The Best Nightclubs and Nightlife in Monaco

Le Bar Américain, in Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, is a Monaco institution. There is always live jazz or swing floating around the tables, and new cocktails to sample from a menu that constantly reinvents itself. Away from the principality’s main nightlife pockets, this is the bar to go to if you’re seeking an intimate evening or for a special occasion soirée. A beautiful terrace supplies view of the Mediterranean Sea, or enjoy your evening menu (served until 1am) at the interior bar.

Jimmy’z is arguably the iconic club of Monaco. It’s been delighting party-goers since 1971, and today it’s more popular than ever. The outside space is what makes this venue so enchanting; circular canopies of glass are suspended over open air seating and the floating Summer Bar sits outside on its own lagoon. As the sun goes down, the sound system cranks up and the whole club is bathed in a reddish-pink glow.

Twiga boasts uninterrupted views over the Mediterranean, thanks to its privileged position inside the Grimaldi Forum on the Champions Promenade. By day, it’s a popular restaurant, serving seafood dishes such as Alaskan black cod and spicy tuna ceviche. Come nightfall, it transforms into one of the city’s hottest destinations. Order the Aqua di Latte, a tequila-based cocktail which is livened up with zesty pineapple and passion fruit.

Formula One fans might recognise La Rascasse as the name of the most famous bend of the Monaco Grand Prix track. It’s also the name of one of Monaco’s most popular watering holes. Sip a sundowner on the terrace while listening to live acoustic music or order a shisha pipe with a group of mates. By midnight, the vibe ramps up with DJ sets lasting until the early hours. Expect a more laid-back atmosphere than other bars in Monaco.

For a sunset aperitif, there’s no better spot than Blue Gin, located inside the famous Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel. Take a seat on the terrace – which boasts unobstructed views of the Mediterranean – and toast your friends with a glass of bubbly. There’s also a sushi menu to soak up all the booze, plus a billiards table if you fancy challenging your friends to a game. This well-loved cocktail bar is open until 2am every night, with DJ sets from Wednesday to Saturday.

Brasserie de Monaco, which is located right on the quay at Port Hercule, has been brewing organic beer on site since 2008. Order a pint of their blond beer and soak up the sunshine on their outdoor terrace, or catch the game inside on the giant TV screens. Come for lunch or dinner – they serve hearty classics here, like steak with fries and pizza – and stay on for beers until well after midnight (doors close at 2am). The pub-style feel makes for a casual night out in an otherwise glitzy town.