Luxury Shopping in Glamorous Monaco

Golden Circle & Designer Labels, Diamonds & Gold in Monte Carlo

Jul 15, 2009

Few cities in the world can boast so many luxury boutiques in such a small area, just two square kilometres including the super glamorous district of Monte Carlo.

The city state of Monaco has been dubbed a millionaires’ playground but visitors from all walks of life come to enjoy the shopping spree of a lifetime, duty free for many. Participating outlets have a sign in the window. The official currency is the euro.

Small as it is, the principality has ample parking space and good public transport but the best way to explore is on foot. It takes an average person just 56 minutes to walk around but with temptation in every shop window and so much more inside, it’s best to allow plenty of time.

The most prestigious labels in Monaco are found at the heart of town, around the Golden Circle which includes Avenue Monte Carlo, Avenue des Beaux Arts and Allées Lumières. Christian Dior, Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Gucci, Prada, Saint Laurent Rive Gauche, Hermès and many more, all the top designers are gathered here. It’s the perfect place to browse the latest haute-couture collections, from glitzy shoes to day or evening wear, whether to buy or to dream.

Top beauty salons, such as the Carita Institute, complement Monaco’s glamorous image and there are numerous perfume and cosmetic shops. Von Stern is a firm favourite for its delicate Parfum Dream de Monte Carlo, with top notes of bergamot, mandarin, jasmine and rose.

Diamonds and Gold in Monte Carlo, Repossi Jeweller

Place du Casino and the neighbouring streets offer an impressive line-up of jewellery shops. Brands include Cartier, Bulgari, Chopard and Van Cleef. Turin born Repossi, official supplier of Prince Rainier III, finds much inspiration in India and there are David Antiquités Bijoux, Boulevard des Moulins, the exquisite Bijoux Burma or Création Love de Monte-Carlo, in all over 60 exclusive jewellers.

This is also a favourite haunt for art and antique collectors who will find old masters paintings and priceless furniture in the Galerie Ribolzi.

More interior décor and ready to wear are available on the Princess Grace Avenue and Larvotto beaches, with a further 80 boutiques in the Metropole Gallery facing the Casino Gardens. Monaco-Ville, the old town around the palace, sells all kinds of souvenirs, from modest trinkets to luxury items.

La Condamine and harbour area claim 200 boutiques as well as a traditional market. The most popular shopping streets are rue Millo, Grimaldi, Terrazzani and the pedestrian Princess Caroline zone. Affordable quality items, from clothes to furniture, can be purchased in the Fontvieille Shopping Centre.

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