A place in the sun

Spanning less than a square mile, Monaco has long been synonymous with hedonism and beauty.

But despite a reputation as a playground for the rich and famous, a wealth of elegant venues and unforgettable experiences help make it a glamourous (and green) setting for events of all sizes.

For Sam Robson, group events director at TAG, 'surprising' Monaco ticks the box for conferences, incentives and celebrations alike "because there is so much more than you expect" – meaning it's great for challenging clients' preconceptions.

"Yes, there is the upmarket luxury glitz and glamour but look past this and you also get a green and sustainable location, a super-supportive convention bureau, hotels collaboration for large events, great DMCs plus the amazing Grimaldi Forum for conferences and exhibitions – all with sunshine, sea view and a bit of Monte Carlo magic," she explains.

Its strengths encompass tech, medical knowledge and sustainability, the latter supported by Visit Monaco's new online carbon calculator to assess the impact of your event, part of an ambitious goal to reduce greenhouse gases by 55 per cent by 2030. Steps have been taken to create a smart city centred around a connected transport system while Monacotech, a start-up incubator nurturing the disruptors of the future, offers support for forward-thinking firms.

Monaco "stands out as one of the most accessible event destinations globally", says Jemma Peers, MD of Top Banana.  "As a destination, it can be both glamorous and incentivising attending events there, with an outstanding name and reputation that people know and associate with luxury, offering an abundance of show-stopping experiences.

"What's really exciting about Monaco is all the incredible expansion work taking place, making this a truly experience-led destination and perfect for the events industry. For its boutique size, it offers great hotel stock and excellent conferencing facilities."

Just make sure to plan ahead, she cautions: "you need a good lead time when it comes to availability, this can be limited due to the Monaco Yacht Show and Formula 1 events."

Where to meet

The Grimaldi Forum is Monaco's main convention centre; a funky, modern space on the shores of the Mediterranean, it will extend its footprint by 50 per cent by 2025 to add an additional 6,000 sqm. The new spaces will be divided into three zones: the new Diaghilev Gallery exhibition space, the sun-soaked Carré and Patio Rooms ideal for either exhibits or meetings, and the Hall Pinède, another modular set-up capable of hosting dinner for 1,650. The development will also include extensive outdoor space – expect all eyes to be on the Ravel terrace with its impressive sea views.

Elsewhere, planners will be spoiled for choice: check out the atrium at the Casino de Monte-Carlo for a reception for 400 guests, or the historic Marché de La Condamine offers a unique spot for cocktails for up to 500. If it's scale you're after then the expansive Espace Fontvieille is ideal for everything from product launches to trade shows; the nearby Espace Léo Ferré can accommodate up to 2,082 people. Or for a jaw-dropping gala event for 450, check out the Salle Empire at the iconic Hotel de Paris Monte-Carlo.

Where to stay

Opulent architecture is everywhere you look, and in such a bijou city everything is within walking distance of the main venues. It’s home to four five-star hotels: the above-mentioned 208-room Hotel de Paris Monte-Carlo, Hotel Hermitage Monte-Carlo - home to the stunning Salle Belle Epoque for up to 300 along with 277 bedrooms - and the boutique Monte-Carlo Beach, as well as the Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo.

In total, there are 2,500 rooms and suites: four-star options include the Fairmont Monte Carlo (currently refurbishing its 600 rooms), Le Méridien Beach Plaza, Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort and Port Palace hotel, while Hotel Ambassador, Hotel Columbus Monte-Carlo, Hotel Miramar and Novotel Monte-Carlo each boast three stars.

What’s new

• Don't miss the brand new One Monte-Carlo conference centre, a chic purpose-built venue with nine rooms, the biggest of which can host 300.

• It's next to the legendary Place du Casino which has been completely redesigned; in an intriguing touch, the 20 new palm trees can be moved to make space for concerts or festivals.

• Opening later this year, the newly designed Café de Paris has had two floors added to accommodate a new Amazonico restaurant with a roof terrace that's sure to impress.

• The principality's largest hotel, the Fairmont Monte Carlo, opened a new ballroom in November which can cater for 1,500 people for cocktails; a new swimming pool is set to be ready for the summer.

• The Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo is set to close for several months from September 2024 to completely renovate its 126 guest rooms but the hotel’s restaurants will remain open, including the new fine dining establishment, Les Ambassadeurs by Christophe Cussac.

• New restaurant openings include Pavyllon Monte-Carlo, a restaurant by Yannick Alléno, at the Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo, and Giacomo on Larvatto beach with a picturesque 80-seat terrace.