The Hotel de Paris is perhaps the most famous hotel in the Principality of Monaco. It is here that gala receptions are held and famous guests stay. The legendary hotel, located in the heart of Monte Carlo, has become synonymous with luxury living on the Côte d’Azur.
History of the Hôtel de Paris
The idea to build a fashionable hotel belonged to the first head of SBM — French entrepreneur François Blanc. The famous French architect Charles Garnier was involved in the creation of the Monaco legend. It was he who designed the building of the Paris Opera House and created the incredible Garnier Hall in the Casino de Monaco. The construction and finishing works involved the best craftsmen from all over the world and used the highest quality materials. In 1864 the work was completed and the hotel opened its doors to its first guests. In 1874, the famous cellars were inaugurated and originally served as a bottling point for wine arriving from Bordeaux.
During the Second World War, part of the cellar was bricked up. Some 20,000 valuable vintage vessels of Lafite, Rothschild, Petrus and Cheval Blanc have survived to this day. In addition, during the war years, the hotel’s clients entrusted their fortunes and valuables, which were carefully stored in the cellar rooms. In 1945, the cellars were inaugurated in the presence of Winston Churchill, one of the most famous clients of the Hôtel de Paris.
In October 2014, the hotel underwent a major renovation, with larger rooms, a garden in the courtyard, a rooftop pool, spa, fitness centre and even a small villa with its own private pool. The lobby and the famous Salle Empire have also taken on a more modern look without losing the glamour of the magnificent era. In 2019, after several years of renovation, the Hotel de Paris opened new suites and rooms equipped with the latest technology. The real jewel of the hotel are the exclusive Princesse Grace suites, 983 m2 overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and Prince Rainier III, 830 m2 with a private pool. Pricing for luxury holidays is exclusively on request, with a minimum booking of two nights and 4-5 nights in high season.
The hotel currently has 208 suites, including 41 children’s suites and 7 Diamond rooms.
Famous guests
Many famous guests have stayed at this legendary hotel. Between 1866 and 1870 the Prince of Wales, Alexander Dumas, Napoleon III stayed here. In 1911, the famous theatre and ballet figure Sergei Diaghilev spent his days here, led his troupe and spent his evenings at the Café de Paris. In 1931, Charlie Chaplin presents his legendary film ‘City Lights’. In 1952, Hollywood actor Errol Flynn celebrated his wedding at the Hôtel de Paris. Among the invited guests were Rita Hayworth, Michelle Morgan and Cary Grant. The hotel has been the setting for world-famous films such as GoldenEye (1995), Fatal Beauty (2006), Iron Man 2 (2010) and The Princess of Monaco (2014).
Hotel facilities
The Hôtel de Paris offers everything from luxury brands, to performances by famous musicians. The legendary Bar American is a favourite with hotel guests and locals alike. Live music, a luxurious Art Deco atmosphere, signature cocktails, performances by the world’s best jazz bands and a mesmerising view of the famous Casino Square.
The Louis XV-Alain Ducasse à l’Hôtel de Paris restaurant run by iconic chef Alain Ducasse was honoured with 3 Michelin stars. However, now due to the renovation of the Café de Paris, Salle Empire has temporarily welcomed guests and residents of the Principality during breakfasts, lunches and evening aperitifs.
The panoramic terrace of the Grill restaurant (winner of one Michelin star) is a must-see! The entire Principality of Monaco, from the beach, the Casino Square, where luxury cars are parked as if they were toys, the harbour and the Princely Palace, can be seen in the palm of your hand. The exquisite menu and stunning views have made this restaurant one of the most romantic spots in Monaco.
In 2022, the Hôtel de Paris was given a touch of oriental glamour. The Em Sherif Monte-Carlo restaurant celebrates the traditions of Lebanese cuisine. Everything here has been thought out to the last detail: exquisite cutlery, authentic décor, each plate decorated with calligraphy and various messages.
In the open atrium on the ground floor of the hotel you can enjoy tea and coffee and go on an exclusive shopping spree: it is here that boutiques of famous jewellery brands are located in the luxurious patio.
Guests are given privileges to visit the Principality’s most famous places managed by the Société des Bains de Mer: the Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo Spa, the Casino de Monaco and Monte Carlo beach, where a comfortable shuttle service is available every half hour.
A special time for the whole Principality of Monaco is the legendary series of races, traditionally held in May. During the historic Grand Prix, the electric car race and the Formula 1 round, guests can book exclusive offers at the hotel, including access to the best venues and exclusive terraces, as well as cocktails and dinners.
