Useful Guide to Best 5-Star Hotels in Monaco in 2023
Looking for the best 5-star hotels in Monaco?
You’re in the perfect place as this post details the crème de la crème of luxurious accommodations in Monaco! And while the principality’s size is shockingly small, its reputation for extravagance is larger than life.
Nestled within this glamorous haven are some of the most splendid hotels you can find.
They include everything from all-inclusive spa experiences and Michelin-star restaurants to an array of opulent suites to choose from.
Thus, if you find yourself craving to experience the pinnacle of sophistication, luxury, and indulgence, even for a fleeting moment, there’s no place that’s better to do than at one of the 5-star hotels in Monaco! So without further ado, here’s everything you need to know to plan your luxury experience!
🌟 NOTE: I’ll cover more affordable options as well since I’ve done both budget trips to Monaco as well as luxury stays in Monaco!
Table of Contents
- 3 Best 5-Star Hotels in Monaco (2023)
- Other Luxury Hotels in Monaco
- Affordable Hotels in Monaco
- Top Things to Do in Monaco
- Tips for Planning Your Stay in Monaco
- Visiting Monaco: FAQ
- Wrap-Up: 3 Best 5-Star Hotels in Monaco (2023)
3 Best 5-Star Hotels in Monaco (2023)
Before I dive into my curated list of the top luxury hotels, here’s a quick bit of background to help familiarize yourself with Monaco.
First of all, each of these hotels is located in Monte-Carlo. Contrary to popular belief, Monte-Carlo is not a city in Monaco, it’s simply a neighborhood in Monaco (there are a total of four).
And as you likely guessed it, Monte-Carlo is the swankiest and most glamorous part of Monaco.
It’s where you’ll find the iconic Monte-Carlo Casino, plenty of high-end shops with security guards parked at the entrance, and witness an array of multi-million dollar cars parked out front like there’s a sale at Target…😅
Needless to say, Monte-Carlo is the center stage for the ultra-rich and one of the most happening spots in Monaco. And to match the people passing through, it’s where you’ll find the ritziest hotels to stay at.
So, whether you’re looking for the perfect honeymoon hotel in Monaco or to just experience the finer side of life, let’s talk about each 5-star hotel and what makes them special!
5 Star Hotels in Monaco
1. Hôtel de Paris
- ⭐️ Rating: 9.5 out of 10 stars
- 🏆 Known for: Fantastic location, Michilin-starred restaurants, wellness center, and excellent customer service!
Located just a few steps away from the emblematic Monte-Carlo Casino is the most famous and arguably most luxurious hotel in Monaco — Hôtel de Paris!
This hotel originally opened its doors in 1864 but underwent a 4-year renovation in 2019 in which no expense was spared in ensuring guests have the most lavish experience possible. I mean, even from the outside, this hotel exudes a sense of timeless elegance and sophistication.
As you ascend the graceful flight of steps, you’ll find yourself being ushered into the regal embrace of the hotel’s gorgeous lobby! Think sculptures fit for a palace, marble colonnades standing tall, and crystal chandeliers lighting up the room.
Yeah, I’ll proudly admit that I fan girl over stunning hotels every once in a while! 😌
“It is such a beautiful hotel in the most perfect location. I have never experienced such exceptional service – professional but they also seemed to genuinely care. They always seemed to know my name and I felt completely taken care of.”
– LARA (See More Reviews)
Amenities at Hôtel de Paris
But as a passionate foodie, my favorite part of the hotel is by far its collection of world-class restaurants! Hello Michelin-starred restaurants! 😅
First, there’s Le Louis XV-Alain Ducasse, one of the few restaurants in the world with 3 Michelin stars. Then, there is Le Grill, a Michillin-starred restaurant that offers panoramic views of the principality from the 8th floor.
And to round out the trio, we have Em Sheerif Monte-Carlo — a restaurant that features delightful Lebanese and Mediterranean cuisine. There’s also Le Bar Américain, a trendy lounge bar where you can often enjoy live jazz music and lovely views from the terrace.
And if you’re a wine lover, the hotel is home to a legendary wine cellar with over 350,000 bottles. Guests can book for a private wine-tasting experience with a sommelier or a romantic dinner.
Or, if you’re looking for the ultimate relaxing escape, there’s the Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo. This wellness facility features everything from a crystalline pool and hammam to a sauna and solarium!
And with your room reservation, you’ll also gain private beach access via the Monte-Carlo Beach Club.
So, in a world where every detail is meticulously crafted, it’s no surprise that the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo is celebrated as the embodiment of Monaco’s finest!
5 Star Hotels in Monaco
2. Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo
- ⭐️ Rating: 9 out of 10 stars
- 🏆 Known for: Location, private beach access, fantastic, personalized service
Also owned by the Monte Carlo Sociéte des Bains de Mer is the regal Hôtel Hermitage Monte Carlo. This hotel opened in 1896 and features gorgeous Belle Époque era architecture that tastefully blends Old World Monaco opulence with modern luxuries and conveniences.
Located just down the block from the extravagant Hôtel de Paris, Hôtel Hermitage offers guests a room in the center of all the action.
You’ll be able to witness the beautiful views of the yacht-filled harbor from your terrace, easily walk to all the high-end shopping boutiques, and of course, indulge in an array of amenities to make your experience unforgettable.
For example, a crowd-favorite space is the Winter Garden room, which has natural light trickle down through a stunning dome that was designed by Gustave Eiffel. Guests can dine on the mezzanine level of this Belle Epoque-style room while admiring the expert craftsmanship of stained glass artist L. Jacques.
“Amazing hotel in the center of Monte Carlo. Everything is walking distance from there. It has a lot of style and it is very comfortable. Great rooms, great facilities, fantastic very personal service. We loved everything about it…“
– Snezana (See More Reviews)
Amenities at Hôtel Hermitage
Other hotel amenities include the Michelin-starred Pavyllon Monte-Carlo restaurant, which showcases the culinary brilliance of Yannick Alléno! The menu is heaven for anyone who loves Mediterranean seafood.
There’s also the Le Limùn, where you can dine in a serene setting that resembles that of a sleek cruise liner. The restaurant provides all-day service, but it’s most popular during lunch hours since they offer a lunch deal every day.
And when you’re dining at a 5-star hotel in Monaco, finding affordable food that’s actually a good deal is harder said than done. 😂
Lastly, there is the Salle Belle Epoque, which is the pièce de résistance of the hotel. I mean, this room is breathtaking. The ceiling features an awe-inspiring fresco and high reliefs, the dining area is encompassed by towering pink marble columns, and from the terrace, you can take in the scenery of Monaco’s Port!
Since no trip to Monaco is complete without some rest and relaxation, you can also spend some time in the rejuvenating Terme de Marins Spa, which offers guests a gamut of spa treatments and wellness services to unwind.
Ultimately, if you’re looking to experience every bit of luxury as you would at Hôtel de Paris for a slightly more affordable price point and with a bit more privacy, this is the best 5-star hotel in Monaco for you.
5 Star Hotels in Monaco
3. Hôtel Metropole, Montecarlo
- ⭐️ Rating: 9.2 out of 10 stars
- 🏆 Known for: Location, 4 gourmet restaurants, rooftop pool, customer service
Rounding out the trio of the best 5-star hotels in Monaco is Hôtel Metropole. Similar to Hôtel Hermitage, this hotel exhibits Belle Epoque architecture and is centrally located within the Carré d’Or. That said, the warm tones and almost bohemian decorations throughout the hotel offer a welcomed contrast to the other two hotels.
Hotel Metropole was originally built in 1886, on land that interestingly once belonged to Pope Leon XIII. Over the years, the property has changed hands a few times, but its luxurious and intimate atmosphere has stood the test of time.
Today, the hotel has won numerous awards and has the distinguished honor of being part of the Leading Hotels of the World, which is an exclusive collection of about 400 hotels spread across 80 countries.
“Luxurious hotel, very friendly and attentive staff. Great choice of breakfast, amazing pool area, great location just around the corner from the Casino Square.”
– Gary (See More Reviews)
Amenities at Hôtel Metropole
For those who stay at Hotel Metropole, you’ll have access to 4 gourmet restaurants.
One is Les Ambassadeurs, which serves gourmet contemporary Mediterranean dishes. Then there’s Yoshi, the sole Japanese restaurant on the Côte d’Azur with a Michelin star since 2010!
For those looking to eat and soak up the sun poolside, you can do so at the Odyssey restaurant, designed by Karl Lagerfeld.
Finally, the restaurant has the Lobby Bar, which provides trendy and elegant gourmet experiences throughout the day.
And when you’re ready to relax, you can do so at the Odyssey pool, a chic yet tranquil haven for relaxation and rejuvenation.
There’s also the Spa Metropole by Givenchy, which exudes the House’s sophistication and modernity and promises guests tailored beauty and well-being treatments.
So, if you’re looking for a refreshing getaway filled with refined elegance and plenty of gastronomic dining options, be sure to check out the rooms at Hotel Metropole, the only independently owned luxury hotel in Monte Carlo!
🇲🇨 I know this section says here are the top three 5-star hotels in Monaco, but I wanted to include this next hotel because it’s just a stone’s throw away from Monaco in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, France! Literally, you can reach it with a 5-minute drive or 20-minute walk from Place du Casino!
Monaco hotels on the beach
4. Monte-Carlo Beach Hotel
- ⭐️ Rating: 9.1 out of 10 stars
- 🏆 Known For: Service, private seaside location, vibrant beach club, amenities
Compared to the other three hotels which are centered around the iconic Place du Casino area, the Monte Carlo Beach Hotel is one of the few Monaco hotels on the beach! It also happens to be one of the most private hotels, given its exclusive location on the Monte-Carlo Beach peninsula.
Originally, the hotel opened in the late 1920s and was ✨the✨ place to go during the Golden Era of the French Riviera. The upper echelons of society (so basically everyone in Monaco 😂) would come here to hang out and dance the summer nights away.
And fortunately for guests, this hotel hasn’t lost its effortless elegance and charm. Guests staying here can pick from a host of suites, most of which offer unbeatable views of the glimmering coastline from the room’s terrace.
There are also plenty of amenities, including access to a private beach, room massages on demand, 24-hour room service, a spa, and a palm-tree-lined Olympic-sized pool!
“Wonderful unique hotel next to the beach, staff very attentive and friendly, food amazing and rooms just perfect. Could not fault this hotel at all.”
– hotel guEST (Read More Reviews)
Restaurants at Monte-Carlo Beach Hotel
And for any fellow foodies, you have a few different restaurants at your service. One is Elsa, which is a Michelin-starred restaurant that specializes in Mediterranean cuisine and is an absolute hidden gem place to dine.
The restaurant recently (2023) was awarded the Ethical and Environmental Responsibility Prize since it’s dedicated to sustainable and ethically sourcing its ingredients.
Other places to dine include Le Deck, which serves gourmet Mediterranean and Italian dishes. Think lobster, oysters, and seafood couscous!
Lastly, there’s Club La Vigie, which is located on a terrace on the tip of the peninsula and the perfect place to hang out with friends while enjoying music from a live DJ!
Just beware that the hotel is open seasonally from the beginning of April to the beginning of October. As such, if you plan on staying here, be sure to book as soon as you know your travel dates since there is limited availability (~40 rooms)!
Oh, and breakfast is pretty expensive, but I’ve realized that’s just a recurring theme with anything near Monaco. 🥲
So, if you’re looking for a luxurious getaway where you can bask in the summer sun and enjoy an intimate yet vibrant atmosphere, then check out this Monaco hotel on the beach!
🚁 In the mood to splurge? You can book a one-way flight between Nice and Monaco since the hotel is located right next to Monaco’s helipad in Larvotto!
Other Luxury Hotels in Monaco
If you’re looking at the 5-star hotels and realizing they are out of budget — *same*… The good news is that there are plenty of other luxury 4-star hotels in Monaco!
And from my experience, they offer pretty extravagant experiences that rival that of the 5-star hotels in the area…just for a little bit cheaper of a price, *usually*!
So, whether you are trying to find the best honeymoon hotels in Monaco or want to learn more about other Monaco hotels on the beach…below, you’ll find the best-reviewed 4-star hotels in Monaco!
4 Star Hotels in Monaco
Fairmont Monte Carlo
- ⭐️ Rating: 8.6 out of 10 stars
- 🏆 Known for: Iconic location over the F1 circuit, impeccable customer service, and a prime location near the Casino
Located just behind the Monte Carlo Casino is the famed Fairmont Monte Carlo. While this isn’t a 5-star hotel, the Fairmont Monte Carlo is arguably the second most famous hotel in Monaco and just a few steps away from some of Monaco’s most prominent attractions!
It also happens to be the hotel that I had the pleasure of staying at during my most recent escape to the land of the rich and wealthy! 🤠
This iconic hotel was built in 1975 and provides guests with nearly 600 elegant rooms to choose from. Many of these rooms offer views of the stunning Mediterranean coastline, the perfectly manicured gardens, and of course, the most recognizable curve in Formula 1 motorsport!
“Fabulous hotel with lots of facilities & great location. An additional guest pool has been added since our last visit which was a welcome addition. The hotel has also received a much needed refurbishment. Really lovely.”
– Giuseppe (See More Reviews)
Amenities at the Fairmont Monte Carlo
Along with an arsenal of deluxe rooms that promise the utmost comfort, there are a variety of dining options. If you find yourself craving Japanese food, stop by Nobu, located just beyond the lobby area.
Or, if you want some Mediterranean cuisine with a stunning view, there’s the Horizon Rooftop. This place doubles as the breakfast venue, and let me say — the breakfast spread was nothing short of heaven. 😌
And for those keen on a poolside afternoon, you can visit the Nikki Beach Monte Carlo. It consists of a chic rooftop pool with several cabanas. It’s also where you can catch the best view of the Fairmont Hairpin curve!
The only downside is that the once beautiful panoramic views are obstructed by a huge construction project going on…
All this said, their luxury wellness oasis, La Vallée Spa, made my experience one for the books. Getting a massage here was simply divine and an indulgence I recommend to everyone!
Lastly, I’d say that the Fairmont is known for its top-notch customer service. During my stay, every staff person was incredibly kind and helpful, whether it be with my luggage, making accommodations, or some last-minute reservations.
All in all, the Fairmont Monte Carlo Hotel is a haven of luxury, offering a perfect blend of modern amenities, breathtaking scenery, and the glamour of Monte Carlo’s prestigious lifestyle. And if you want to stay in a place that people will immediately recognize for its prestige and luxury, this is one of the best places to do so!
🏨 PRO TIP: With a massive construction project going on, I recommend requesting a room on the right side (when looking at the sea) to have an unobstructed view.
4 Star Hotels in Monaco
Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort
The best part of the Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort is undoubtedly the lagoon and stunning surrounding landscape! | © MONTE-CARLO Société des Bains de Mer
- ⭐️ Rating: 8.6 out of 10 stars
- 🏆 Known for: Expansive lagoon pool, Cinq Mondes Spa,
Nestled just within the border of Monaco, on the picturesque Larvotto Peninsula, and near its pristine beach, lies the renowned Monte Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort.
And while this hotel does not bear the exclusive 5-star status or come with an illustrious past like Hôtel de Paris, the Monte Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort is part of the prestigious Monte Carlo Société des Bains de Mer.
That said, its contemporary and innovative designs mixed with the inviting yet laid-back atmosphere distinguishes it from the other 4 or 5-star hotels in Monaco.
Originally constructed in 2005, this sprawling property offers guests access to over 330 deluxe rooms, each room fitted with a terrace, and 75% of the rooms grant guests enchanting scenes of the serene Mediterranean coastline!
The “Exclusive room” at Monte Carlo Bay Hote & Resort | © MONTE-CARLO Société des Bains de Mer
“Amazing hotel, with incredible views of the ocean and Monte Carlo. Excellent service from all of the staff we dealt with, from check in to housekeeping. AMAZING pool area with a fab bar that delivers wine – loved it!!!!”
– martin (See More Reviews)
Amenities at Monte Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort
Whether you’re craving a gourmet feast, a one-of-a-kind gastronomic experience, or a quick bite to eat, there are several restaurants at your service.
For instance, if you’re keen on tasting Mediterranean or Caribbean flavors, stop by 2 Michelin-starred restaurant Blue Bay, where you can observe the chefs work up close or dine outside with panoramic views.
There’s also Las Brisas, which is the go-to place during the summer months. The menu features lots of seafood and grilled dishes that can be enjoyed alongside live music.
Alternatively, if you just want to sip on a cocktail poolside or casually dine, check out L’Hippocampe, the hotel’s bar, or L’Orange Verte, a charming bistro. And, of course, to dance the night away, you can pop over to the trendy bar, Le Blue Gin.
Enjoy a meal at Las Brias during the summertime | © MONTE-CARLO Société des Bains de Mer
While the culinary scene is impressive, what truly sets the hotel apart from the rest in Monaco is its stunning outdoor facilities. The hotel boasts multiple pools, including a sandy bottom lagoon, a heated outdoor infinity pool, and an indoor pool with jacuzzis.
And encapsulating the outdoor pool facilities are beautifully landscaped gardens that create a tranquil oasis for relaxation and sunbathing.
But if that’s not enough, you can stop by Cinq Mondes Spa, which provides a range of wellness treatments and therapies inspired by ancient traditions around the world.
🏖️ NOTE: Although this property is considered one of the few Monaco hotels on the beach, it doesn’t provide direct beach access. Instead, you’ll have to walk about 5 minutes to the beach near Monte-Carlo Beach Hotel.
Affordable Hotels in Monaco
While the principality has a reputation for being filled with luxury hotels (which it is), you may be surprised to hear that there actually are a few cheap hotels in Monaco as well!
Well, maybe cheap is a bit of a stretch, but they are certainly on the more affordable than one would think. So, if you’re looking to experience a bit of luxury on a budget, here are more affordable hotels in Monaco that are worth checking out!
🇲🇨 PRO TIP: Try to book at least 2 months in advance. I’ve discovered that hotel prices aren’t so affordable if you book the same week or month you intend to go!
Le Méridien Beach Plaza
- 4-star Monaco hotel on a private beach | ⭐️ 8.4 / 10
- Located in Le Larvotto neighborhood, next to Monte Carlo Bay & Resort
- Has indoor and outdoor pools & a great variety of dining options
- Stylish family-friendly hotel with nearly 400 rooms available
Columbus Hotel Monaco
- 3-star boutique hotel in Monaco | ⭐️ 8.6 / 10
- Located on the western side of Monaco, in the Fontvieille neighborhood
- Family-friendly hotel with dedicated children’s facilities
- Has an all-day restaurant, lifestyle bar, and heated outdoor pool
- Rooms with sea views or of the Princess Grace Rose Garden
Hotel Miramar – Monte Carlo
- 3-star boutique hotel in Monaco | ⭐️ 9 / 10
- Waterfront location in the heart of Monaco, next to Port Hercule
- The hotel has 14 rooms, each fitted with a flat-screen TV and air conditioning
- Within easy walking distance of all the best attractions in Monaco!
Alternatively, feel free to explore other housing options with the interactive map below. And for the most up-to-date prices, enter your prospective travel dates and party size!
Top Things to Do in Monaco
As you plan your housing accommodations in Monaco, here are a few activities that I have personally done and highly recommend adding to your itinerary!
- The ultimate F1 walking tour: This 2-hour, immersive tour allows you to delve into the history of the most iconic F1 race as you walk the full track! Even non-Formula 1 fans can enjoy this tour as Tom is the best guide out there and truly brings the track to life with his passion for motorsport!
✅ 🏎️ Check rates & availability for this super fun F1 walking tour around Monaco
- La Collection Automobiles de S.A.S. le Prince de Monaco: See 80+ cars that the Prince of Monaco has owned over the years along with our favorite F1 Monegasque driver’s race-winning car. 😌
- Musée Océanographique de Monaco: The Oceanographic Museum has several immersive exhibits, a shark lagoon, an array of Mediterranean sea creatures, and tons of fascinating information. Your ticket also grants you access to the terrace, which has a great view of Monaco from high up. Grab your ticket here.
- Jardins Saint-Martin: A sprawling garden that’s packed with different flowers, plants, benches to rest on, and intriguing sculptures. You’ll also find a couple of water fountains and a public restroom in the gardens!
- Prince’s Palace of Monaco: Perched atop a dramatic cliff, the Prince’s Palace enjoys some of the most breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. And for a small fee, you can walk through the state apartments and catch a glimpse into the centuries-old traditions of Monaco’s ruling family!
🇲🇨 PRO TIP: For other recommendations, check out this post that details how to maximize a short period of time in Monaco
Tips for Planning Your Stay in Monaco
Since I want to ensure you have a pleasant time in Monaco, here are a few (hopefully) helpful tips!
- 👞 Wear comfortable shoes: Unless you plan on being chauffeured around or doing very little walking, wear comfy shoes! This is because Monaco is extremely dense, which means lots of hills!
I wore not the comfiest slip-on sandals when it was 90°F (32°C) and yah girl was STRUGGLING to walk up and down the massive hill by the Monaco Yacht Club. And I can’t imagine how much the girls in 4″ heels were feeling…
- 📅 Plan your itinerary ahead of time: Similarly, unless you fancy repeatedly walking up super steep hills with zero shade, I recommend making a tentative plan on where you want to go! I learned this lesson the hard way when I walked up the giant hill 5 times in one day! 🙃
- 🛂 Bring your Passport: Although they don’t check your passport when entering Monaco, you’ll need it to enter the Monte Carlo Casino. This is because citizens of Monaco are not allowed to gamble there, so everyone’s passport is checked!
- 💧 Carry a Water Bottle: I recommend bringing your own water bottle so you can stay hydrated as you walk around. My friend didn’t have one while walking around and ended up having to pay €4 for a regular 16oz. water bottle! And to me, that’s borderline criminal! 😒
- 🏨 Make Your Room Requests: If you want to make any room requests, make sure to email the hotel right after you book! For example, my friend and I requested to have our room on a higher floor so we could enjoy the views from up above!
Visiting Monaco: FAQ
Despite being a 4-star hotel, I’d argue the most famous and popular hotel in Monaco is the Fairmont Monte Carlo. Not only is the brand globally recognized as being a luxury one but also the hotel is known for its view of the iconic Fairmont Hairpin Curve, which is the most recognizable part of the Formula 1 Monte Carlo track!
While this answer can vary depending on the season, usually the most expensive hotel in Monaco is the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo. As mentioned earlier, it’s located right next to the casino and overlooks the scenic Port Hercule.
Quite frankly, all of the 5-star hotels in Monte Carlo are romantic. Each of the hotels has its unique ambiance that just exudes wealth and luxury. In addition, they’re all located in the most famous quarter within the principality.
Despite being one of the smallest countries in the world, there are boutique hotels in Monaco! Two highly rated ones that also happen to be fairly affordable are Boutique Hotel Miramar – Monte Carlo and Columbus Hotel Monaco. These hotels usually run for less than $300 a night.
Yes! It is more than possible to travel to Monaco on a budget! Contrary to popular belief, Monaco is not terribly expensive to visit.
In fact, I spent less than $50 the first time I visited Monaco, which is much less than I’ve ever spent in a single day in Nice! Even the Monegasque locals I befriended were telling me that visiting Monaco is often cheaper than Nice.
Wrap-Up: 3 Best 5-Star Hotels in Monaco (2023)
Monaco is known for having the highest GDP per capita, which essentially means a very concentrated amount of millionaires and billionaires. And to match the lifestyle of the rich and wealthy, there is an abundance of luxury hotels to choose from that promise the most luxurious experiences!
Of course, if you’re someone like me — who usually tends to lean on the more budget to mid-range travel side, dropping tons of money on accommodations can be a tough decision.
But, one thing to keep in mind is that money comes and goes, and it’s often worth splurging for once-in-a-lifetime experiences! I mean how often can you say you stayed at Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo or the Fairmont Monte Carlo?! 😉
Regardless of whether or not you end up staying at a 5-star hotel in Monaco, I hope you have a marvelous time discovering this gem of a country!
Read More About the French Riviera
- Looking to see Monaco from a different point of view? Opt to spend some time out on the water with a boat tour of the Côte d’Azur.
- Planning to spend some time in Nice? Be sure to try all the delicious Niçoise food that the region is known for, including the nearby prospering Provence wine region.
