The Côte d’Azur and Monaco have some of the best shopping malls in the world – award-winning, in fact – and there are many destinations to suit every taste and style. Here are a few that are definitely worth a look!
Like playing a sport or painting, there is an art to shopping that true connoisseurs of the activity endlessly appreciate.
Some love the thrill of the sale, whilst others adore the thought of owning something few others have. Whatever the motivation, there are several amazing choices in and around Monaco where seasoned shoppers, and even those who only seldom set foot in the shops when strictly necessary, can find just about anything they want or need.
Metropole Shopping Monte-Carlo
Let’s kick things off with the Metropole Shopping Monte-Carlo, Monaco’s own hometown mall. Situated right next to the Metropole Hotel, it is a beautiful chandelier-ed, marble and wrought iron space home to 80 shops from top-shelf brands like Kenzo, Gucci, Versace, Tom Ford and Boss, as well as more mainstream chains and a smattering of independents.
In addition to clothing, shoes and accessories, there is also a selection of gourmet food options, jewellery, watches, homeware and décor, beauty and even antiques.
The glamourous locale alone is enough to make it worth a visit, but it’s the great selection of shopping options and boutiques that keeps customers coming back for more.
Cap 3000
Cap 3000 is 135,000sqm of pure shopping heaven located on the seafront in Saint Laurent du Var, near Nice’s international airport. Voted “World’s Best Shopping Centre” at the 2022 MIPIM Awards, it includes over 300 shops, a food court that reads like an around-the-world tour, an events centre and a luxury “corso”, a wing featuring more than 45 premium brand name stores.
First opened in 1969, it has changed with the times, but never more so than with its latest incarnation, which is all curved lines, light colours and open, airy space. Parking is plentiful and free for the first three hours. It is sleek, modern and just what the doctor ordered in terms of shopping in this part of the Riviera.
The website calls it “a new generation centre for all generations, which promises its visitors a multi-purpose service that goes beyond the traditional experience of a shopping centre,” which sounds very lofty, but in fact is quite on the mark.
With all the usuals, such as womenswear and menswear, sporting goods, jewellery, beauty stores, opticians, homewares and every kind of accessory, there is also a massive Monoprix hypermarket, gaming stores, art and a spa, which help take Cap 3000 a step beyond the same old, same old.
Additionally, the mall offers a special pass to international customers, giving them discounts of up to 50%, as well as tax-free shopping.
POLYGONE RIVIERA
Part of the Westfield chain, Polygone Riviera has the shopping experience down pat. The Cagnes sur Mer-based mall opened in October 2015, but took a bit of time to catch on as traffic woes and location were slight obstacles. Today, however, it has really come into its own and now is immensely popular.
The clean, outdoor concept is reminiscent of American-style malls, and has 172 shops and eateries of all varieties to choose from.
This shopper’s haven also has incredible amenities and surprises, such as a babysitting service for parents who would like to browse in peace, a loyalty card programme for returning clients, a tax refund centre for international customers, an open-air museum and a huge cinema. Parking is also free for two hours.
THE MALL SANREMO
The Mall in Sanremo is just a hop-skip over the border from Monaco and features all the best designer brands, with some supremely amazing ups and extras.
The facility houses a tax-free lounge, a VIP corner, electric vehicle charging stations, free parking and free wi-fi. The Mall is welcomingly open-handed, offering clients who need wheelchairs and pushchairs these services for free, and will also help with setting up in-store appointments for those who hate crowds and queuing. Additionally, there is a “shop-from-home” experience that can get items to customers no matter what time zone they find themselves in in great time.
The Mall is also an events venue that has art, music and entertainment-based evenings, as well as a golf course, which hosts The Mall Sanremo Golf Cup in August.
SERRAVALLE DESIGNER OUTLET
Designer retail therapy only three hours from Monaco awaits at Serravalle Outlet mall. Part of the McArthur Glen group, which has 25 centres in all, this place really knows how to “do” shopping.
It features designer brands at discounted prices, 14 restaurants and several amenities, such as a bag storage service, tax-free international shopping, a play area and water park for kids, and even a shuttle bus from Milan.
Serrevalle Outlet also holds special performance evenings and has an eco-vibe, with a clothing recycling centre that hands donators 10% off vouchers to use at participating stores.
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Photo source: Metropole Shopping Monte-Carlo