There’s nowhere on the planet like Monte Carlo. Nestled in the heart of the most famous part of Monaco, the second-smallest nation on earth, this glamorous enclave has long been a playground for the rich and famous.
While there plenty of are other exotic and luxurious travel destinations around the globe, it’s hard to look past the sheer glamour and sophistication that you’ll find in Monte Carlo.
This city will make you work a little to have a great time. It’s not a slam-dunk destination like New York or Barcelona. To get the most from Monte Carlo, you’ll need to do a little prep work.
But let’s be clear: this isn’t a “set it and forget it” destination like New York or Barcelona. To truly experience all that Monte Carlo has to offer, you’ll need to put in a little effort. It’s a city that rewards the discerning traveler with a bit of preparation.
We’ve put together some handy tips that’ll ensure you can get the most from your first and perhaps the only trip to this unique destination.
Go for a Short Period
We recommend keeping your stay in Monte Carlo short, and here’s why: it’s an expensive destination.
Remember, as mentioned earlier, this glamorous city is a playground for the rich and famous, that exclusively comes at a price. Expect to pay a premium for just about everything—from meals to basic essentials. For example, paying €6-8 for a coffee isn’t entirely unreasonable.
Rather than stretching your trip longer, you will have more fun if you go for a short period and simply accept that you won’t have to constantly worry about your bank balance. You will have a far more enjoyable experience if you embrace the fact that a visit to Monte Carlo comes with a hefty price tag. A shorter stay allows you to savour the luxury without stressing over every euro.
Consider Alternative Accommodation
When we say ‘alternative accommodation,’ we really mean ‘accommodation outside of Monte Carlo itself.’ You might be asking yourself, why travel all the way to Monte Carlo only to then sleep elsewhere?
The answer is simple: Monte Carlo is extremely small, and it’s absolutely possible to stay elsewhere and still get the opportunity of fully immersing yourself in the Monte Carlo experience. By choosing accommodation in nearby areas like Cap-d’Ail or Eze, both of which are located in France but offer easy access to Monte Carlo, you can enjoy significant savings. For example, the train ride from Cap-d’Ail takes just two minutes, for instance.
Another option is to base yourself in the Nice, which is only about a 40-minute train ride from Monte Carlo. You’ll have access to all the charm of Nice, plus easy day trips to the glamorous playground of Monaco.
Play at the World’s Most Elegant Casino
Whether you are visiting for a day or staying overnight, no trip is complete without a stop by the legendary Monte Carlo Casino. Widely regarded as the most beautiful casino on the planet, it first opened it’s doors in 1865 and perfectly encapsulates all the opulence and charm of this part of the world.
Entry costs around €19, which includes a €10 gaming voucher. Be prepared to dress sharply. And while the surroundings exude sophistication, you’ll need to be familiar with how to play the games as gameplay is as serious as the surroundings suggest. Playing at an online casino that offers all the major games before visiting is recommended for visitors, just to ensure that they can carry themselves with all the elegance of James Bond once they’re inside.
The casino offers two versions of poker—Texas Hold’em and Omaha Pot Limit—as well as the European version of roulette, along with a full range of classic table games.
Take Extra For an Opulent Meal
While we have offered some money-saving tips above, there is one expectation to the budgeting rule, and that’s the food. The restaurants in Monte Carlo don’t just offer world-class cuisine, but they offer an unforgettable dining experience in equally world-class surroundings.
Whether you’re savoring a meal at Le Louis XV, Sass Cafe, or Maona Monte-Carlo, you’re in for a decadent treat unlike any other. If you’re still mindful of your budget, consider eating at lunchtime, when prices are generally cheaper but the experience is just as exceptional.
Avoid F1 Weekend — Or Build Your Trip Around It
Finally, note that Monte Carlo is a completely different experience during Formula One weekend, which typically takes place in May (in June from 2026). Unless you have a particular interest in the sport, it’s best to avoid visiting during this time. On the other hand, if you love Formula One and big events, then you can always build your trip around the race — it’s unlikely that you’ll have a bigger or better F1 experience than in Monte Carlo.
