When to Go

The area is at its hottest in July and August, and the beaches are at their best in June or September. To avoid the shiploads of travelers during high season, visit in the fall or winter. The temperatures may not be as sizzling, but you'll still get color from reflecting diamonds.

Festivals

Printemps des Arts. Monte Carlo's monthlong spring arts festival, Printemps des Arts, brings together the world's top ballet, operatic, symphonic, and chamber-music performers at venues across Monaco (Opéra de Monte-Carlo, Musée Océanographique, Grimaldi Forum, and the Auditorium Rainier III) as well as in Cap d'Ail and Beaulieu. 98400. 377/98–06–28–28; www.printempsdesarts.com.

Top Marques Monaco. What can you say about a four-day exhibition where you could buy anything from an AgustaWestland helicopter to a Rolex Submariner to a $55,000 bed? So much more than just an exclusive car show, Top Marques takes place in the third week of April at Grimaldi Forum. It launched its inaugural spinoff edition—Top Marques Watches & Jewellery— in September 2016 at the prestigious Hotel Hermitage. 10 av. Princesse Grace, 98000. 377/97–70–12–77; www.topmarquesmonaco.com. €50 per day.