For an original Christmas with your family, treat yourself to a stay in Monaco
Monaco is not necessarily the first destination that comes to mind for spending the Christmas holidays. Yet, the principality has a lot to offer! Its large Christmas market and the numerous activities available make it an ideal destination for families.
The Christmas market in Monaco
The Christmas market is held every year on Quai Albert 1er, in the heart of Monaco’s historic port, known as “Port Hercule.” A Christmas village awaits you there, with small wooden chalets where local artisans will introduce you to their specialties, themed activities, an ice rink, a Ferris wheel, and many games for children. For parking your car, there are five underground parking lots around Port Hercule: the Digue and Quai Antoine 1er are the most convenient. You will find many car rental agencies in Monaco to get around and visit the numerous attractions the city offers!
Must-see attractions during your stay in Monaco
The principality of Monaco has nothing to envy other destinations, even during the Christmas period. The famous Oceanographic Museum is located on the port, Avenue Saint-Martin. By parking your car in the large Pêcheurs parking lot, you can access the museum directly via elevators. This 6000m² building houses more than 6000 specimens of fish and invertebrates! By crossing the Saint-Martin gardens from the Oceanographic Museum, you will reach the Monaco Cathedral. This building, constructed in the 19th century in a Roman-Byzantine style, serves as a mausoleum for some members of the princely family, including Rainier III and Princess Grace. It also features a late 16th-century altarpiece by Louis Bréa. On the Fontvieille port side, treat yourself to a bit of exoticism by visiting the Exotic Garden. Again, renting a car in Monaco is the most practical solution: you can easily access it via the Moyenne Corniche. Park your car in the visitor parking 200m away, and come discover many species of succulent plants in an extraordinary setting.
