Can you believe it’s already August? The Mediterranean yacht season is speeding by, and the Monaco Yacht Show 2024 is just around the corner from September 25th to 28th!
This year’s show at Monaco’s Port Hercule promises to be as dazzling as ever, with hundreds of superyachts, exhibitors, and industry pros coming together. FunAir is excited to sponsor the Captains and Crew Lounge once again, where we’ll unveil an exclusive new addition to our line of superyacht inflatables and toys.
If you’re part of the yacht crew making a quick stop in Monaco, we’ve put together a handy guide to help you make the most of your time off. From top attractions to must-visit spots, get ready to explore Monaco like a local!
The Rock
Atop the gigantic rock overlooking both ports is the oldest part of Monaco. Up in this small cliff-top neighbourhood, you can explore the quaint medieval streets, the Palais Princier, Saint Nicholas Cathedral and the Oceanographic Museum. After climbing to the top, you’re rewarded with stunning views of Monaco and the Mediterranean Sea. Explore the souvenir shops, cafes and restaurants tucked away in the narrow cobbled streets and then stop by the Grand Palace.
Be outside the Palace before 11:55 am and see the Changing of the Guard. The guards in the full dress uniform and rifles perform a traditional ceremony accompanied by a small brass band. The Palace is open for visitors to wander the luxurious interiors during the summer months, from 10 am till 6 pm and costs €8 entry.
The Saint Nicholas Cathedral, built in the 13th century, is Monaco’s most important religious building. The wedding of Rainier III and Grace Kelly took place here in 1956, and it is the burial site for the couple and most of the princely family. Visitors can pay their respects and marvel at the beautiful works of art and stunning architecture between May and September.
The Oceanographic Museum, best viewed from the ocean side, showcases the passion of Albert I of Monaco, Sovereign Prince, scholar and explorer. Built in 1906, the museum is home to an aquarium which houses over 6000 species of fish. There’s also a shark lagoon, a turtle island up on the panoramic terrace and a petting tank. The museum is open year-round but ticket prices vary depending on the time of year.
The Casino
Casino de Monte Carlo is perhaps one of the world’s most famous casinos, so a trip to Monaco would not be complete without at least a glimpse into the iconic interior. Built in 1863 and designed by the pioneer of the Belle Époque architecture in Paris, Charles Garnier, the building and its interiors exude old-money glamour. It’s definitely worth a visit, even if you don’t wish to gamble.
Walk through Casino Square, and you’ll see an array of supercars lined up and parked outside the casino. Visitors can enter the grand atrium and appreciate its beauty for free or choose an audio tour for €19, which allows you to walk the gaming rooms and marvel at the breathtaking decor. Tours run from 10 am-1 pm each day, and gaming starts at 2 pm, at which the entrance fee is €18, which includes a €10 voucher. The day dress code is not overly strict, but ripped jeans, tracksuits, beach wear, running shoes, flip flops, etc will not be tolerated. Think smart casual. From 7 pm, the dress code becomes more formal.
The Luxury Shopping
If you’ve got tips burning a hole in your pocket you may be tempted by a little luxury shopping. In Monaco, there’s not too much else on offer, so head to Casino Square, where you’ll find the designer boutiques housed in artistic dome-like structures, then head to the prestigious Avenue de Monte-Carlo and Allée François Blanc to find the biggest names in fashion, jewellery and perfumery.
The F1 Track
The famous Monaco Grand Prix track runs right through the streets of Monaco. You can walk the entire circuit if your heart desires but the main attractions are the starting grid which is right in the port just by the pool, the famous tunnel located just above Monaco Yacht Club, and the hairpin corner outside the Fairmont Hotel.
The Japanese Gardens
If you’re hoping to find a little serenity, there’s no better spot than the Japanese Gardens. Designed in accordance with the strictest principles of Zen, it’s a beautiful and calming park to wander. It has all the essential components of a traditional Japanese garden, including a waterfall, pond, lanterns, islands, bridges, a tea house and a Zen garden. Admire the Koi Carp swimming under the water with lilies and lotus flowers and smell the delicious fragrances from the pine, pomegranate and olive trees.
The Food
If you’re really looking to experience Monaco, then there are two places to eat that each encompass the two personalities of the Principality. The first is Café de Paris. For over 150 years, the Café de Paris has taken up space above the Place du Casino, offering its guests the perfect meeting spot to enjoy a coffee, a glass of champagne or a meal to share while enjoying a spot of people-watching. The menu offers a gastronomic take on a typical French brasserie, and the drinks menu has something for everyone, including an impressive cocktail list. The beautiful décor will have you feeling like you’ve been transported to a bygone era of decadence and glamour.
The Marche de la Condamine is one of Monaco’s most loved gathering spots for its locals. The daily market is bursting with fresh food and ingredients, but it’s the Les Halles gourmandes which offers the real treat. Open from 6 pm until 9.30 pm, the gourmet halls are home to a large collection of street food vendors, all serving up delicious plates. Grab a seat at one of the communal tables and enjoy gourmet food on paper plates, great wine, beer, or cocktails and a lively atmosphere and experience the Montanesque way of life.
Check out our previous blog for more top restaurants in Monaco.
The Drink
There are plenty of places to grab a drink in Monaco. Whether you want a casual after-work refresher or a fancy cocktail that requires you to get all dressed up, you’ll find it here. In fact, we’ve previously done a whole blog post on the best nightlife in Monaco. Check it out here.
The majority of crew in Monaco tend to hang out at the bars within the port. The most popular are probably La Rascasse, Brasserie de Monaco, and Jacks. If you’re in the mood for something a little more upscale, Hotel de Paris’s Le Bar Americain will not disappoint.
The Captains and Crew Lounge at Monaco Yacht Show
Of course, no stay in Monaco during Monaco Yacht Show is complete without a visit to the Captains and Crew Lounge. Once again, FunAir is among the sponsors for the C&C Lounge, and it’s the perfect spot to relax, network and catch up with friends. Even for those not fortunate enough with free time to explore Monaco, a quick trip to the C&C lounge on your lunch break will be a welcome change of pace. Enjoy refreshments and coffee while playing video games, pinball, pool, and football. You can even book in for wellness treatments. Plus, each morning, between 8.30 and 10 am, breakfast is on offer; from 12-2.30 pm, indulge in a free lunch!
Be sure to say hello to the FunAir team on your visit to the Crew Lounge. As always, our stand is right outside the lounge, in front of Monaco Yacht Club on Quay Louis, and there’s no way you can miss us. We’ll be showcasing some of our most popular yacht inflatables and superyacht toys. Plus, this year we’re planning on showcasing some very special products! Keep your eyes peeled on our socials, blogs and monthly newsletter for all the exclusive info on what we’re planning.
We hope you’ll get some time to visit at least some of our suggestions, or at the very least a trip to the C&C Lounge. In the meantime, browse all FunAir superyacht inflatables and our full range of products, and get in touch at [email protected] or connect on socials.