Where to Stay
Hôtel Métropole Monte-Carlo
To stay in true Monaco style, book a room at the Hôtel Métropole Monte-Carlo, an elegant five-star hotel in the heart of the Carré d'Or, just moments from the Casino de Monte-Carlo. First opened in 1886, the hotel combines Belle Époque grandeur with a more contemporary Mediterranean feel, making it an exceptional base for exploring the principality. The hotel was reimagined by renowned interior designer Jacques Garcia, whose signature style brings together rich textures, elegant furnishings, beautiful detailing and a sense of timeless glamour. It's the kind of place that feels quintessentially Monte Carlo without being overly formal.
The Rooms
The rooms and suites combine Mediterranean softness with sophisticated, contemporary comfort. Expect beautiful fabrics, warm woods, elegant furnishings and plenty of natural light, with many rooms offering views across Monaco or the twinkling Mediterranean Sea. Bathrooms are equally luxurious, with marble, wood and generous bathing spaces with Acqua di Parma toiletries for an extra touch of Riviera glamour.
And Beyond…
The public spaces are every bit as impressive. The lobby, with its spectacular seasonal floral installations, feels glamorous and theatrical. Outside, the Odyssey pool, designed by Karl Lagerfeld, is surrounded by palms and cypresses and feels like a little private oasis at the very heart of the principality. For some serious relaxation, the Spa Métropole by Guerlain offers an elegant wellness retreat with treatment rooms, hammam, sauna, sensory shower, cold plunge, fitness facilities and dedicated Guerlain treatments. The perfect luxurious stay in Monte Carlo. metropole.com @metropolemonaco
Where to Eat
Gourmet diners should head to Les Ambassadeurs by Christophe Cussac at Le Métropole, which holds two Michelin stars, while Yoshi offers intimate Japanese dining. For the ultimate in casual chic dining, book a table by the pool at Zia and feast on the tastiest Italian menu.
The highlights include Cuore di Lattuga — lettuce heart, zucchini flowers, beef heart tomatoes and avocado presented oh-so-beautifully, it is a work of art. The Ricciola — raw amberjack, Sorrento candied lemon, bergamote oil and Trapani salt, is simply delicious and fresh, while the Orata — sea bream ceviche marinated with herb juice, cucumber pickles and fresh coriander is another hot-weather treat. Don't miss the Ravioli alla Parmigiana, mozzarella di Bufala ravioli with smoked eggplant, and the light-as-air pizza Cacio & Pepe with the lightest Pecorino Romano, Parmigiano Reggiano and black pepper — like eating a cloud! To finish off, a sweet Cioccolato crunchy tablet with Guanaja chocolate mousse and cocoa biscuit is perfect with an iced latte. @ziarestaurants
For dinner with a jaw-dropping view, take a scenic drive along the coast to abc kitchens Riviera at The Maybourne Riviera in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin. Situated on the hotel's top floor, the restaurant is by Jean-Georges Vongerichten and takes inspiration from his celebrated New York abc kitchen, abcV and abc cocina concepts. The setting is spectacular, with panoramic views stretching across Cap Martin, Monte Carlo and towards Italy. On the sharing menu, excellent Crispy Calamari, Green Chickpea Hummus, Tuna Tartare with yuzu mustard, melt-in-the-mouth Beef Tenderloin and Lamb Chops, Baked Sweet Potato and Fire Roasted Artichoke, amongst other delights. For dessert it was hard to say no to the fresh Churros and chocolate, and the Chocolate Fondant with hazelnut ice cream...
Time dinner and an aperitif with sunset, to overlook the entire coastline and watch Monaco begin to sparkle below.
A truly unforgettable experience. @abckitchens.riviera
See the Sights
Monaco may be tiny, but there is an incredible amount to see and do. Start at the famous Casino de Monte-Carlo, one of the principality's most iconic landmarks, before wandering through the surrounding Carré d'Or and taking in the grand Belle Époque architecture. Head up to Monaco-Ville, the historic old town perched on the Rock, where you can explore the Prince's Palace, narrow medieval streets and the beautiful Monaco Cathedral. The cathedral is particularly famous as the wedding venue of Prince Rainier III and Grace Kelly in 1956. The Oceanographic Museum is another must-see. Built dramatically into the cliffside above the Mediterranean, it houses thousands of marine specimens and combines fascinating exhibitions with spectacular views over the sea. For something a little more peaceful, wander through the Exotic Garden, built into the cliffs and filled with unusual succulents and Mediterranean plants.
Go Shopping
Shopping in Monaco is, unsurprisingly, a glamorous affair. The area around the Carré d'Or and Casino is home to many of the world's leading luxury brands, with elegant boutiques and jewellers lining the streets around Place du Casino. The Metropole Shopping mall below the hotel is perfect for browsing designer fashion, jewellery, watches and accessories. Home to 80 shops, including fashion brands like Gucci and Hugo Boss, plus stores like FNAC and APM Monaco, it's just the spot for some retail therapy, luxe style. For a change of pace, head towards La Condamine, where the atmosphere is more local and relaxed, with traditional markets, cafés and independent shops.
What Else I Can Do?
Eat on the Beach in Nice
Head to the neighbouring town of Nice, and book a table at the Bocca Mar. Located on the legendary Promenade des Anglais, it is THE place to enjoy fabulous food, people-watching and Nice's beach vibe. Indulge in delicious Mediterranean dishes like fresh tuna carpaccio, hummus, creamy burrata or truffle fettuccine, followed by raspberry "pompon" or a legendary Pêche Melba, sitting under the pristine white parasols, with the best views over the water. The private beach club also rents out sunloungers for the day, but book ahead as they are very popular and come dressed the part! Nice glam is real. @boccamar
See the Prince's Palace
Wander through the atmospheric old town and explore the historic heart of the principality. The viewpoints around the Palace offer beautiful panoramas across Port Hercule, Monte Carlo and the surrounding Riviera.
Yacht Spotting on Port Hercule
Take a stroll around the famous harbour and admire the yachts.
Explore Roquebrune-Cap-Martin
Make the trip along the coast for beautiful sea views, charming old streets and, of course, The Maybourne Riviera and abc kitchens Riviera. It's an easy way to combine a Monaco stay with some of the most spectacular scenery on this stretch of the Côte d'Azur.