From its sustainability practices, azure blue waters and a menagerie of world-class events including a trip to the metaverse, these are the 8 best things to do in Monaco in 2022.
Now that travel has become more accessible, it is easier than ever to go back to our nomadic roots and see the world with fresh eyes. Monaco's allure as a destination of luxury and glamour remains timeless, but it is also home to exciting, one-of-a-kind experiences.
1. Experience the Thrill of Grand Prix Season
Car lovers, rejoice! The Grand Prix finally is returning to Monaco this year and the city will host three Grand Prix events in a row: The Formula E Prix, the Historic Grand Prix and the Formula 1 Grand Prix. The Historic Grand Prix will kick off from May 13 to 15 and is the perfect race for lovers of vintage cars. For the pièce de résistance, The Formula 1 Grand Prix will take place from May 26 to 29.
Will Monaco-born Charles Leclerc renew his Bahrain and Melbourne victories in his home state of Monaco this year? The suspense is on! Take your Grand Prix experiences up a notch by staying at the Fairmont Hotel which has a room overlooking the iconic Hairpin stretch.
2. Dine at the First Hotel Restaurant to Receive 3 Michelin Stars
In the 1990 Michelin Guide edition, the Louis XV-Alain Ducasse restaurant at Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo was the first-ever hotel restaurant to receive three Michelin stars. In the latest 2022 edition, although the cuisine has evolved, the Louis XV-Alain Ducasse is still part of the exclusive 3-star league of restaurants in France and Monaco, epitomising elegant fine dining.
Its founder Alain Ducasse along with his succession of chefs have created decadent dishes that reflect the flavours of the Riviera. Locally sourced seafood and locally grown vegetables play a big role in the delectable creations that are paired with exceptional wines from the local region. The famed restaurant has been a permanent fixture among the world's best restaurants list.
3. Dive Underwater at Oceanographic Museum
The Oceanographic Museum, curated by this world-leading scientific institution founded in 1910 by Prince Albert I of Monaco, is playing host to an exquisite exhibition titled "Immersion". Take a journey within the Great Barrier Reef through an interactive installation that showcases the unique species and the entire ecosystem of this natural wonder of the world.
Using state-of-the-art technology that produces ultra-realistic visions, visitors bear witness to the beauty and vulnerability of this world-renowned reef through an underwater lens. The exhibition is wondrous for adults and children alike and a must-do activity for families visiting Monaco.
4. Visit the Christian Louboutin Exhibition
In 2022, the Grimaldi Forum in Monaco welcomes Christian Louboutin's L'Exhibition[niste] from July 9 to August 28. Redesigned by curator Olivier Gabet, the Director of the Museum of Decorative Arts in Paris, this showcase will redefine the public's view of the fashion icon from a new perspective.
Visitors will take a trip through three decades of creativity that not only highlight items from Louboutin's personal collection, but historic and artistic works borrowed from public and private collections. There will also be presentations of creative pieces made through exclusive collaborations with other artists. Besides this event, Christian Louboutin is also entrusted with the artistic direction of the mythic “Bal de la Rose” charity event which will take place on July 8, in the Salle des Etoiles of Sporting Monte-Carlo, held for the benefit of the Princess Grace Foundation since 1964.
5. Explore the Metaverse
The Metaverse lands in Monaco for the very first time as the city will host a live and a virtual edition of the Meta Entertainment World from May 23 to 24. The innovative and interactive 2-day summit in MCity brings together the world leaders in entertainment and technology into the virtual realm. This event aims to advance the connection between entertainment and global audiences with a 3D experience within the 2D world, marrying the alternate reality with actuality.
6. Hike Up the Hills
Monaco boasts a number of beautiful walking and hiking trails. A small trek through the hills above the city will lead to the mighty Augustus Monument constructed in the small village of La Turbie, located on the border of Monaco 450 metres above sea level. Augustus was the founder and first Emperor of the Roman Empire and this monument was built to celebrate his victory over the Ligurian tribes of the area.
If nature trails are your thing, it’s worthwhile to start exploring from La Turbie. The “Tete de chien” vantage point at a 550-meter height produces some of the most magnificent views of Monaco. Look to the west and you will see Cap Ferrat, Nice, Antibes, the Lérins Islands, the Estérel mountains, and many more!
7. Visit 3 Countries in a Day
Monaco is the centre point between the French Riviera (aka “Cote d'Azur” in French) and the Italian Riviera (aka “Riviera dei Fiori” in Italian), which makes this glamorous city the ultimate base for exploring these stunning natural coastlines. Begin your day with brunch in Monaco, before taking a short trip to the gorgeous coastal city of Nice, 30 minutes away by train.
Explore the classic beachside strip of the “Promenade de Anglais” before making your way to the picturesque village of St Paul De Vence, a hamlet that inspired the works of many great artists such as Monet, Picasso and Chagall. On the other side, less than one hour towards the east, trek the rustic Italian village of Bordighera (do not miss Villa Garnier) or the city of San Remo that’s famous for its international music festival. If you're feeling adventurous, drive two and a half hours from Monaco to the Italian town of Portofino for the night and indulge in a delicious meal with spectacular seaside views.
