Imagine James Bond casually sipping a martini (shaken, of course) or the ghost of Grace Kelly gliding through lavish corridors. Welcome to the Hôtel de Paris in Monte Carlo, a legendary establishment that didn’t just witness the creation of luxury vacations; it perfected them. This iconic hotel is more than a mere stay; it’s a historical meet-up of opulence and elegance, right in the glittering heart of Monaco.
Founded in 1864 by Charles III of Monaco and François Blanc, the Hôtel de Paris was crafted as the ultimate sanctuary for society’s crème de la crème. Planted right next to the illustrious Monte Carlo Casino, the hotel is the perfect perch for watching celebrities, royalty, and the occasional undercover spy breeze by—think of it as the world’s swankiest safe house.
Stepping into the Hôtel de Paris is like entering a dreamscape of luxury. The hotel’s interior is a grand fusion of Belle Époque style and modern chic. Marble floors that could make even Michelangelo envious, crystal chandeliers brighter than the stars, and frescoes so elaborate you might think you’re in a Renaissance palace. The lobby, complete with its sweeping staircase and dazzling decor, is designed to make even the most seasoned traveler’s jaw drop.
The hotel boasts 208 rooms, including 96 suites, each with its own unique flair and offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea, Casino Square, or the Prince’s Palace. The Prince Rainier III Suite, a tribute to Monaco’s royal lineage, is decked out with the finest materials, antiques, and a private terrace offering a 180-degree sea view.
If your taste buds could talk, they’d sing praises for the dining at the Hôtel de Paris. This hotel is a gastronomic paradise with several world-renowned restaurants. The crown jewel is the Louis XV – Alain Ducasse, flaunting three Michelin stars. Here, traditional Mediterranean flavors get a chic, modern twist, turning every meal into a culinary adventure worthy of a standing ovation.
For a more laid-back vibe, Le Grill on the hotel’s top floor offers a relaxed atmosphere where you can dine under the stars. The views of the Monte Carlo skyline are a beautiful sight for the eyes.
No visit to the Hôtel de Paris is complete without a nod to the legendary Monte Carlo Casino next door. The hotel and casino are like peanut butter and jelly for the rich and famous, drawing in visitors eager to try their luck at high-stakes games. After a night of dancing with Lady Luck, unwind with a cocktail at the hotel’s American Bar.
After a day of sightseeing or gambling, the Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo Spa is the ultimate destination for pampering and rejuvenation. This state-of-the-art facility offers treatments that will make you feel like royalty, whether it’s a luxurious facial or a relaxing massage. With a fitness center, a heated seawater pool, and a solarium, the spa provides endless ways to relax or work up a sweat.
The Hôtel de Paris isn’t just a hotel; it’s a timeless institution, a symbol of luxury and refinement that’s stood the test of time.
Top Takeaways
Location: Monte Carlo, Monaco
Address: Place du Casino, 98000 Monaco, Monaco.
Rating: Five-Star
The Vibe: A blend of old-world elegance and modern sophistication, where royalty and celebrities feel at home. And that sumptuousness starts when you see Ferraris and the latest Bentley cars outside the hotel’s grand entrance.
Food + Drink: Delight in the exquisite Mediterranean flavors at the Louis XV – Alain Ducasse, boasting three Michelin stars. For a more relaxed dining experience, enjoy your meal under the stars at Le Grill with its retractable roof and breathtaking views of the Monte Carlo skyline. The American Bar is perfect for savoring classic cocktails in a stylish setting.
Amenities: Restaurants, bar, spa, fitness center, room service, heated seawater pool, solarium
Our Favorite Thing About the Hotel: The spectacular Prince Rainier III Suite with its luxurious furnishings and expansive terrace, and the Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo Spa with its state-of-the-art treatments and panoramic sea views.
5 Nearby Attractions: Monte Carlo Casino, Prince’s Palace of Monaco, Oceanographic Museum of Monaco, Jardin Exotique de Monaco, Larvotto Beach
Any Personal Neighborhood Recs? Head to Amazonica for a hyper-cool atmosphere with a menu and look that’s modeled after South America. Buddha Bar is also a skip away—the room is gorgeous, fusing a classic Belle Époque interior and the liveliness of an Asian restaurant (To, put it straight, it’s a ten times cooler (and more tasteful) version than Tao).
Rooms: 208 rooms and suites, including 96 suites with unique designs and stunning views
Pricing: Rooms start at $800/night
Closest Airport: Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE)
