Around the world in 24 races: Monaco
Ahead of the Monaco Grand Prix, we explore the storied streets of the principality with our Global Luxury Luggage Partner Globe-Trotter.
Monaco is The Original F1 street circuit, twisting and turning through the steep roads of Monte Carlo, with drivers going full throttle through a tunnel and then zigzagging at slow speeds through the port and the waterfront – allowing fans a unique up-close experience that's a million miles away from newer high-speed circuits.
The circuit dates from 1929 and is a mere 3.3km through the historic streets, with oddities like the incredibly tight Fairmont Hairpin, F1's slowest corner which drivers take at speeds between 45-50km/h.
This weekend, Lance and Fernando will pit their wits against the unique and historic circuit, while enthusiasts won't miss a photo opportunity beside the statue of racing legend Juan Manuel Fangio, found between the world-famous bar and nightclub, La Rascasse, and the start-finish straight.
This is your essential guide to the principality...
What makes Monaco and its surroundings so charming?
This whole coastline is filled with culture. It ranges from the glitz of Cannes with its film festival, through Antibes and St Tropez, to Roquebrune with its modernist architecture like the Villa E1027. It extends round to the Italian coast with the famous Cinque Terre villages of coloured houses tumbling down into the sea.
James Bond fans will rush to the Casino Square with its legendary tropical gardens and renowned casinos. Or, explore the Museum of Stamps and the Oceanography Museum. With plenty of upmarket bars and restaurants such as Bolinas at the famous Riviera Marriott, Monaco is a real millionaire's playground.
How to find joy in the journey?
Monaco is one of the few places in the world with a regularly scheduled helicopter service. There are two reasons for this: there's no space for an airport in the tiny principality and its residents and visitors can afford the luxury in-air shuttle to Nice Airport for connecting flights around the world.
Take a trip into cosmopolitan Nice and stop for cocktails at the brand-new Mama Shelter bar. The heliport at Monaco offers a slick service, naturally, breathtaking views come as standard as you fly over Monaco and the Riviera.
What's new in Monaco?
Jax Jones, Hannah Boleyn, and Fatman Scoop are set to headline the Amber Lounge parties during the weekend of the Monaco Grand Prix on 24, 25 and 26 May at the Le Meridien Beach Plaza pop-up. If you want to catch the celebs this is the place to come and let loose in style.
Redevelopment around the waterside has given Monte Carlo a new boardwalk, perfect for a leisurely stroll to cure a hangover. Admire the new architecture, such as Renzo Piano's Le Renzo apartments, complemented by shops and gorgeous green spaces and designed as part of the land reclamation projects. Don't forget to take in historic buildings and palaces from Monaco's past.
Where should I go next?
Monaco is about old money and glitz, while Marseille is the coolest city on the French south coast – a mecca for those interested in modern art, design and architecture. Widely considered the home of French rap, hip-hop music by some of the most popular artists in France bring parties to life. There are fresh and contemporary galleries that echo the culturally rich and diverse area, while Le Corbusier's most famous work – the legendary brutalist Unite d'Habitation – crowns the city.
You can expect an authentic experience steeped in history at the Hotel Corbusier, the only hotel in Marseille in a Unesco World Heritage building. Or stay at the Sofitel with its luxe decor and slick vibe to enjoy the best of this cool city.
Our partnership with Globe-Trotter celebrates a shared commitment to craftsmanship, innovation, and heritage, bringing together the timeless style of Globe-Trotter's handcrafted luggage and the cutting-edge design and performance of the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team.
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