Five good reasons to visit Monaco this summer

To stay in Monaco is to choose a truly exceptional destination. Nestling between France, Italy, and the Mediterranean, the Principality is a haven of peace surrounded by crystal blue water, packed with historic Belle Epoque buildings, luxury hotels and restaurants, and lush parks and gardens like the Princess Grace Rose Garden. It’s a little corner of paradise, perfect for living life to the full and enjoying the moment, as the summer holidays approach.

1. RELAX BY THE WATER
At the Larvotto seaside complex, the shimmering blue waters of the Mediterranean look so inviting, who could resist taking a refreshing dip under the azure skies? Many of the Principality’s hotels boast superb pools, like those at the Fairmont Monte-Carlo with their stunning sea views, along with the Nikki Beach with its lively DJ sets and irresistible party vibe. Over at the Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort, kick back and relax around the sandy-bottomed lagoon, the only one of its kind in Europe. And last but certainly not least, there’s the Odyssey at the Métropole Monte-Carlo, a gorgeous location designed by Karl Lagerfeld, a tranquil oasis in the heart of the bustling city, the perfect place for a perfect day..

2. A WORLD-CLASS CULINARY VOYAGE
Embodied by restaurants infused with elegance, Monegasque gastronomy is an odyssey of the senses, where flavours from every corner of the world meet the culinary excellence of the greatest chefs. The Café de Paris serves the ultimate in refined French cuisine in a freshly refurbished Belle Epoque setting, while Amazónico Monte-Carlo, which opened in April, offers a tropical experience with the finest Latin American food in a vibrant party atmosphere. The world-famous Louis XV-Alain Ducasse at the Hôtel de Paris, with its three Michelin stars, uses the finest local produce, married with the quite exceptional vintages to be found in the hotel’s fabled wine cellars. The Monte-Carlo district is also home to Nobu, a cosy restaurant at the Fairmont that has expertly reinvented Japanese cuisine fused with Peruvian touches. And at the Port of Fontvieille, the Beef Bar is the place to go for meat lovers, with dishes that promise a unique dining experience.

3. ELEGANT AND EXUBERANT NIGHTLIFE
There’s nothing like a night out in Monaco to put you in party mode. Kick off the evening at the Brasserie de Monaco and enjoy a glass or two of their local artisanal beer brewed on site as you soak up the relaxed and trendy vibe. Or head to La Note Bleue for great live musical entertainment by the beach. A festive, effervescent seaside venue, Maona Monte-Carlo serves up a gastronomical experience with a distinctive Monegasque identity. Alternatively, head to the famous Casino de Monte-Carlo, where the chic set go for unforgettable evenings, dance the night away at the iconic club Jimmy’z, or try Twiga where the vibe comes alive as the night unfolds, in a superb setting overlooking the Mediterranean.

4. UNIQUE CULTURAL EXPERIENCES FOR THE SUMMER
Every summer in Monaco is packed with cultural events, that transform the Principality into a vibrant artistic hub. The Grimaldi Forum hosts major summer exhibitions, with this year’s devoted to British painter William Turner, while visitors to the Oceanographic Museum can take a deep dive into the marine world with an immersive experience. Every summer, the Monte-Carlo Philarmonic Orchestra relocates its prowess to the heart of the Cour d’Honneur of the Prince’s Palace, where it stages performances unlike any other. And for evenings of amazing music, the Monte-Carlo Summer Festival features thrilling entertainment with the biggest stars in the world. There will be ten dates over the summer, with performances by artists including Sam Smith, Diana Krall, and Lenny Kravitz.

5. LUXURY SHOPPING EXPERIENCES
It’s an open secret: Monaco is a true shopaholic’s paradise. From haute couture designer clothing to exclusive jewellery,  One Monte-Carlo and the Métropole Shopping Monte-Carlo promise a unique and luxurious retail experience. And in the historic district of La Condamine, you’ll fall under the spell of the colourful buildings and shops, bustling market and gourmet food hall selling a generous variety of produce.