Sporting Monte-Carlo is the ultimate resort for entertainment and enjoyment. Consisting of restaurants, bars, a concert hall and a casino, Sporting Monte-Carlo will keep you busy until the wee hours of the morning. Throughout the year, you can also catch several music festivals and concerts.
Monaco's Japanese Gardens offer a slice of zen in the principality's uber-chic, skyward-bound concrete maze, mirroring the very philosophy it was inspired by. These gardens form nature's crowning glory in the midst of the glitzy Larvotto quarter. Here, 7000 square meters (75,347 square feet) of space is dedicated to stylized mountain features, dulcet waterfalls and brooks, and a sandy beach. Peeking from behind pebble-soft boulders is a variegated bounty of foliage and flowers, ranging from rhododendrons and hydrangeas, to crimson maples and pines. An idyllic Japanese bridge completes the picture, beneath which 18 species of koi fish ferry along the pond's tranquil waters. There is also a tea house in the heart of the garden, and a nifty Zen meditation garden to find inner peace.
Dramatically perched atop a rocky promontory off the Mediterranean Sea, the world-famous Musée Océanographique de Monaco was founded by Prince Albert I in 1910. Prince Albert, who had a great passion for oceanography, decided that the the austere Baroque Revival structure on Monaco's cliffside should be entirely devoted to the sciences of the sea. This majestic grey-hued construction features an underground zone filled with 90 aquarium tanks, along with a spacious ground floor dedicated to skeletons of sea animals such as the colossal Blue Whale and the Japanese Crab. There is also an artificial lagoon that harbors a fluttering school of vibrant tropical and Mediterranean fishes, and a separate containment for larger, carnivorous species like sharks. On the first floor is a general exhibition of Prince Albert I's various sea-faring explorations, and a history of marine biology told through photographs and diverse exhibits.
Built on a cliff high above Mediterranean waters, this stellar tropical garden has a micro-climate that is particularly suited to the various kinds of rare and exotic plants that grow here. Started as a project in 1933, the area on the cliff accommodates nearly 1000 species of burgeoning cacti and succulents, including enchanting ones like the African candelabra and other Mexican varieties. The Jardin Exotique features a unique tapestry of walkways and bridges that feature succulents studded into rock faces, while its lofty perch is ideal for enjoying far-off views of the coast. One can marvel at the astounding beauty of the Mediterranean Sea and French Riviera towns, and on a clear day, the views generously extend all the way to Italy. Visitors can also consider a visit to the Museum of Prehistoric Anthropology located within the garden, which contains fossilized exhibits and curious excavated artifacts from surrounding areas.
On a small overhang that rests on the Rock of Monaco, delicate trails wind their way through fields of summer, offering views of the coast and the principality as you proceed. The scent of wild Mediterranean flowers and other floral species hang thick in the air, while Aleppo pine trees and shrouds of yellow agave close in on narrow alleys. At Jardins de Saint Martin, high above the thriving principality, the air is enchanting. There are curious glimpses of history and pre-history as well, from remnants of Medieval fortifications, to Holocene-era archaeological relics. At the heart of the garden, overlooking the mighty sea is the bronze statue of Prince Albert I, depicted as a sailor.
Built upon the old ruins and remains of St Nicolas church, the Cathedral of Our Lady Immaculate is an imposing, monumental Neo-Roman construction made of white stone from the neighboring town of La Turbie. Mosaics, patchworks and motifs of all sorts create a fantastic exhibition of religious faith. Tombs of Princes are to be found along various ambulatories. You'll see remarkable altar pieces above most doors. Bear in mind the fact that the Cathedral is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Monaco and is often very crowded.
Over the years, this theatre has become an institution. A lot of dedication and work goes into presenting the weighty year-long program presented by Henri Legendre, who is director, actor, and producer as the need arises. Generally, you'll see more classic, canonic plays here (like Molière or Sartre), but always presented with mastery and finesse. It's worth noting that Henri Legendre is a long-time friend of Arrabal. If you're lucky, you'll be in Nice for one of their astonishing performances. The théâtre de l'Alphabet is tiny; you'd better reserve your seats in advance.
The sea, horizon, clouds, the movements of the paintings are light and like air... these motifs illustrate well the art that is presented at Mario Berrino's gallery. The gallery displays about thirty paintings, and those who appreciate movement and the power of color should be sure to check out the Galerie Berrino.
The Cannet in Cannes is one of the better parts to be in while visiting the city. Be it a business trip or a holiday, travelers will love this place for its shops, restaurants, hotels and attractions. The place also makes way for exploring Cannes' rich culture, hospitality and charm. The Cannet is also where local community festivals, open air concerts and other cultural acts are held.
Cunégonde et Malabar is an ordinary house in Nice that stands out from conventional homes for its extraordinary exterior facade. The living quarters of artist Ben Vautier, this property is adorned with eclectic and bizzare object as well as original graffiti by the man himself. From vintage signs, sculptures, plants potted in old toilets, gnomes and rare findings, this intriguing art assortment does not fail to grab the attention of even the most jaded passerby.