Monaco holidays

This is a place where the marina is always packed tight with luxury yachts, enticed by the prestigious Casino de Monte Carlo and the grandstands of the Monaco Grand Prix. It’s a place where even the humblest kerbside cafes sell pale Provencal rosé and the people-watching along the quays will give you serious outfit envy.

1. Visit Monte Carlo Casino. Even if you’re not here to gamble, the building is well worth a peek to take in one of Europe’s grandest examples of Belle Epoque architecture. Gambling opens at 14:00 and a strict smart dress code operates. There are three lavish salons open to the public while the exclusive Salon Privés are reserved for more regular visitors.
2. Wander around Le Rocher. What’s left of Monaco’s Old Town is well worth exploring. Get lost in its maze of narrow, windy Medieval lanes and take the staircase up Rampe Major from Place D’armes by the port. As you do, look out for the statue of the late Prince Rainier by Dutch artist Kees Verkade.
3. Check out the Collection de Voitures Anciennes. Over 40 years Prince Rainier amassed a significant collection of 100 classic cars. Vintage vehicles, on display since 1993, include Ferraris, Maseratis, Lamborghinis, Rolls-Royces and several F1 and rally cars, along with the Lexus which carried Prince Albert II to his wedding in 2011.
4. Call in at the Cathedral. This Roman-Byzantine Cathedral was built in 1875 from white stone brought in from La Turbie, France. Today it houses the graves of the principality’s monarchy including those of Prince Rainier and Princess Grace. Look out for the Episcopal throne fashioned from white Carrara marble.
5. Hit the beach. Larvotto Beach is a fine shingle beach with sand trucked in, but it's perhaps the world’s most glamorous beach. Expect to pay a premium for a sunbed and umbrella here. The beach is lined with upscale bars, restaurants and bistros to enjoy. It’s family-friendly but do look out for jellyfish. There’s a good provision of water sports here, from parasailing to jet skis.

• If you’re looking for a resort hotel set in a beautiful garden peninsula then look no further than the Monte Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort. Kick back in its swimming pool-lagoon with solarium, Jacuzzi, gardens and water features, enjoy its authentic 1930s ambience and submit to a relaxing spa treatment. For beach holidays the exclusive Le Meridien Beach Plaza enjoys a private beach, cooking masterclasses and soothing sauna baths – this place does not stint on luxuries. Meanwhile Monte Carlo Beach, a member of the esteemed Relais & Chateaux collection, is another beach front property. Offering a private landing dock and rooms complete with loggias to enjoy sweeping sea views.
• For something more budget-friendly, the Novotel Monte Carlo has you covered. This modern hotel, a short walk from the train station, offers a fitness centre, an outdoor pool and a video games area. Another pocket pleasing option is the Columbus Monte Carlo. This hotel, in the Fontvieille area, was once owned by racing driver David Coulthard and features chic designer rooms and a complimentary shuttle service. Finally a further frugal choice is the Port Palace. This boutique hotel overlooks both the Grad Prix circuit and the yacht-lined harbour so you can still soak up this exuberant lifestyle on a budget.