What it is

A discreet alternative to the waterfront palace hotels.

What it isn't

Old-fashioned in the traditional Riviera way

What we think

Don’t let the cypress-lined driveway, classical architecture and Belle Epoque detailing of this 1886 Italianate mansion fool you. This is a hotel shot through with modern style, thanks to a sensual redesign of the interiors by Jacques Garcia (of Paris’s Hôtel Costes fame) and a redo of the pool, terrace and gardens by Karl Lagerfeld. Garcia replaced the lobby’s ceiling with glass panels that flood the space with that Côte d’Azur light; small groupings of amber and gold sofas and armchairs allow for intimate tête-à-tétes. There’s a massive 15th-century tapestry hanging on the wall, and vases hold flower arrangements the size of your luggage. Garcia decked out the 126 rooms in neutral colors, with subtle floral wall hangings, and bathrooms that are all marble and fine wood. The beautifully integrated Spa Metropole by Givenchy (one of only three Givenchy spas in the world) was designed by architect Didier Gomez—between saunas, a crystal hammam, an ice fountain, caldarium and steam showers, the spa embodies the same philosophy of the rest of the hotel: a sincere devotion to absolute pleasure and well-being. The pool area—Lagerfeld’s handiwork—glimmers in the sunshine, surrounded by a larger-than-life mural of toga-clad models. When chillier temperatures come, pool area is enclosed in a luxe tent that keeps guests happy in the sun. There are two dining choices, both run by superstar chef Joël Robuchon: Yoshi is a youthful Japanese restaurant, and Robuchon’s eponymous restaurant offers exceptional French-Med cuisine.

You're here because

You appreciate confident style over flash—and you abhor a crowd.

The Moment

As evening descends over the pool area, the water twinkles with lights as waiters bearing trays of Champagne flutes and hors d’oeuvres. It all feels as decadent as the life-size photographs of toga-clad revelers along the far wall.

Restaurants & Bars

Joel Robuchon Monte-Carlo restaurant – Gastronomic

Yoshi – Japanese cuisine

Lobby Bar – Mediterranean cuisine

Odyssey - Al fresco with fresh gourmet and seasonal dishes

Bar & Lobby

Location

Only a five-minute walk from the Place du Casino, the Métropole is right across the street from the Boulingrins Gardens.