Benoit Badufle, Regional Director, Visit Monaco discuses on tourism opportunity

Monaco is one of the most noted and most obvious business destinations in the world. This coastal country has excellent hotel facilities offering 2,500 rooms, with a real tradition of welcome and a modern, eco-certified congress centre, the Grimaldi Forum Monaco, which is internationally recognised by the profession.

Nestled in the heart of Europe, less than two hours by air from the major cities and situated close to Nice Côte d’Azur international airport, the city state is easily accessible. Monaco’s assets are not just geographical, but its other advantages are less well known.

It is a hard working ‘city-nation’ and a highly diversified economic platform. With a calendar of more than 500 business events, including numerous congresses, Monaco is strengthening its position as a destination for events. Prices are affordable, the climate is sunny even in winter and the Principality’s image is strong and dynamic.

Monaco has the tourism opportunity as well. Monaco is a tiny royal principality on the Côte d’Azur (French Riviera). Less than two square kilometers in size, it is perhaps the most glamorous little stretch of land on the planet.

A place of sublime natural beauty, Monaco has the lush vegetation and balmy weather of the Mediterranean. There is a seductive quality to the scenery, with its deep blue sea, graceful palm trees, and vibrant flowers.

The most dramatic feature is the steep, rocky promontory jutting out of the coastline, called “Le Rocher” (“The Rock”), which contains historic Monaco, also known as Monaco-Ville (or the Old Town). Full of charming narrow streets and impressive landmarks, Monaco-Ville dates back to the 13th century when the principality was founded.

Many tourists come to Monaco to experience the alluring decadence of the French Riviera. Considered to have Europe’s highest per capita income, Monaco exudes an air of exclusivity and extravagant wealth, with its lavish five-star hotels, designer boutiques, luxury yachts, and opulent restaurants.

Monaco is often visited as a day trip from Nice, which is an easy 30-minute train ride away. However, Monaco is also a good base for sightseeing on the Côte d’Azur.