Monaco may be known for its luxury and high prices, but there are plenty of ways to enjoy this glamorous destination without breaking the bank. Here are some practical tips to help you save money while visiting:
Visit Monaco during the off-season
The best way to save money in Monaco is to visit during the off-season, which typically falls between November and March. During these months, hotel rates drop significantly, and many attractions are less crowded. While you might not experience the summer heat, you’ll enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere and still have a great time exploring the city’s sights. Plus, clear days are common in winter, offering stunning views without the crowds.
If you’re set on visiting during the summer, try to avoid peak times like the Formula One Monaco Grand Prix or the Yacht Show. Accommodation prices skyrocket during these events, and finding a reasonably priced room can be challenging. However, visiting just before or after these events can offer a good balance between lively atmosphere and manageable costs.
Take advantage of free attractions in Monaco
Monaco offers plenty of free attractions and experiences that allow you to soak in the city’s charm without spending a euro. Stroll through the old town of Le Rocher and enjoy the beautiful architecture and narrow streets filled with history. Visit the Saint Nicholas Cathedral or the Japanese Garden – both are free to enter and provide unique experiences.
You can also enjoy watching the daily changing of the guards at the Prince’s Palace in the Place du Palais – a short but fascinating display of tradition that costs nothing. Exploring the Place du Casino, with its elegant architecture and luxury cars, is another free activity perfect for people-watching and soaking in the glamour of Monaco.
If you’re only going for a day trip, you may find that you don’t have time to go in many of the attractions anyway – but seeing them from outside is still brilliant.
Use public transport and walk
Monaco’s small size means that most of its main attractions are within walking distance of each other. Instead of spending money on taxis or private cars, consider walking. The city is incredibly pedestrian-friendly, with lifts and escalators connecting the steepest streets and steps, making it easy to get around without needing a car.
If you need to use public transport, Monaco’s bus service is efficient and affordable. A single ticket costs around €2, or you can buy a day pass for unlimited travel. Taking the bus is the best way to reach places like the Jardin Exotique or Larvotto Beach, especially if you want to save your energy for exploring.
Consider also the new Mona Bike service – electric bikes are available throughout Monaco for only €1 for 30 minutes or €3 for 24 hours access.
Eat like a local
Dining in Monaco doesn’t have to mean expensive Michelin-starred restaurants every night.
To save money, head to the Marché de la Condamine, where you’ll find local food stalls offering delicious and affordable bites, like socca, a local chickpea pancake, or barbajuans, Monaco’s national dish. Here, you can enjoy authentic local flavours without the high price tag.
Look for cafés and bistros away from the main tourist areas – often found on quieter streets or in neighbourhoods like Fontvieille – where you’ll find more reasonably priced menus. The old town is full of restaurants – while not cheap (as they’re aimed at tourists), they’re cheaper than areas like Monte Carlo.
There’s also local supermarkets and hole-in-the-wall cafes dotted about. These are perfect for picking up a cheap sandwich and drink; you can then find a nice place to sit down and eat (the gardens in Monte Cristo and the cliffs around the Oceanographic Museum and Old Town are perfect for this).
Choose affordable accommodation in (or out of) Monaco
While Monaco is known for its luxury hotels, there are affordable options if you know where to look.
Consider staying in nearby French towns like Beausoleil or Cap d’Ail, which are just a short walk or bus ride away from Monaco. You’ll find a range of budget hotels, apartments, and bed-and-breakfasts that offer great value for money. This way, you can still enjoy everything Monaco has to offer without paying the high prices for accommodation within the principality itself.
You may also only want to go as a day trip from Nice – while Nice itself not the cheapest, its still cheaper than Monaco. Just factor in the cost of travel if you’re going to Monaco for more than one day.
Alternatively, look for deals on local booking sites or check out the Monaco Tourism website for special offers and packages. Booking well in advance, especially if visiting during high season, can also help you find more affordable rates.
Plan your activities
Many of Monaco’s museums and attractions offer discounted entry fees during certain times or for certain groups (like students or seniors). Check ahead for any special deals or combination tickets that might offer savings. The Oceanographic Museum, for example, often has reduced prices after a certain time in the afternoon, and the Jardin Exotique has discounts for those under 18 or over 65.
Consider planning your visit around Monaco’s free events and festivals, such as outdoor concerts, public exhibitions, or the Monaco Christmas Market. These events offer great experiences without any cost, letting you immerse yourself in the local culture and atmosphere.
Use public amenities
Monaco has several public amenities that are free or low-cost, such as its beaches, parks, and gardens. Larvotto Beach is a public beach where you can relax without needing to pay for a sunbed – just bring your own towel and umbrella. Many parks, like the Princess Grace Rose Garden, provide beautiful settings for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.
Public fountains around the city offer drinking water, so bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout your day without buying bottled water. You can save a bit of money and reduce your environmental footprint.
By planning ahead and making smart choices, you can enjoy the luxury and allure of Monaco on a budget, proving that this glamorous city is accessible to all kinds of travellers.
What money-saving tips do you have? Let us know!