Thanks to its stunning location and vibrant events, Monaco is a fabulous year-round destination. Indeed, it’s why so many people choose to buy property here and call this place home.
But, while many people view the Principality as a summer destination, there are ample Monaco events in winter to keep everyone entertained too. Indeed, once the heat of the summer has passed in Monaco and the crowds have dissipated, you’ll find that discovering this glitzy city state during the winter is a more relaxed affair.
Additionally, if you’re wondering how to get to Monaco, then worry not. With Nice Airport less than a 10-minutes’ drive away and just a couple of minutes by helicopter, enjoying the best Monaco events during the winter season is easy.
So, if you are visiting or already live in Monaco and are wondering what to do in Monaco in winter, here are just a few of the best Monaco events to look forward to.
Best Monaco events in winter
Head to the open-air ice rink
Get your skates on at Monaco’s open-air ice rink. Every year, the State Nautique Rainier III is transformed by the Municipal Service Sports and Associations into a fabulous skating ring for Monaco’s winter season, offering one of the top Monaco events in winter. The spectacle includes the main rink, in addition to a smaller sized rink ideal for little ones. Enjoy go-karting on ice at night, and don’t miss the ice show, this year scheduled for Saturday, December 22.
Visit the Monte Carlo Opera
For a spectacular evening amidst glamorous surroundings head to the Monte Carlo Opera located in the iconic Casino de Monte Carlo, a must-do Monaco event. Built in 1878, the opera house boasts a sumptuous red and gold interior. Here you’ll find a wonderful roster of concerts and productions, including opera, ballet, and musical events. Don’t forget to check out the Monaco Jazz Festival, which is hosted here every November. If you’re looking at what to do in Monaco, then don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy a show in this opulent setting.
Explore the Monaco Christmas Village
Get into the Christmas spirit at Monaco’s Christmas Village. Organised annually by the Mairie de Monaco this fabulous Monaco event is held at Port Hercule and embraces the magic of the Christmas season. The event boasts chalets, rides and stalls selling delicious regional specialities. Beautifully decorated, the Christmas Village truly heralds in the Christmas season in Monaco. A must attend Monaco event during the winter season.
Discover the magic of Le Chemin des Creches
This magical nativity trail is a great way to stretch your legs and explore Monaco during the winter season. The Chemin des Creches is a wonderful nativity trail, which includes nativity scenes displayed in bespoke chalets and buildings throughout the Principality and is a popular Monaco event during the festive season. Follow the trail and discover these wonderful displays while exploring hidden parts of Monaco – all without the summer crowds.
Enjoy a refreshing dip at the annual Christmas swim
Join hundreds of others and enjoy a refreshing dip in the Mediterranean Sea this winter in Monaco. A popular Monaco event, the swim takes place off Larvotto Beach, Monaco’s only public beach, on Christmas eve. Many of the swimmers get into the festive spirit by donning Christmas hats and red bathing costumes. Swim enthusiast Prince Albert II of Monaco is a regular participant.
Ring in the New Year in style!
It’s no surprise that in one of the wealthiest destinations in the world that there is no shortage of glamorous things to do in order to celebrate the New Year. Many of Monaco’s hotels, restaurants and bars put on lavish New Year celebrations, making New Year a wonderful Monaco event. Some of Monaco’s glitziest destitutions include Jimmy’z Club, a celebrity favourite, and Buddha Bar Monte Carlo, although you are guaranteed a truly fantastic time wherever you choose to celebrate in the city state.
