Synonymous with luxury and glamour the world over, Monaco is a place where people have been visiting for a unique and memorable experience for well over a century. Nestled in the heart of the French Riviera, this Mediterranean gem is also a prime destination for romantic getaways and intimate celebrations, thanks to its stunning location and variety of exciting activities on offer.
Ever since the Casino de Monte-Carlo opened its doors in 1863, the Principality has set the scene for countless love affairs, celebrity dalliances and iconic royal weddings. From the Princess Grace Rose Garden to the Saint-Martin Gardens in front of the cathedral where princes have gotten married, the city-state has been the backdrop to a remarkable history with love, romance and marriage woven into the fabric of Monaco’s society.
As seasoned professionals in the business of luxury hospitality, the Principality offers a multitude of unforgettable experiences for romantic getaways that include exceptional hotels, one-of-a-kind cultural activities, world-famous spas, Michelin-starred dining and unique nightlife.
WHERE TO STAY
Outstanding hotels such as Le Méridien Beach Plaza have an exclusive private beach for couples who want to take a dip or sunbathe on the shore for some secluded bonding time. With its own pier and water sports equipment, thrill-seekers can discover the Principality on jet skis, water skis or by yacht to truly embrace the beauty of the French Riviera.
Equally as memorable is the From Metropole with Love package, which allows couples to take to the skies on a helicopter tour over Monaco. The Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo has gone above and beyond to create one-of-a-kind experiences for you and your loved one, including a private tour of the Casino de Monte-Carlo, lunch at Michelin-starred Yoshi and an Aston Martin road trip. It even has one of the most luxurious suites in Europe.
If you are looking for a more intimate environment, why not book the Diamond Suite at the Hotel Hermitage Monte-Carlo? Here, couples can watch the sun go down over the Monaco cityscape while sipping on premium Champagne in the jacuzzi. It oozes drama, romance and sophistication away from the buzzing crowds.
WHERE TO EAT
A well-known face on the gastronomic scene, Yannick Alléno is bringing another unique food concept to the Principality at Pavyllon Monte-Carlo this year. Located in the famous Hotel Hermitage Monte-Carlo, Pavyllon Monte-Carlo is an ideal venue for couples with its magnificent port and city views, excellent food and chic décor. Guests can expect Allenó’s signature style of updated traditional French cuisine, using the finest ingredients and local products with a combination of classic and modern inspiration.
Another gastronomic highlight is at Michelin-starred Le Grill by Dominique Lory. A culinary institution in Monaco, Le Grill sits at the top of the Hôtel de Paris and offers a premium selection of grilled meats accented by innovative flavours. With large windows beckoning in sweeping views over the sea and sky, Le Grill is a perfect setting for romance and making memories.
La Table d’Antonio Salvatore in the centre of Monte Carlo is also a great choice for couples who love to indulge in award-winning culinary delights. This Michelin-starred restaurant showcases influences from southern Italy and France and brings this together with an artistic delivery – see a recipe for one of the chef’s dishes here. The restaurant prides itself on being a place suitable to host the important moments of your life and celebrate these unforgettable milestones.
Less than 200 kilometres outside of Monaco lies the spiritual home of legendary Michelin-star chef Alain Ducasse. The Provençal estate in nearby La Bastide de Moustiers offers first-class cuisine in a stunning location, which can be easily reached by helicopter via a thirty-minute flight from Monte Carlo. Monacair offers scenic flights to the hotel and restaurant, making your getaway to the French countryside that much more memorable.
WHAT TO DO
A couple’s break in Monaco wouldn’t be complete without some pampering. In the heart of the Principality, the Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo offers treatments dedicated to relaxation and beauty. With the latest equipment, a heated saltwater pool, cryotherapy and a panoramic sea view, this temple of wellbeing is ready and waiting for loved-up couples and those who like to enhance their health and wellness.
If indulging in the arts is your ideal date-night activity, the Principality is home to some fantastic venues that boast acclaimed ballet, opera and orchestral performances. The Opera Garnier at the Casino de Monte-Carlo, for example, plays host to some of the biggest names in opera and offers a truly unique cultural experience that can’t be found elsewhere. The venue is also noteworthy in its own right with its opulent red-and-gold décor that references the aesthetic of the Second French Empire.
Every summer, the Royal Courtyard at the Prince’s Palace transforms into the playground for the famous Monte-Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra for unique classical music concerts. This enchanting experience combines balmy Mediterranean summer nights with unparalleled musical talent and is guaranteed to evoke passion and emotion at every turn.
For something a little bit different, head to Les Perles de Monte-Carlo. Opened by biologists Brice Cachia and Fréderic Rouxeville in 2011, this unique venue offers guests exceptional oysters farmed in Monaco. Guests can cosy up on wooden benches in an authentic atmosphere to enjoy a “corner of Brittany at the foot of the Prince’s Palace”. Expect outstanding seafood, organic wine and peaceful sea views — the perfect scene for a romantic lunch for two.
For a moment of reflection with your loved one, the Casino Gardens and Little Africa Gardens on the Carré d’Or offer the ideal setting. Brimming with lush vegetation, the French-style gardens designed by renowned architect Edouard André combine landscaped valleys with waterfalls, streams and ponds to create a highly distinctive exotic retreat in the heart of Monaco. Lose yourself to the sound of nature and the colours of tropical foliage before meandering back down the terraces towards the Casino.
An ode to luxury, love and lasting memories, Monaco is the perfect place for bespoke events or passionate escapades. Agencies such as Monte-Carlo Weddings, JustUnlimited Monaco, and The Wedding Planners are just a few of the top event organisers based in Monaco who can assist throughout the year with planning your special occasion.
With specialists on hand to create tailor-made, unforgettable adventures every step of the way, you can be sure that excellence always lies at the heart of the Monaco experience.
