, something to delight young and old.
9. Principality’s National Day
November is synonymous with the Principality’s National Day. It is celebrated on 19th November by all Monegasques and residents. Visiting Monaco at this time of the year is an opportunity to associate with the Monegasques and the Prince’s family, offering up the chance to engage in a local experience. You will discover a very different Monaco where guests can enjoy watching a military parade, awards shows and fireworks. Activities throughout are free to access.
10. Christmas in Monaco
Why not spend your Christmas break in the Principality? Discover the famous lighting of the Christmas tree and the city’s fabulous festive decorations. Even the famous Casino Square is decorated with Christmas colours and lights. For those looking for an ever-so-festive hotel, the Metropole Hotel is a great choice, and is always beautifully decorated. On the Port Hercule, the Christmas market is also worth a visit.
