Monte Carlo Casino & Old Monaco

Description

Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

Departing from your ship, you'll board a motorcoach bound for the beautiful city-state of Monaco. Nestled between the Alps and the Mediterranean Sea, it's bounded by the French Riviera to the west and the Italian Riviera to the east. Monaco is the second smallest independent state in the world after the Vatican, but offers so much history and excitement.

You'll head for Monaco-Ville, the "old town" also known as "le rocher" or "the rock." Monaco-Ville is still a medieval village at heart and an astonishingly picturesque site. It's made up almost entirely of pedestrian streets and passageways. You'll follow your knowledgeable tour guide as you begin your scenic walking tour. Your first stop will be at the historic Prince's Palace.

Located in a dramatic setting overlooking the principality and the sea, the palace began life as a fortress built by the Genoese in 1215. The Grimaldis have held the principality for over 600 years.

From the Palace, your guide will lead you to St. Nicholas Cathedral for an outside visit. This 1875 church was built on the site of a 13th-century church. Located in the heart of the old city, it's the final resting place of Princess Grace and Prince Rainier.

After your brief tour, you'll have some free time before heading to Monte Carlo, one of the world's supreme spots for people watching, and Casino Square.

Follow your tour guide to see the legendary Casino, Monte Carlo's crown jewel. Charles Garnier, who designed the Paris Opera House, designed the casino in 1878. As you will see, it's more than just a place to gamble. It is also a world-class opera house and has wonderful gardens out back. The exterior is stunning, with an 'atrium' paved in marble and surrounded by 28 towering onyx columns, and the famous terraces and gardens, which offer spectacular views of the sea. The gaming rooms of the casino are equally resplendent, with the romantic atmosphere you'd expect from a James Bond film. You'll have some free time to explore Monte Carlo..

Special Notes:

The drive between Cannes and Monaco/Monte Carlo is approximately 1 1/2 hours each way via the highway. Traffic can be extremely heavy and venues may be crowded.

Casino at Monte Carlo opens at 2pm daily; if you wish to enter the Casino by your own, please remember that beach or athletic wear is not acceptable. We regret that anyone under 18 years of age cannot enter the Casino. Passports are required in the Casino to gamble, exchange currency and to collect any winnings over 750 Euros.