Monte Carlo is more known for its casinos, superyachts and royal shenanigans than for its music scene, but that’s not to say there aren’t spectacular live music acts to be found. Whether you’re looking for a sophisticated jazz lounge with a panoramic view over the Mediterranean, the deep house beats of a famous DJ in an exotic Japanese garden or a rock band belting out old favourites at an Irish bar, Monaco will deliver.
Concerts and Festivals
There are also the music events to look out for. A blistering line-up of famous acts will be performing at the Monte Carlo Sporting Summer Festival in July and August, including Pharrell Williams, Lady Gaga, Santana, Johnny Hallyday and Lenny Kravitz. La Salle des Etoiles (The Room of Stars) concert hall at the Sporting Monte Carlo venue will also be host to a programme of big-name acts throughout the year, so keep your eye on the program.
If you are an opera fan, it is a true Monegasque experience to get out the tux or evening gown and attend the opera at the grand La Salle Garnier theatre- the jewel in the crown of the Monaco Casino. There is also a busy calendar of classical concerts and ballets at the various plush theatres of Monaco; see the event program here.
World Music
World music more to your fancy? The Buddha Bar has sold millions of CD’s with its unique world music mixes; enjoy the music, innovative Asian-fusion menu marvel at the incredible oriental décor and giant Buddhas in this lavishly converted old theatre.
Jazz and Blues
There’s nothing quite like sipping a Martini in Le Bar Americain in the Hotel de Paris, listening to the jazz music and looking out across the sea. This elegant jazz lounge is justifiably famous and not to be missed by a jazz lover visiting Monaco.
Later on, don’t miss the opportunity to visit Black Legend, an intimate Motown-inspired late night music club playing blues, jazz and black soul music in a décor of leather couches and soft red lighting.
If you want an elegant evening listening to jazz by the sea under the stars, why not go to Note Bleue, a sophisticated beach club with live jazz music playing to an appreciative crowd.
Live Bands
You’ll find acoustic acts and live bands playing at the Monaco Brasserie, McCarthy’s Irish pub and Rascasse, one of Monaco’s liveliest late night bars.
Nightclubs
As the evening progresses, find your way to Jimmy’z, the most exclusive nightclub of them all. Set in a magical Japanese garden with lounges sunk into a lagoon, this club has a dance floor inside and draws big name DJs and acts, as well as an A-list crowd.
The other late night club of note is Living Room. This premier Monegasque clubs has DJ’s until dawn in a sophisticated setting that generally draws a slightly older crowd. Can be hard to get in, but once you do, the decadent décor and soft lighting will make you want to stay a while. There’s also a piano bar and an outdoor terrace.
If you fancy a night dancing by the water, Life Club is an extremely tempting proposition. A beach club during the day, with its own floating deck set up like the deck of a superyacht, it transforms into a beautiful spot for a cocktail at sunset and then belts on with DJ’s until dawn.
No matter what your taste, Monaco has the live music to match it, particularly during the summer months. To find out more about making the most of Monaco, visit our bars, jazz clubs and nightclubs pages.
