Prince Rainier III of Monaco, too, was always fascinated by these casual Italian cabriolets

Even Brigitte Bardot knew how to appreciate the advantages of a small, drop-top beach-hopper. She was often seen at the wheel of a cute Autobianchi Eden ROC; once famously photographed for the magazine 'Jour de France', plunging the Fiat 500-based convertible into the limelight.

Prince Rainier III of Monaco, too, was always fascinated by these casual Italian cabriolets – his very own 1968 Bianchina will go under the hammer at this Monaco auction. Another sixties eye-catcher on offer is the Cerulean Blue baby Isetta, converted for beach use by Moretti, and known for its signature blue-and-white-striped fabric awning.

These cars will be offered for sale along with several other dinky classics pitched at affordable prices. So, if you're planning a summer in the sun and need the perfect car to nip from your berth to the beach, Artcurial's Monaco auction on 22 July could be the ideal place for you.