In the world, there are only three cities that are also independent states: Vatican City, Singapore, and Monaco. Each is unique in its own right: one for its sacredness to Christianity; the second for being one of the most advanced countries in Asia with strict law enforcement; and the third… well, on one hand, it’s the most densely populated country in the world, and on the other hand, according to data collected about five years ago, nearly a third of its population are millionaires, making it no surprise that Monaco boasts the highest real estate prices in the world.
Monte Carlo, often mistakenly thought of as the capital of Monaco, is the largest and most famous district of the principality. Today, the district is primarily known for its opulent casino, Casino de Monte-Carlo, built in the 19th century to save the Grimaldi family (who ruled Monaco) from bankruptcy. It’s remarkable to think that in those days, this Mediterranean principality on the French Riviera was not considered an interesting place or a worthy destination for leisure or recreation. The casino’s success led to the establishment of luxury hotels, spa facilities, the Opéra de Monte-Carlo, and more, attracting high-profile tourists—including royal families, statesmen, celebrities, and top athletes, some of whom chose to reside here.
One of the prominent sports associated with Monte Carlo is motorsport, specifically the Formula 1 Grand Prix. Every year, for six weeks, the roar of engines fills the Circuit de Monaco, which winds mostly through the streets of Monte Carlo, passing the casino and considered one of the most beautiful and challenging circuits in the sport.**
It’s only natural, then, that in this aristocratic environment celebrating the good life, there are several luxurious cigar lounges. Here are three such places where you can enjoy your time between a roulette spin and a Grand Prix race.
Le Crystal Bar
Le Crystal Bar is located in the Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo, an exquisite palace-style hotel built in the late 19th century, overlooking Monaco’s marina, where some of the world’s most luxurious yachts occasionally dock. The hotel was designed with the active involvement of architect Gustave Eiffel, who, a few years after completing his most famous creation, the Eiffel Tower in Paris, contributed to the design of the hotel’s lobby and winter garden.
One of the advantages of the Hermitage is its spa center, Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo, renowned for its luxury in the region. The hotel features several bars and restaurants, including Le Vistamar, helmed by Michelin-starred chef Benoît Witz.
Le Crystal Bar offers cozy seating areas for winter and a stylish terrace with views of the marina and sea for summer. Alongside black caviar and other gourmet dishes, it boasts a Grand Cru wine and champagne list available by the glass, as well as a selection of premium cognac, rum, whiskey, and gin.
The establishment includes a fine selection of Cuban and Dominican cigars, with guests able to order nearly any cigar they desire, which will be delivered to the lounge from the hotel’s adjacent cigar shop, open until midnight.
Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo, Square Beaumarchais
(+377) 9806 9899
Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo Monaco | Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer (montecarlosbm.com)
Le Bar Américain
This bar was named “Best Hotel Bar in the World” for 2019. The hotel it’s located in, Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, has also received numerous prestigious awards. It has been featured in Condé Nast Traveler’s Gold List for years and ranks highly on other renowned websites. The hotel has appeared in several famous films, including two James Bond movies. Additionally, it houses the three-Michelin-starred gourmet restaurant Le Louis XV by chef Alain Ducasse and the one-Michelin-starred Le Grill. It’s clear that this hotel caters to the world’s elite.
A simple staircase leads from the Casino Square to the hotel’s enchanting lobby, which opened the same year as the famous casino. The hotel bar, Le Bar Américain, was recently redesigned by the acclaimed David Collins Studio. It offers a sea view and an American ambiance reminiscent of the 1920s (when it first opened), with luxurious wooden armchairs upholstered in smooth leather, soft lighting, and live music every evening in various styles—jazz, blues, swing, and even French. It’s a perfect place to relax and fully enjoy.
The cocktails—such as the Pira Villosum, which combines pear and cardamom, or the Nutcracker, based on a special edition of Grey Goose vodka created in collaboration with chef Alain Ducasse and mixed with nut syrup—are original and change with the seasons.
The cigar menu is also luxurious, featuring renowned Cuban brands, Davidoff Late Hour cigars aged for six months in Scotch whisky barrels, and the legendary Fuente Fuente OpusX.
The bar is open daily from 10:00 AM to 2:00 AM.
Hotel de Paris Monte-Carlo, Place du Casino
(+377) 9806 3838
Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo Monaco | Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer (montecarlosbm.com)
Rampoldi
In 2016, the gourmet restaurant Rampoldi celebrated its 70th anniversary with a special event attended by Prince Albert II of Monaco, along with other distinguished guests who have made the restaurant their second home over the years.
On the lower floor lies the venue’s hidden gem—a music and cigar lounge. Access to the lounge requires prior arrangement, but once inside—whether for enjoying whiskey and cigars with friends, a private musical performance, or an intimate late-night meeting—you’ll feel as if the space is entirely yours. Members of the Rampoldi Cigar Club have the privilege of using one of the hundred private humidor boxes to store their cigars or drinks. One of these boxes bears the royal seal of the Grimaldi family and belongs to Prince Albert II.
3, Avenue des Spélugues
(+377) 9330 7065
