Published on October 22, 2021Updated on October 11, 2024
The Christmas season is upon us and Monaco has transformed into a winter wonderland. Be transported to a fairytale land where sparkling Christmas traditions meet Monte-Carlo’s inimitable style. From December to January, wander through the Christmas markets in Monaco, admire the grand decorations that adorn shop fronts and boulevards, and marvel at the glittering illuminations. From iconic squares to sumptuous hotels, discover all places in Monaco where you can enjoy a magical Christmas time in true festive fashion.
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From the 7th December, marvel at the Place du Casino and its unique Christmas decorations. Each year, this giant snow globes tell a story inspired by iconic scenes from [1] fairytales. The kind of stories that encompasses all the spirit of generosity, kindness and Christmas. It's the perfect time to enjoy unforgettable moments with friends or family!
Before taking off on his annual grand tour, Santa Claus has planned a few stops in the Place du Casino, our hotels and at our Christmas chalet. Hoping that your kids and your loved ones were kind this year… Put on your best smile for a special photo!
Be dazzled by the beauty of the enchanting Christmas Carousel and its Chalet in the Jardin des Boulingrins, opposite the Casino de Monte-Carlo. The ideal place for a magical family moment . Take a break for a sweet snack at the Chalet which offers crêpes, churros and hot drinks! These little sweet treats and typical winter food that we like to enjoy between Christmas and New Year's Eve wait for you give it a try. Don't wait any longer to come and celebrate your festive season in the Principality!
Joy to the world, it's Christmas! The magic of this wonderful time of the year is set to music with a choir performing the days before Christmas and on the 25th December. From Jingle Bells to Silent Night, you will discover all the french versions of your favorite Christmas songs during these free outdoor events.
And for a classical Christmas liveset, you should try the « Concert de Noël », on Eglise Saint-Charles december the 14th, with the Orchestre Philharmonique de Monte-Carlo performing. One, among others, of the musical events to see before and during the Christmas Holiday in Monaco!
An upmarket shopping experience awaits you on the Christmas Promenade Monte-Carlo Shopping. This is your chance to find a stylish festive outfit in one of the designer boutiques, sumptuous gifts or superb festive decorations.
On the Avenue de Monte-Carlo, you'll be spoilt for choice in our Christmas chalets. From Christmas comfort food to unique gift ideas, there's no shortage of festive cheer. This year, you can also put together your own gourmet hampers at the "Monte-Carlo Catering" chalet: salmon, foie gras, chocolates... come and discover our prestigious products to make your festive season a real foodie celebration.
Monaco's Christmas village is also located on the Port Hercule. Traditionally held from early December to early January, it delights young and old alike. An atmosphere worthy of Santa's workshops, mixed with the Monegasque dolce vita, awaits you around the famous quays. Strolling past the chalets, taking a ride on the Ferris wheel or taking part in the activities organised for children are all part of the Monaco Christmas experience.
Did you know that in Monaco there is a sport never seen elsewhere: ice skating at the foot of palm trees? Give it a try at Christmas Market’s rink, a unique place in the world where you can ice skate with a sea view. Put on your skates and repeat your triple axels, the gala will only last until the Christmas Market closes!
At Christmas, Monaco’s illuminations bring a special glow to the Riviera. Marvel at the Place du Casino and let yourself be charmed by the unique light that, from Nice to Cannes, via Monaco, illuminates the Riviera in the heart of winter, on day, evening and night.
Even if Monaco looks like a winter wonderland each year, with beautiful decorations all over the streets, the palaces and the monuments, the Principality turns Christmas Holiday into a sustainable demonstration, by allowing the City Hall’s Events Services to tackle the issue of carbon footprint of illuminations. With recycacle LED, biodegradable materials, innovating designs, and ligthning management made possible by the smart grid in use for the Principality’s electrical network, the Christmas Decorations and Illuminations follow the open and responsable approach advocated by Prince Albert II, who encourages his state to move towards carbon neutrality.
Blending sophistication with eco-conscious design, all around properties, monuments and landscapes, the illuminations of Monaco represent the high value of the local tourism industry. The Stade Nautique, the Jardin des Boulings, the Hôtel de Paris and the Quai des États-Unis shine with a renewed winter spirit. And if you want to discover the real highlight of the event, walk to Casino Square and look up. The 18-meter tree watches over the visitors.
It's the perfect time to enjoy unforgettable moments with friends or family! The Principality's top hotels and restaurants also put on their Sunday best during the holidays. Majestic Christmas trees adorn the lobbies of the Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo and Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort. As for the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, don’t miss its exceptional decorations, which include a tree designed by Chopard. A marvelous sight for adults and children alike !
Discover the timeless GMT-Master II icon, an iconic timepiece designed for travellers, reinvented with a two-tone Cerachrom disc in grey and black ceramic.
Discover the art of spring cooking, brought to you by talented chefs who honour local produce with creative, tasty recipes that reflect the terroir and gastronomic know-how of our regions.
Discover the art of winter cooking, brought to you by talented chefs who honour local produce with creative, tasty recipes that reflect the terroir and gastronomic know-how of our regions.