Julie jets off to Monaco

Monaco has been a place on my bucket list for years and I was lucky enough to visit this amazing place in November 2018 with Kirker Holidays.

With flights from both Heathrow and Bristol, it's easy to get to Nice, from where we were transferred by helicopter (yes, really!) to Monaco, which takes just minutes. A short transfer took us to our Hotel Hermitage - home for the next 2 nights - a 5-star deluxe Hotel right by the Monte Carlo Casino… Wow, what a place!

The principality of Monaco occupies an area of just 2 square kilometres, so everything is within walking distance, albeit hilly in some parts. 

The main centre is Monte Carlo and the place to be is Casino Square where the famous Casino is situated. A lovely spot for lunch, dinner or even just a coffee and people-watching is Café de Paris. Due to its location, you will pay a little over the odds, but definitely worth a visit.

Places of interest include:

Princess Graces rose Gardens at Port Font vielle. This is the Royal palace in the Old Town where you can watch the changing of the guards and visit the Oceanographic museum - a great place to spend a couple of hours.

The car museum is well worth a visit, home to some of the most expensive cars you will ever see. They are all owned by the Prince of Monaco.

The Jardin Exotique de Monaco is a botanical garden located right on the cliffside and is definitely worth a wander around.

From Monaco, it is easy to get to Italy and France, so can be combined with either if you wish but if you're rather stay in Monaco, you can actually see all three countries from some viewpoints!

We were lucky enough to also visit and spend time at:

1. Hotel De Paris, a five star deluxe hotel linked to the Hermitage via a covered walkway. This is a unique, top -of-the-range hotel which houses the spectacular Princess Grace Suite
2. Hotel Metropole, another 5 star deluxe Hotel, featuring a Michelin starred restaurant and a Givenchy Spa
3. The Fairmont Hotel, a 5 star with the F1 circuit directly in front of it
4. Monte Carlo Bay Hotel, a 4 star deluxe around 30 minutes walk from Casino Square on the Larvotto Peninsular
5. Columbus Hotel which is a 4 star superior hotel , recently refurbished and overlooking the Princess Grace rose Garden

Despite the evident opulence, prices start from just £498 to include return flights, 3 nights accommodation, helicopter transfers and the “Monaco Passport" which offers an abundance of extras. This really is a fabulous short break destination with a difference, and one I'd encourage everyone to visit once.

From the designer shops, red carpeted streets, fancy cars, good weather and fine food, Monaco has definitely won me over. If you would like any more information, please do get in touch with me.