Monaco is a true gem of the Côte d’Azur. From its elegant belle-époque casino and ornate opera house to its incredible selection of gourmet restaurants and exclusive nightclubs, it’s not to be missed. While it offers a range of 5-star hotels at which to stay when holidaying there, many travelers today are looking for a more private, unique experience. That’s why more and more people are choosing villas close to Monaco as their summer retreat of choice.
Luckily there is a wide range of villas to choose from on the Cote d’Azur, each with unique qualities meaning there is something to suit everyone. And with Prince Albert II’s palace only a few miles up the road, you’ll feel like royalty from the moment you arrive. Here, we’ve rounded up the best luxury villas for every type of holiday to help you plan your perfect Monaco vacation.
Sublime Seclusion | A secluded villa rental on the French Riviera allows you to make the most of the exclusive Monaco lifestyle whilst giving you the option to escape it when desired. Instead of staying right in the hustle and bustle of central Monte-Carlo, where the streets are crowded, and you can’t turn a corner without bumping into groups of tourists, enjoy acres of your own space. Why fight the other guests in your hotel for sun loungers when you could take your pick of any number of luxurious poolside seats? It’s your holiday: share it only with your nearest and dearest.
Particularly near Monaco, you will find some incredible secluded spots to hole up in. Take Villa Iris, situated on the Eze hills with spectacular sights guaranteed throughout your stay. Or how about Villa Saffron, with its Cap Martin sea-view location. Both Eze and Cap Martin are fantastic destinations in their own right, with a medieval charm that oozes from every building and offers breathtaking scenery without ever having to leave the house. Of course, whenever you decide to step out, luxury rentals like this are close enough to Monaco that you only need to hop in a car to experience Monaco in full throttle. Before you know it, you’ll be in the dizzying surroundings of the glamorous principality.
Local Life | Not a fan of complete seclusion and want to see more of the Cote d’Azur? There are also plenty of places near Monaco that offer an immersion into the village’s local life, with an easy walking distance to beaches and restaurants matched by an equally easy drive into vibrant Monte-Carlo. Get to know the locals and absorb the varied culture of the French Riviera.
Ville France-Sur-Mer is one such spot, with some incredible luxury houses not far from Monaco. When you fancy a change from Monte Carlo’s nightlife, head to the oceanfront Le Mayssa Beach restaurant and explore its incredible range of Mediterranean dishes whilst enjoying stunning views out across the ocean. Then, stroll over to L’Achill’s to enjoy a cocktail or two whilst you drink in the sunset. Of all the luxury villas outside Monaco, we recommend staying at the 8-bed Villa Senna, positioned right in the center of Ville France-Sur-Mer and perfect for those at over 300 sqm who like their accommodation with an extra touch of grandeur.
Monaco on the Mind | By not staying in the principality for every waking moment, you’ll appreciate it more when you are there, re-charged from a good night’s sleep in your peaceful villa, and ready to experience everything Monaco. However, we appreciate that staying as close to the center as possible is a priority for some people. For those who want to live the Monte-Carlo lifestyle 24/7, you may be surprised to know that there are still options for letting luxury properties. For example, Villa Marguerita – located only 10 minutes away from central Monaco and a 20-minute drive to the Nice airport – is an effortlessly chic French Riviera rental property with modern yet opulent features will make you feel like a celebrity.
Once in Monte-Carlo, keep the A-list vibe going by starting your day with an exquisite brunch at Horizon-Deck, located on the roof terrace of the 5-Star Fairmont Hotel. With a 360° view over the Principality’s legendary Opera House, Prince’s Palace, and Casino and offering a mouth-watering gourmet selection, this is a truly unmissable experience. When you finally manage to drag yourself away, head to the elegant Monte-Carlo Pavillions for a bit of retail therapy before heading to Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo for a luxury tailor-made spa treatment. Then pop back to your Cote d’Azur rental home to change for a glamorous night out on the town. Try one of Monaco’s many Michelin star restaurants – we particularly recommend the incredible 3 Michelin star Le Louis XV-Alain Ducasse for dinner – and then see where the night takes you…
Family Fun | One thing is for certain – renting a luxury property on the French Riviera means never being stuck for things to do. Those with young children will appreciate this more than most. On the Cote d’Azur, a private swimming pool is the least you can expect. Kids will particularly love the ultra-spacious Villa Lila in Cap d’Antibes, which offers a large heated pool, 4.5 hectares of glorious gardens to explore, and your own tennis courts, perfect for developing your youngster’s skills and working up a sweat. And because a family holiday isn’t just for the kids, this property also includes an exclusive bar area, perfect for a romantic nightcap.
Not a tennis fan? It would be hard for anyone to resist having their own helipad, as offered in the 6-bedroom Villa Rose. The benefits of a private helipad at your rented villa near Monaco are numerous; luxurious 10-minute-or-less airport transfers from Nice, private sightseeing with amazing aerial views over France, and the option to fly across to nearby Spain or Italy just for the evening are just a few. You’ll never hear the words “I’m bored” again.
