Where to Stay in Monaco

See Also

• Best Hotels for Families in Monaco

The Best Area to Stay in Monaco

Monaco and Monte Carlo are often used interchangeably. While they share a small land within the French Riviera, To clarify any uncertainty, Monaco is considered a nation or “principality” — the smallest globally after the Vatican — and Monte Carlo is the most prominent of its ten sub-districts or zones. Monaco is less than a square mile in area, even though the coastline of the rectangular city-state stretches about 2.5 miles along the Mediterranean Sea. Out of all the zones, Monte Carlo best represents Monaco’s reputation as a playground for the wealthy with lavish hotels, high-end restaurants, and magnificent coastal views – not to mention its infamous image as a tax haven.

Monaco is surrounded entirely by southeastern France and is located about a half-hour drive from the Italian border, attracting many tourists from both countries. The climate is pleasant and sunny year-round, with summer high temperatures averaging around 25°C (80°F). Its identity is shaped by affluence and a historical past, with special remembrance given to Grace Kelly – a famous American actress who married into the royal family. By name alone, Monaco (and Monte Carlo specifically) seems intimidating as much of its culture and identity is centered around exclusivity. However, it is often surprisingly approachable, simple to navigate, and very walkable despite hilly terrain. There is much to see and do for free, even if restaurants, shops, and hotel rooms frequently have costly price tags. Stroll the docks of Port Hercule, visit the atrium at the Monte Carlo Casino, or relax at numerous gardens and parks. Real estate is scarce and apartment high-rises are packed tightly together to maximize space usage. Yet, Monaco has a timeless quality and aside from a few land development projects, never appears to be in too much of a hurry to reinvent itself. French is the official language, but English and Italian are both commonly used. Americans should note that restaurant menu prices incorporate service charges, which is typical across Europe.

If your finances allow for it, Monte Carlo is arguably the finest area to establish your holiday arrangements. Conveniently located centrally, it provides the most practical ward to explore the remainder of Monaco with abundant experience and a high level of precision offered to visitors. The Hotel de Paris,Hermitage, and Metropole were all constructed in the late 19th century and their classic architectural style echoes that of a royal residence more so than an accommodation. The Fairmont and Novotel exhibit a more contemporary style and are noticeably less expensive options. That being said, do not hesitate to explore the wards outside Monte Carlo to secure an arrangement that is suitable for your needs. The entire principality is remarkably efficient and navigable, ensuring a hassle-free holiday however one chooses to locate themselves amongst its diverse locales. Most visitors arrive via the Nice airport and take either a half hour shuttle or 15 minute helicopter ride to reach Monaco.

The Best Places to Stay in Monaco

• Best Luxury Hotels in Monaco
  The ” Hotel de Paris” and ” Hermitage” as well as the ” Monte Carlo Bay” were mentioned
• Best Boutique Hotels in Monaco
  Le Meridien Beach Plaza • Novotel • Columbus
• Best Cheap Hotels in Monaco
  Hotel de France • Hotel Le Quai des Princes

Where to Stay in Monaco for…

• Best Areas in Monaco for Walking: Monte Carlo & La Condamine
  It would involve a great deal of effort, but Monaco is one of the few countries in the world you could cover in a day solely on foot — if you truly wanted to. With that being said, it’s best to not speed through things. That’s particularly true in Monte Carlo and La Condamine, a pair of neighboring wards that effortlessly merge together. Explore famous sights like Port Hercule, where lavish yachts dock around the clock, or the Monte Carlo Casino, utilized as a stylish location for greater than one James Bond film. Most visitors skip the gaming and are happy to just wander the atrium and buy a martini (shaken, not stirred) in the themed café. Many restaurants in the area — some expensive, some affordable — have outdoor patios and rooftop decks to soak in the ocean air. Luxury boutiques are around every corner and worth browsing even if you don’t spend a dime.
• Best Neighborhood in Monaco for Sight-Seeing: Monaco-Ville
  Situated at the high point of The Rock overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, Monaco-Ville is filled with history. The best way to explore is by taking public transportation to the top and touring on foot. Begin at the Prince`s Palace where a ceremonial changing of the guard occurs daily at 11:55 am in the square outside. The entire area has an old-world feel and is ideal for capturing scenic views of yachts and sailboats in two ports from afar. Tourists will be drawn to the Oceanographic Museum which blends an aquarium with archaeological artifacts, and the lush St. Martin Gardens with tree-lined walkways, statues, ponds, and sweeping ocean vistas. Crowds are permitted to quietly walk through St. Nicholas Cathedral where Prince Rainier, Grace Kelly, and other royalty are entombed

• Best Neighborhood in Monaco for Access to the Beach: Larvotto
  The coastal region in Monaco contains surprisingly few areas to relax by the ocean despite its locale along the Mediterranean sea. A notable exception is Larvotto Beach which dominates the northern coastline near Monte Carlo. Borderined by tall hotels and apartments, it offers more of an urban refuge than a remote and tranquil escape. Visitors should bring comfortable sandals as the sand has a rough texture. The nearby promenade is worth exploring for cafes, shops, and restaurants. Of the two lodging facilities in Larvotto, Le Meridien Beach Plaza features a smaller private beach while Monte Carlo Bay includes an area like a swimming pool that contains sand along the bottom
• Monte Carlo and Larvotto neighborhoods in Monaco are prime locations for gambling.

The casino culture in Monaco notably contrasts what is normally expected in Las Vegas or Atlantic City. It’s less communal in nature and guests tend to arrive with a particular purpose in mind. The iconic Monte Carlo Casino famously requires a specific dress code, but the gaming area, which necessitates an entrance fee, is surprisingly modest in size. The most secluded sections are situated behind closed entrances. The casinos situated at the Fairmont and Monte Carlo Bay hotels are considerably more relaxed and nearly resemble specialty boutiques. The Café de Paris, adjacent to the restaurant bearing the same name, incorporates the most noise and vitality — and is significantly less formal than the others. It effortlessly attracts tourists.“

• Best Neighborhood in Monaco for a Locals Atmosphere: Fontvieille
  Constructed basically entirely from land rescued from the ocean, Fontvieille is the latest home in Monaco however one of the minimum tourist-situated. The fervor level goes down a notch, yet that is a piece of the magnificence. Simply spend your time investigating the Princess Grace Rose Garden or the Fontvieille Shopping Centre, which joins a shopping centre with a food market and dining court. Socialize with the locals during a football rivalries (or what Americans know as soccer) at Louis II Stadium or feast at the bistros by the Port of Fontvieille, which is littler than Port Hercule and somewhat more secluded.
• Best Neighborhood in Monaco for Shopping: Monte Carlo
  The luxurious nature of Monaco is reflected by the boutiques lining the edges of Place du Casino, the fountain square in front of the Monte Carlo Casino. One can spend exorbitantly on high-end brands among the marble floors and chandeliers of the elegant multi-level shopping plaza at the Metropole hotel or the new ultra-modern Monte Carlo One, a mixed-use development featuring indoor and outdoor commercial areas. Even if you cannot afford much, simply observing the window displays is quite a sight on its own.
• Best Neighborhood in Monaco for Nightlife: Larvotto & Monte Carlo
  The most famous nightclub in Monaco is Jimmy’z. The iconic party spot has been around for decades and was renovated in recent years to make the most of the stunning outdoor scenery at the Monte Carlo Bay resort. Twiga, Sass Café, and Caviar Kaspia are a trio of restaurants with a thriving late-night scene by Larvotto Beach. Closer to the center of Monte Carlo, Buddha Bar favors a dark and alluring image, while Nikki Beach plays up a poolside atmosphere on the rooftop pool deck at the Fairmont. If dance music isn’t your preference, Le Bar Américain is a cozy Roaring ’20s-style jazz club in the lobby of Hotel de Paris. Otherwise, you’re a short walk away from La Rascasse, a multi-level bar with a strong local vibe that overlooks Port Hercule.
• Safest Areas of Monaco
  Safety is rarely a concern in Monaco. Known for having less crime than any other European nation, Monte Carlo, the most luxurious district, feels most secure while navigating Monaco-Ville or even Larvotto Beach is hardly worrisome.
• Unsafe Areas of Monaco
  There really isn’t a neighborhood considered “unsafe” in Monaco. The occasional pickpocket is probably the biggest issue for any visitor, so just be cautious of your belongings when navigating crowded places in Monte Carlo and Monaco-Ville. The streets and parks of Fontvieille can seem dim and quiet at night, and while not dangerous, there really isn’t a purpose for visitors to be there after sundown. The same applies to the inland wards dominated by apartment high-rises.

The 6 Best Neighborhoods in Monaco for Tourists

1. Monte Carlo

Situated at the heart of Monaco, Monte Carlo is where the country exhibits its splendor most brightly. Its principal attraction is the Monte Carlo Casino, which feels like a museum and has a small café that emphasizes its connection to James Bond films. Exotic automobiles are famously parked along the roadways and lavish boutiques can easily be found at Metropole or Monte Carlo One. Some of the side streets and alleyways are tight and out of the way, opening opportunities for fun discoveries off the beaten path like the figurines at Toys Collection, the pizza at Flashman’s, and the scenic Gardens of Little Africa park. However, if splurging is desired, Alain Ducasse’s Le Louis XV is viewed as one of the finest fine dining restaurants globally.

• Top Hotels: The Hotel de Paris – The Hermitage – The Metropole
• Best Inexpensive/Moderate Hotels: Fairmont • Novotel

2. Monaco-Ville

A hot spot for visitors, Monaco-Ville is where you`ll discover the royal palace, originally a historic fortress that now shelters Prince Albert II. Guided tours are available, but the lines are long and the inside isn`t particularly engaging. Witnessing the daily ceremonial adjustment of the guard is quite a spectacle and a Monaco bucket list activity, even though it may be difficult to get a good view if crowds are substantial. Monaco-Ville (or “Monaco City” if utilizing strict English terminology) sits on The Rock of Monaco, an area of elevated land near the water. The perspectives are incredible, particularly of Port Hercule to the north. You`ll likely take most of your photographs here. The district is the oldest part of Monaco and has an old village atmosphere. Be sure to explore the Oceanographic Museum where Jacques Cousteau served as director for decades, historic St. Nicholas Cathedral, and the scenic St. Martin Gardens that overlook the Mediterranean while sloping down the mountainside. The shops here are modest and tourist-oriented compared to the upscale boutiques of Monte Carlo.

3. La Condamine & Les Moneghetti

La Condamine surrounds Port Hercule, with its identity largely shaped by its maritime culture and the lavish boats docked among the harbor. There is minimal security, allowing any visitor to observe the vessels up close and experience a taste of life as the one percent. The strictly members-only Yacht Club, built in the form of a large boat, however. La Rascasse is a two-level bar on the waterfront that is popular with locals. Stars ‘n’ Bars caters to Americans with steaks and burgers. Fort Antoine is an open-air theater renovated from an old fortress. Take advantage of the scenery with various water tours and cruises. If wanting a simple time (and saving walking), solar-powered water taxis travel from one side of the harbor to the other. Nearby Les Moneghetti has less scenic charm but includes more mainstream shopping, Monaco`s sole train station, and the cliffside Exotic Garden, an engaging locale with cave visits and views of the city.

• Best Midrange/Affordable Hotels:Staypineapple • Revolution Hotel
• Best Cheap/Moderate Hotel: Hotel de France

4. Fontvieille

Fontvieille presents a less opulent side of Monaco while still offering a uniquely fascinating view of local life in this country renowned for wealth. The publicly subsidized housing available to Monaco passport holders would be considered higher-end apartments elsewhere. The Fontvieille Shopping Centre (or Terrasses de Fontvieille) provides a local alternative to the tourist areas, except for the Top Cars Collection museum showcasing vehicles once owned by Prince Rainier. Fontvieille Harbor is smaller and more modest than Port Hercule across The Rock. Catch a football match at the almost unnoticed Louis II Stadium among the neighborhood structures, or stroll the Princess Grace Rose Garden and watch planes take off and land nearby at the heliport.

• Top Hotels: Riviera Marriott • Columbus
• Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels: Le Quai des Princes

5. Larvotto & La Rousse

Just north of Monte Carlo, Larvotto lacks some of the glamour but still feels very much like a holiday destination with a beachfront strip lined by a promenade housing shops and cafes. The ward’s 2 hotels include the modern boutique-style Le Meridien Beach Plaza and Monte Carlo Bay, a larger contemporary resort near Jimmy`z nightclub and the Sporting Club (an event space and concert hall with a retractable roof). Northwest of Larvotto, La Rousse is more residential and a good place to find temporary apartment rentals. Tour Odeon, the tallest and newest high-rise in Monaco, stands out starkly contrasted to the grittier architecture surrounding it.

• Top-rated Hotels: Monte Carlo Bay • Le Meridien Beach Plaza
• Best Cheap/Moderate Hotel: Independent apartment rentals

6. Beyond the Borders

Sometimes, it can be difficult to distinguish Monaco from neighboring France. Driving or walking across the borders of the two nations occurs without checkpoints or much fuss. However, police often maintain a visible presence as a subtle reminder. One can take advantage of the relaxed diplomacy by exploring lodgings and eateries in nearby French territory. The winding mountain roadways of the French Riviera lead to vineyards and ski slopes. Villages like Eze, La Turbie, and Gourdon often evoke a trip back to medieval times. Nice is about a 30-minute drive south, while the Italian border lies roughly the same distance to the north. Nearly any destination along the French Riviera will feature pastel architecture, historic sites, and mild weather complementing an easy seaside lifestyle.

• Top-rated Hotels:Monte-Carlo Beach – Cap-Estel

Suggested moderately priced hotels are the Olympia and the Hotel de Monaco

Saving Money in Monaco

Monaco maintains its reputation as a playground for the wealthy, yet budget-conscious visitors can still make the most of their trip through strategic planning. Rather than attempting an inexpensive vacation which does not suit the destination, tourists are better focusing limited funds on personally important activities while economizing in other areas through low-cost alternatives.
• Take the Bus around Town
  Hopping on and off bus tours are not unusual in tourist destinations, but the strategy is specifically operative in Monaco. Cover almost every inch of the principality with Le Grand Tour via a double-decker bus route that runs regularly through the day. It’s particularly helpful for achieving the top of The Rock or bypassing the less charming areas of Fontvieille. Get off, walk for a while, and hop back on near a stop that’s always just a few minutes away. There is also an formal public bus system with less costly day passes.
• Tie Your Visit into a Cruise
  Monte Carlo is commonly visited by numerous cruise ships along the French Riviera, allowing tourists to come ashore for hours without needing to book a hotel room. Maximize time with an easy-to-access outdoor escalator to the top of The Rock near where cruise ships typically dock. A stop in Monaco is regular for many cruises connecting West Mediterranean destinations such as Rome, Venice, Barcelona, and Casablanca. For those preferring to stay on land while exploring Europe, Monaco has a train station connected to routes across France and Italy.
• Skip the Casinos
  Quite nearly everyone hopes to take their picture at the Monte Carlo Casino, Monaco’s most renowned landmark. However, you can avoid the temptation to wager and blow off a portion of your trip budget by merely visiting the lobby atrium. It’s generally sufficient to get a taste of what it’s like inside and you’ll sidestep the entrance fee. Elsewhere, gambling is relatively simple to avoid, since there are just 3 other fully operational casinos to go to in Monaco and they’re not omnipresent like in Las Vegas or Macau. In an intriguing turnaround, Monaco citizens are literally banned by law to enter a casino. It’s a wise example to shadow if you don’t have “play money” you can afford to lose.
• Dine Wisely
  Monaco has some highly acclaimed restaurantshelled by celebrated European chefs – notably Le Louis XV at Hotel de Paris (with 3 Michelin stars) headed by Alain Ducasse and Joel Robuchon at Metropole (with 2 Michelin stars). Both specialize in multi-course meals that come at a steep price. If you`re not quite ready to make such a large financial commitment, try Elsa (with 1 Michelin star) located just outside Monaco`s border at the Monte Carlo Beach hotel. (You can walk there easily from Larvotto, barely noticing you`re transitioning from one country to another.) The intimate dining room presents organic ingredients in elaborate multi-dish dinners that create an atmospheric experience. Another great alternative is Odeon Café in the Tour Odeon skyscraper serving Italian cuisine by the Cipriani family in a more approachable setting.
• Visit Off-season
  Save money in Monaco by avoiding its busier periods which generally fall in the warmer spring and summer months. Major draws include the Rolex Monte Carlo Masters tennis tournament in April, the iconic Monaco Grand Prix Formula One race held on city streets in May, and the Fete de la Mer and St. John`s Festival both occurring in June. Avoid visiting during these events to take advantage of less expensive hotel rates.