Gay Monaco

Monaco may be a microstate, but it is one of, if not the most exclusive location in the world! Monaco is huge on tourism and even has over 50 hotels. However because of its size, there is not necessarily something for every traveler. Most of the tourists that come to Monaco go for the sports and the world famous Le Grand Casino de Monte Carlo. The most popular sports in Monaco are Formula 1 and Rally racing.

The Monaco Grand Prix, one of the most exclusive events in the world, is held annually in the streets of Monaco. There is also the Monte Carlo Rally, which is considered to be one of the toughest racing events in rallying. There is also football and rugby, however those are not as big as racing in Monaco. In addition to the sporting events, Monaco also has its own opera house, symphony orchestra, and ballet company. 

Monaco Gay Scene

Monaco and Monte Carlo do not have a true gay scene and there are no explictly gay or lesbian bars or clubs, but the small microstate still has plenty to offer for LGBTQ travelers. Most of the LGBTQ nightlife is nearby Monaco in Nice, France—a short 20 minute train ride or drive if you rent a car. Many people might choose to stay in either Nice or Monaco and visit both (as well as other parts of the French Riviera).

When to Visit

The French Riviera and surrounding Mediterranean coastline in and around Monaco is beautiful year-round, though it can be chilly in the winter. The best time to visit Monaco is in the shoulder seasons around summer, the spring and fall. s in the spring or fall. The Carnival season in the spring is also really special, as the nearby French city of Nice throws a large celebration.

Monaco Activities & Attractions

As such a small destination, and bordered on three sides by France, and the other just the Mediterranean Coast, there isn't much to do in Monaco (or much of the French Riviera) except enjoy life. Most visitors to Monaco come for the destination's many international events that take place here, most famoulsy the Grand Prix.

Monte Carlo Casino

Likely the biggest tourist attraciton in Monaco, made famous by books and movies (it was the inspiration for Ian Fleming's first James Bond novel, Casino Royale), the Monte Carlo Casino is an architectural delight as well as a buzzing place of activity. The casino houses the Monaco opera and ballet and while it's open to the public, you must dress appropriately (the more glamorous, the better!).

Take a day trip to Nice

Also on the French Riviera, Nice is easy to reach by car or train from Monaco and makes for a great day trip. Besides the beaches along the way, Nice has a thriving LGBTQ bar and nightlife scene, plus some incredible art museums such as the Museum of Modern and Contempoary Art. Many 19th and 20th century artists found beauty and inspiration in the French Riviera between Nice and Monaco, so it's worth taking the time to explore outside the cities to see some of the natural beauty.

Monaco Gay-Friendly Dining

Because Monaco is a luxury destination, you'll find many amazing fine dining restaurants and chefs from around the world serving incredible cuisine. Often times the hotel restaurants are some of the best in Monaco.

Louis XV

This Michelin star restaurant is top of the line and is as high-end as you can get! The restaurant features a world-famous and legendary wine cellar (containing 400,000 bottles of many rare and valuable vintages from around the world). It's as decadent as you would expect from such a high end establishment. 

Cafe de Paris

Cafe de Paris is in the center of Monte Carlo where people go to see and be seen!

Baccarat

For incredible Italian food look no further than this gorgeous restaurant with a unique atmosphere.

Monaco Gay-Friendly Bars & Nightlife

Zelos

This amazing bar has panoramic views and an even more impressive dance floor with people-watching galore.

Jimmy'z

The ultimate nightclub is frequented by the rich and the famous, so be ready for a night you will always remember. DJs generally play electronic music and there's even a Japanese garden on the premises.

Safety

While homosexuality is legal in Monaco, full equality still does not exist in the small country. Same-sex couples are unable to adopt or marry, but the tiny nation is also very welcoming considering it's reliance on tourism. There is little to worry about in Monaco in terms of safety, especially in the five-star hotels and dining options you'll most likely experience.