As befitting a playground for the rich and famous, most of the accommodations in Monaco are in high-end hotels. While there is a single youth hostel in the principality, beds in the facility are limited, and it only accepts guests ages 16 to 31. Those who do not want to spend the money to stay in a four-star hotel may be able to find more a modest place to stay in the French towns and villages that surround Monaco. Those who can afford to stay in Monaco -- gamblers who have "broken the bank at Monte Carlo," for example -- will find the experience is unforgettable.

Hotels

Hotel de Paris. This hotel, begun in 1859, was the first to be built in the principality, and it remains the most magnificent in the country. The writer Colette spent the last years of her life at this hotel, which overlooks the casino and gardens. The hotel's restaurant, run by the celebrated chef Alain Ducasse, is famous for its simple but superb country cooking. It is said crepes Suzette was invented here at the end of the nineteenth century. According to the story, England's Prince of Wales was dining with a fashionable young woman when a waiter inadvertently set a pancake on fire. His Royal Highness graciously named the dish after the lady who was his dining companion.

The Hermitage. This Belle Epoque hotel, which opened at the turn of the twentieth century, is well known for its frescoes, plaster decorations, and brass accents, as well as the glass-domed Art Nouveau vestibule designed by Gustav Eiffel.

Monte Carlo Grand Hotel. Those who don't want to dwell in the nineteenth century may enjoy the lodging experience of this sprawling ultramodern facility. The hotel has more than 600 rooms and is often host to international conventions. Also on the grounds is the Las Vegas-style Sun Casino.

Restaurants

While hotel prices in Monaco may reach stratospheric heights, it is still possible to get a decent meal in the principality without breaking the bank. Those Americans who miss the food back home may enjoy Stars 'n' Bars, a bar and restaurant that serves American-style meals in American-style portions.

The Café de Paris, part of the casino of the same name, has been the place to watch people from a terrace table since 1882. Although the food is somewhat pricey, the ambiance is well worth it.