There are few destinations worldwide that offer the blend of old-world glamour and new-age excitement that Monaco can. Synonymous with luxury, Monaco is a timeless destination, but what is less known is that in addition to the glittering casinos and luxury yachts, Monaco offers attractions and activities for all of the family that make it a guaranteed holiday success story.
A World Class Aquarium
The Oceanographic Musee of Monaco offers an incredible day out for couples and families. Located in a stunning 19th-century villa that seems to rise from the sea itself, the aquarium boasts one of the greatest selections of marine life in Europe. This includes sharks and an array of fish, alongside a tactile pool where you can interact with many species of marine animals that reside in rockpools. There’s also a turtle island exhibit, where visitors can witness and get up close and personal with African spurred turtles, a critically endangered species, while chatting to marine experts who are tirelessly working to conserve the environments the turtles are indigenous to. Even better, the entire museum is designed with children in mind, so that all of the exhibits, materials, and animals are designed in a way that makes them completely accessible. Opportunities like these are incredibly valuable learning opportunities for children, making your holiday both educational as well as relaxing!
An Action-Packed Trip Through History
After you’ve looked through the glorious Oceanographic Musee, take a walk from the coast into the centre of Monte Carlo to the Private Collection of Antique Cars of H.S.H Prince Rainier III of Monaco. This classic car collection is one of the greatest in the world. Located on the famous Terraces de Fontvieille, the exhibit houses almost 100 vintage cars of a variety of different ages.
Prince Rainier began collecting cars in the 1950s, with his collection gradually growing over the decades as he acquired more and more stunning vehicles. The building that houses the collection today was built to accommodate the vehicles after they could no longer fit in his own garage. The collection was opened to the public in 1993 and remains one of the most-visited attractions in the city to this day.
The Inimitable Casino de Monte Carlo
The Casino de Monte Carlo isn’t actually a single casino, but a complex that includes a casino – the Grand Casino de Monte Carlo – and the office of Les Ballets de Monte Carlo. The profits which come from the complex became so great that the Grimaldis – the ruling family of Monaco – were able to abolish taxation for its citizens. Owned by the Government of Monte Carlo, the profits for the casino today are actually still used to fund a large amount of the public services Monaco provides for its residents. Interestingly, citizens of Monaco aren’t actually allowed to use the gaming rooms at the casino itself. There are identity checks at the door which are used to enforce this rule.
Of course, getting dressed up and going to the casino to try your luck on the legendary blackjack table – or just to have a drink at the stunning bar – is an essential for your to-do list, but you can also take a tour of the incredible building during the day to learn more about its history and the Grimaldi family.
So, what are you waiting for?! Get in touch, and Cruise Club UK will plan your luxury cruise to Monaco this summer!
All images used in this article credit: pixabay.com
