Monaco is known for its luxurious lifestyle and high-end attractions, but it’s also possible to enjoy this beautiful principality on a budget. With careful planning and budgeting, you can experience all that Monaco has to offer without breaking the bank. In this itinerary, we’ll provide suggestions for places to visit, where to stay, where to eat, and travel details to help you plan a one-week trip to Monaco that won’t break the bank.
Our one-week itinerary for a budget-friendly trip to Monaco includes exploring top attractions such as the Prince’s Palace, the Oceanographic Museum, and the Monte Carlo Casino. We also suggest day trips to nearby towns such as Eze and Cannes, which can offer a more affordable alternative to staying in Monaco itself. For accommodation, we recommend options such as Airbnb or staying in nearby towns to save on costs. When it comes to dining, we suggest seeking out happy hour specials and more casual dining options to keep costs down. And for transportation, we recommend using public transportation or walking to get around and save on costs.
Itinerary for a Budget-Friendly One-Week Trip to Monaco
Here’s a suggested itinerary for a one-week trip to Monaco, including places to visit, places to stay, where to eat, and rough trip costs with travel details:
Day 1:
- Arrive at Nice Côte d’Azur Airport and take a taxi or bus to your hotel in Monaco. Check-in and relax.
- In the afternoon, visit the Prince’s Palace, the official residence of the Prince of Monaco, and watch the changing of the guard ceremony.
- Enjoy dinner at Le Saint Benoît, a cozy French restaurant in the old town area.
Day 2:
- Explore the old town area, including the Cathedral of Monaco and the Oceanographic Museum.
- Take a break at Café de Paris, a famous café and restaurant located near the Casino de Monte-Carlo.
- In the evening, visit the Casino de Monte-Carlo and try your luck at the slot machines or gaming tables.
Day 3:
- Take a day trip to the nearby town of Eze and visit the Jardin Exotique d’Eze, a beautiful garden with panoramic views of the coast.
- Enjoy lunch at the Michelin-starred restaurant La Chèvre d’Or, located in a stunning hilltop location overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.
Day 4:
- Visit the Opéra de Monte-Carlo, a beautiful theater that hosts a variety of performances throughout the year.
- Take a stroll through the Princess Grace Rose Garden, dedicated to the memory of the beloved former princess of Monaco.
- Enjoy dinner at Rampoldi, a historic restaurant that has been a favorite of celebrities for decades.
Day 5:
- Take a day trip to the nearby town of Menton, known for its charming old town and beautiful gardens.
- Visit the Jardin Serre de la Madone, a stunning botanical garden with a unique collection of rare plants.
- Enjoy lunch at the beachside restaurant Mirazur, which has been named the world’s best restaurant by various publications.
Day 6:
- Spend a day relaxing at Larvotto Beach, one of Monaco’s most popular beaches. Rent a lounge chair and umbrella, or take a dip in the clear blue water.
- Enjoy dinner at Le Louis XV-Alain Ducasse à l’Hôtel de Paris, a three-Michelin-starred restaurant known for its innovative cuisine and elegant ambiance.
Day 7:
- Take a scenic train ride along the coast to the nearby town of Cannes, famous for its film festival and glamorous beach scene.
- Enjoy lunch at La Palme d’Or, a two-Michelin-starred restaurant located in the famous Martinez hotel.
- Return to Monaco in the evening for a final dinner at La Marée, a popular seafood restaurant known for its fresh catch of the day.
Accommodation Options:
- Hotel Hermitage Monte-Carlo: A luxurious five-star hotel located in the heart of Monaco, with elegant rooms and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the city.
- Fairmont Monte Carlo: A four-star hotel located in the Monte-Carlo district, with spacious rooms and a rooftop pool overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.
- Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo: A historic five-star hotel with an iconic façade and a central location near the Casino de Monte-Carlo.
Transportation Options:
- Taxis: Taxis are available throughout Monaco and can be hailed on the street or ordered by phone or app. Taxis do not use meters, so be sure to agree on a price before getting in.
- Buses: The Monaco bus system, operated by Compagnie des Autobus de Monaco, offers regular service throughout the city and to nearby towns and cities.
- Trains: The Monaco train station, located in the Monte-Carlo district, offers regular service to destinations throughout the region, including Nice, Cannes, and Marseille. The train is a convenient and affordable way to travel between cities.
- Walking: Monaco is a relatively small principality, and many of its attractions are within walking distance of each other. Walking can be a pleasant and cost-effective way to get around, especially in the pedestrianized old town area.
Rough Trip Costs: for a Budget-Friendly One-Week Trip to Monaco
- Accommodation: Depending on the type of hotel and room you choose, prices can range from €200 to €1000 per night.
- Meals: Dining in Monaco can be expensive, especially at high-end restaurants. Expect to pay €50-€150 per person for a three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant, and upwards of €200 per person at a Michelin-starred restaurant.
- Activities: Many of the attractions in Monaco have admission fees, ranging from €5 to €20 per person. Day trips to nearby towns and cities, such as Eze and Cannes, can also add to your expenses.
- Transportation: Taxis in Monaco can be expensive, with fares starting at around €15. Buses are a more affordable option, with tickets starting at €2 per ride. Train tickets to nearby cities such as Nice and Cannes cost around €5-€15 each way.
Overall, a one-week trip to Monaco can cost anywhere from €2000 to €10000 or more, depending on your choice of accommodation, dining, and activities. However, with careful planning and budgeting, you can enjoy all that this beautiful principality has to offer without breaking the bank.
Some additional tips for making the most of your trip to Monaco:
- Consider purchasing a Monaco Pass, which provides discounted admission to many of the city’s top attractions, as well as free public transportation.
- Take advantage of happy hour specials at restaurants and bars, which can offer discounts on food and drinks.
- Consider staying in nearby towns such as Nice or Menton, which can be more affordable than staying in Monaco itself.
- If you’re on a tight budget, opt for more casual dining options such as street food or local markets, which can offer tasty meals at a lower cost.
- Look for free or low-cost activities, such as hiking or visiting public parks and beaches.
- Be aware of dress codes at high-end restaurants and casinos, which often require formal attire.
- Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak tourist season in the summer months.
With these tips in mind, you can enjoy a memorable and enjoyable trip to Monaco, experiencing all of its glamour and luxury without breaking the bank.
Conclusion – Itinerary for a Budget-Friendly One-Week Trip to Monaco
With a little bit of planning and budgeting, it’s possible to enjoy all that Monaco has to offer without spending a fortune. By following our one-week itinerary for a budget-friendly trip to Monaco, you can experience the glamour and luxury of this beautiful principality without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Monaco has something to offer for everyone, and with these tips, you can make the most of your trip while keeping costs under control.