Overview

Monaco may be the second-smallest country in the world, but it’s packed with glitz, history, and cinematic views. Nestled along the French Riviera, this tiny principality is famous for luxury yachts, the Grand Prix, designer boutiques, and the legendary Monte Carlo Casino. But you don’t have to be a billionaire to visit—Monaco offers plenty of beauty and charm for budget travelers, especially as a day trip from nearby Nice or Menton.

Quick Facts

• Language: French (Monégasque also spoken)

• Currency: Euro (€)

• Capital: Monaco (city-state)

• Main Airport: Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE) – Monaco is 30 minutes away

• Visa: Part of the Schengen Zone

• Climate: Mediterranean – hot summers, mild winters

• Plugs: Type C & E (Europlug, 230V)

• Best Apps: Google Maps, SNCF Connect (trains), Moovit, Uber (for Nice only)

Best Time to Visit

• May–June: Ideal weather, Monaco Grand Prix excitement

• September–October: Fewer crowds, still warm and sunny

• July–August: Peak luxury season—expect high prices and big crowds

• December: Christmas markets & lights, less busy but still beautiful

Is Monaco Expensive?

Yes—but not impossible on a budget.

• Stay in Nice, Menton, or Èze and visit Monaco by train

• Many major sights are free: gardens, viewpoints, the harbor

• Dining doesn’t have to break the bank—look for cafes off the main strip or grab takeaway from bakeries

Paid Attractions

• Oceanographic Museum – €19 for adults; aquarium + ocean research history

• Monte Carlo Casino (Gaming Rooms) – Entry from €18, age 18+, bring your passport

• Exotic Garden of Monaco – Stunning botanical garden with cliffside views (€7–€8)

• Car Collection of Prince Rainier III – €8 for a look at vintage Rolls-Royces, Formula 1 cars & more

Top Free Things to Do

• The Prince’s Palace & Changing of the Guard – Watch the guard change at 11:55 AM daily

• The Rock (Le Rocher) – Monaco’s old town offers winding lanes, scenic views, and local shops

• Saint-Martin Gardens – Coastal walking paths with panoramic Mediterranean views

• The Monte Carlo Casino (Exterior & Atrium) – It’s free to admire the outside or walk into the entrance hall (dress code applies for full entry)

• Port Hercule – Watch superyachts or enjoy a picnic along the harbor

Best Views in Monaco

• Terrasses de Fontvieille – Harbor views and sea breeze

• Jardin Exotique – Elevated views over Monaco and out to the sea

• Old Town Ramparts – Panoramic vistas of the harbor and Monte Carlo

• Casino Terrace at Night – Watch the Ferraris, Lamborghinis, and fashion scene roll by

Where to Eat on a Budget

• Sandro's Café – Tasty pizza and sandwiches for under €10

• Maison des Pâtes – Fresh pasta to go

• Marché de la Condamine – Indoor market with affordable Monégasque and Mediterranean dishes

• Boulangeries – Pick up a baguette, pastry, or quiche for a scenic picnic

Getting Around

• On Foot – The entire country is walkable in under an hour

• Public Lifts & Escalators – Free elevators connect the steep hills between districts

• Bus – €2 per ride or €5 for a day pass

• Train from Nice – ~€4–€5, runs frequently, takes 25–30 minutes

• Helicopter – From Nice Airport in 7 minutes (from €150 one-way)

Sample Itinerary (1–2 Days)

Day Trip from Nice

• Morning: Train in, explore Old Town & Prince’s Palace

• Midday: Lunch at Condamine Market, stroll through the Saint-Martin Gardens

• Afternoon: Visit the Oceanographic Museum or casino exterior

• Sunset: Enjoy harbor views, then return to Nice

Overnight Stay

• Add: Casino interior visit, Michelin-star dinner, or spa day at Thermes Marins

• Optional: Attend an opera, ballet, or Formula E race

Annual Highlights

• 🏎️ Monaco Grand Prix – Late May, bucket-list event

• ⛵ Monaco Yacht Show – Late September

• 🎄 Christmas Village at Port Hercule – December

Insider Tips

• Dress smartly if you plan to visit the casino or dine upscale

• Avoid peak weekends in summer unless you're here for events

• Explore nearby villages like Èze or Menton for a peaceful contrast

• Visit early in the morning for fewer crowds and golden hour photos

• Don’t forget your passport if you plan to gamble at the casino