I recently had to opportunity to travel to Monte Carlo, Monaco as a guest of Monte Carlo Société des Bains de Mer (MCSBM). I must say it was the most incredible trip I’ve ever experienced. I’ve often heard of how the French Riviera and Monaco was a place of luxury and a must for lovers of cuisine, fashion and luxury and it most certainly didn’t disappoint. Monaco is the worlds second smallest country and Monte Carlo is know for Formula One Monaco Gran Prix racing event which happens annually and draws incredible crowds to witness the races through the winding streets of Monaco. The official language of Monaco is French and the most famous hotel is Hotel de Paris. During my trip I got to taste, see and experience the wealth of Monte Carlo so make sure to bookmark the blog post and save it for your next trip to the South of France.
GETTING THERE
There are direct flights to Nice, France from JFK Airport in New York City. Luckily we flew Delta courtesy of MCSMB. I am a Delta girlie so after I connected the flight to my account I was easily able to get an upgrade to Delta Comfort which came in handy for the 8 hour overnight flight from New York to Nice. The flight came out to about $1300 but you can find cheaper flights through different airlines. Delta is my go to for miles so it worked out that we ended up flying Delta. The ticket was also purchase only a week before departure so it you purchase it further out you can definitely find flights between $500-$800. You will fly into Nice and it’s Monte Carlo is a 40 minute car ride away. The airport in Nice was a breeze as well. If you’re already in France
BEST TIME TO VISIT + WHERE TO STAY
The best time to visit Monaco is in the Spring or Fall In the Spring you have the Grand Prix in May and in Fall there is the Yacht Show. I went the first week of October and it was right after the yacht show. This was the perfect time as the crowds were less but the weather was still amazing. I was able to walk the streets, visit Monte Carlo Beach and take a scenic tour through the Old Town without feeling like there were throngs of people. The shopping was much quieter and enjoyable too. I had the pleasure of having accommodations at Hotel de Paris. This hotel is absolutely stunning and the service impeccable. I was in from 791 which it the highest floor and it looked out onto the marina with all of the yachts and cruise shipped docked. I had a view of the sunrise over the water as well as the beautiful skyline of different colored buildings on the hill. The room service breakfast at the hotel was amazing and I looked forward to it every morning. Of course I spent all the time in my room as I possibly could because it has a bidet toilet, a shower and a soaking tub and the largest wrap around terrace for taking in the incredible views. The bed was extremely comfortable and I also got to take advantage of the spa and the gym. It also features a rooftop Michelin star restaurant Le Grill. If you’re looking for a place with incredible charm try Hotel Hermitage Monte Carlo which is a little more low key but with lovely Parisian elegance.
WHAT TO DO & SEE
Of course if you can make it during the Grand Prix or the Yacht Show, those would be amazing events to partake in. But if you’re going during any other time, I’d highly recommend taking a walk to the Old Town to see the Prince of Monaco Palace. The streets of the old town are so colorful, narrow and beautiful. It’s about an hour long walk from Hotel De Paris to the Palace. If you love to gamble head to Casino de Monte-Carlo for an evening of fun. You need to be at least 18 years old and must bring a passport to enter and smart dress code is required. If you love the water, like I do a trip to Monte Carlo beach club is a must. There is a beautiful boardwalk with rental chairs as well as beach cabanas. There is free transportation to and from Hotel de Paris area to the beach. You just have to show the room key of your hotel for access. Hit the shops for a luxury shopping experience. Monte Carlo has everything from Hermes to Zara within a 10 minute walking radius of Hotel de Paris. If you love consignment shopping, taking a 20 minute stroll to Le Dressing.
WHERE TO EAT
I spent a good amount of time eating my way through Monte Carlo but 4 restaurants really stood out to me and that I really enjoyed and would recommend based on the food, the atmosphere and the service.
Pavyllon at Hotel Hermitage de Monte Carlo is my favorite restaurant in Monte Carlo. The restaurant is on the rooftop of the Hotel Hermitage with stunning bright and airy views of Monte Carlo. The service from start to finish was the best, most knowledgeable and complimentary I’ve ever experienced at any restaurant in my entire 40 years of life. This restaurant has a Michelin star chef and it shows.
Amazonico Monte Carlo is more of a tropical vibe and is perfect for a date night or girls night it. It has a dark and sexy vibe and also has either a live DJ or live music on the weekends. I loved the vibe of this restaurant and how decadent it was. Make sure you put on a sexy dress for your visit. The special thing about Amazonico are the cocktails. The cocktail menu is extravagant and extensive. The drinks come with their own personal show! Amazonico has indoor space as well as outdoor space which overlooks the famed courtyard of Monte Carlo. The cuisine is latin and the atmosphere is rainforest inspired. I had some of the best steak and sushi here!
Buddha Bar Monte Carlo was also a sexy vibe for dinner. I love sushi so this was right up my alley and I really enjoyed the meal. If you’re with a group, this could definitely be a great spot of dinner and catching a vibe. I loved their extensive wine list as well. I also love that Buddha Bar has a hookah lounge outside at the entrance of the restaurant and features live DJs.
COYA was another favorite and it serves Peruvian cuisine. I love the fun ambience of this restaurant. This was a little drive away from Hotel De Paris while the other 3 restaurants above are within a 5 minute walk but COYA was worth it. The service was impeccable and the food was absolutely diving. I loved the Cod and the delicious churros for desert. Again this is another legendary place for dinner, date night or girls night out. They also accommodate groups very well.
WHAT TO PACK & WEAR
The weather in Monte Carlo, Monaco is amazing in the Spring, Summer and Fall. Of couse it’s very hot in the summer but the best time to visit again is in the Spring and Fall when the weather is still beautiful but comfortable. Pack your chicest dresses, heels and resort wear for the beach. The casino’s and most restaurants require smart attire. If you’re visiting any of the above restaurants for dinner, go all out because most people do. Monaco with one of the wealthiest countries on earth and the citizens step out like that mean it dressed to the nines even for a stroll or to go shopping. I packed a lot of beautiful, feminine yet refined dresses from Meshki and sexy swimwear from Charo Ruiz Ibiza.
Watch my Monte Carlo, Monaco travel vlog to see more of Hotel de Paris, luxury shopping, walks to the Old Town, a day at Monte Carlo Beach and all the places I dinned during my stay with MCSBM!
xx
Monroe
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Ahh, this guide is everything! I’m planning a trip to Monte Carlo next year, and your tips are exactly what I needed! Love all the chic recommendations, and the way you break down each area makes it feel so easy to plan. Can’t wait to explore the glamorous spots and hidden gems—thank you for sharing! – Lyra
The pictures from this trip were absolutely stunning!! You fit right in; I could see you living there. Keep up the good work, I can’t wait to see what’s next for you.