Why go ?
More like ‘why not go?' Monaco at Grand Prix time epitomises everything that’s great about Formula One racing: speed, glamour, passion, noise and a hint of danger because the cars are never too far away from the barriers.

The Principality has a lot of history in its own right, with the Grimaldi Family having reigned supreme since 1297. In a Formula One context, the track is one of the greatest challenges on the calendar; it staged its first (pre championship) Grand Prix in 1929 and has remained largely unchanged ever since.

Celebrities flock to the race like bees to a honey pot because it’s the world’s most glamorous sporting event. To name a few that have visited in recent years: actors Brad Pitt, George Clooney, Hugh Grant and Liz Hurley, soccer star Roberto Carlos and Chelsea Football Club owner Roman Abramovich.

“There are too many things to do in Monaco to fit them into 24 hours,” says David Coulthard, who has been a resident in the Principality since 1994. “However, I can suggest a good night out.” (see ‘Where to Go?’ below)

Did you know? Monaco enjoys an average of 300 days' sunshine per year.

Transport
The nearest international airport is Nice in France. The most hassle-free way to enter the Principality from there is by train, with the journey taking around 40 minutes. Alternatively, it’s a 40-minute drive via the autoroute, or an hour if you take the more picturesque coastal road. Bear in mind, however, that parking in Monaco over the race weekend is very difficult, to say the least.

If you want to treat yourself, you could always catch a helicopter from Nice. The views are spectacular and 15 minutes after take off you can be dining by the harbour. 

Useful tips
The first thing to remember is that the on-track action starts a day early. Unlike every other race on the Formula One calendar, the first day of practice at Monaco is on Thursday. Friday is traditionally a rest day - ideal for some leisurely sightseeing. There is no such thing as general admission in Monaco because it’s not possible to walk from corner-to-corner. You have to book a grandstand seat, with the cost reflecting the vantage point around the lap.

Unlike in neighbouring France, tipping (‘pourboire’) is not the norm because most restaurants and taxis add 10 percent onto their bills as a matter of routine.
Book Tickets

You can keep up to speed with all the action throughout the weekend by hiring a Kangaroo TV handset at the circuit, which offers access to several channels of live video, audio and data content.

Where to go ?
You can take a stroll by the harbour, visit the Jardin Exotique (home to more than 7000 varieties of cacti alone) or walk around the Palais du Prince, the Grimaldi’s official residence for 700 years.

For more of a party weekend, try Colombus Hotel owner David Coulthard’s suggested itinerary: “Arrive into Nice airport in the evening and go straight to the Columbus. Once you’ve checked in, head for dinner at the SAS cafe and, from there, head to the Amber Lounge and dance your ass off. Knackered and hungry? Head for the Tip Top bar for one of their all-night breakfasts.

“In the morning, the Cafe de Paris does the best Bloody Marys around and, your hang-over cured, go to the Casino and lose whatever money you have left!”

Where to stay ?
If you have the cash, nothing beats the glamour of staying in Monaco itself. The closer you are to the track, the higher the price and most hotels are booked out months in advance, so plan ahead. Coulthard’s Colombus Hotel is just one of the stylish options available. A more cost-effective choice is to stay along the coast in one of the quaint seaside towns such as Beaulieu Sur Mer. Hotel rooms often cost a fraction of those in Monaco and it is only a short commute by train into the Principality.
Book a Hotel

Extended stay
Sickly members of the English and French aristocracies used to travel to the south of France ‘to take the air and recuperate’. While the Cote D’Azur may no longer be the exclusive destination of the rich, there is still something magical - even medicinal - about the air and scenery.

Beaches and mountains are both within easy reach of Monaco. The Alpes Maritimes line the coast and are a great challenge for walkers and cyclists alike. Cannes is a stone’s throw to the west and Nice is linked to Paris by the high-speed TGV train, so you can be in the capital in no time.

“If I have a few days to kill,” says Coulthard, “I hire a boat and head for St Tropez. The beaches there are beautiful and there are some fantastic restaurants too.”
Book a Package

Enthusiasts only
If you fancy Monaco in January, don’t miss the Monte-Carlo Rally. If, however, you prefer circuit racing, Paul Ricard is only a couple of hours away. The former French Grand Prix venue is now used regularly for Formula One testing.

Or you can stay on the coast and watch some off-shore power boating, which takes place on a regular basis throughout the summer months.

Why ? 
The epitome of wealth and glamour, holiday in Monte Carlo to see and experience how the 'other half' live it up. The centre of the famed Principality of Monaco on the French Riviera has long been the playground of the rich and famous, flaunting its renowned casino and annual Formula 1 Grand Prix. A holiday in Monte Carlo may be beyond the budget of most, but it is easy to travel to Monte Carlo for a day trip from more affordable towns along the coast.



When ?
With its mild Mediterranean weather, a holiday in Monte Carlo is pleasant all year round, although winter can be wet and sometimes chilly. The resort town enjoys an average of 300 sunny days a year, so whenever you travel to Monte Carlo you can be assured of blue skies most of the time. Unless you plan to travel to Monte Carlo specifically for the event, it is best to avoid the crowds attracted by the Grand Prix in May.



Who for ?
Travellers who are drawn to holiday in Monte Carlo come mainly to see and be seen in this celebrity playground.



More Info: 
To effectively plan your holiday in Monte Carlo make use of our user-friendly Monte Carlo travel guide which lists the major attractions and events in this enclave of leisure and pleasure.

Overview
Monte-Carlo, unofficial capital of glamorous and lavish Monaco, is surprisingly unattractive and is embellished more by its citizens and visitors than its own attractions. The capital is a blend of ugly high rise buildings and windy roads, but does boast the legendary Casino, luxury hotels, elegant nightclubs and restaurants, views of the sparkling Mediterranean and of course, the Monaco Formula 1 Grand Prix.

Established in 1866, Monte-Carlo was named in honour of Prince Charles III and is the richest of the country's four quarters. For years, Monte-Carlo has been the playground of the rich and famous, from Hollywood starlets to royalty, and business people dodging the taxman. It is also one of Europe's foremost holiday resorts, but certainly not for the humble backpacker. The city has several attractions, such as the Oceanographic Museum and Aquarium, the Monaco Cathedral and the Prince's Palace, several gardens, and other attractions centred on the country's famous Royal Family, such as an exhibition of HSH Prince of Monaco's Private Collection of Classic Cars.

There are some interesting diversions, such as catamaran trips, watersports, yachting and the Azur Express tourist train that links up the city's attractions accompanied by multi-lingual commentary. Worth exploring is the Old Town, with its attractive City Hall, and of course when one is bored of sightseeing, the best diversion (and the cheapest) is merely to settle down with a fancy cocktail and people-watch.

Time:
Local time is GMT +1 (GMT +2 from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October).
Electricity:

Electrical current is 220 volts, 50 Hz. European round 2-pin plugs are used.
Money:

The unit of currency is the Euro (EUR), divided into 100 cents. Money can be exchanged at banks, bureaux de change or hotels. Bank hours are usually 9am to 12pm and 2pm to 4pm Monday to Friday and are closed on weekends. The Credit Foncier de Monaco is open daily. Travellers cheques (US$ are the preferred currency) are not widely accepted and should be exchanged at banks or a bureaux de change. All major credit cards are widely accepted.

Language:
The official language of Monaco is French, but English and Italian, as well as Mongasque and Occitan (local languages) are also spoken.


Entry requirements:
Entry requirements for Americans: US nationals do not require a visa for stays of up to three months; a passport is required.

Entry requirements for UK nationals: British Citizens require a passport but no visa is required. Passports endorsed British National (Overseas); British Overseas Territories Citizen and British Subject, all with the right to abode in the UK, do not require a visa for a stay of three months.

Entry requirements for Canadians: Canadian nationals do not require a visa for stays of up to three months; a passport is required.

Entry requirements for Australians: Australian nationals do not require a visa for stays of up to three months; a passport is required.

Entry requirements for South Africans: South African nationals require a visa (a Schengen visa is valid if endorsed 'also valid for French territories'); a passport is required.

Entry requirements for New Zealand nationals: New Zealand nationals do not require a visa for stays up to three months; a passport is required.

Passport/Visa Note:
Any foreign national who wishes to enter Monaco for a period not exceeding three months must have the document required for entry into France. Passengers must also hold return or onward tickets, sufficient funds and the necessary documents for return or onward journey, except for members of EEA states and Switzerland.




Health:
In general, no immunizations are necessary for travel to Monaco and there are no major health risks. The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) does not provide health cover in Monaco. It is advised to carry enough personal medication with accompanying doctor's letter. Medical insurance is recommended.

Tipping:
Most hotels and restaurants add a service charge, but tipping extra for excellent service is appreciated. Porters/valets usually expect a tip. It is not necessary to tip taxi drivers, as they are self-employed.

Safety:
Trips to Monaco are usually trouble-free, but the usual, sensible precautions such as being vigilant after dark and taking care of valuables apply.

Customs:
Swimsuits, bare chests and bare feet are restricted to beaches and swimming areas only. Appropriate dress is required for visits to religious buildings (Monaco is largely Roman Catholic). Jacket and tie are required at the Casino.

Business:
Business is usually conducted formally and suits and ties are the norm. Greetings are made with a handshake and business cards can be exchanged. French is the official language of Monaco, though some English is spoken; it is best to ascertain beforehand which language will be used. Business hours are usually 9am to 12pm and 2pm to 5pm Monday to Friday.

Communications:
The international access code for Monaco is +377. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the United Kingdom). Mobile phone coverage is excellent and roaming agreements exist with most international mobile companies (it is best to check with phone providers). Internet cafes are common.

Duty free:
Currency must be declared on arrival and passengers are allowed 400 cigarettes, one litre of liquor and a reasonable amount of perfume for personal use.

Tourism:
Monaco Tourism Office, Monaco: +377 9216 6116 or www.visitmonaco.com

Monaco Embassies:
French Embassy, Washington DC, United States (also responsible for Monaco): +1 202 944 6000.
French Embassy, London, United Kingdom (also responsible for Monaco): +44 (0)20 7073 1000.
Monaco Consulate, Montreal, Canada: +1 514 878 5878.
French Embassy, Canberra, Australia (also responsible for Monaco): +61 (0)2 6216 0100.
Honorary Consul of Monaco, Cape Town, South Africa: +27 (0)21 702 0991/2.
French Embassy, Dublin, Ireland (also responsible for Monaco): +353 (0)1 277 5000.
Consulate of Monaco, Wellington, New Zealand: +64 (0)21 933 745.

Foreign Embassies in Monaco:
United States Embassy, Paris, France (also responsible for Monaco): +33 (0)1 4312 2222.
British Embassy, Paris, France (also responsible for Monaco): +33 (0)1 4451 3100.
Canadian Embassy, Paris, France (also responsible for Monaco): +33 (0)1 4443 2900.
Australian Embassy, Paris, France (also responsible for Monaco): +33 (0)1 4059 3300.
South African Embassy, Paris, France (also responsible for Monaco): +33 (0)1 5359 2323.
Irish Honorary Consulate, Monaco: +377 9315 7000.
New Zealand Embassy, Paris, France (also responsible for Monaco): +33 (0)1 4501 4343.

Monaco Emergency Numbers:
Emergencies: 17 (police); 18 (ambulance and fire).

Attractions:
Palais du Prince
Established in the 13th century, Monaco's royal palace has been the residence of the ruling Grimaldi family ever since. The most famous resident was Grace Kelly, who was married to Prince Rainier III. Every generation has left their mark on the place, and as a result this is not one of Europe's most elegant castles from the outside. It is worth taking a look inside though; 15 rooms, including the Throne Room, are open to the public. In the south wing of the palace is the Musée des Souvenirs Napoléoniens, which contains a collection of Napoleon's memorabilia. The changing of the guard takes place in front of the palace every day, lasting just two minutes, so take care to be on time.

Oceanographic Museum and Aquarium
Monaco's Oceanographic Museum and Aquarium was opened by Prince Albert I in 1910 and houses his personal collection of marine life, models of the Prince's laboratory ships and other crafts made from marine products. The imposing building is perched dramatically on a cliff and faces the sea, providing lovely views. The basement houses an impressive aquarium with over 4,000 fish species and 200 invertebrates, as well as the Shark Lagoon.

Monaco Cathedral
The Monaco Cathedral is a beautiful structure that was built in 1875 and rests on a site of a 13th-century church that was dedicated to Saint Nicholas. The Cathedral houses the tombs of the much-loved Princess Grace, as well as the former Princes of Monaco. During religious festivals and religious holidays, the sounds of the Cathedral's splendid four-keyboard organ can be enjoyed, as well as the Sunday mass, which is sung by the Cathedral Choir.

Monte-Carlo Casino
The opulent and world-renowned Monte-Carlo Casino was built in 1878 by Charles Garnier, architect of the Paris Opera House. The Salle Garnier hosts ballet, opera and concerts, while the Gaming Rooms are filled with all the glitz and glamour one would expect from a top-class casino. The rooms sport stained glass windows, sculptures, and of course, the rich and famous. Jacket and tie are required for men.

Main Event:
Monaco Formula 1 Grand Prix
The Monaco Grand Prix has long been considered the crown jewel of the Grand Prix circuit, and is the oldest and most prestigious of the lot. All the glitz and glamour of Monaco itself adds to the excitement of the demanding race that takes place on a narrow course through the streets of Monte-Carlo, with tight corners and elevation changes presenting a serious challenge to drivers.


Nice Côte d'Azur Airport (NCE):
Location: The Nice Côte d'Azur International Airport is located 13.7 miles (22km) from Monaco in Nice, France.

Time: GMT +1 (GMT +2 between last Sunday in March and last Sunday in October).

Contacts: Tel: +33 (0)4 898 898 28.

Transfer between terminals: A free shuttle bus connects the two terminals, which are also within walking distance.

Transfer to the city: Taxis, helicopters, car services and buses link Nice Airport and Monaco. Helicopter rides take roughly seven minutes.

Car rental: All major car rental companies are represented opposite Terminal 2.

Facilities: There are a number of restaurants, bars and shops, banks and foreign exchange offices in both terminals. Other facilities in Terminal 1 include a post office and business centre with meeting rooms, fax, photocopier and Internet access. Disabled facilities are good; passengers with special needs should contact their airline in advance.

Parking: Plenty of short and long-term parking is available at both terminals.

Airport hotels:

Departure tax: None.

Website: www.nice.aeroport.fr

Transport:

Monte-Carlo has an efficient public transport system, with five bus lines. An excellent way to save money is to buy the Daily Tourist Pass, which at a flat rate, allows unlimited travel all day. A series of elevators also operate to transport visitors and residents up and down the steep streets of the city. Perhaps the best way to explore the city, however, is on foot.

Climate:
Monte-Carlo, like Monaco, has a spectacular Mediterranean climate, boasting roughly 300 days of sunshine a year. July and August are the hottest months, while spring and autumn are the best times to visit, as temperatures are milder.