Explore Fontvieille

Fontvieille is the southernmost ward in the Principality of Monaco. It was developed by Italian engineer Gianfranco Gilardini and designed by architect Manfredi Nicoletti, between the 1970s and the 1990s. Wikipedia

Best Time to Visit:

  • April to October:

    • Pleasant Mediterranean climate (18–28°C), perfect for enjoying seaside walks, gardens, and outdoor cafés.

  • November to March:

    • Milder and quieter (10–16°C), with fewer crowds and a relaxed atmosphere.

How to Get There:

  • By Train:

    • From Monaco–Monte Carlo Station, it’s a 15-minute walk or short bus ride to Fontvieille.

  • By Car:

    • Easily accessible via Monaco’s western entrance — plenty of underground parking.

  • By Foot:

    • Reachable from Monaco-Ville via scenic cliffside paths or elevators built into the rock.

  • By Helicopter:

    • Monaco Heliport is located right in Fontvieille, with regular service to and from Nice Airport (7 minutes).

Top Attractions:

  • Fontvieille Marina:

    • A peaceful yacht harbor surrounded by cafés, with beautiful sunset views and fewer tourists than Port Hercule.

  • Princess Grace Rose Garden (Roseraie Princesse Grace):

    • A serene garden with over 300 varieties of roses, created in memory of Princess Grace (Grace Kelly).

  • Stade Louis II:

    • Home of AS Monaco FC — you can catch a football match or tour the stadium.

  • Nouveau Musée National de Monaco – Villa Paloma (nearby):

    • Contemporary art exhibitions in a beautiful villa setting.

  • Monaco Top Cars Collection:

    • A fascinating car museum displaying Prince Rainier III’s personal collection of vintage and rare automobiles.

 

Activities to Do:

  • Take a relaxing stroll around the marina or through the rose gardens.

  • Visit the car museum and enjoy seeing everything from Bugattis to Formula 1 racers.

  • Dine harborside while watching boats and soaking in the calm.

  • Attend a football match at Stade Louis II if you’re in town during a game.

  • Walk to Monaco-Ville for panoramic sea views and historical exploration.

Accommodation:

  • Fontvieille is more residential, but nearby options include:

    • Columbus Monte-Carlo Hotel – boutique luxury hotel overlooking the rose garden and harbor.

    • Apart-hotel stays or serviced residences for longer visits.

  • Monte Carlo and La Condamine (just a few minutes away) offer more hotel variety.

Food and Restaurants:

  • La Salière: Elegant Italian with a view of the marina.

  • Beefbar Monaco: Trendy, upscale steakhouse with a modern vibe.

  • Graziella: Cozy Italian trattoria popular with locals.

  • Cafés and bakeries around the port and Esplanade Rainier III offer great coffee and light bites.

Local Culture:

  • Fontvieille offers a quieter, more residential and modern side of Monaco.

  • It’s clean, safe, and spacious — perfect for travelers who want to escape the flash and crowds of Monte Carlo.

  • Locals enjoy jogging, walking, and cycling along the promenade and through the parks.

  • The presence of museums, gardens, and sports gives Fontvieille a well-rounded cultural feel.