Every September the Monaco Yacht Show fills Port Hercule with superyachts. The 2026 edition announced around 120 yachts, more than 560 exhibitors and over 30,000 visitors across four days. Monaco is small, and show week changes how you move around it: the port is busy from morning to evening, hotels fill early and taxis are scarce at closing time. This guide covers the practical side — arriving, moving between appointments and getting back to your hotel.
When the show takes place
The show is held each September at Port Hercule, in the centre of the principality. The 2026 edition ran from Wednesday 23 to Saturday 26 September, from 10:00 to 18:30, closing at 18:00 on the last day. Wednesday is reserved for guests invited by brokers and shipyards; Thursday to Saturday is open to ticket holders. The 2027 dates have not been announced yet.
From Nice Airport to Port Hercule
Almost every visitor arrives through Nice Côte d’Azur Airport. By car the drive to Port Hercule takes around 30 to 40 minutes depending on traffic; during show week, allow a margin around the opening hour. The helicopter, the express bus and the train via Nice are the other options, and we compare them in detail in our guide to every way from Nice Airport to Monaco.
Moving around during show week
Parts of the quays around Port Hercule are closed to traffic while the show is on, so drop-off and pickup points are a few minutes’ walk from the entrances, and the exact spot is best agreed with your driver the day before. Going on board is by appointment through a broker and at the owner’s discretion, so a show day is usually a series of short viewings, lunches and meetings rather than a single trip.
Booking a car by the hour
When the day has several stops — viewings, lunch in Monte-Carlo, a villa visit on Cap Ferrat — hourly hire is simpler than separate rides. The driver stays nearby and picks you up when you are ready, so you are not looking for a taxi at the busiest times.
Evenings and staying outside Monaco
Hotel rooms in Monaco are limited and booked early for show week, so many visitors stay in Nice, Beaulieu-sur-Mer, Cap-d’Ail or Menton. Both the coast road and the motorway lead to Monaco, but traffic peaks at closing time and after evening events, when taxis are hardest to find. A return booked in advance removes that uncertainty.
Practical questions
When is the Monaco Yacht Show 2027?
The show takes place every September at Port Hercule. The 2027 dates have not been announced yet; the 2026 edition ran from 23 to 26 September.
Can anyone visit the Monaco Yacht Show?
Wednesday is by invitation only; Thursday to Saturday is open to visitors with a ticket. Going on board a yacht is by appointment through a broker, at the owner’s discretion.
How long is the drive from Nice Airport to Port Hercule?
Around 30 to 40 minutes by car, depending on traffic. During show week, allow extra time around the opening hour and at closing time.
Sources
Explore Our Services
Ready for Your French Riviera Journey?
Book your private chauffeur on the French Riviera and experience the Côte d'Azur in unmatched comfort and style.
Book Now
