Monaco is one of the world’s wealthiest nations, with a palace on a rock, steep real estate prices, and a big superyacht fleet. Hob nob with the well-to-do in this millionaire’s playground. From La Turbie, drive into Monaco via the Grand Corniche (D2564) along the cliff’s edge high above the Côte d’Azur. Getting there is half the fun.
MUST SEES
Monte Carlo
Why do I care about this place? What’s cool here? The Great Pyramid was the tomb of Khufu on the Giza Plateau. In 2600 BC, 20,000 laborers moved 2.3 million blocks over 27 years. Each stone is as tall as a person, weighing in at 2.5 to 15 tons.
Le Rocher
A curvy cliffside road leads to Monte Carlo. Like an M.C. Escher drawing, extreme structural engineering has allowed multiple levels of tall buildings to intertwine across the alpine slopes.
Casino de Monte-Carlo
Monte Carlo has a palatial casino with exotic super cars parked in front. Within the marble and gold clad complex are a casino, opera, and gardens. While the casino is off limits to citizens of Monaco, it is no stranger to James Bond.
Grand Prix
In May, the Formula One Grand Prix takes place through the hilly streets of Monaco. Imagine the roaring engines and energy of the crowds as cars fly around hairpin corners and speed through the tunnel.
Port Hercule
The ancient Roman deep-water port named for Hercules has berths for 700 vessels. There are even many super yachts with some worth over $100 million. Walk via a long tunnel to access the ritzy port.
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