CMD Travels’ Trip Report: Glitz, Glamor, and the Good Life in Monaco.

If you love the high-rolling vibes of Dubai, the shopping scene in Beverly Hills, and the Old World charm of Paris, then Monaco should be at the top of your must-visit list. I just returned from a trip sponsored by Virtuoso and Visit Monaco, where a lovely team of travel insiders gave me a behind-the-scenes look at what makes this tiny country so special (and so chic!).  

Over three days, we explored the history of Old Town, checked into glittering luxury hotels, admired the mesmerizing Mediterranean Sea, and ate and wined our way across Monaco. Here’s what I recommend you see, do, and savor:

What to Do

For Car Aficionados: 

Monaco is one of the world’s can’t-miss destinations for luxury car enthusiasts. Every year, the F1 Monaco Grand Prix brings drivers racing through the city. But even if you aren’t in town for the big event, there’s still so much to see and do (and drive!).

We got to tour Prince Rainier III’s private car collection, which spans three floors and features rare beauties like the Lexus used for the royal wedding in 2011. Of course, it’s one thing to see the cars—it’s another to get behind the wheel yourself! One of the highlights of our trip was a driving tour via Lamborghini and Maserati through the nearby picturesque hilltop town of Èze. You can rent and drive these exotic cars yourself, or hire a driver to whisk you away. After a few glasses of rosé, we opted for the latter, and had the thrill of our lives zipping around the dramatic curves of the French Riviera!

For History Buffs:

I highly recommend you tour the palace’s resplendent state apartments and try to catch the changing of the guard. When we visited, a group of heads of state were there so we didn’t get to view the ceremony—which just means I’ll need to return some day! Follow your trip to the palace with a stroll through the charming old town and the Japanese-inspired botanical gardens, which are a tribute to Princess Grace.

And while you might not traditionally think of it as a “historical site,” the casino can’t be missed! Built in the 19th century, it’s a landmark of the city. Having lived in Las Vegas myself and worked for the Caesars brand, it was so interesting to mark the differences between the atmosphere here and back home. The Casino de Monte-Carlo was absolutely spotless, and they collect your phones before you enter. Come here for a few hours of gambling, and a few drinks, while you admire the absolutely stunning Belle-Epoque architecture. 

For Water Lovers:

If there is a coastline at my vacation destination, you can bet I’ll take advantage of it. I love being on (or in!) the water—and luckily Monaco is a fantastic destination for water lovers like myself. You absolutely have to spend the day on the water, via boat or yacht, to take in the gorgeous deep turquoise sea. When we sailed along the coast, the water was so clear we could see all the way to the bottom! Catch a sunset sailing or spend an entire day on the water; you can sail as far south as Nice from the city. 

Another way to experience Monaco’s breathtaking coastline is with an afternoon at a beach club. There are plenty of swanky, well-positioned clubs to choose from—we had a fabulous time at a luxurious beach club imagined by designer Jacquemus, replete with yellow striped umbrellas and chaise lounges. 

Where to Dine & Drink

You might not think of Monaco as a food mecca, since the entire country could fit into NYC’s Central Park, but the tiny country packs a gastronomic punch. Monaco boasts nine Michelin stars spread across six restaurants, including the 3-star Le Louis XV by famed chef Alain Ducasse. If you want to break up your Michelin dining with some more casual—but still trés chic—spots, here’s what I would recommend:

Maona: For ultra-fresh Greek food and Mykonos vibes, right on the water.

La Môme: For a guaranteed good time—featuring talented live entertainment and festive waiters—with good food to match, with stunning rooftop views.

Amazónico: Chic spot for cocktails and dancing to DJ sets, just off the casino square (you’ll also find other branches in London, Dubai, and beyond). It’s inside the Casino Café de Paris, an iconic spot in its own right—stop in for a nightcap with breathtaking views.

Buddha-Bar: You may be familiar with the international brand with outposts in Paris, Rabat, Mykonos, and beyond. The Monaco outpost is one of the oldest—and chicest—having opened here 25 years ago. 

Where to Stay

There are many posh options in Monaco—from grand-dame icons to modern luxury properties. Here are a few of my favorites:

Hotel de Paris: A sumptuous stay from top to bottom. Incredible spacious suites (with connected suite capabilities) and unbeatable views over the historic square. I highly recommend this stay to wine lovers, since the hotel boasts a cellar overflowing with over 20,000 bottles of champagne, including rare collectors’ bottles. I would love to organize a private tour and tasting here for my clients!

Hotel Hermitage: A beautiful property that’s been recently renovated, full of belle-époque charm and an amazing spa.

Hotel Metropole: I love that this historic property has a very private entrance, away from the buzz of the main square. It’s slated to be renovated soon and I can’t wait to see how its beauty is revived.

Monte Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort: An especially great option for families, since its prime coastal location makes it easy to hang out on the beach—or try a refreshing dip in the pristine pools. 

Ready for your very own rendezvous in Monaco? Let me design it all for you. I’ll work with my exclusive travel partners to create unforgettable experiences tailored to your wants, and check you into luxury Virtuoso properties (like the ones featured above!) that come with extra special perks and amenities. Email me now to arrange your complimentary consultation to begin planning.