A friendly seaside resort with a splash of old-school glamour, Cap d'Ail has several beaches ranging from fine sandy beaches with elegant restaurants, to remote and rocky coves.
Cap d'Ail
Friendly seaside resort with a splash of old school glamour
Cap d'Ail is the last town on the French Riviera before you cross the border into Monaco, and there is definitely an overflow of wealth and style. Easily accessible by bus or train from Nice, you can while away the days on the beach or take a day trip to Monte-Carlo. The two towns are separated by a port that hosts a number of festivals and regattas during the summer where you can see some seriously swanky yachts.
There are a number of public parks and gardens, our favourite being Parc Sacha Guitry for its impressive views of the sea. Various guided tours are available through the town and along the seafront - enquire at the tourist office for details and prices.
Events in Monaco
Events in Monaco
See all Events in Monaco-
Beaujolais Nouveau 
Beaujolais Nouveau
The new Beaujolais has arrived!
The third Thursday in November is when this year's Beaujolais hits the shelves and is cause for celebration across France.
-
Visit website 
Fête de la Musique
Music festival celebrated across France on the summer solstice
The Fête de la Musique is a celebration that takes place every summer solstice on 21 June in cities, towns and villages across France.
History & Culture in Monaco
There have been many famous visitors over the years, from Greta Garbo to Winston Churchill. The fine Belle Epoque architecture recalls the heyday of the early 20th century when the Riviera was the place to be for aristocrats and film stars.
Sights & Attractions in Monaco
Villa Camelias is a grand Belle Epoque mansion reflecting the glorious past of Cap d'Ail through a fascinating collection of old photographs. It also houses an art collection of Ramiro Arrue, an artist who represented the Basque country through drawings, paintings and enamels. The villa gardens are a cool and shady oasis, overrun with olives, carobs, mimosas, ginko biloba, Judas trees, bougainvillea, camellias, fragrant jasmine, iris, tomatoes, roses, geraniums and many other flowers. The villa is open Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays and entry costs 9€.
Sights in Monaco
See all Sights in Monaco-
Visit website 
Palais Princier de Monaco
Grand residence of the Prince of Monaco
The grand palace of the Prince of Monaco was built in 1215 by the Genoese and has been transformed into one of the most luxurious residences in the world.
-
Visit website 
Jardin Animalier, Monaco Ville
Zoological gardens close to the Palais Princier in Monaco
These zoological gardens were established in 1954 and house a collection of over 250 species of animals, from hippos to black panthers and lemurs.
-
Visit website 
Le Fort Antoine dans La Ville
18th century fort converted into a modern open air theatre
This fort was built in the 18th century with a beautiful promontory position overlooking the bay.
-
Visit website 
Trophee d'Auguste (Trophy of Augustus), La Turbie
Roman monument dominating the town of La Turbie
Built in the year 6 BC, the trophy of Augustus honoured Octavius, Caesar's nephew and future emperor under the name of Augustus, who had conquered the Alpine tribes.
Read more about Trophee d'Auguste (Trophy of Augustus), La Turbie
-
Visit website 
Oceanographic Museum
Ocean explorations of Prince Albert I and aquarium.
Sovereign Prince, scholar and explorer, Albert I of Monaco, devoted his life to the Principality forces as well as scientific investigation. This museum showcases his passion.
-
Visit website 
Saint Nicholas Cathedral of Monaco
Monaco's most important religious building, perched atop the Rock of Monaco
The cathedral of Monaco is dedicated to the Virgin, although popularly known as Saint Nicholas because of the church that previously stood on its site. The current building was built in the 19th century.
Beaches in Monaco
Cap d'Ail only has two proper beaches but they are both lovely - and very different. Plage Marquet is by the port, right on the border with Monaco. It is a large sandy beach with tennis courts, volleyball, sailing club, watersports, parking and a couple of restaurants. It is definitely the easiest in terms of access and is very family-friendly. The more adventurous will love Plage Mala though, a secluded little cove accessed by a hidden staircase with many steps. It has two very good (if slightly pricey) restaurants and the possibility to hire paddle boards and pedalos. Access is not easy and is probably impossible for those in wheelchairs and there is no parking but if you can find it, it's worth the effort. There are unsupervised coves for swimming all along the coastal path but the waves can be strong here, so only attempt it if you are a confident swimmer. Visit our Beach Guide to reach more about beaches in Cap d'Ail and the surrounding area.
Beaches in Monaco
See all Beaches in Monaco-
Plage Marquet Beach, Cap d'Ail 
Plage Marquet Beach, Cap d'Ail
A popular beach close to the Monaco border
Plage Marquet is the most easterly of the Cap d’Ail beaches and is right on the border with Monaco.
-
Plage Gramaglia Beach, Cap d'Ail 
Plage Gramaglia Beach, Cap d'Ail
Rocky cove suited to strong swimmers - ladder access to the sea
Located just beneath Restaurant La Pinede along the Sentier Littoral, Plage Gramaglia is more a series of rocky coves than a traditional beach.
-
Plage Mala Beach, Cap d'Ail 
Plage Mala Beach, Cap d'Ail
A find pebbly beach with a safe swimming area
This is a small and secluded beach with two excellent restaurants and safe swimming. Plage Mala is a little haven.
-
Plage du Larvotto Beach 
Plage du Larvotto Beach
Stretch of man-made beach at the east end of Monaco's coastline
Larvotto is the principality of Monaco's most popular sandy beach and the main one with free public access. Covered in smooth imported fine gravel this man-made beach is made up of both private and public areas of beach.
-
La Plage d'Eze Beach, Eze 
La Plage d'Eze Beach, Eze
A great beach for swimmers and watersports fans
Eze-Sur-Mer has only one beach but it’s a lovely one; great for swimming as the water comes very high up the beach and it's in a calm bay.
-
Plage de la Petite Afrique Beach, Beaulieu Sur Mer 
Plage de la Petite Afrique Beach, Beaulieu Sur Mer
A fine pebble beach with lots of facilities and parking
Plage de la Petite Afrique is, in our humble opinion, one of the best beaches on the French Riviera, surrounded by stunning scenery with plenty of facilities.
Read more about Plage de la Petite Afrique Beach, Beaulieu Sur Mer
Dining in Monaco
Cap d'Ail has a selection of good restaurants, most specialising in fresh seafood and a high-end version of typical Provencal cuisine. You'll find most of them around Square Beaverbrook in the centre of the town, at the port, or along the seafront - if you want to enjoy a romantic meal with an exceptional view then take the coastal path and find La Pinede near to the train station. If you want to dine with a sea view then there is the highly recommended Restaurante La Pinede right on the seafront, or a choice of two lovely restaurants at Plage Mala.
Restaurants in Monaco
See all Restaurants in Monaco-
Enquire 
Horizon Rooftop Restaurant & Champagne Bar
Restaurant & bar at the Fairmont Monte-Carlo with 360° views
Views over the Principality's legendary Opera House, Prince's Palace, and Casino - against a backdrop the azure splendour of the Mediterranean.
-
Enquire 
Hostellerie Jerome Restaurant, La Turbie
Michelin starred restaurant in the heart of La Turbie
Chef Bruno Cirino prepares Mediterranean dishes that carefully showcase the flavours of local produce. A light and creative cuisine that you can enjoy in their elegant dining room with vaulted ceilings and frescoes or their shaded terrace overlooking the sea.
-
Enquire 
Yoshi Restaurant
Modern Japanese Restaurant in Monte-Carlo
Yoshi Restaurant is located in Hotel Métropole Monte-Carlo and holds one Michelin star.
-
Le Grill Restaurant 
Le Grill Restaurant
Mediterranean restaurant with stunning views
Situated in the luxury Hotel de Paris, this restaurant serves modern Mediterranean cuisine qith great panoramic views of the sea.
-
Enquire 
La Maree Restaurant
Seafood restaurant overlooking the impressive Monaco port
'Fish chic' restaurant in Port Hercule that is located on the sixth floor of the Port Palace Hotel, overlooking the marina.
-
Le Vistamar Restaurant 
Le Vistamar Restaurant
Gourmet seafood restaurant in Monte-Carlo
Orchestrated by Chef Joël Garault, this chic restaurant offers delightful gourmet seafood.
Nightlife in Monaco
Bars & Clubs in Monaco
See all Bars & Clubs in Monaco-
Crystal Bar & Terrace 
Crystal Bar & Terrace
If you’re the type to like champagne & cigars, this one’s for you
Sit back in this lounge and take in the magnificent views across the Mediterranean, Port Hercule and the Rock of Monaco, while luxuriating in the atmosphere of exclusivity.
-
Bar Americain 
Bar Americain
Views to the world famous casino at this classic venue in Monte-Carlo
The Hôtel de Paris' fantastic cocktail bar and lounge oozes old world class. It has a cosy, elegant low-key ambiance, with big leather armchairs, sea views and live music from Doctor Gabs' piano.
-
Enquire 
Saphir 24 Bistro Lounge, Restaurant & Bar
Bistro, lounge and bar at the Fairmont Monte-Carlo Hotel
The relaxed atmosphere and sublime vista make it the perfect spot to enjoy, 24 hours a day, according to your rhythm and fancy...
-
Brasserie du Cafe de Paris 
Brasserie du Cafe de Paris
Café de Paris is the most popular venue for a “rendez-vous”
With Belle Epoque style windows, recalling the old Parisian bistros, the building creates a bright and friendly atmosphere.
-
Enquire
Horizon Rooftop Restaurant & Champagne Bar
Restaurant & bar at the Fairmont Monte-Carlo with 360° views
Views over the Principality's legendary Opera House, Prince's Palace, and Casino - against a backdrop the azure splendour of the Mediterranean.
-
Enquire 
Brasserie de Monaco
Originally founded in 1905 this bar brew their own Monaco beers
After stopping brewing for many years, Prince Albert II threw his weight behind this local brewery a few years ago to start producing their own beer again.
Things to do in Monaco
Cap d’Ail has a beautiful coastline with a path running along it that connects its two loveliest beaches, Plage Mala and Plage Marquet. The path is an easy stroll past luxurious villas and rocky volcanic outcrops, you can read more about it on our hiking routes page.
The port of Cap d’Ail is right on the border with Monaco; it hosts regattas and sea festivals during the summer months and is a hive of activity for watersports enthusiasts. Visit Cap Dive to explore the underwater world of the Mediterranean - they take anyone over the age of 8 years for beginner through to advanced scuba dive trips and also offer snorkelling. Sunsation Taxi Boat (on the port in front of the Hotel Marriott) offers you the chance to try wake surfing, wake boarding, snorkelling, doughnut rides and more. The port also has a helipad, from which you can be in either Monaco or Nice in just 6 minutes. If you need somewhere to park your yacht (and, let’s face it, who doesn’t?), the port has 257 places and can accommodate boats of up to 60m.
Things To Do in Monaco
See all Things To Do in Monaco-
Visit website 
One Week Yacht Charter Itineraries
Specialised yacht charter itineraries to truly experience the French Riviera, leaving from Monaco
Experience the French Riviera your way with 212 yachts, using one of their sample itineraries or with a specialised itinerary created just for you, based on what you like and don't like, as well as their own expertise.
-
Enquire 
A Day in Monaco Tour
7hr driver guided tour of Monaco and the surrounding area
Sit back and relax on this guided tour of the French Riviera.
-
Cannes & Islands Luxury Motor Boat Trip 
Cannes & Islands Luxury Motor Boat Trip
7-10 Person Boat trip exploring Cannes & the Islands
This is a coastal trip departing from Monaco to explore the gems of the Cote d'Azur with opportunities to swim and snorkel in the glistening Mediterranean.
-
Cannes & St Tropez Luxury Motor Boat Trip 
Cannes & St Tropez Luxury Motor Boat Trip
7-10 Person Boat trip along the Cote d'Azur
Departing from Monaco, on this trip you'll enjoy a full day of cruising along the French Riviera, visiting Monaco to Cannes to Saint Tropez and the beautiful bays and coves.
-
Enquire 
Private Sightseeing Tours
French Riviera tailor made & group tours
A wide selection of guides and tours of the French Riviera covering famous destination such as Monaco, Antibes, Cannes, Nice and Saint-Tropez. You can also experience the Italian Markets in San Remo and Ventimiglia as well as enjoy wine tasting and culinary tours.
-
Sunset Luxury Motor Boat Trip 
Sunset Luxury Motor Boat Trip
7-10 Person romantic cruise along the French Rivera with champagne
This two hour cruise departs from Monaco to take you on a stunning sunset cruise on the Cote d'Azur.
Yachts & Sailing in Monaco
-
Visit website 
Andreas L Superyacht - 60m Yacht Charter for up to 12 people
Experience refined luxury on board Andreas L, a striking 60-metre motor yacht built by Benetti. Delivered in 2008 and extensively refitted in 2018, she combines elegant design with modern comforts, making her a standout choice for cruising the Mediterranean.
Read more about Andreas L Superyacht - 60m Yacht Charter for up to 12 people
-
Visit website 
Ava Motor Yacht - 40m Yacht Charter for up to 49 people
Motor yacht Ava is a timeless 40 metre yacht based in Monaco year-round. Making her an excellent choice for discovering the French Riviera in style. She is one of the rare yachts that can cruise with more than 12 guests on the Riviera, being able to take up to 49 guests cruising. So she is a popular choice for spoiling all your friends with a yacht charter or for impressing associates for a corporate event.
Read more about Ava Motor Yacht - 40m Yacht Charter for up to 49 people
-
Visit website 
Winning Streak Superyacht - 28.14m Yacht Charter for up to 12 people
The 28.14m motor yacht Winning Streak is a sleek Sunseeker build that delivers a perfect blend of comfort, style and performance. Designed for both entertaining and relaxing, she is an excellent choice for spending quality time with family and friends or hosting guests at sea.
Read more about Winning Streak Superyacht - 28.14m Yacht Charter for up to 12 people
-
Enquire 
Vitters 55m Sailing Yacht
A magnificent sailing yacht boasting four large staterooms, an open, airy main salon and a comfortable and elegant interior.
-
Enquire 
Alloy Yachts 54.3m Sailing Yacht
Designed for Ocean sailing, Tiara is exceptionally stable at sea, with full sails and a spacious interior.
-
Enquire 
Benetti 60m Motor Yacht
Launched in spring 2008, the 60m ANDREAS L is a yacht of unquestionable pedigree. She draws on the owner's experience and knowledge of large yachts in her unparalleled design and comfort.
Watersports in Monaco
Watersports in Monaco
See all Watersports in Monaco-
Enquire 
Aviron Monaco - Rowing Club
Originating from the Regatta Society set up in 1888, now the Aviron Monaco
A rowing club that supports athletes and amateurs in Monaco to reach their goals, whether they are leisure based or competitive.
-
Enquire 
Club d'Exploration Sous Marine de Monaco Diving School
C.E.S.M.M. is ready to help you discover the underwater wonders
This historical club was created in 1951, a time when diving was made more popular thanks to Captain Cousteau and his famous red cap.
Read more about Club d'Exploration Sous Marine de Monaco Diving School
-
Enquire 
Private Aqua Fit Classes
Private aqua fit sessions at your villa in Monaco for all ages and abilities
Aqua Fit sessions delivered at your villa pool by qualified, insured and highly experienced instructors.
-
Enquire 
Centre de Sauvetage Aquatique de Monaco
Aquatic Rescue Centre Monaco offers diving, snorkeling, water rescue & civic aid
This facility offers an excellent opportunity for all those wishing to train and/or specialise in aquatic and underwater areas.
-
Enquire 
Yacht Club de Monaco
Founded in 1953 this yacht club is an integral part of Monaco
Many of the world’s most prestigious private yachts fly the Yacht Club de Monaco’s burgee, testimony to its unique position on the international yachting scene.
-
Enquire 
Private Aqua Yoga Classes
Private aqua yoga sessions at your villa in Monaco for all ages and abilities
Aqua Yoga sessions delivered at your villa pool by qualified, insured and highly experienced instructors.
Holiday Rentals in Monaco
Holiday Rentals in Monaco
See all Holiday Rentals in Monaco-
Enquire 
Palazzo Leonardo Apartment
This most luxurious building makes up the Southern tip of the Principality. It sits directly on the waterfront, with over 180 degrees of sea view.
-
Enquire 
Monaco Condamine Apartment
Charming one bedroom apartment located in the Condamine area close to all Port restaurants and shops, with views over Place D'Armes.
-
Enquire 
Le Metropole Apartment
This apartment is close to the Casino Place, set in a prestigious building with pool, spa, fitness , 24h concierge and a room service.
-
Enquire 
La Vigie Villa
Set on a promontory on the same cape as Monte-Carlo Beach, the Villa has a magnificent panoramic view of the Mediterranean, the Principality of Monaco and Roquebrune-Cap-Martin Bay.
-
Enquire 
Les Abeilles Apartment
Modern apartment benefiting from magnificent sea view, superbly located, just minutes from the beach and Carré d'Or.
-
Enquire 
Park Palace Apartment
At the heart of the ''Golden Square", set within one of the most prestigious building in the Principality with indoor pool, fitness, sauna and 24h security service, this 2 bedroom apartment enjoys pleasant views of the gardens and the city.
Hotels in Monaco
There is a small selection of hotels, from budget to luxury, and all at competitive prices when compared to Monaco.
Hotels in Monaco
See all Hotels in Monaco-
Check Booking.com 
Fairmont Monte Carlo Hotel
One of the largest luxury hotel's in Europe
The Fairmont Monte Carlo hotel is a unique four-star luxury resort. The hotel is one of the largest in Europe with its 602 guest rooms, residences and suites, two restaurants, a bar and a new pool space on the roof which integrates a contemporary touch.
-
Check Booking.com 
Columbus Monte-Carlo Curio Collection by Hilton Hotel
Comfortable modern hotel with pool, gym, beauty and massage treatments
The Columbus hotel's style is Riviera chic, where beautifully glamorous and barefoot elegance sit easily side by side. The service is graceful, genuinely friendly and always attentive. The feeling is cool, exclusive and laid back. An excellent choice.
Read more about Columbus Monte-Carlo Curio Collection by Hilton Hotel
-
Check Booking.com 
Hotel de Paris Hotel
Monaco's most luxurious hotel with everything from sea views to a spa
Elegant and exclusive hotel in the centre of Monaco, ideally located right in front of the casino.
-
Check Booking.com 
Metropole Monte-Carlo Hotel
Elegant and luxurious hotel in the heart of Monte-Carlo
In 2004, the Hôtel Metropole Monte-Carlo was refurbished to keep it in tune with its time, but has kept all its spiritual qualities to uphold its concept of luxury.
-
Check Booking.com 
Monte-Carlo Bay Resort & Hotel
4 star luxury in this relaxed & luxurious sea front resort
In a relaxed yet sophisticated ambiance, this hotel offers you a whole new experience of a legendary destination.
-
Check Booking.com 
Le Chateau de la Chevre d'Or Hotel, Eze
Chic hotel with stunning views, Michelin starred dining & spa facilities
Boasting remarkable sea views of St-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, this luxurious hotel is listed among the 500 World's Best Hotels.
How to get to Monaco
Access to Cap d’Ail from Nice is very easy, either take the train (direction Vintimille) or hop on the 100 bus.
Transfers for Monaco
See all Transfers for Monaco-
Visit website 
Private Airport Transfers
Nice Airport to Monaco from €187 per vehicle one-way (weekend rate)
With years of Alpine transfer experience through its sister brand, this private airport transfer service brings reliable, professional travel to the Côte d'Azur, with trained, English-speaking drivers who know the local area. Comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles, including Mercedes models and spacious people carriers, offer Wi-Fi and complimentary mineral water, while airport meet and greet, flight and traffic monitoring, free child seats and clear pricing help make your journey easier. With automated pick-up reminders, door-to-door service and twenty-four-hour summer telephone support, you can arrange your transfer with greater peace of mind.
-
Enquire 
Helicopter Charter Flights
Luxury helicopter transfers to the French Riviera & the French Alps
Heli Securite offer transfers on a helicopter from the airport to your yacht or various destinations in and around the Cannes area, St Tropez and Monaco. In addition to this they also service all of the main French ski resorts from their base in Courchevel.
-
Enquire 
Helicopter Airport Transfers & Scenic Flights
Monaco - Nice Helicopter Shuttles, plus French Riviera Scenic Flights
Created in 1976 this company has grown and has now transported well over 100,000 passengers. They have a fleet of 12 craft to meet client demands.
Read more about Helicopter Airport Transfers & Scenic Flights
-
Enquire 
Helicopter Transfers & Scenic Flights
Helicopter charter company based in Monaco with over 25 years experience
With a long history and experience in the VIP transport industry this company is proud of its personal and high-quality services.
-
Enquire 
Private Jet & Helicopter Transfers
Aircraft & helicopter charter company based at Nice Airport in the South of France
With an International fleet of jets and helicopters based across Europe it is quick and easy to get a private charter flight for business, pleasure or an airport transfer.
Property For Sale in Monaco
Property for Sale in Monaco
See all Property for Sale in Monaco-
Visit website
Apartment for Sale | bsm260481
New Four-Bedroom Apartment – Within Walking Distance of the Beaches and Monaco
-
Visit website
Apartment for Sale | bsm260480
Penthouse Apartment with Panoramic Sea Views
-
Visit website
Villa for Sale | bsm260461
Stunning contemporary villa with panoramic sea views
-
Visit website
Apartment for Sale | bsm260476
Exceptional New Apartment Within Walking Distance of the Beaches and Monaco
-
Visit website
Apartment for Sale | bsm260495
Prestigious Apartment with Panoramic Sea Views
-
Visit website 
Apartment for Sale | BSM260426
High ceilings and a terrace with panoramic views
