3 Best Performing Arts Venues in Monaco

Charles Garnier, the designer of the Salle Garnier Opera House, with its 18-ton gilt-bronze chandelier and extravagant frescoes, also built the Paris Opéra, but it was American-born Princess Alice, married to Prince Albert I, who made it a cultural destination. It hosts not only the coast's most significant performances of opera but also of dance and orchestral music.

Monte Carlo's monthlong spring arts festival, Printemps des Arts, brings together the world's top ballet, operatic, symphonic, and chamber-music performers at a variety of venues, including the Opéra de Monte-Carlo, Oceanographic Museum, Grimaldi Forum, Hôtel de Paris, Auditorium Rainier III, Théâtre des Variétés, and the formidable Riva Tunnel.

Cars are part of Monaco’s DNA. Sure, you know the Grand Prix every May, but what about the E Prix, Historic GP, World Rally Car Monte Carlo, the Historic Monte Carlo Rally, or women-only Rallye Aïcha des Gazelles du Maroc? Then there is the spectacular Prince’s Car Collection at its new home in Port Hercule and the Commission for Women in Motor Sport created by the Automobile Club of Monaco. It makes sense, then, that “the most exclusive motor show in the world” is held in Monaco. Top Marques takes place over four days every June at the Grimaldi Forum showcasing supercars, exceptional vintage sports and classic cars, and motorcycles, as well as superboats, on the Esplanade of the Grimaldi Forum.