A Local’s Guide to Monte Carlo

Opulent yachts in the harbor, the famed Grimaldi royal family and a lavish casino all make Monte Carlo a very glamorous destination to explore or even linger in for a few days. Stroll the Princess Grace Rose Garden, have a cocktail at Le Bar Américain and settle into the good life on the French Riviera.

With its larger-than-life reputation for drawing the jet set with its old-world luxury, fine dining, and sun-drenched coastline, Monte Carlo is not a place to rush through. Instead, it tempts you to slow down with indulgent dinners and languid afternoons or perhaps explorations of nearby French Riviera gems. Spend the afternoon among the small medieval lanes of historic Le Rocher, drive into the hills to the village of Eze or simply hop in a cab and ask the driver to follow the route of the annual Formula One race – he just might punch the engine and give you a thrill if traffic is light. The superyachts, the picturesque city – in fact, the entire country – seemingly rises up out of the mountain in front of you. Enhance your explorations of this Riviera gem with these insider choices.

DINE
Le Loga 25 Boulevard des Moulins

This locals’ secret is the best spot for the Monégasque national dish of barbajuans, ravioli stuffed with ricotta and chard. Perfect for lunch, Le Loga offers wine-inclusive weekday lunch menus featuring fresh and seasonal salads, pastas, seafood and meat dishes.

Le Louis XV Hôtel de Paris, Place du Casino

If you’re going to indulge during your stay in Monte Carlo, this is the ultimate restaurant to do it at. Inspired by the French Riviera and la dolce vita, this legendary Chef Alain Ducasse establishment has garnered 3 Michelin stars and combines classic French techniques with creative Mediterranean flavors for an unforgettable culinary experience.

SHOP
Carré d’Or

Monte Carlo’s Carré d’Or, literally Golden Square, is a world-renowned hotspot for designer fashion and luxury shopping. Couturiers like Christian Dior, Hermès and Chanel and jewelry giants like Cartier, Chopard and Bulgari line its streets.

Le Métropole Shopping Center 17 Avenue des Spélugues

Opposite the Casino Gardens, the Le Métropole Shopping Center offers 80 boutiques amid a luxury interior and has a tasty coffee shop to refuel. Specialty shops include options such as Segraeti Home Collection, Spar Royal Food and Manufacture de Monaco

EXPLORE
Jardin Exotique

62 boulevard du Jardin Exotique Enjoy some of Monte Carlo’s prettiest offerings at the Jardin Exotique at your complete leisure. Built on a cliff-side, the garden offers stunning views of Monaco and is home to an extensive collection of succulents as well as a prehistoric cave brimming with stalactites and stalagmites.

The Car Collection of H.S.H. the Prince of Monaco Terrasses de Fontvieille

Starting in the early 1950s, Prince Rainier III collected cars like some collect baseball cards. The Car Collection of H.S.H. the Prince of Monaco exhibits about 100 of them, including various Ferraris, Maseratis, several Formula One cars, a 1903 De Dion-Bouton and a Fiat Jolly convertible with wicker seats.

Learn more about our Mediterranean cruises to Monte Carlo. Find shore excursions.

Opulent yachts in the harbor, the famed Grimaldi royal family and a lavish casino all make Monte Carlo a very glamorous destination to explore or even linger in for a few days. Stroll the Princess Grace Rose Garden, have a…