Despite Monaco’s compact size, the principality has established itself as one of the most famous destinations in the world, home to the world’s wealthiest and VIPs. And, perhaps no other destination is more famous than Monte Carlo.

However, many people get confused between Monaco and Monte Carlo. The confusion often comes from the fact that Monte Carlo, as a destination, has become so famous in its own right. If you are wondering what the difference between Monaco and Monte Carlo is, then keep on reading to find out.

Difference between Monaco and Monte Carlo

Firstly, Monaco is a country, while Monte Carlo is one of the principality’s districts. This is the primary difference between Monaco and Monte Carlo.

Monaco is one of the world’s smallest countries, second only to the Vatican City. It is home to around 38,000 residents, who enjoy a lavish lifestyle coupled with a favourable tax system and world-class amenities. Nestled along the French Riviera and lapped by the azure blue Mediterranean Sea, Monaco is governed by Prince Albert II, who is head of state and part of the famed Grimaldi family.

Monte Carlo is Monaco’s most famous district, centrally located within the principality and overlooking Monaco’s Port Hercules, home to some of the world’s largest superyachts. A little known fact is Monte-Carlo used to be called Speluges. It was renamed Monte Carlo in July 1866, soon-after becoming synonyms with luxury and glamour.

Monaco’s districts and capital

Monaco officially has four districts, sometimes referred to as quarters. They are Fontvieille, Monaco-Ville, La Condamine, and, of course, Monte-Carlo. A further five wards also make up the principality of Monaco. They are; Larvotto, La Rousse, Moneghetti, Jardin Exotique, Ravin de Sainte Dévote.Monaco’s district of Monte Carlo is without doubt the city-state’s most glamorous destination. A key Monte Carlo and Monaco difference is that Monte Carlo is where most tourists visit, and many residents desire to live. This ensures that Monte Carlo real estate for sale is always in high demand. Indeed, some of its most luxurious residences can be found at the new One Monte-Carlo, a mixed-use development that offers premium commercial space and apartments with a superb range of amenities.

Many people mistakenly think that Monte Carlo is Monaco’s capital, further fuelling confusion around the difference between Monte Carlo and Monaco. It’s an easy mistake to make. After all, Monte Carlo is the most visited and glamorous area of Monaco. However, the official capital of Monaco is Monaco, because the country is a city-state.

Home to lavish resorts and restaurants

Another difference between Monaco and Monte Carlo is the high concentration of lavish

resorts and amenities that can be found within the district of Monte Carlo.

Monte Carlo is home to the famous Casino de Monte-Carlo, a beautiful Belle Epoque building that is nestled in Monte Carlo’s Golden Square, or Carre d’Or.

Also located in Monte Carlo is a selection of Monaco’s most lavish hotels, including the Hotel Hermitage and the Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo.

This famed district is also home to Monaco’s best shopping, including the Metropole shopping centre, home to a staggering selection of world-famous designer brands.

Famous eateries are also clustered within Monte Carlo, including Café de Paris, and the Michelin starred Le Louis XV Alain Ducasse, located within the Hotel de Paris Monte-Carlo. All of this ensures Monte Carlo is the most desired destination in the country of Monaco.

If you wish to own property in Monte Carlo, then you will need an expert real estate agent at your side. La Costa Properties Monaco boasts decades of expertise in Monaco’s vibrant real estate market and has an exquisite portfolio of Monte Carlo properties for rent and sale. Contact us today.