District Fontvieille

Fontvieille is one of the youngest Monegasque districts and one of the most sought-after today. Petrini Exclusive Real Estate Monaco has tracked its development since its inception, allowing us to share a unique and historical perspective on this area. Built in the 1970s and 1980s on land reclaimed from the sea thanks to the bold vision of Prince Rainier III, it embodies Monaco’s urban innovation and offers a unique lifestyle blending nature, sea, and modernity. Once considered peripheral, it now rivals Larvotto and Monte-Carlo in prestige and in the quality of its residences.

With its marina, emblematic gardens such as the Roseraie Princesse Grace, and modern infrastructure (Stade Louis II, heliport), Fontvieille appeals to both families and investors. Our family agency, Petrini Exclusive Real Estate Monaco, founded by Eugenia and Paolo Petrini with over 40 years of experience, knows each residence and its unique features inside out. Thanks to numerous successful transactions, we assist those who buy or rent apartments here. We now manage many rental apartments, making Petrini Exclusive one of the agencies with the largest rental portfolio in the Fontvieille district. This expertise is recognized by an international clientele seeking reliable, personalized advice. Fontvieille represents the perfect balance of serenity and prestige at the heart of the Principality.

History of Fontvieille: Monaco’s First Offshore Expansion

Fontvieille is Monaco’s first major offshore expansion, launched in the 1970s by Prince Rainier III to enlarge the Principality. According to the archives of the Princely Government of Monaco, this project created approximately 33 hectares of residential and economic land. It precedes the recent Mareterra district, delivered in December 2024, which also transformed Monaco’s coastline. This engineering feat converted seabeds reaching 30 to 40 meters in depth into a unique residential and economic district in the Mediterranean.

This project is documented in Monaco’s municipal archives, which cite Gianfranco Gilardini and Manfredi Nicoletti as key figures in the two‑decade‑long effort. After constructing the monumental breakwaters that shaped the future district’s outline, modern infrastructures were harmoniously integrated along the coast. In 1981, Crown Prince Albert II laid the first stone of Fontvieille, cementing his father’s pioneering vision. As recalled by Monaco Matin in a feature on maritime expansions, Fontvieille was a pioneering project in Europe.

Originally perceived as an industrial zone on the outskirts of the Rock, Fontvieille gradually evolved into a sought‑after residential district. Today, it is home not only to businesses and the MonacoTech incubator but also to iconic buildings highly prized by buyers and investors. This evolution inspired Mareterra and confirms Monaco’s ability to push its geographical boundaries to create exceptional living spaces—an asset that Petrini Exclusive Real Estate Monaco has highlighted since the district’s creation.

Fontvieille Today: A Calm and Green Residential District

Why do families choose Fontvieille? This district is considered Monaco’s “green lung,” offering a calm and secure residential environment just minutes from the center. Appreciated by families and investors alike, it combines green spaces, a marina, and a Mediterranean village atmosphere, away from the hustle and bustle of the Carré d’Or section of the Monte‑Carlo district.

Nearly 4 hectares of the district are dedicated to parks and gardens, including the famous Princess Grace Rose Garden, inaugurated in 1984 in tribute to the Princess. This emblematic garden covers 5,000 m² and features more than 315 rose varieties maintained ecologically. Nearby, Fontvieille Park and the Fontvieille Big Top, venue of the celebrated International Circus Festival of Monte‑Carlo, complete these natural and entertainment spaces. Linked to the coastal promenades, they offer residents and visitors refreshing havens ideal for relaxation, jogging, or family outings.

The district also captivates with its convivial village atmosphere. Its moderate‑size Mediterranean‑style buildings line pedestrian streets dotted with lively squares where people can gather. Despite modern urbanism, Fontvieille retains a rare tranquility in Monaco: smooth traffic flow, reduced noise, and a constant sense of security. Many residences feature 24/7 concierge service and access control, a sought‑after asset for buyers.

The Residential Features That Make Fontvieille a Sought‑After District in Monaco

• Calm and Security: Away from tourist crowds, Fontvieille guarantees absolute tranquility thanks to enhanced surveillance and concierge services.
• Green Spaces and Promenades: Well‑maintained gardens, coastal trails, and the Monaco Exotic Garden—a true sanctuary for exotic animals—contribute to a natural, family‑friendly atmosphere.
• Nearby Amenities: The Fontvieille shopping center houses a Carrefour hypermarket, shops, restaurants, and essential services, making daily life more convenient for residents.
• Accessibility: Steps from the French border, it provides access to Cap d’Ail’s coastal paths offering picturesque walks and nearby beaches (Marquet Beach in Cap d’Ail is just a short distance away). The district also experiences less congestion than the center: traffic is smoother and public or private parking is more plentiful, simplifying driving for residents and their visitors.

Fontvieille Port: Iconic Marina and Seaside Restaurants

The Fontvieille port is one of the district’s emblems, nestled at the foot of the princely Rock and protected by a massive sea wall. This serene marina can accommodate up to 275 boats, offering ideal mooring conditions year‑round for yachts and sailboats. The contrast of white hulls against the azure Mediterranean and the rocky backdrop of the Monaco‑Ville district creates a unique setting, cherished by photographers and travelers seeking authenticity.

Once a simple industrial port, Fontvieille Marina is now a true living hub. Its quays lined with restaurants and cafés invite visitors to stroll from lunch through the evening. The culinary offerings are varied:

• Beefbar: A chic steakhouse known for exceptional meats sourced from around the world.
• La Salière: A quintessential Italian trattoria famous for its pasta and pizzas by the sea.
• Le Rouge et le Blanc: An intimate wine bar, perfect for an aperitif with tapas.
• Les Perles de Monte‑Carlo: A unique oyster bar offering seafood products farmed in the Principality.
• And other addresses like Amici Miei (Italian cuisine) or Graziella (Mediterranean cuisine).

In addition, the port hosts boutiques, an art gallery, and one of Monaco’s many fitness centers, such as The Forge located in the Le Méridien building, enhancing its appeal for residents. This vibrant atmosphere endures year‑round: lively in summer with sun‑drenched terraces, and warm in winter thanks to the neighborhood spirit that persists out of season.

Culture and Leisure in Fontvieille: Museums, Circus, and Stade Louis II

Fontvieille is one of the few districts in Monaco where culture, sport, and nature converge. At the heart of this unique landscape is Stade Louis II, inaugurated in 1985, a true multifunctional complex housing a 16,000‑seat football stadium, an athletics track, a multipurpose hall, and an Olympic swimming pool.

It hosts major events throughout the year such as Ligue 1, the Champions League, the Herculis meeting, and the EuroLeague basketball games with the Roca Team. A few steps away, the Fontvieille Big Top hosts each January the prestigious International Circus Festival of Monte‑Carlo, presided over by Princess Stéphanie, and is transformed the rest of the year into an exhibition space, gala venue, and concert hall. The district also features a unique cultural hub on the Terrasses de Fontvieille with the Museum of Stamps and Coins and the Naval Museum, both chronicling essential chapters of Monegasque history. For families and nature lovers, the Monaco Exotic Garden and the Princess Grace Rose Garden complete the offerings with floral spaces, contemporary sculptures, and tranquil trails. This rare balance between dynamism and serenity makes Fontvieille a favorite for residents and visitors alike, while reinforcing its real estate appeal recognized by Petrini Exclusive Real Estate Monaco.

Key Cultural and Sporting Assets of Fontvieille:

• Stade Louis II and international sporting events (football, athletics, swimming, basketball).
• International Circus Festival under the Fontvieille Big Top.
• Philatelic and numismatic museum hub with classic cars and naval exhibits.
• Exotic Garden and Princess Grace Rose Garden, havens of nature and relaxation.

Real Estate in Fontvieille: Residences and Prices per m²

Fontvieille is today one of the most sought‑after districts in Monaco, having evolved over a few decades from an innovative maritime extension to a high‑end residential sector. Its real estate stock stands out for its diversity: from state‑owned buildings reserved for Monegasques to prestigious residences open to the international market. Most constructions, completed in the 1980s and 1990s, feature elegant Mediterranean architecture with ochre façades, arcades, and flowered balconies often offering spectacular views of the Mediterranean.

Backed by over 30 years of experience, our family agency Petrini Exclusive Real Estate Monaco has sold numerous exceptional properties here, including entire floors of Palazzo Leonardo, large five‑room units at Terrasses du Port, as well as two‑ and three‑room apartments in coveted buildings such as Grand Large and Botticelli. These properties are regularly entrusted to us for rental management and are listed on petrini.mc, one of the most comprehensive websites dedicated to Monegasque real estate.

Iconic Residences and Popular Unit Types

Fontvieille is home to some of the Principality’s most prestigious addresses. We offer apartments for sale in Fontvieille in many residences such as:

• Seaside Plaza and Terrasses du Port: spacious family apartments with panoramic terraces.
• Palazzo Leonardo: exceptional units spanning entire floors with 180° sea views.
• Grand Large, Monte Marina, Rosa Maris, Eden Star, Michelangelo, Donatello, Giotto, Paradise, Botticelli, Donatello: more intimate residences (5 to 10 floors) highly prized by families and professionals, often featuring pools, concierge services, and parking.

A Dynamic and Selective Market

The real estate offering covers all needs, from studios and two‑room units to high‑end penthouses, but remains limited in volume, reinforcing rarity and heritage value. Prices per m² often hover around €60,000 or more for exceptional properties. This positioning appeals to investors seeking a rare balance of prestige, tranquility, and accessibility.

Petrini Exclusive Expertise in Fontvieille

Present since the district’s first sales, Eugenia Petrini, Director of Petrini Exclusive Real Estate Monaco, has unique knowledge of the buildings and their evolution. This historical experience allows us to guide buyers and investors with precise advice on property values, the most sought-after unit types, and current opportunities. This local expertise is a major asset for securing an investment in Fontvieille and anticipating future market trends.

Why Fontvieille Remains an Essential District in Monaco

Fontvieille is more than just an extension born of the sea: it has become an emblematic district, symbolizing Monaco’s urban boldness and Mediterranean art of living. This unique area seamlessly blends heritage and modernity: the princely Rock and the circus tent stand alongside the heliport and prestigious residences with panoramic views. It combines the dynamism of sports and cultural infrastructures (Stade Louis II, Circus Festival, museums) with the gentle lifestyle offered by parks, promenades, and the marina.

Several decades after its creation, Fontvieille remains one of the Principality’s most sought-after districts, appreciated for its tranquility, security, and residential amenities. This success testifies to Monaco’s ability to transform a geographical constraint into an opportunity and to create sustainable, coveted living spaces.

Discovering Fontvieille means exploring a more intimate and family-oriented side of Monaco, complementing the excitement of Monte‑Carlo. For those considering living or investing here, Petrini Exclusive Real Estate Monaco offers unique historical and local expertise in this demanding and constantly evolving market.