Niched on top of a magnificent cliff in the middle of the French Riviera, Monaco is the subject of many dreams that go way beyond its border. Although it is one of the smallest countries in the world, Monaco has become the epitome of luxury, beautiful views over the Mediterranean Sea and tasteful living.
However, prices in Monaco can quickly be crippling for visitors who cannot afford million-dollar yachts and apartments.
This is exactly the reason why we have created this guide! Picking your home away from home in Monaco should not be a headache.
Our dedicated team of travel experts has put together a comprehensive list of the best hotels and neighbourhoods to stay in Monaco.
Are you ready to become a real Monaco expert and nail your next holiday in the sun? Hop on!
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At A Glance: Where To Stay In MONACO
Are you looking for a hotel specifically? We have got you covered! These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Monaco.
WHERE TO STAY IN MONACO | |||
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BEST Air BnBBEST Air BnBPenelope’s Air BnB |
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Book on Air BnB → | |
BEST Budget HotelBEST Budget Hotel Hotel Forum Beausoleil |
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BEST Mid-RangeBEST Mid-RangeHotel De France La Condamine |
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BEST Luxury HotelBEST Luxury HotelHotel De Paris Monte Carlo |
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Escape the clutches of your cumbersome daily grind by booking a stay at this Monaco Air Bnb. Here, you get to unwind and soak up the stunning surrounding greenery as well as picture-perfect views of the sea from your window.
What’s more, the living room of this property is equipped with a fireplace, internet access, television, and a kitchen complete with utensils.
On top of it all, both the city center and the beach are just a short stroll away from this property.
Hotel Forum Beausoleil is the best budget hotel in Monaco. It is located in Beausoleil, on the border between France and Monaco and just a short walk away from Monaco’s most famous landmarks.
The rooms at the Hotel Forum Beausoleil offer either a sea or mountain view and feature a private bathroom and air conditioning.
The Hotel de France is conveniently located in the centre of Monaco and offers modernly decorated rooms fitted with air conditioning, a private bathroom, free toiletries and a flat-screen TV.
A free WiFi connection is available around the Hotel de France premises. A continental breakfast is served in the morning.
Hotel de Paris is a stunning hotel in Monte Carlo. Located right next to the famous Casino de Monte Carlo, its features spacious and luxurious rooms featuring a private bathroom with a bathtub and air conditioning.
The hotel is also fitted with a swimming pool and a fitness centre.
Monaco is one of the smallest countries in the world, located on the Mediterranean Sea shore and surrounded by France. It is easy to walk from one end of the country to another, and anywhere you will choose to stay in Monaco will more or less be central!
Monte Carlo is where a lot of the action happens. If to you, Monaco means grand hotels, sports cars and opulent casinos, Monte Carlo is definitely the place to be.
The neighbourhood also boasts lots of luxury shopping options and fine dining restaurants.
Sitting majestically on top of the cliff that has made Monaco famous, the Rocher neighbourhood is home to the administrative quarters of the country, as well as to the Prince’s Palace.
Come to the Rocher neighbourhood to watch the changing of the guards, or to visit the beautiful castle.
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Between Monte Carlo and the Rocher, La Condamine neighbourhood is where you will find the heart of the city beating, with the daily market held there. French and Italian inspired specialities can be eaten on the spot, and for reasonable prices.
On the East of Monte Carlo, the Larvotto neighbourhood is where the most popular sandy beach of the country is located. Come here to relax and spend a family day in the warm waters of the Mediterranean Sea!
For garden lovers, the Japanese Garden, which is free of charge, is an absolute must see.
Finally, on the heights of Monaco, the Moneghetti neighbourhood is where you will find residential skyscrapers with stunning views of the clear blue sea.
Even though Monaco is crammed in a small space, each neighbourhood offers a different vibe and different kinds of activities. Let’s take a closer look at each one together.
Monte Carlo is the heart and soul of Monaco. This is where people come to see the grandeur of Monaco, and maybe most importantly, to be seen.
At the centre of Monaco stands the Casino de Monte Carlo, a building built by Charles Garnier, who also built the Paris Opera. It was also made famous by agent 007 James Bond in Casino Royale.
In front of the casino, the Café de Paris is the perfect vantage point for some people watching.
Look at the sports cars go by and observe the latest fashion trends! And if you have the budget for it, indulge in some 3 Michelin star food at the Louis XV restaurant on the other side of the square. It will surely be an experience to remember!
Shopping is also a big thing in Monte Carlo. Here, you will find luxury brands like Gucci, Chanel or Cartier.
If you are ready to splash some cash, Monaco really is the place to get your hands on this new perfume or that bag you have been eyeing for months…
Furnished perfectly, this studio apartment has all the essential amenities you need for a cushy Monaco getaway. For starters, it has a fridge, coffee, microwave, shampoo, soap, and a whole lot more.
And, you’ll love its convenient location since it’s a 2-minute stroll away from the famed Monaco Casino. There’s also a full-packed supermarket where you may stock up on our everyday needs in Monaco.
Novotel Monte Carlo is the best option when it comes to where to stay in Monte Carlo on a budget. All rooms feature air conditioning, a private bathroom with a bathtub, free toiletries and a flat-screen TV.
The hotel also has an outdoor swimming pool and a garden.
Port Palace is a boutique hotel located near the Port Hercule in Monte Carlo. The hotel offers an on-site spa, Turkish baths and a restaurant specialised in seafood and fish.
The rooms at Port Palace are fitted with a private bathroom and air conditioning, and some rooms have a spa bath and a view on the Mediterranean Sea.
The Hotel de Paris is a true icon in Monte Carlo. The luxurious rooms are spacious and feature a large private bathroom with a bathtub, air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels and a bathrobe.
The hotel features an in-house Michelin starred restaurant as well as a swimming pool and a spa.
The Moneghetti is a quieter part of Monaco, mainly home to residential skyscrapers and condos. The area marks the beginning of the mountains overlooking the sea, and it can get pretty steep at some points!
There, visitors will mostly appreciate strolling along the streets and getting a glimpse of what the daily life in Monaco can be.
Monaco is actually one of the most expensive places to live in the world, with the highest price per square meter of 108 000€.
A walk in the Moneghetti neighbourhood will let you take a look at luxurious skyscrapers perched in the edge of the mountain, and even from the ground, you will be able to appreciate the stunning view over the Mediterranean Sea.
Along the way, families can stop at the Parc Princesse Antoinette where lots of kids activities are going on year-round among centenary olive trees.
For art lovers, the Nouveau Musée National de Monaco – Villa Paloma offers temporary exhibitions of local and international artists, as well as workshops and film projections.
Monaco’s only railway station is located in the Moneghetti neighbourhood and connects the country with France and Italy.
Whether you’re traveling alone or with a partner, you’ll definitely love this Monaco apartment. Well-equipped and comfortable, this newly renovated and cushy studio is fully furnished and comes with WiFi access, washing machine, air-conditioning, and television with Netflix.
Location-wise, this property is about 700 meters away from the Monaco train station and a 5-minute stroll to Monaco.
And, did we mention that its street has free parking spaces during Sundays and Saturday afternoons?
Hotel Forum is located in Beausoleil, a French village bordering Monaco. From there, the Moneghetti neighbourhood can be reached in just a minute’s walk.
All rooms feature a private bathroom, air conditioning, and either a sea or mountain view. A continental buffet breakfast is served every morning.
While technically located in the Monte Carlo neighbourhood, the Novotel Monte Carlo is the closest you can get to the Moneghetti neighbourhood.
The rooms are comfortable and fitted with air conditions and a private bathroom. Children under the age of 16 can stay for free in their parent’s room.
The Port Palace Hotel is located just down the hill from the Moneghetti neighbourhood. It is overlooking the port Hercule and its luxurious yachts.
All the rooms are fitted with air conditioning and feature a flat-screen TV and a minibar. A private closet is also available, along with an ensuite bathroom.
Great hotel deals – These are Monaco’s best hotels for all budgets!
Monaco-Ville, also called Le Rocher (the Rock), is the historic and administrative centre of the city. At the very top sits the Princely Palace, the stronghold of the Grimaldi family since the 13th century.
First built as a Genoese fortress, the Princely Palace has evolved with each one of its owners over the centuries and is now a blend of medieval and Renaissance architectural styles.
Visitors will enjoy coming to witness the changing of the guard at Princely Palace which occurs every morning at precisely 11.55 am. The inside of the palace is also open to the public and displays beautiful furniture from different centuries and styles as well as an impressive paintings collection.
When you step away from Princely Palace and its large, neat square, you will find yourself wandering through small medieval streets where little shops and restaurants have settled. To the side of the Rock, overlooking the sea, the cathedral stands proudly.
The Cathedral was achieved in 1903 and now stands where the old 13th-century church used to be. White stones from La Turbie, a nearby French village, have been used to create this beautiful building that is well worth a visit. The cathedral still hosts important religious events in Monaco, such as princely weddings.
Finally, a bit further down, do not miss the magnificent Oceanographic Museum where thousands of fish and marine species are exposed and preserved. It is a great activity for the little ones… and the not so little ones!
Monaco-Ville does not have any hotels within its borders. However, Monaco is a small place and the hotels we have picked are all within walking distance.
Wake up to the breathtaking view of the sea from the balcony as you take in Monaco’s buzz at this Air BnB property. As you set foot on this apartment, you’ll be welcomed into a spotlessly clean space with everything you need for a comfortable and memorable stay.
The apartment has a bathroom, a dining room, a kitchen, and a double bed. Even better, it is around a 5-minute walk away from the beach, Monaco Casino, and the city.
The Hôtel de France is coated just down the Rock, in La Condamine neighbourhood. The modern rooms feature a private bathroom, air conditioning and a flat-screen TV with satellite channels.
A continental breakfast is served every morning for Hôtel de France guests and a WiFi connection is available for an extra cost.
The Hotel Ambassador Monaco is also located in La Condamine neighbourhood, less than 10 minutes away from the Princely Palace by foot.
All rooms at the Hotel Ambassador have a modern feel and offer a view over the city. They are fitted with an ensuite bathroom and air conditioning. The hotel has an in-house pizzeria serving Italian specialities.
The Hôtel Hermitage is located in Monte Carlo and provides easy access to Monaco Ville and its attractions. The hotel building is a historic monument and provides five-star services in a Belle Epoque environment.
The hotel features a state of the art spa as well as a winter garden. The rooms all have a city, garden or sea view.
Fontvieille is a somewhat original neighbourhood and certainly one of a kind in Monaco, as it has been entirely reclaimed from the sea. It is hard to believe when walking around today, but years ago none of this existed, and Monaco was an even smaller country!
Today, Fontvieille has become a hub for high-tech and innovative companies. However, there is still a lot for visitors to explore inFontvieille.
Monaco’s main sports stadium, the Stade Louis II, is located in this neighbourhood and is easily recognisable from afar thanks to its distinctive architecture. Locals come here to cheer on the Monaco soccer team, which plays in the French league.
Fonvieille is also home to the Monaco Exotic Garden, perched higher up the mountain. It is a real botanical treasure that will literally transport you to a whole other world while providing stunning views over the Mediterranean Sea below.
Several museums are open to the public in Fontvieille. The Naval Museum displays famous ships, including some from the private collection of HSH the Prince Sovereign. Come here to look at the smallest ships and be stunned by the grandeur of transatlantic liners!
The exhibition of the car collection from HSH the Prince Sovereign will also put some sparkle in many eyes. Around a hundred vehicles from Europe and America are displayed in perfect condition, retracing the automotive industry’s story in the 20th century.
The moment you set foot on this loft-style studio, you’ll quickly notice how sparklingly clean it is. As you explore the property, you’ll be astonished by its peaceful charm and fabulous views over the harbor and even the Grand Prix circuit.
If you want a more unobstructed view of the area, you may head up to its sunny rooftop terrace. When it comes to the location, the property is surrounded by a bunch of local bars and restaurants. Moreover, it’s a 2-minute walk to the Prince’s Palace and a 5-minute stroll to the harbor from the studio.
Le Quai des Princes is located on the border of France and Monaco, in the city of Cap d’Ail. Located in the harbour, it overlooks the Mediterranean Sea and offers great views.
All rooms are fitted with a private bathroom with a bathtub, air conditioning, a flat-screen TV and a balcony.
Colombus Monte Carlo is located in the heart of Fontvieille and is a great choice for where to stay in Fontvieille.
Rooms are spacious and feature air conditioning, a private bathroom, soundproofing and a coffee machine. There are views over the garden or the sea.
The Riviera Marriott Hotel La Porte de Monaco is located on the border with France and boasts a beautiful outdoor swimming pool and a fitness centre. Free WiFi is available everywhere in the hotel.
The rooms feature a private bathroom, air conditioning and a minibar.
La Condamine is probably the most authentic neighbourhood in Monaco. Come here to experience traditional Monaco, further away from the bling and the shine of the luxurious apartments and cars racing down the streets.
The heart of La Condamine is without a doubt its traditional market, open every day. In the morning, the area wakes up to the bustle and the delicious smells of fresh fruit and vegetables coming from the market stalls.
The market stays on until around noon, where food stalls begin to attract hungry visitors. Indulge in some local delicacies, mixing up French and Italian traditions. We especially love the freshly made pasta and pizza!
Once you are full, shop around the streets of the neighbourhood, where international brands and local shops mingle. The prices here are generally much more affordable than in Monte Carlo.
If you want a break from the shopping spree, head to the Avenue Princesse Caroline for a well-deserved ice cream at l’Atelier du Glacier. The gianduja flavour might be one of the best we have ever tried…
Finally, exit La Condamine walking up the grand staircase on the side of the Rock, overlooking the sea and the harbour and leading up to the Palace square, which is accessed through doors dating back from the 16th century.
Lorenzo’s Air BnB surely has all the hallmarks of a fantastic vacation rental in Monaco. Not only is it fully equipped and newly renovated, but it also exudes a contemporary French flair, thanks to its decor.
And, more importantly, it is conveniently located and is within walking distance to the Prince Palace, Main Port Hercules, shopping center and supermarket.
Also, you’ll love its quiet, clean, and stylish backyard.
The Hotel de France is centrally located in La Condamine and offers simple, comfortable rooms. They all feature a private bathroom, air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels and free toiletries. A continental breakfast is served every morning.
Hotel Ambassador Monaco offers modern rooms featuring a private bathroom, air conditioning, a flat-screen TV and a city view.
Floor-to-ceiling windows provide a great light source and allow the sun to come in the Hotel Ambassador rooms. WiFi is available for free around the hotel. A buffet breakfast is served every morning.
The Fairmont Monte Carlo is located a little bit away from La Condamine, near the seaside. The neighbourhood can be reached after a few minutes walking. The hotel boasts a stunning rooftop terrace which is a privileged vantage point over the F1 race during the season.
The Fairmont’s luxurious rooms are comfortable and feature a private bathroom and air conditioning.
While Monaco is a very small place, it still offers a diversity of neighbourhoods which offer a very different vibe and feel. While Monte Carlo is all about luxury and money, La Condamine is more traditional and Monaco-Ville has a princely feel with its beautiful palace.
Travelling to France? Our travel experts have compiled the best things to do, places to stay and top hotels in Marseille, and also Lyon’s top hotels, places to stay and things to do. Have you been to Paris yet? Check out the top things to do in the city of love, our favourite places to stay and our favourite hotels in Paris.
Even though it can get very expensive very quickly, Monte Carlo has stolen our hearts for good. While you are there, indulge in the magnificent Hotel de Paris Monte Carlo which offers a level of service you rarely encounter.
Have we forgotten your favourite spot in Monaco? Did you love your experience there? Let us know in the comments!
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Gin lover. Coffee addict. Nicola has traveled the world for 7 years and is a staff writer for Hotel Jules. Born in London, Nicola first got the taste of travel studying abroad in Barcelona. Since then she's been hooked - traveling the world non-stop. Passionate about green travel and vegan lifestyle, Nicola spends more of her free time staring at maps wondering where she will head to next!