Hotel de Paris Monte Carlo - Why It’s a Must-Visit

You think you know luxury hotels until you actually walk through the doors of Hotel de Paris Monte Carlo. This isn’t your average five-star—it’s been hosting royalty, A-listers, and even James Bond (yep, the movies) since 1864. But here’s the surprise: even regular folks can soak it all in if you know how to play your cards right.

The location couldn’t be better. Step outside, and you’re smack in the middle of the Casino Square. World-class cars rolling up, high-end boutiques, the Mediterranean sparkling just down the hill—everything in Monaco is practically at your fingertips. But inside, the vibe is something else. There’s gold everywhere, sure, but also a feeling like big things have happened here for over a century (because they have).

If you’re looking to get more than photos for your Instagram, you’ve landed on the right guide. Hang on—we’re digging into rooms you won’t believe, food that’ll make you forget Paris, and a few tricks to experience it all without blowing next year’s budget.

• Stepping Into Living History
• What Sets It Apart From Other Hotels
• Dining: More Than Just a Fancy Meal
• Rooms, Suites, and Secret Spots
• Tips for a Smoother (and Cheaper) Visit
• Making Memories: What Not to Miss

Stepping Into Living History

The Hotel de Paris Monte Carlo isn’t just another luxurious place to crash—it’s practically its own attraction. This hotel opened its doors in 1864. Since then, it’s seen everyone from Princess Grace to Winston Churchill stroll through the marble halls. The vibe is old-school glamour, but never outdated. The place actually helped shape the modern face of Monaco; the Casino de Monte-Carlo sits right next door, and the hotel shares the same founders.

If you check out the entrance hall, you’ll see columns and crystal chandeliers that have watched more VIPs than any movie premiere. There’s a statue of Louis XV on the main staircase—that’s not just a random king; this is a nod to the hotel’s dedication to classic French luxury. Pretty cool: every stone tells its own story.

"The Hotel de Paris isn’t just a building; it’s the soul of Monte Carlo." – Jérôme de Witt, historian and local author

The hotel even survived two world wars without shutting its doors, becoming a safe hub for diplomats and legends during tough times. It’s no surprise movie producers pick it for that real deal Monte Carlo wow-factor—think of scenes from James Bond’s GoldenEye or Never Say Never Again.

Here’s a quick look at some hotel milestones worth bragging about:

One tip: Take the free hotel tour if you’re staying overnight. It’s offered a couple of times a week and covers secret corners and stories you won’t get just by hanging in the lobby. The staff has tales you’ll want to retell at dinner, promise.

What Sets It Apart From Other Hotels

If you line up the grand hotels of the world, Hotel de Paris Monte Carlo still stands out—and not just because of its jaw-dropping lobby. This place is basically woven into the DNA of Monaco itself. Most hotels have nice rooms. Here, you can stay where Winston Churchill ate breakfast and where Rihanna once threw a party overlooking the coast.

The attention to detail here is wild, and it’s not just about gold decorations. Staff remember your name, your favorite drink, and probably your dog’s name too if you bring one. You want privacy? There are entire hidden floors and secret elevators. Famous people expect this and get it—no wonder Formula 1 drivers and billionaires pick this spot every year.

One big reason people choose the Hotel de Paris Monte Carlo is direct access to the legendary Casino de Monte-Carlo—guests walk through a private passage straight into the action. You also get exclusive entry to Thermes Marins Monte Carlo, a wellness center famous for its seawater pool, and an epic spa that’s the size of a small shopping mall. Most high-end hotels promise a spa. This one delivers next-level treatments using Mediterranean saltwater and views that might ruin you for other spas forever.

• Michelin-starred dining: Even food lovers from France make a detour just for dinner at Le Louis XV, Alain Ducasse’s three-Michelin-star spot inside the hotel.
• Historic architecture: The Horseshoe staircase and crystal chandeliers aren’t just for Instagram—they’ve been impressing guests for over 150 years.
• Unmatched service: Expect personal attention, from unpacking your bags to arranging last-minute event tickets or helicopter transfers. No kidding.
• Location: Stay here and you’re in the dead center of everything fun in Monte Carlo, from races to red-carpet galas.

Wondering how it compares with other top hotels? Check out the numbers below:

The stats show it clearly: Hotel de Paris blows most luxury spots out of the water. It’s less about hype, more about a real legacy and unmatched perks that you actually notice from the second you walk in.

Dining: More Than Just a Fancy Meal

If you’re into food—even a little bit—Hotel de Paris Monte Carlo is basically Disneyland. This place is home to Hotel de Paris Monte Carlo's star, Le Louis XV - Alain Ducasse, which has held three Michelin stars for over 30 years. You’re not just ordering dinner here; you’re getting one of the best food experiences in the world. The chef, Alain Ducasse, is a legend—more Michelin stars than anyone else on Earth. Expect Mediterranean flavors, local seafood, and even veggies grown just for them up in the hills above Monaco.

But don’t sweat it if a three-star meal feels a little intense (or out of budget). The hotel gives you options:

• Le Grill: Up on the eighth floor, this place has a retractable roof—on warm nights, they literally take the ceiling off, so you eat under the stars. The soufflé is what everyone orders, and for good reason.
• Em Sherif Monte-Carlo: Authentic Lebanese food with huge flavors. Great for sharing plates, and the sea view doesn’t hurt, either.
• Bar Américain: It’s old-school, dark wood, and jazz vibes. Not just for pre-dinner drinks—grab snacks, or do a super casual lunch here if you want to soak in the scenes.

Booking ahead is smart, especially for Le Louis XV—sometimes you need a few months. Here’s a quick look at the main places, average price per person, and what makes each one stand out:

One tip: Even breakfast here turns into something special, either out on the terrace or tucked away indoors. If you want to try the high-end cuisine without a huge bill, swing by for lunch menus—they’re usually way cheaper than dinner but the same quality food and service.

Rooms, Suites, and Secret Spots

Walking into your room at Hotel de Paris Monte Carlo is like stepping into another world—one that’s been given a massive makeover in recent years. First thing you notice: these aren’t cookie-cutter hotel rooms. Each one comes with its own vibe, and the views? Some stare straight down at the famous Casino de Monte-Carlo or out over the sea, turning even a slow morning into something special.

You’ll find a total of 208 rooms, but don’t expect them all to look the same. The entry-level rooms (Superior and Deluxe) are some of the largest in Monaco, with marble bathrooms that make you question your own plumbing choices at home. If you want to turn things up a notch, check out the Junior Suites. More space, balcony with people-watching potential, and that quiet only five-star insulation can buy.

Now, the big names: suites with gravitas. The crown jewel here is the Princess Grace Suite and the Prince Rainier III Suite. The Princess Grace Suite covers a massive 960 square meters, two full floors, and comes with a private rooftop terrace and pool. Real flowers, rare art, and two bedrooms (plus a living room bigger than most apartments). This place actually has personal items from Princess Grace herself—think Hollywood meets royalty.

Here’s a quick look at the suite stats if you’re comparing options:

The best-kept secret? There’s a hidden wine cellar under the hotel, built back in 1874. It’s the largest hotel wine cellar in the world—over 350,000 bottles, including some that pre-date the Titanic. Unless you’re a VIP or book a private tour, getting in is tough, but if you can pull it off, it makes for the ultimate brag.

For something a little more chill, check out the Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo spa. It’s connected by a private tunnel, so you can head straight from your room to a saltwater pool or a massage. Not a bad way to deal with jet lag or just escape the crowds outside.

To make sure you get the Hotel de Paris Monte Carlo room you want, book early—especially for balcony rooms or anything with a view. Always ask about upgrades when you check in. And regulars know: if you’re celebrating anything, let them know in advance. Surprises tend to happen here (and sometimes chocolates too).

Tips for a Smoother (and Cheaper) Visit

Staying at the Hotel de Paris Monte Carlo doesn’t mean you have to empty your wallet. Smart planning can save you hundreds—sometimes even more. Here’s what actually works, based on real travelers’ feedback and up-to-date deals for 2025.

• Book Direct on the Hotel’s Official Site. Discounts and packages often come with extras, like breakfast, spa access, or even casino chips. Third-party sites rarely offer those perks.
• If your schedule’s flexible, visit in November or late January. Rooms drop by up to 40% compared to summer, and Monaco is way less crowded.
• Don’t skip the Monte Carlo SBM Loyalty Card (it’s free). You rack up points every time you eat, drink, or stay—they’ll knock off charges at check-out, and you’ll snag priority at restaurants.
• Ask about upgrades on arrival. If the hotel isn’t full, front desk staff sometimes bump you up for free—especially midweek or during off-peak dates.
• Check combo deals with the Hermitage and Monte Carlo Bay hotels. Sometimes, a package lets you spend nights at multiple properties for less money per night.
• Skip the fancy car. The train from Nice airport to Monaco takes about 35 minutes, with ocean views the whole way—and it’s a lot cheaper than a taxi or private transfer.

If you want proof these moves make a difference, check the table below. It shows average nightly rates by season (2025 data) and common extras guests receive with direct bookings:

*Room upgrades aren’t guaranteed, but asking never hurts.

"The value of the Monte Carlo SBM loyalty program really surprised me—got a free cocktail and knocked €60 off my bill at check-out," says Frequent Traveler magazine’s 2025 review.

And don’t be afraid to ask. Staff at Hotel de Paris Monte Carlo are used to guests with big questions and even bigger requests. Sometimes, getting a better deal is as simple as speaking up.

Making Memories: What Not to Miss

You can't hit the Hotel de Paris Monte Carlo and just lock yourself in the room. There's way too much happening both inside and right outside. First, even if your budget is tight, grab a seat at the hotel’s American Bar. The walls have seen stars from Winston Churchill to Lady Gaga, and the cocktails are legendary. The marble counter? It’s been there for over a century—order a classic Negroni and people-watch like you belong.

Don’t skip the wine cellar tour if you ever get a chance. This isn’t just racks of bottles: the cellar holds about 350,000 bottles and is the largest hotel wine cellar in the world. Heads up, though—tours usually need to be booked well in advance, as they’re kept pretty exclusive.

If you’re in town during the Monaco Grand Prix (usually in May), the hotel turns into the ultimate VIP spot with the best views. Even on regular days, the action in Casino Square outside feels like a movie: you’ll see rare cars, wedding parties, and the type of people you only ever spot in gossip magazines.

• Le Louis XV – Alain Ducasse: You don’t have to be a food geek to enjoy this three Michelin star restaurant. The service is next-level, and the tasting menu changes with the seasons, using only regional produce.
• Rooftop spa and pool access: Book a suite if you can swing it. That gives you private access to the Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo—the views alone are worth it. If not, ask reception about day passes.
• Legendary lobby photo ops: Don’t be shy—tons of movies and luxury shoots have taken place in this lobby. Early morning is perfect if you want a shot without the crowds.

Save this cheat sheet for your next stay—these are the things that people remember years after their trip. It's not just about flashy photos or blowing cash; it’s all about those moments and stories you grab while you’re here.