Fairmont Monte Carlo Review: My Honest Take (2026)
The Fairmont Monte Carlo is an iconic seaside hotel between the Mediterranean and Monaco’s historic center, famous for its rooftop pool, Nobu restaurant, and front-row Grand Prix views. I enjoyed Monaco so much I extended my stay. With fully renovated rooms and rates from around $318/night, it’s the classic Monaco splurge — and worth it for the rooftop alone.
My stay at the Fairmont Monte Carlo was nothing short of lovely. I enjoyed Monaco so much that I extended my stay here! Some highlights:
The Rooftop Pool (Nikki Beach)
Also known as Nikki Beach. Imagine swimming in the pool with the sun shining and views of the mountains and the Mediterranean in the distance. Imagine relaxing on the cabanas listening to the music and soaking up the happy vibes of everyone around you. The good life. Nikki Beach runs seasonally (roughly April to October), while the rooftop pool itself is heated and open year-round.
The Room
My room was cute and gave me major beach/cruise ship vibes. It had the perfect amount of sunlight shining in, plus a patio with a lounge chair where I could enjoy the peaceful garden view. All rooms have private balconies and marble bathrooms — and they’ve been fully renovated, so everything feels fresh.
The Dining
The hotel has several restaurants and I loved eating at all of them:
- Nobu — the Japanese restaurant, which reminded me of home and was comforting after traveling for a while.
- Amù Monte Carlo — the brand-new rooftop restaurant with 360-degree views (this replaced the old Horizon restaurant).
- Lobby Lounge — traditional French cuisine in an elegant setting.
- Nikki Beach — the famous rooftop beach club, open seasonally.
Things to Do
Hang out at the hotel. Beyond the rooftop pool, the Fairmont has a spa, a casino, a shopping mall, and a fitness center onsite. You barely need to leave.
Watch the Grand Prix. The Fairmont has the best seats in the house — the Grand Prix route runs right through the Fairmont Hairpin, the famous U-curve. Some rooms have a perfect view of the race.
Explore Monaco. The hotel is right next to the Monte Carlo casino and walking distance to Larvotto beach. It’s a 40-minute walk to Port de Fontvieille, but the views along the way are so pretty the time flies.
Explore Southern France. The train runs along the coast — Menton is half an hour east, Èze a little over half an hour west. Easy day trips.
Verdict: It’s a cruise ship that doesn’t move — and I mean that as a compliment.
More seaside splurges: my Sheraton Dubrovnik Riviera review and Matachica Resort in Belize.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Fairmont Monte Carlo worth it?
For a Monaco splurge, yes. The rooftop pool with sea views, Nobu, and Grand Prix-front location are hard to beat, rooms are newly renovated, and it holds a 4.4 TripAdvisor rating with a 2026 Travellers’ Choice award. Rates start around $318/night.
Can you watch the Grand Prix from the Fairmont Monte Carlo?
Yes — it’s one of the best spots in Monaco for it. The F1 route runs through the Fairmont Hairpin right by the hotel, and select rooms overlook the race. Book Grand Prix weekend extremely early.
What restaurants are at the Fairmont Monte Carlo?
Nobu (Japanese), Amù Monte Carlo (the new rooftop restaurant), the Lobby Lounge (French), and Nikki Beach (seasonal rooftop beach club, April–October).
