How to Reach: Board a flight from India to a Gulf or European country with air connections to Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE) in France. Drive or take public transport to cover the 22.4km to Monaco from Nice.
Visa: Indian citizens visiting Monaco must obtain a Schengen visa, as Monaco does not issue its own visas and follows France’s visa policy. Since Monaco is not part of the Schengen Area but has an open border with France, a short-stay Schengen visa (Type C) issued by France (or another Schengen country if France is the main destination) allows entry into Monaco for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Places to Stay: Monaco offers a range of luxurious accommodations that cater to diverse preferences, from historic elegance to modern seaside resorts.
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The Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, a Belle Époque landmark, boasts opulent rooms, a three-Michelin-starred restaurant, and the world’s largest wine cellar.
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The Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo provides refined luxury with its Winter Garden designed by Gustave Eiffel and a Michelin-starred restaurant.
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For a blend of glamour and relaxation, the Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort features a sandy-bottomed lagoon and multiple pools, ideal for families and leisure travellers.
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The Fairmont Monte Carlo offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean and the Grand Prix circuit, along with renowned dining options like Nobu and Nikki Beach.
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For those seeking a beachfront experience, Le Méridien Beach Plaza is the only hotel in Monaco with a private beach, complemented by two outdoor pools and a spa.
Places To Eat: Le Louis XV – Alain Ducasse at Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo stands out for its exquisite French haute cuisine and an impressive wine cellar housing around 4,00,000 bottles. Les Ambassadeurs by Christophe Cussac offers refined French dishes with panoramic views, while Yoshi presents an elegant Japanese dining experience.
For those seeking innovative flavours, Amazónico Monte-Carlo brings Latin American cuisine to the Riviera, featuring jungle-inspired interiors and vibrant DJ nights. Seafood enthusiasts can enjoy freshly shucked oysters and shrimp at Les Perles de Monte-Carlo, located at the Port de Fontvieille.
Casual yet stylish options include La Brasserie Smakelijk at Le Méridien Beach Plaza, offering Belgian-Riviera fusion dishes with seaside views, and Restaurant Amù atop the Fairmont Monte-Carlo, serving Mediterranean-inspired cuisine in a chic rooftop setting.
Nearby Places to Visit: Just a short train or drive away is Nice, known for its vibrant Old Town, beautiful Promenade des Anglais, and lively markets. Èze, a picturesque medieval hilltop village just 20 minutes away, offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean and the famous Fragonard perfume factory. Menton, located near the Italian border, is known for its gardens, pastel-coloured buildings, and citrus festivals. The artistic town of Saint-Paul-de-Vence is another excellent day trip, home to galleries, cobblestone streets, and the renowned Fondation Maeght art museum. For a taste of Italian Riviera charm, head to Ventimiglia, just across the border, especially popular for its Friday markets. Nature lovers might also enjoy a drive into the Mercantour National Park, with alpine landscapes and traditional villages offering a peaceful contrast to Monaco’s urban glamour.
This story was first published on August 2, 2024; and it has since been updated.
