Reisgids Monaco
Something you might not have known about me: I love the casino. Somewhere inside me resides a true gambling addict, which I am fortunately able to keep well under control. And you can mainly find me at the poker table, where I (I think) achieve many successes. My best friend and travel buddy shares the same love as I do, and because of that, we are always found at least once in the casino during every trip. Except in Iceland, because gambling is prohibited there. WHUT.
Well, with this knowledge, you can imagine that Monaco was high on our bucket list; the paradise of casinos in Europe. A month ago, we took a trip through the Côte d’Azur, ending with a night in Monaco. And I can tell you: even if you don’t like gambling, I think this is a huge recommendation.
If you, for example, do like dining out, you’re in the right place. I had no idea how many restaurants here have a Michelin star. Or two. Or three (!). That’s why I’m sharing my best tips with you on what to do, where to sleep, and where to eat in Monaco (Monte Carlo).
Useful tips for Monaco
– Even though Monte Carlo is really small, doing everything on foot can be quite tough due to the elevation differences. Therefore, download the PBSC app, which allows you to rent bikes throughout the city and drop them off anywhere. There’s no Uber in Monaco, and taxis can be quite expensive, plus you get to see more of the city.
– If you have little time, take one of those little trains that drive through Monte Carlo. It may look super silly, but it only takes an hour and you see everything right away, including the princely palace of Monaco and the cathedral, which are on a hill. What I didn’t know is that there are all these cozy streets with restaurants and shops; great for having lunch one afternoon.
Where to sleep in Monaco
First things first: the Côte d’Azur, and Monaco, are expensive. You can make it as crazy as you want, but generally, everything is just really pricey. I had quite a bit of trouble finding a reasonably priced hotel in Monaco, and that’s why I ended up on Airbnb. So fun: I rented a sailboat that is in the harbor of Monte Carlo. Really an amazing experience, especially if you’re only staying one or two nights.
Where to eat in Monaco
Important: make sure to reserve everywhere you want to eat.
Le Louis XV – Alain Ducasse at the Hôtel de Paris
Yesss, I thought: let me start with the three-star restaurant right away. If you really have something to celebrate or have just won big at the Monte Carlo casino (which is next door), then this is where you need to go. It seems like a very special experience to eat here, but for now, I find €380 for a menu still a bit on the pricey side.
Maya Bay
…and that’s why I went to eat here. It’s very hip, very beautiful, and also quite affordable. On the menu, you’ll find Japanese and Thai dishes; there’s really a gi-gantic selection. The menu itself is a beautiful book that you can flip through, including stunning photos and explanations for each dish.
Buddha Bar
Again very hip, but it also looks really cool here with the large Buddha statue in the middle of the room. Especially if you’re in the mood for sushi and a party afterwards (or just a party), this is a fun place to go.
Yoshi
We’re staying in the Japanese vibe a little longer (the above two restaurants also serve sushi), because here you can also eat very good Japanese food (they have one Michelin star) and especially very extensive: from sushi to teppanyaki and sashimi, and you really have many options for everything. There are also quite a few options for vegetarians and meat-eaters. Of course, it’s quite pricey.
Le Grill
This restaurant is in the same hotel as Le Louis XV, but has two stars less. But hey, one star already means incredibly good food. And besides the food, the view here is also worth a star; you can see the whole city because the restaurant is on the top floor.
Elsa
That view is also more than good at this restaurant. You won’t find Elsa in Monte Carlo, but with this view, I thought it was worth mentioning. The ultimate jet-set feeling, because you see huge yachts passing by. Furthermore, it’s really great for people-watching from this terrace.
Coya
I really love this decor. And I actually love these prices much more, by the way. It’s a lot more affordable, but you still have that luxury feeling that somewhat belongs to Monaco. You’ll find something for everyone on the menu: salads, tacos, ceviche, and various fish and meat dishes. Be sure to try the Peruvian sashimi as well.
Le Vigie
Another beautiful restaurant. Really, that view; especially in the evening, it becomes very beautifully lit. The menu is quite extensive, from dishes prepared on the Josper grill to spaghetti and of course the fish of the day.
