While Monaco dazzles with its glitz and grandeur, its size means it won't take long for you to run out of places to visit. If you have time to spare, you should consider the delightful French cities that surround the principality. These French Riviera towns offer their own distinct allure.
From Belle Époque seaside resorts to medieval hilltop villages, these neighboring cities invite visitors to discover the quieter, more textured side of Côte d'Azur sophistication. Here are four French gems that surround Monaco, each worthy of a visit in its own right.
Beausoleil - Monaco's Elegant Shadow
Perched directly above Monaco, Beausoleil is often mistaken for part of the principality, and for good reason. Taking a casual walk north of Casino Square, you could end up in Beausoleil without realizing you've just gone from one country to another. This Belle Époque enclave clings to the slopes of Mont des Mules, offering panoramic views over Monaco's skyline, harbor, and beyond.
Beausoleil's architecture, reminiscent of Paris' Haussmann style, lends it a stately character, while its open-air markets and charming staircases contribute to a more relaxed, residential feel. Visitors can stroll along Boulevard de la République, explore the St. Joseph's Church, or take in vistas from the cliff above the city.
Roquebrune-Cap-Martin - Timeless Riviera Beauty
To Monaco's east lies Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, a picturesque commune that stretches from the Mediterranean shoreline to the heights of the Alpes-Maritimes. The town is split between the seaside Cap Martin, a lush, pine-covered peninsula, and the medieval hilltop village of Roquebrune. Travelers will love walking on Promenade Le Corbusier, a coastal path connecting Cap Martin to Monaco, named after famous Swiss-French architect Charles-Édouard Jeanneret (popularly referred to as Le Corbusier), who lived here.
The area has exceptional swimming spots and hidden coves along the coast. In the old village, you'll find cobbled lanes, vaulted archways, and the Roquebrune Castle, a 10th-century fortress with sweeping sea views. For lovers of history, art, and understated charm, Roquebrune-Cap-Martin is a serene alternative to the Riviera's flashier locales.
La Turbie - Monaco's Roman Rooftop
Climbing the hills just north of Monaco leads to La Turbie, a peaceful village best known for the Trophy of Augustus, a Roman monument erected by Emperor Augustus in 7 BC to celebrate his victory over the Alpine tribes. Towering above the town, it offers unmatched views of the Riviera and a fascinating glimpse into the area's ancient past.
The main part of La Turbie is a stone-built village full of narrow lanes, shaded squares, and timeless Provençal character. It is a culinary destination, home to several acclaimed restaurants, including the chef Bruno Cirino helmed, 2 Michelin-starred Hostellerie Jérôme seasonal eatery. The cellar at Hostellerie Jérôme famously holds 40,000 bottles of wine.
Perfect for a half-day trip or a quiet overnight stay, La Turbie appeals to those who love history, scenic landscapes, and an elevated perspective - both literally and figuratively.
Cap-d'Ail - Coastal Chic with a Local Soul
Tucked along the Mediterranean just west of Monaco, Cap-d'Ail is a chic seaside town with a strong local identity. It boasts beautiful Belle Époque villas and a rugged coastline dotted with turquoise inlets and rocky outcrops. Cap-d'Ail also has a beautiful harbor with yachts of various sizes. While no one will claim it rivals Port Hercules, it's a beautiful place in its own right.
The town's most famous beach, Plage Mala, is often considered one of the Riviera's best-kept secrets. It is accessible by foot via a scenic path and framed by steep cliffs and lush vegetation. Here, two stylish beach clubs offer fine dining and sun lounging in a setting that feels both exclusive and untouched.
Cap-d'Ail also offers an excellent coastal trail, Sentier du Littoral, perfect for photographers and anyone who likes a good hike. It's a town where luxury meets authenticity; a place where Monaco's glamour quietly fades into Mediterranean calm.
