Monaco

The Principality of Monaco (Principauté de Monaco) is a city-state which lies between the Alps and the Mediterranean Sea, bounded by the French Riviera to the east and west, with the Italian Riviera only a few kilometers further to the east.

Islam in Monaco

Islam is a minority religion in Monaco, a small sovereign city-state located on the French Riviera. While there are no official statistics on the religious demographics of Monaco, it is estimated that Muslims make up a very small percentage of the population.

There are several Islamic organizations and masjids in Monaco that serve the local Muslim community. One of the most well-known Islamic organizations in Monaco is the Islamic Cultural Centre of Monaco, which was established in 1987. The centre provides a place of worship, education, and community support for Muslims in the area.

Another notable mosque in Monaco is the Masjid Ar-Rahma, which was opened in 2011. The mosque is located in the Fontvieille neighborhood of Monaco and can accommodate up to 800 worshippers.

Despite being a small community, Muslims in Monaco enjoy the freedom to training their religion and are generally accepted by the wider society. Monaco has a reputation for being a tolerant and inclusive society that welcomes people of all backgrounds and faiths, however in 2011 and the government introduced a law banning the wearing of the burqa and niqab in public spaces, citing security concerns. This law has been criticized by many Muslim groups including the OIC as a violation of their religious freedom.

Monaco Halal Explorer

This is the second smallest independent state in the world (after the Vatican) and is entirely urban. Monte Carlo is not the capital of Monaco but a government neighborhood. The country is divided into nine sectors: Monaco-Ville (the old city) and the Condamine (port quarter), Monte-Carlo (business and recreation) and Fontvieille (recreation, second port for smaller boats and light industry) are the most well-known among them. With no natural resources to exploit other than its location and climate and the principality has become a resort for tourists and a tax haven for wealthy people. Monaco is six times the size of the Vatican and the world's most densely populated country. While its borders have not moved since 1861 (when it de jure lost over 80% of its territory to France), Monaco has still grown its territory by creating artificial land from the sea, which is how the area Fontvielle came to be.

Buy a Flight ticket to and from Monaco

The nearest airport is Nice Aéroport Nice Côte d'Azur (IATA Flight Code: NCE) in neighbouring France, which is around 40 kilometers (25 mi) away from the downtown. It operates daily Flights to nearly all of Europe's main cities, such as London and Paris. There are regular buses connecting Monte Carlo with both terminals at Nice Cote-D'Azur airport, and taxis are always available outside the terminal buildings - although make sure a fee is agreed in advance or the meter is switched on at the start of the journey, as shady French taxi drivers are notorious for charging tourists whatever they see fit.

By helicopter transfer

Monacair is the sole operator of regular helicopter transfers between Nice Airport and the Monaco Heliport. After collecting your luggage at the Nice airport, present yourself at the Monacair reception desks (in terminals 1 and 2). A ground crew will carry your luggage and drive you to the heliport. The flight along the coast is beautiful and only lasts 7 minutes. When arriving right at the Monaco heliport along the water's edge, a chauffeur will take you directly to your hotel. When leaving Monaco, a partnership with airlines allows for a direct transfer to the boarding gate with your cabin luggage. Check with the company if these benefits are applicable with your airline. Rates are €140 for one-way transfers, and €260 for round trips.

Muslim Friendly Rail Holidays in Monaco

Monaco-Monte Carlo is the principality's only train station and operated by the French railway company SNCF. It is about 300 m back from Port Hercule. There are lockers for left luggage.

There are good connections to the nearby parts of France and Italy which are run mainly by SNCF and also Trenitalia. There are 2-4 services per hour to Nice, Cannes, Menton and Ventimiglia (Italy).

Trains to further afield also stop in Monaco, such as the 'Ligure' (Marseilles - Milan) and the 'Train Bleu' (Paris - Ventimiglia) and the high-speed TGV (Nice - Paris, 6hr 30min) and the longest train journey wholly in Europe (Nice - Moscow, 47hr) run by Russian Railway.

From Ventimiglia, it is easier not to use the Trenitalia counters or machines. Go to the travel agency (the only one) inside the station, which is marked with the sign of SNCF (French Railways). Return tickets not tied to a specific train are also available. Remember to validate your tickets just before boarding using the machines on the platforms.

By car

Monaco is easily accessed by its land borders from France or Italy by a network of highways, most commonly used of which is the A8 which runs west from Monte Carlo to Nice and Marseilles, and east towards the Italian border.

Between Nice and Monaco and there are also three more scenic roads: the Basse Corniche (Low Coast-Road - Highway 98), along the sea and the Moyenne Corniche (Middle Coast Road - Highway 7), going through Eze-Village, and the Grande Corniche (Great Coast Road), going through La Turbie and Col d'Eze (Eze Pass).All are pretty drives offering spectacular views over the Coast line. For an extra-special treat, rent a convertible sports vehicle from the many airport rental services and take in the French Riviera in style.

Taxi trips to and from Nice cost around 90€. So if you're on your own the helicopter is a viable alternative.

Travel on a Bus in Macau

There is no bus station in Monaco. Instead, international buses stop at various points throughout the city. Regular buses, run by Rapide Cote D’Azur, connecting Monaco with Nice and other French destinations. Services run regularly to many major French towns and cities. Route 100 leaves every 15min from the central bus station (Gare Routière) in Nice and costs only €2.90.An express shuttle, route 110, links the Nice Côte d'Azur Airport and Menton with multiple stops near all major hotels throughout Monaco, not just the ward of Monte Carlo. A bus leaves every half hour and a single ticket costs €22 (August 2022), a round-trip will set you back by €33 (August 2022).

Book a Halal Cruise or Boat Tour in Monaco

Monaco's two ports are no strangers to private yachts. Port Hercule is exceptionally beautiful and offers mooring and anchoring possibilities for up to 500 vessels, some of which are extremely large and elegant (in fact, many visitors often take time out of their day to simply have a drink by the water and admire the fantastic super yachts). The Port of Fontvieille, integrated into the new neighborhood, can receive as many as 60 vessels of at least 30m in length. Both are large and well-equipped.

Monaco also serves as an embarkation port and port-of-call for cruises, so large cruise ships can often be spotted sailing in or out of Port Hercule.

In close proximity and the Port of Cap d'Ail is also a choice destination for pleasure-boats.

Walk in Monaco

Outside of the train station, follow the road a few meters and take the stairs on the left to pass under the tracks. Once you reach the small road, turn left and walk a few meters and then take the stairs on your right next to the restaurant "La Pinède" to join the trail. If you want to do the route from Monaco to Cap d'ail station, go to the west of Fontvieille ward, cross to the French border to join the Cap d'Ail port and follow the seashore. After a few minutes you will arrive to the Sentier du bord de mer (from Monaco) just after a final parking lot. It can be dangerous and closed in case of bad weather. In this case you will have either to go back and take the train, or walk on the road. There is no lighting at night.

How to get around in Monaco

By foot

Walking is by far the best way to get around Monaco; however and there are some areas, such as the Exotic Gardens, that require a large change in elevation and therefore make for rather strenuous hikes. There are also seven public escalators and elevators (all free) that help negotiate the steep slopes of the city. If you find yourself afoot and wanting to reach the opposite bank of Port Hercule, look for the small Bateau Bus, a pedestrian-only ferry that runs each 20 minutes or so during daylight; it costs €2.

Travel on a Bus in Macau

Monaco has an urban bus service, operated by the Compagnie des Autobus Monaco, through the city's five bus routes (labeled 1, 2, 4, 5 and 6) which serves 143 stops. Each stop has the bus number(s) that stop there, and most stops feature a real-time display showing waiting times for the next service. Each stop has a name and a network map. The service usually starts at around 6 in the morning and runs right through until about 9 o'clock at night. Tickets can be purchased on board the buses themselves (2€) or at many news vendors and retail outlets throughout the city and at auto ticket machines at the bus stops (1.50€) - often it will be advertised as to where you can do this. A daily pass allows you to use the buses all day for €5.50 (9/2016) and can also be purchased on board the bus. A night bus service operates in a circular route from 22.00 until 04.00.

By motor scooter

You can easily rent a motor scooter in Nice and take a short trip east along the sea into Monaco. The views are beautiful and the ride is fun along the twisty seaside road. There are plenty of places to park for free. Theft is not a concern, as there are cameras throughout and police everywhere. To rent one whilst there, you must be at least 16 years old.

How to travel around Monaco on a bicycle ?

Cycling is definitely an excellent option to get around in Monaco, but the traffic in high season can be intimidating. There are two bicycle shops in town, which rent out bicycles. The bike shop rents e-Bikes and road bikes, whereas Newteon focuses on e-Bikes only.

By car

Private cars are singularly useless for getting around Monaco, as you'll spend more time trying to park than if you walked or took a taxi instead.

International rental vehicle companies do have offices at the airport in Nice and also in Monte Carlo city. These include Avis, Gare Monte Carlo, Europcar and Hertz - drivers must have held a national driving license for at least one year and it is usually requested that the cost is paid for with the driver’s credit card. Driving in the downtown can be intimidating in Monte Carlo with heavy traffic - however, it is often worth this to drive alongside the more expensive vehicles in the city! Make sure to request a vehicle with an automatic gearbox if you are not used to driving manual.

Best way to travel in Monaco by a Taxi

Taxis cannot be hailed on the streets (they won't stop) and there are two main taxi stands open around the clock at the Avenue de Monte Carlo and the train station, although it is always best to agree a fee beforehand or make sure the meter is running. Most hotels will provide taxis or courtesy drivers. The best is to get the taxi service phone number to be able to call a taxi wherever you are.

Mobile phones

As an independent state, Monaco has its own mobile phone networks. Although these are provided by the same multinationals as operate in France, if your phone connects to a Monaco network, it will count as 'roaming' in a new country, and as it is outside the EU and the EU directives and individual company's offers on the cost of roaming may not apply. If you are travelling through Monaco by train and the mobile signal at the station will be from Monaco, so you can be caught by this even if you never get off the train. Similarly, when travelling in France or offshore close to the border with Monaco and the strongest signal may be from a Monaco network.

What to see in Monaco

Monaco is a beautiful country that attracts visitors from all around the world. While the nation is predominantly Catholic and there are some Muslim-friendly attractions that visitors can explore.

Old Town: Monaco's Old Town is a great place for Muslim visitors to explore. The area is home to many cafes and restaurants that offer halal options. Visitors can also explore the Prince's Palace, which is a must-visit attraction in Monaco.

Shopping: Monaco is known for its luxury shopping, and there are plenty of stores that offer halal options. Visitors can explore the shopping neighborhood in Monte Carlo, where they will find high-end stores like Chanel, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton, as well as halal restaurants.

Beaches: Monaco's beaches are a great place to relax and enjoy the sun. Visitors can find beaches that are suitable for Muslim visitors, and they can also rent beach chairs and umbrellas. The beaches are a great place to unwind and enjoy the beautiful scenery of Monaco.

Le Jardin Exotique: Le Jardin Exotique is a beautiful garden that is home to many exotic plants and flowers. The garden is located on a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and offers stunning views. Visitors can explore the garden, take a guided tour, and learn about the history of the area.

Annual Events in Monaco

Monaco Grand Prix: It is the most famous event held annually in Monaco. The race takes place on the Circuit de Monaco in the streets of Monte Carlo. The Formula One race has been held since 1929 and is considered one of the most prestigious events in the racing world.

Monte Carlo Rally: This event is held in January and is a part of the World Rally Championship. The rally is held in the mountainous regions of Monaco, France, and Italy, and attracts a large number of motorsport enthusiasts from all over the world.

Monaco Yacht Show: It is an international event held in September and is one of the most important shows in the yachting industry. The event showcases the latest yachts, superyachts, and luxury boats from around the world.

Monaco International Fireworks Festival: This festival is held annually in July and is one of the most popular events in Monaco. The festival showcases some of the best fireworks displays from around the world, and attracts a large number of tourists to the city.

Monte Carlo Masters: It is a tennis tournament held annually in April and is a part of the ATP World Tour. The tournament attracts some of the best tennis players in the world and is held at the Monte Carlo Country Club.

Top Muslim Travel Tips for Monaco

• Hike or drive up Tête de Chien ("Dogs Head") - Enjoy one of the most spectacular views over Monaco. Another nice place nearby with an extraordinary panorama GPS 43.7345973,7.4034171 can be found right north of the "Fort de la Tête de Chien". A big chunk of the Formula 1 track can be seen from this viewpoint. Equipped with binoculars it is the most economical and special way to see the Grand Prix live.

• Hike along the coastal path from Monaco to Carnoles - A beautiful walk with splendid views towards Monaco. It takes around 2 hours from Monte-Carlo to circle Cap-Martin and finally reach Carnoles train station, where you can catch a train back to Monaco. An alternative to go back is by bus number 100. The overall distance is about 9km.

• Azur Express - Fun tourist trains make daily tours all over Monaco. You will visit the Monaco Port, Monte-Carlo and its Palaces and the famous Casino and its gardens and the Old Town for City Hall and finally the royal Prince’s Palace. Commentaries are in English, Italian, (German), French and another 8 languages. This enjoyable tour runs about 30 minutes long without the possibility to leave the train.

• Monte-Carlo Sporting - Sporting Monte-Carlo - In the summer time, Monte-Carlo is illuminated with dazzling concerts at the exclusive Salle des Etoiles, which lies within the Sporting complex. It has featured such artist as Natalie Cole, Andrea Bocelli and the Beach Boys, Lionel Richie and Julio Iglesias among others. The club also hosts a small casino which includes basic casino games. With no one under the age of 18 and the rate per person is 20€.

• Watch football They play in Ligue 1 and the top tier of French football, and often qualify for European tournaments. The stadium, capacity 18,500, is on reclaimed land on the southern border of Monaco: one of a select few where a wayward shot on goal might see the ball land in another country.

Muslim Friendly Shopping in Monaco

Shopping in Monte Carlo is usually quite exclusive and is certainly no place for a budget holiday. There are plenty of places to melt the credit card alongside Europe's high rollers. The chic clothes shops are in the Golden Circle, framed by Avenue Monte Carlo, Avenue des Beaux-Arts and Allées Lumiéres, where Hermès, Christian Dior, Gucci and Prada all have a presence. The area on and around Place du Casino is home to high-end jewelers such as Bulgari, Cartier and Chopard. You will find, however, that most Muslim visitors will simply enjoy wandering the area and window shopping, even if you don't buy anything. The normal shopping hours are from 9AM to noon and 3PM to 7PM.

For a more cultured take on shopping in Monte Carlo, try the Condamine Market. The market, which can be found in the Place d'Armes, has been in existence since 1880 and is lively and attractive - many hours can be spent simply wandering around, bargaining for souvenirs from the many tiny shops, boutiques and friendly local residents. If however, your shopping tastes are more modern, just take a short walk along the esplanade to the Rue Princess Caroline pedestrian mall.

The Fontvieille Shopping Centre is also a more "normal" shopping experience with 36 shops selling electronic goods, CDs, furniture, and clothes as well as a Carrefour supermarket and McDonald's (Please do not support McDonald's as McDonald's supports Israel. Shun this restaurant group and go for altertative brands and if possible for a Muslim owned restaurant). The tourist office also issues a useful free shopping guide to the city.

• Le Métropole Shopping Center - Some stores to browse or buy:

• Fred Boutique - Located on the exclusive avenue of des Beaux-Arts, this is one of only a handful of Fred boutiques in the world. An official jeweler of Monaco's royal family and a favorite of celebrities, you may not be able to afford much in this boutique, but its worth a jaw dropping visit. If you go to Monte Carlo, you shouldn't miss this.

• Boutique du Rocher - Opened by Princess Grace in the 60s, Muslim travellers from GCC still flock here to grab the very best in take home souvenirs. Choose from hand-carved frames and mirrors, ceramics, homewares and toys. Prices are moderate and all proceeds go to local charities.

• Galerie Moghadam - Award-winning speciality shop that offers superb hand woven tapestries and carpets.

• Pratoni Monaco - Monaco fashion brand Pratoni offers a variety of ready-to-wear clothing & accessories for gentlemen in addition to wide range of made-to-measure services. All items are of high quality and made in Italy or Monaco.

Halal Restaurants in Monaco

Monaco, being a predominantly Catholic country, has limited options for Halal food. However and there are a few restaurants that cater to the Muslim community and serve Halal cuisine.

Some of the popular Halal restaurants in Monaco include Le Taj Mahal, located in Monte Carlo, which offers Indian and (Pakistani) Halal food, and Le Medhi, situated in La Condamine, which serves North African and Mediterranean Halal dishes. Additionally and there is also L'Arabesque, an Arab restaurant in Monte Carlo, that has a few Halal options on its menu.

Overall, Halal dining options are relatively limited in Monaco, but visitors can still find some good options if they look around.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Macau

Macau - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Macau, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Macau. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Macau and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Macau. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Macau. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations in Macau: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Macau.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Macau: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Macau, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Macau.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Macau, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Macau, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Macau and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Macau, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Macau, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Macau without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Macau is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Macau.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Macau is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Macau, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Macau Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Macau

eHalal Group Macau is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Macau. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Macau.

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Macau ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Macau. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Macau, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

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Muslim Friendly hotels in Monaco

• Ambassador Hotel Monaco

• Beach Hotel Monte Carlo

• De Paris Hotel Monte Carlo

• Fairmont Hotel Monte Carlo

• Le Meridien Beach Plaza Hotel Monte Carlo

• Le Versailles Hotel Monte Carlo

• Novotel Hotel Monte Carlo

Stay safe as a Muslim in Monaco

Monaco is generally safe, even for a night walk through the streets or coastline, with little street-crime, and a strong police presence. It has one of the lowest homicide rates of any country in the world, and among the lowest in terms of overall violent crime. Because of their wealth, public spaces are blanketed with cameras and any kind of disorder may produce an immediate reaction and the attendance of several officers. However, pick-pocketing may occur during sporting events, like the formula One Grand Prix and major football games.

Monaco security can follow anyone on public areas, streets & corridors, using the vast camera network without losing you from their screens.

Medical Issues in Monaco

Tap water is safe to drink.

Travel Next from Monaco

• Other places at the Cote d'Azur, like Èze, Nice, Antibes, Cannes
• Coastal towns further east along the French Riviera, like Saint Tropez, and Marseille
• Maritime Alps
• Italy (Ligurian coast, Genoa and Milan)