‘I visited Europe’s richest city – it is ridiculously expensive and massively overrated’

Monaco, Europe’s state, is loved by the super-rich. But I wouldn’t recommend spending more than a few hours there. While it’s certainly worth a visit to experience its vistas, luxury and glamour, there’s so much more to the French Riviera than Monaco. I grew up less than an hour away from the principality, so I’ve had my fair share of visits over the years.

Despite its allure, I find that the city-state can feel more superficial and overhyped compared to other stunning destinations along the south coast of France. To even live in Monaco, you need to have a hefty £419,000 in your bank account, and dining here comes with a premium: restaurants are about 106% more expensive than in France.

There are, of course, some iconic attractions worth seeing, such as the beautiful botanical and Japanese gardens, Port of Fontvieille, and the historic Port of Hercules. Those willing to splash the cash might also enjoy Monte Carlo Casino, one of the most recognisable buildings in Monaco. But, in my view, even this is overhyped by those who visit.

If you’re a fan of motorsports, you’ll find the Formula 1 Grand Prix taking place here once a year.

The Grimaldi Forum often hosts interesting exhibitions, and the Point de Vue offers breathtaking views. I also enjoy the open-air cinema and the Old Town with its winding, pretty streets.

However, while the sights are undoubtedly beautiful, Monaco’s exorbitant prices can quickly make you reconsider staying longer than a few hours.

As the second smallest nation in the world, Monaco packs a lot into its less than one square mile. But, once you’ve ticked off the main attractions, there’s not much more to do.

Every third resident here is a millionaire, but most of the workers who help keep Monaco running live outside the city in nearby cities like Nice or even Genoa in Italy.

I recommend staying at one of the surrounding towns like Nice or Antibes, which offer stunning views, less urbanisation, and more authenticity but you can still get to Monaco within a short and cheap train ride away.

Monaco is a place that’s worth seeing once for its vistas and opulence but for those looking for a richer cultural experience or a more affordable getaway, there are plenty of other destinations along the French Riviera that are equally beautiful—if not more so.

Whether it’s the cost of food, accommodation, or simply a bottle of water (which will set you back 3 or 4 euros), Monaco isn’t exactly a budget-friendly destination.

While it’s undeniably a city of interesting contrasts—mixing colourful southern buildings with towering, modern skyscrapers that aren’t seen on the Mediterranean coast—it does tend to feel more focused on the glitz and wealth than on authenticity.

In many ways, it can appear more “bling-bling” than deeply authentic, soulful and charming.

While this part of the world is known for its glamour, places like Èze contrast with the glitz and wealth of Monaco, showcasing a more authentic and charming side of the French Riviera.