With glamorous casinos, glitzy nightlife, and the prestigious Formula 1 Grand Prix tearing around its streets, Monaco has long fascinated the jet set crowd. Home to some of the richest people on the planet, it’s an unlikely candidate for a budget break. However, look beyond the bling-bling and this moneyed microstate can be cheaper than you think.
Resist the temptation of sampling a glass of Veuve Clicquot amidst the pastel-coloured penthouses and head to the beachfront, where the glittering Mediterranean Sea flows from the shore like a sparkling turquoise dress. A seaside resort at heart, Monaco has plenty to offer the penny-pincher. Here’s how to experience the principality without suffering bankruptcy.
Wander through a Royal Neighborhood
Perched on a rocky peak that dominates the city, the narrow cobblestone streets of Le Rocher, Monaco’s old town, are topped by the Palais Princier de Monaco, home to the royal Grimaldi Family. Built in 1215, only the state apartments are open to the public, and they cost €8 to enter. To gain a free sense of the continued prominence of the Prince, watch the changing of the guard at precisely 11:55 AM each day. Nearby, the flower-covered graves of Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace can be found at the Cathédrale de Monaco.
Eat Socca at the Condamine Market
For authentic local cuisine, visit the recently-refurbished Marché de la Condamine, which specializes in Monegasques cooking and regional produce. The iconic Chez Roger sells superb takeaway socca (a thin, crispy oven-baked chickpea pancake) for just a couple of euros each, while Truffle Bistrot, an Italian restaurant renowned for its truffle dishes, also offers sophisticated meals at reasonable prices.
Submerge Yourself in Monaco’s Sea Temple
Monaco’s long-term commitment to marine studies was initially ignited by the modernist Prince Albert I. The opulent Musée Océanographique de Monaco is a magnificent aquatic museum set in a baroque building atop a cliff, making it a must-see attraction. Devoted to researching our oceans since 1910, the basement aquarium features more than 4000 species of fish along with whale skeletons, maps, and model ships to peruse. Visit in low season, and entry is just €11, compared to €16 in summer.
Swim and Sunbathe Under Blue Skies
Located in the middle of Monaco’s new harbour, near the F1 starting line, the Stade Nautique Rainier III is an Olympic-size swimming pool with several lanes and diving boards. The views over the masts of shimmering yachts make this saltwater pool a perfect spot for relaxation. Access is just €6.00 for the day.
If you prefer the seaside, the pebbled bay of Le Larvotto is free to visit. Although it can be crowded in the summer, it remains a great place during Monaco’s mild shoulder months, as many terraces stay open year-round.
Don’t Lose All Your Cash in a Casino
The magnificent Casino Monte-Carlo, made famous in James Bond movies like Never Say Never Again and GoldenEye, is one of Monaco’s most alluring sights. The belle-époque architecture, luxury sports cars parked outside, and the clatter of the roulette wheel create an enchanting atmosphere. However, with a €17 entry fee and casino chips starting at €25, it’s not the most budget-friendly option. You may take a peek inside the private gaming rooms with an audio-guided tour included in the entry fee, before the casino opens. If you prefer gambling, the Sun Casino is free to enter and offers complimentary drinks for players at the tables.
Bar-hop by the Harbour
Most bars around Monaco’s new harbour boast priceless views of million-dollar luxury yachts moored in calm, azure waters; however, drinks tend to be pricey. To enjoy the ambiance without needing a bank loan, visit during happy hour when young professionals unwind after work.
The principality’s only brewery, Brasserie de Monaco, offers pints for €3.50 between 6-8 PM. For fine wine and cocktails, head to Le Before, where the expansive outdoor lounge transforms into a lively dance floor on weekends. The iconic Stars ’n’ Bars American diner, adorned with original F1 racing cars hanging from the ceiling, offers reasonable prices during their ‘healthy hour’ featuring vegetarian meals, yoga, and massages.
Enjoy the Calm of the Jardin Japonais
Created by Prince Rainier III in memory of his wife Grace Kelly, the Jardin Japonais is a miniature Zen garden where water, stones, paths, and flowers delicately combine to create a calming oasis. Blessed by a Shinto high priest, this tranquil space features curved bridges, trickling streams, and ponds teeming with koi carp. Entrance is free, and visitors are encouraged to meditate in this peaceful environment.
Take in Million-dollar Views for Just €2
For a budget-friendly, whistle-stop tour of Monaco, take the Line 1 bus route, which rumbles past glamorous Ferraris, Maseratis, and Aston Martins circling the Place du Casino in front of the luxurious Hotel de Paris. This €2 ride then continues along the extravagant Avenue d’Ostende, descending towards the harbour. Look out for the Yacht Club, which is designed like a cruise liner, before taking in the array of extravagant superyachts moored along the waterfront.
