The summer shopping extravaganza is officially kicking off in Monaco and along the French Riviera, with retailers opening their doors early on Wednesday 25th June. Shoppers across Monaco, Nice, Cannes, Menton and beyond can expect four weeks of significant markdowns, stretching until 22th July, on designer gear, luxury homewares, electronics and more.

Retailers—including the boutiques of One Monte‑Carlo, Métropole Shopping Centre and the fashionable streets of Monaco‑Ville and Condamine—are taking advantage of Sunday openings as part of the ‘Monaco Sunday Experience’, keeping doors open for the duration of the sales. In Nice and other coastal towns, big-name department stores like Galeries Lafayette, Nice Étoile and Cap 3000 have echoes of festive lights and sales signage from dawn till dusk.

What to expect on the Riviera

French summer sales are governed by national legislation, allowing retailers to advertise ‘soldes’ for four consecutive weeks, with pricing rules ensuring discounts are genuine and transparent. Expect bold reductions on fashion-forward clothing, shoes, luxury beauty items, and even high-end furniture or appliances.

Tourists can reclaim VAT on eligible purchases over €100—around a 12–15% return—making the Riviera even more tempting for travellers seeking designer bargains .

Tips for Riviera shoppers

The early days of the sales are the liveliest—ideal for hunting standout pieces. Yet, surprisingly, deeper discounts often surface in later weeks as stores refresh their stock. Opening early is wise, but patience can pay off.

Shoppers should ensure sale tags clearly show the original price alongside the discounted price, as French law mandates transparent reference pricing . Online purchases follow the same calendar—worth noting for those preferring to browse from home .

Monaco’s signature summer shopping

Monaco capitalises on this shopping season with its Monaco Sunday Experience, granting Sunday access to most stores throughout the Principality. This, combined with a strollable city centre, fast‑track customs for tourists, and a convivial Monaco atmosphere, ensures a perfect blend of luxury, leisure, and bargain‑hunting.

In summary

• Date: Wednesday, 25 June 2025 – Tuesday, 22 July 2025

• Where: Nationwide in metropolitan France—including Monaco and Alpes‑Maritimes

• Schedule: Daily openings, special Sunday hours in Monaco

• Pro tip: Look out for deeper discounts mid‑to‑late July, and check VAT reclaim options

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