How to Visit Monaco on a Budget: A Luxe-Looking Trip for Less

Monaco is synonymous with glamour and opulence. Think: private yachts docked in Port Hercule, luxury stores, flashy cars parked outside of the iconic Monte Carlo Casino, and, of course, the Monaco Grand Prix. This tiny principality located on the French Riviera has long been a symbol of wealth and exclusivity, and not without reason.

Monaco is the second smallest country in the world (only after Vatican City), but it boasts more millionaires per capita than anywhere else on Earth. Nestled between France and the Mediterranean Sea, Monaco has been ruled by the Grimaldi family since the 13th century. The principality has no income tax and no taxes on capital gains, making it a magnet for high-net-worth individuals seeking financial (and literal) shelter. Over the decades, royalty, Formula 1 drivers, celebrities, and financiers have called Monaco home, cementing its reputation as Europe's most luxurious zip code. 

So yes, Monaco is expensive. A cocktail can easily cost €18, hotel prices rival those in central Paris, and Port Hercule feels like a floating showroom of wealth. However, there is a secret to enjoying Monaco that I am here to reveal: you do not need a billionaire's bank account to enjoy all that this tiny principality has to offer. With smart planning and the savvy move of basing yourself in nearby Nice, you can experience the glitz and scenic beauty of Monaco in a single day - and do it on a realistic, traveler-friendly budget. In this blog post, I will show you how to visit Monaco on a budget, including cheap and free attractions, without skimping on the experience. 

Table of Contents:

1. Why You Should Visit Monaco as a Day Trip from Nice
2. When to Visit Monaco on a Budget
3. Free & Cheap Things to Do in Monaco 
4. Where to Eat Cheap in Monaco 
5. One-Day Monaco Itinerary (for Budget Travelers)
6. Budget-Friendly Travel Tips for Visiting Monaco 
7. Final Thoughts: How to Visit Monaco on a Budget

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Why You Should Visit Monaco as a Day Trip from Nice

Let's be honest: staying overnight in Monaco is not exactly budget-friendly. Hotel prices regularly start above $400 per night and even modest meals can feel like a splurge. However, there is a smarter way to experience all that Monaco has to offer: by visiting on a day trip from Nice. 

Nice is located just 13 miles (21 kilometers) west of Monaco, making it the perfect home base for your travels around the French Riviera. Nice is lively, accessible, full of affordable accomodations, and offers a broad range of food and cultural experiences. With frequent trains and buses linking the two cities, you can easily explore Monaco by day and return to your (budget-friendly) place in Nice by night. 

Plus, Monaco is small; smaller than New York City's Central Park, encompassing only 0.8 square miles (2 square kilometers). Therefore, one day is plenty of time to see the highlights, enjoy a good meal, and soak in the incredible Mediterranean Sea views without breaking the bank.

Here is why visiting Monaco from Nice makes sense:

Planning a day trip to Monaco from Nice is not just convenient, it is also one of the smartest ways to stretch your travel budget while exploring the French Riviera. Here is why: 

• Save on Hotels: Compared to Monaco's sky-high room rates, Nice offers affordable accomodations for every type of traveler and budget. From boutique hotels, vacation rentals, and hostels, you will find the perfect place to stay without sacrificing comfort, budget, or location.
• Easy Access to Monaco & Elsewhere: The main airport serving the French Riviera is located in Nice, making the city a natural home base. Plus, Nice is well connected by train and bus to nearby destinations like Monaco (24 minutes), Antibes (19 minutes), and Cannes (35 minutes), making day trips quick and easy. 
• Better Food Variety & Prices: As the fifth-largest city in France, Nice has a thriving food scene that caters to every taste and budget. Whether you are looking for street food (like socca), French-Italian fusion cuisine, fresh seafood, or trendy bistros, you will get more dining options at lower prices than in Monaco. 
• Stretch Your Travel Budget: By saving money in Monaco, you will free up cash to splurge on unforgettable Riviera experiences, think seaside meals in Villefranche-sur-Mer, sailing excursions, or even wine tastings in the hills above Nice.

Now, I will admit: I am not normally much of a budget traveler. I love a beautiful hotel and the occasional splurge while on vacation. However, I am a firm believer in spending money where it counts - on once-in-a-lifetime experiences and meaningful souvenirs, not on overpriced basics. That is why I can confidently say that the train between Nice and Monaco is the way to go. It is quick (taking just about 24 minutes), scenic, and only costs €5.90 each way.

By staying in Nice and day-tripping to Monaco, you get the best of both worlds. You will enjoy a taste of the Riviera lifestyle while sticking to your travel budget. Traveling smart does not mean cutting corners, it means knowing where to save and where to spend your money. In my opinion, skipping out on staying in an overpriced hotel in Monaco is one decision you will not regret. Plus, being in Nice means you are easily able to visit other nearby Riviera towns and attractions, whether it be a day trip to Antibes, or a visit to the Rothschild Villa in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. 

How to Travel to Monaco from Nice

As I have briefly mentioned already, getting to Monaco from Nice is fast, scenic, and surprisingly affordable. You have two easy options - train or bus - and both offer beautiful views of the Mediterranean coastline along the way.

While taxis and rideshares (i.e., Uber) are also an option to travel to Monaco from Nice, they are expensive. You can expect a taxi between Nice and Monaco to run somewhere between €90-100, one-way. Unless you are splitting the fare with a group of friends or traveling very early/late in the day, the train or bus is a far better value. Also, something to keep in mind: Uber does not operate within Monaco. While you can take an Uber from Nice and be dropped off in Monaco, you will not be able to request one for your return trip.  

Option 1: Take the TER Train

• Route: TER Regional Train from Nice-Ville to Monaco-Monte-Carlo 
• Travel Time: 24 Minutes 
• Cost: From €5.90 Each Way
• Frequency: 60 Trains per Day
• Tickets: Buy from kiosks at the train station, via SNCF Connect website and app, or online in advance using third-party websites like Rail Europe

The train is the easiest way to travel from Nice to Monaco. The first train of the day departs from Nice around 5:50 AM and the last train departs Nice at 10:21 PM. Trains run approximately four times an hour. The trains are clean, comfortable, and drop you off right in the heart of Monaco, walking distance from Port Hercule, Monte Carlo Casino, and the Old Town. 

Keep in mind that during the summer months, the train can be standing-room only, especially in the mid-morning and late afternoon. If you want to ensure you get a seat on the train, aim for an early morning departure time. Also, train schedules may be modified on public holidays, so double-check times using the SNCF Connect app before you head out on your day trip to Monaco. 

Option 2: Take Bus #600 (Formerly Bus 100, Bus 607)

• Route: Bus #600 from Nice Square Normandie Niemen to Monaco 
• Travel Time: 45 Minutes to 1 Hour 
• Cost: €2.50 Each Way
• Frequency: Every 10 to 15 Minutes 
• Tickets: Buy from driver (cash-only), ticket machines, or the Lignes d'Azur App

If you do not mind a longer ride, the bus offers an alternative to the train, perfect for travelers who are looking for a scenic route, complete with cliffside views, and save a few Euros. 

No matter which option you choose, Monaco makes for a stress-free day trip from Nice. With regular train and bus departures, great views, and affordable fares, getting there is easy!

When to Visit Monaco on a Budget 

If you are looking to visit Monaco on a budget, knowing when to go can save you money and make the most of your experience. 

Best Time for Budget Travelers: Shoulder Season 

The shoulder season in the French Riviera applies to Monaco, too. The shoulder seasons - April to May and September to early October - are ideal. You will enjoy sunny weather which is perfect for sightseeing, fewer cruise ships and tour groups, cheaper prices on accomodations in Nice, and space on trains and buses without the summer crowds. 

Spring is especially beautiful in Monaco, with blooming flowers in the Saint-Martin & Sainte-Barbe Gardens and fewer crowds on the promenades. Plus, the weather in the spring is ideal for sightseeing! Typically, you can expect daytime highs of 68°F (20°C) and lows of 52°F (11°C). I will say though, that it was much warmer than 68°F when I visited at the beginning of May this year! 

Meanwhile, if you are heading to Monaco in the autumn, keep in mind that that the rainiest months are October and November. The autumn weather is otherwise mild, with a temperatures reaching highs of 68°F (20°C) in October and lows of 53°F (11.7°C) in November. 

If you are planning a trip to Monaco, be aware of several major events that can significantly impact both your sightseeing agenda and budget, including: 

• Early April: Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters Tennis Tournament (April 4-12, 2026)
• Late April: Monaco Historic Grand Prix (April 24-26, 2026)
• Mid May: Formula E Monaco E-Prix (May 16-17, 2026)
• Early June: Formula 1 Tag Heuer Grand Prix de Monaco (June 4-7, 2026)
• Early September: Monaco Classic Week (September 10-13, 2025)
• Late September: Monaco Yacht Show (September 24-27, 2025)

Unless you are a fan of tennis, racing, or yachts, you will get a better experience in Monaco by avoiding a visit to the principality on these dates. If you are visiting Monaco in the spring, keep in mind that preparations for the Formula 1 Grand Prix start taking place approximately six weeks in advance. You will see grandstands, barricades, and scaffolding going up along the racetrack beginning in April. These preparations can obstruct views and limit access to some areas, but it is cool to see the iconic race track in person. It takes another three weeks, after the race, for the city streets to return to normal.

What about Monaco in winter?

Monaco does not shut down in the winter, but it is quieter. While you may see reduced hours for popular attractions, you will have the city and its incredible views mostly to yourself. If you are already visiting the French Riviera in the winter, a peaceful stroll through Monaco's Old Town can be a pleasant (and budget-friendly) addition to your itinerary. The weather in Monaco is mild, even during the winter months. You can expect highs around 56°F (13°C) and lows around 45°F (7°C). The coldest month is in January. 

Free & Cheap Things to Do in Monaco 

While Monaco has a reputation for high-rollers, luxury yachts, flashy cars, and five-star hotels, you will be surprised by how much you can see and do in Monaco without spending much money. Whether you are here for the views, the history, or just the luxe vibe, there is plenty to enjoy in Monaco on a budget. Here is your guide to the best free and cheap things to do during your day trip to Monaco.

Wander Through Monaco-Ville (Old Town)

If you only have time to explore one area of Monaco, make it Monaco-Ville, also known as Old Town or Le Rocher (The Rock). Perched high above the Mediterranean Sea on a dramatic cliff, this historic quarter is the oldest part of the principality and offers a completely different vibe from the glitzy, high-rise glamour of Monte Carlo.

This neighborhood is where Monaco began, centuries before the casino and Formula 1 races. The Grimaldi family seized the fortress here in the late 13th century and, to this day, it remains the symbolic heart of Monaco. You will see a tribute to François Grimaldi, the Genoese leader who captured Le Rocher in 1297 while disguised as a Franciscan monk, in Monaco-Ville, just steps from the Prince's Palace (pictured below). 

Monaco-Ville is incredibly walkable and charming. It is a tangle of narrow cobblestone streets and small local shops. You will not find fancy boutiques up here, but you will find history, authenticity, and some of the best views in Monaco. 

Monaco-Ville is also where you will find several of the most iconic landmarks in Monaco, including: the Prince's Palace of Monaco, Monaco Cathedral, the Saint-Martin & Sainte-Barbe Gardens, and the Oceanographic Museum. Exploring the neighborhood does require a fair amount of walking, including up stairs, slopes, and cobblestone streets, so make sure you wear comfortable shoes.

Visit the Monaco Cathedral (Cathédrale de Notre-Dame-Immaculée) 

Just a short walk from the Prince's Palace, this beautiful Neo-Romanesque (also called Romanesque Revival) cathedral is well worth a visit. Built between 1875 and 1903, the cathedral was constructed on the site of a much older church, dedicated to Saint Nicholas, dating back to the 13th century. As such, Monaco Cathedral is sometimes referred to as the Cathedral of St. Nicholas, even though it is technically the Cathedral of Our Lady Immaculate (Cathédrale de Notre-Dame-Immaculée). The interior of the cathedral is serene and elegant, with vaulted ceilings, a grand organ, and beautiful stained glass windows. However, the cathedral is most famous for its distinction as the final resting place of Monaco's royal family, including Princess Grace (Grace Kelly) and Prince Rainier III. The couple is buried side-by-side in the cathedral's crypt.

The Monaco Cathedral is also where Prince Rainier III and Grace Kelly were married in 1956, in a televised ceremony watched by millions around the world. The royal wedding helped solidify Monaco's glamorous image and linked the tiny principality to Hollywood royalty. 

The Monaco Cathedral is free to enter and a peaceful spot within the city. Keep in mind that the cathedral is an active place of worship, so dress respectfully and keep your voice low during your visit.  

• Cost: Free
• Opening Hours: 8:15 AM to 6:00 PM, Daily 

Tour the Prince's Palace of Monaco 

Want to peek inside royal life? Perched high on Le Rocher (The Rock), the Prince's Palace of Monaco is one of the most iconic landmarks in the principality, and unlike many European palaces today, it is still a functioning royal residence. The Prince's Palace of Monaco is the official home of the Grimaldi family. 

The palace has evolved significantly since it was first built in 1215 AD as a fortress. Over the centuries, it has been expanded, damaged in sieges, renovated, and restored. Today, it is a blend of architectural styles, including medieval and Renaissance architecture. While you cannot visit the private royal quarters (Prince Albert II and his family do live here, after all), visitors can explore the palace's Grand Apartments from April to October every year.

The Grand Apartments are every bit as ornate as you would imagine, think marble floors, frescoed salons, and 17th-century furniture. Highlights include: the Galerie d'Hercule, the Throne Room, the Mirror Gallery (inspired by, of course, Versailles), the Salon Mazarin, and the Blue Room.   

Visits to the palace are self-guided with an audio guide (included with your paid admission), which is available in multiple languages. The audio guide provides great historical context to each room on the tour and highlights the legacy of Monaco's ruling family. 

Since the Prince's Palace is a private residence, the palace may close, without advance notice, to visitors during the period of April through mid-September. Since the palace is only open to the public for a portion of the year, if you visit Monaco outside of this window and are unable to visit the Prince's Palace, you can still enjoy some of the royal pageantry in Monaco. The Changing of the Guard takes place outside of the Prince's Palace every morning at 11:55 AM. It is a short, but memorable tradition performed by the Prince's Carabiniers. As an added bonus, the Changing of the Guard ceremony is completely free to see! 

If you are interested in visiting both the Prince's Palace of Monaco and the Private Car Collection of H.S.H. Prince of Monaco, there is a combo ticket available for both attractions that will save you a few Euros. Since this blog post is all about how to visit Monaco on a budget, this is one of those little tips that makes a difference. If you are interested in booking the combo ticket, make sure you select the option for the "Tours of the Prince's Palace & HSH the Prince's Carriage Collection" when booking your tickets online, ahead of your visit. Please keep in mind that this option is only available during the period in which the Prince's Palace is open to the public for visits. 

• Cost: €10 (€5 Children 6-17, Students with Valid ID)
• Opening Hours: April to Mid-September, Hours Vary. For additional information and to purchase tickets, please visit the Palais Princier Monaco website. 

See the Private Car Collection of H.S.H. Prince of Monaco 

Whether you are a Formula 1 fan, a classic car lover, or just curious about Monaco’s high-octane lifestyle, the Private Car Collection of H.S.H. Prince of Monaco is a surprisingly fun and budget-friendly stop, especially when paired with a visit to the Prince’s Palace.

Located in the Fontvieille district (just below the Prince's Palace), this museum-style exhibition showcases nearly 100 rare and historic vehicles collected over the decades by Prince Rainier III, the father of the current monarch, Prince Albert II. What started as a personal passion project eventually became too big for the royal garage, and lucky for us, it was opened to the public in 1993.

The collection spans a little bit of everything, from horse-drawn carriages and vintage Rolls-Royces, to Cadillacs and Ferraris, Lamborghinis, and Formula 1 cars that have actually raced through Monaco’s famous street circuit, plus, toy cars belonging to the children of Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace. My personal favorite, however, was the Fiat 600 Jolly, a cute beach cruiser with wicker seats dating back to the 1950s. 

Some of the collection highlights include:

• A Bugatti Type 35, one of the most iconic race cars of the 1920s
• The custom Lexus LS 600h that carried Prince Albert and Princess Charlene on their wedding day in 2011
• A selection of Grand Prix cars, which ties in with Monaco’s racing heritage
• Military jeeps, rally cars, and even motorcycles

The space is surprisingly large and well laid out, with placards (in English and French) next to each car that explain its history and significance. The museum is indoors and air-conditioned, making a perfect midday stop on a hot summer day in Monaco!

If you are interested in visiting both the Prince's Palace of Monaco and the Private Car Collection of H.S.H. Prince of Monaco, there is a combo ticket available for both attractions that will save you a few Euros. Since this blog post is all about how to visit Monaco on a budget, this is one of those little tips that makes a difference. If you are interested in booking the combo ticket, make sure you select the option for the "Tours of the Prince's Palace & HSH the Prince's Carriage Collection" when booking your tickets online, ahead of your visit. Please keep in mind that this option is only available during the period in which the Prince's Palace is open to the public for visits. 

• Cost: €10 (€5 Children 6-17, Students with Valid ID)
• Opening Hours: Daily, Hours Vary. Closed Grand Prix weekends, November 19, and December 25, annually. For additional information and to purchase tickets, please visit the Car Collection of H.S.H. The Prince of Monaco website. 

Stroll the Saint-Martin & Sainte-Barbe Gardens 

Located along the cliffs of Monaco-Ville, the Saint-Martin and Sainte-Barbe Gardens (Les Jardins Saint-Martin et Sainte-Barbe) are one of the most peaceful and photogenic places in the entire principality, and best of all, they are completely free to visit!

Created in the early 19th century, these gardens were the first public green space in Monaco. They stretch across the rocky promontory between the Oceanographic Museum and the Cathedral, winding along the cliffs with stunning Mediterranean views in almost every direction. Plus, there is art scattered throughout the gardens, including bronze and stone sculptures. 

While the Saint-Martin and Sainte-Barbe Gardens are a public park, you will find that it is quiet and uncrowded. Plus, the cliff top lookouts are perfect for photos! It is also a great spot for a picnic (especially if you are looking to dine in Monaco on a budget). Grab a sandwich or snack from a nearby café and take a seat under the trees; or, if you are traveling on a tight budget, considering bringing something with you from the grocery store in Nice.

The garden paths connect the Oceanographic Museum and the Monaco Cathedral, making them a perfect stop between sightseeing. Plus, the natural shade makes this a great place to cool down in the afternoon.

• Cost: Free
• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Daily 

Visit the Monte Carlo Casino (Exterior & Lobby)

No trip to Monaco is complete without at least a peek at the world-famous Monte Carlo Casino. Even if gambling is not your thing, this legendary building is worth a visit for its history, architecture, and sheer spectacle. 

Officially named the Casino de Monte-Carlo, it was built in 1863 at the request of Princess Caroline of the House of Grimaldi. At the time, Monaco was struggling financially and the royal family hoped a grand casino would attract wealthy visitors to boost the local economy. Spoiler alert: it worked.

Designed by Charles Garnier, the same architect behind the Paris Opera House (Palais Garnier), the Monte Carlo Casino is a masterpiece of Belle Époque design, featuring marble columns, gold leaf, chandeliers, and frescoed ceilings. Over the decades, the casino has been featured in countless films and novels, including multiple James Bond movies (like Never Say Never Again and GoldenEye), cementing its place in pop culture.

You do not need to be a high roller to experience the Monte Carlo Casino. The exterior and casino square (Place du Casino) are completely free to visit and well worth a walk-through. You will see luxury cars lined up outside and the elegant Hôtel de Paris next door. If you want to see even more, the atrium and lobby of the casino are open to the public for free. These spaces give you a glimpse of the casino's opulence (think: marble floors, mosaic tile work, grand columns, and an impressive ceiling). 

There is no dress code or cost to enter the lobby, but proper attire (and a passport) is required to access the actual gaming rooms. There is a cover charge to enter the gaming rooms of €20, which includes a €10 voucher that can be used at the slot machines, in the bar, or Salon Rose restaurant. Children, under the age of 18, are not permitted in the lobby after 2:00 PM. For additional information, please visit the Le Casino Monte-Carlo website.

If you are traveling on a budget and wondering if you are missing out by skipping the paid entrance to the Monte Carlo Casino’s gaming rooms, let me reassure you: you are not. Brian and I paid the cover charge to check it out, and to be honest, it was underwhelming. Yes, the rooms are elegant, but if you have ever been to Las Vegas, those casinos are far more elaborate. Plus, the table games here have steep minimum bets and high buy-ins (i.e., no penny slots) which makes it less accessible if you are not there to seriously play. I do not gamble, so for me, the €20 entry fee was just not worth it. I honestly wish I had skipped it and put that money toward a great meal or activity instead.

Disclaimer: I do not encourage gambling, and I definitely do not think it is a “must” when visiting Monaco. If you do choose to play, make sure it is just for fun and only spend what you can afford to lose. The real win here is soaking in the atmosphere, not chasing the jackpot. 🎲

Alternatively, if you are interested in learning more about the Monte Carlo Casino, the casino is open daily from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM (last entry at 12:15 PM), for self-guided tours. Tickets for tours can be purchased on-site. For additional information, please visit Le Casino Monte-Carlo website.

• Cost: Free (Lobby & Atrium), Otherwise €20 for Entrance to Gaming Rooms
• Opening Hours: Lobby, Atrium, & Gaming Rooms Open 2:00 PM to 4:00 AM, Daily. Restaurant hours vary. For additional information, please visit Le Casino Monte-Carlo website.

Marvel at the Yachts Docked in Port Hercule 

If you are looking for classic Monaco vibes without spending a dime, a stroll along Port Hercule is a must. This iconic deep-water harbor, nestled at the base of Monaco’s steep hillsides, is one of the most iconic places in the principality and it is completely free to enjoy.

Named after Hercules himself in ancient times, Port Hercule has been in use since antiquity, but it gained global attention in the 20th century as Monaco transformed into a luxury playground. Today, it is where multi-million-dollar yachts dock, forming a floating showroom of wealth and design.

Port Hercule is worth a visit for a few reasons, including:

• The people-watching is top-tier. You will see everything from crew members polishing chrome to influencers posing on rented yachts. It is a fascinating mix of glamour, aspiration, and Riviera luxury charm.
• It is great for a scenic walk. The promenade along the port is wide, flat, and perfect for stretching your legs between sightseeing stops. Grab a coffee or gelato and take it all in.
• It is the heart of the Monaco Grand Prix. During race week, Port Hercule is the main staging ground for much of the action. You will walk right along the famous circuit route and, if you visit in the spring, you may even see the grandstands being constructed or dismantled.
• Views in every direction! Look one way and you will see mega yachts, look up and you will catch sight of the Prince's Palace. Plus, you will find plenty of photo spots, especially near the Quai des États-Unis. 

Walk the Monaco Grand Prix Route

Even if you are not a die-hard Formula 1 fan, there is something undeniably cool about walking the same streets that make up the world's most legendary race circuit. The Monaco Grand Prix is not held on a traditional racetrack, instead, it unfolds right through the heart of the city, weaving between landmarks, harbors, and hairpin turns. The best part? You can walk the entire route for free. 

The Circuit de Monaco has been in use since 1929 and is one of the most iconic, and technically demanding, tracks in the Formula 1 calendar. Known for its narrow streets, sharp corners, elevation changes, and virtually no run-off areas, it is the race that drives respect and fear in equal measure. The circuit is 2.05 miles (3.3 kilometers) long and winds past some of Monaco's most famous sights, including: Place du Casino and Port Hercule. 

When the Grand Prix is not in session, the streets are open to the public year-round, and you can walk the entire circuit at your own pace. In the weeks before and after the Grand Prix, you will likely see grandstands, barriers, and signage being assembled or dismantled. It is fascinating to see how Monaco transforms for race week, but be aware that it can disrupt pedestrian access in certain areas.

Relax at Larvotto Beach (Plage du Larvotto) 

Even in ultra-glamorous Monaco, you can still enjoy a free day at the beach and Plage du Larvotto is where to do it.

Located on Monaco’s eastern shoreline in the Larvotto district, this stretch of beach offers a rare chance to enjoy the Mediterranean without a luxury hotel stay or beach club fee. Larvotto Beach is Monaco's main public beach, and it has been recently renovated to feel modern, clean, and surprisingly relaxed for such a famously high-end destination.

The beach is sandy by Riviera standards, though you will still find pebbles and rocks, so water shoes are recommended. The sea here is usually calm, making it a good spot for a swim, even for less confident swimmers. Plus, the lifeguards are on duty in the summer.

If you are planning on visiting Larvotto Beach, make sure to bring a towel, water, and snacks. There are public restrooms, changing cabins, and showers available right by the beach. A few casual cafés nearby offer drinks and snacks at reasonable prices if you would rather not pack your own. 

Larvotto Beach is about a 15-minute walk from Monte Carlo Casino. Just follow Avenue Princesse Grace downhill, and you will end up at the promenade that leads directly to the beach. You will pass several modern hotels and high-rises, but once you reach the beach, the views open wide toward the sea. The beach is busiest on summer afternoons and weekends. For a quieter experience, go early in the morning. 

Where to Eat Cheap in Monaco

Let’s be real: Monaco is not known for being easy on the wallet when it comes to dining. However, just because this tiny principality is packed with Michelin stars and high-end restaurants does not mean you are doomed to spend €50 on lunch (unless, of course, you want to splurge on lunch). If you know where to look, it is absolutely possible to eat well in Monaco without blowing your budget.

Here are my go-to picks and tips for eating affordably in Monaco (and the French Riviera as a whole): 

Marché de la Condamine (Condamine Market)

Hands down, this is the best place to eat cheap in Monaco. Located just a short walk from Port Hercule, the Condamine Market is a covered hall with indoor and outdoor seating surrounded by small, independently run food stalls. 

Inside, you will find vendors selling everything from fruit, vegetables, cheeses, and flowers, to fresh sandwiches, paninis, pizza, socca, pastas, and other local specialities. The food hall can get extremely crowded around lunchtime, so if you are headed to the Condamine Market for lunch, prepare for it to be busy. 

The market and food hall is open daily from 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Halle Gourmande is open every day from 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM, with additional evening hours from 6:00 PM to 9:30 PM, Tuesday through Saturday. 

Supermarkets & DIY Picnics

Do not overlook Monaco’s grocery stores, especially Carrefour and Spar, if you are visiting Monaco on a tight budget. You can pick up:

• Fresh baguettes, cheese, fruit, and drinks
• Ready-made salads or sandwiches
• Yogurt, snacks, or local treats for a picnic

Then head to Saint-Martin & Sainte-Barbe Gardens, Port Hercule, or a even Larvotto Beach to enjoy a beautiful (and budget-friendly) meal with a view.

More Budget-Friendly Restaurants in Monaco

If you are looking for some additional budget-friendly restaurant options in Monaco, consider the spots listed below. While I did not dine at any of these establishments while in Monaco, they all have stellar reviews online. 

• Smash Burgers Monaco (Burgers)
• L'Épi d'Or (Café & Boulangerie) 
• Arrow Burger (Burgers, Wings, & More)
• Crazy Pizza Monte Carlo (Pizza)
• La Reginella (Italian Cuisine)

More Tips for Eating in Monaco on a Budget

• Skip the casino cafés and restaurants around Casino Square, while they are beautiful, they are expensive and full of tourists.
• Avoid sit-down restaurants without the prices listed on menus. 
• Bring a reusable water bottle. Tap water is safe to drink in Monaco and bottled water in Monaco is an unnecessary expense.
• If you are looking to make a reservation for lunch and/or dinner while you are in Monaco, most restaurants utilize TheFork. TheFork does a pretty good job of listing the average price on the menu, so you can get a feel for how expensive (or affordable) a restaurant might be before you go.  
• Many restaurants in Monaco, especially on weekdays, offer lunch specials known as a “menu déjeuner.” The specials typically include a starter and main dish, or a starter, main dish, and dessert for a fixed price. Often times, the main dish is that day's specialty. Seeking out a restaurant with a menu déjeuner is a great way to experience some of Monaco's more upscale restaurants without paying dinner prices or blowing your budget. I opted to go this route when I visited Monaco and ended up having an incredible lunch at Marius, located on Qaui Antonie, along Port Hercule. 

One-Day Monaco Itinerary (for Budget Travelers)

If you are planning to visit Monaco on a budget, the good news is that one day is all you need to hit the highlights, soak in the scenery, and get a taste of the principality’s luxe-meets-Old-World charm.

Here is how to structure your day trip from Nice for maximum impact (and minimum cost):

☀️ Morning: Arrival + Classic Monaco

8:30–9:00 AM – Take the train from Nice-Ville to Monaco-Monte-Carlo

• Arrive early to avoid the crowds and grab a seat with coastal views
• Walk uphill or take the public elevator to Monaco-Ville (The Rock)

9:30–11:30 AM – Explore Monaco-Ville / Old Town

• Walk through the charming streets of Old Town, stop by Monaco Cathedral, and stroll the Saint-Martin & Sainte-Barbe Gardens
• Visit the Prince’s Palace courtyard, enjoy the views, and watch the Changing of the Guard at 11:55 AM

Optional: Visit the Prince’s Palace State Apartments (April–Mid-September only) with the combo ticket if you are also seeing the Car Collection

🍽️ Lunch: Local Flavors for Less

12:00–1:30 PM – Eat at Marché de la Condamine

• Grab a pizza, socca, or local specialty 

Alternative: Enjoy a picnic at Saint-Martin and Sainte-Barbe Gardens or make a lunch reservation at any one of the fantastic eateries in Monaco that offer a menu déjeuner. 

🛥️ Afternoon: Views, Vibes, & Monegasque Glamour

1:30–3:30 PM – Walk along Port Hercule + Visit the Car Collection

• Snap photos of the yachts docked in Port Hercule
• Walk part of the Grand Prix circuit
• Enjoy the Private Car Collection of H.S.H. Prince of Monaco

3:30–4:00 PM – Monte Carlo Casino + Casino Square

• Visit the lobby and atrium of the Monte Carlo Casino (no children after 2:00PM)
• People-watch and window-shop around Place du Casino (Casino Square)

Alternative: Consider visiting the nearby Japanese Garden, which is free to enter, instead of the Monte Carlo Casino if you are traveling with children or are afraid you might be tempted to gamble by going to the casino. 

🌅 Late Afternoon: Larvotto Beach or Scenic Walk

4:00–5:30 PM – Relax at Larvotto Beach

• Dip your feet in the Mediterranean Sea, enjoy the sun, or just take a break

Option: Grab a gelato and walk along the beachfront promenade

🚆 Evening: Head Back to Nice

5:30–6:00 PM – Train back to Nice

• Once you return to Nice, consider catching the sunset at Castle Hill or enjoy dinner in Old Town

Budget-Friendly Travel Tips for Visiting Monaco 

Even in a place as famously luxurious as Monaco, there are smart ways to save money without sacrificing the experience. After spending the day exploring the principality, here are some more of my best budget travel tips to help you make the most of your visit to Monaco and keep your wallet happy.

• Walk Everywhere: Monaco is small, safe, and incredibly walkable. There is no need to spend money on taxis to get around. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes because there are a few steep streets and staircases (although public elevators are available in some areas too). 
• Travel with a Reusable Water Bottle: As I already mentioned, tap water in Monaco is clean and safe to drink. You will find public water fountains in areas like Monaco-Ville and Larvotto Beach. Plus, if you are visiting Monaco during the summer, you are going to want to stay hydrated in the Mediterranean sun. 
• Do Not Feel Pressured to Gamble: Yes, the Monte Carlo Casino is iconic, but you do not have to play to enjoy it. However, if you are worried that by visiting the lobby and atrium of the casino that you may be tempted to play, skip the casino all together and consider visiting the nearby Japanese Garden, which is free to enter, instead. 
• Visit Off-Peak: To avoid crowds and high prices, plan your visit to Monaco during the shoulder season (April-May or September-October), as long as you are aware of the dates for major events which bring crowds of tourists to the principality.

Final Thoughts: How to Visit Monaco on a Budget

Monaco may have a reputation for glamour and extravagance, but with the right strategy (and a base in nearby Nice), you can absolutely enjoy the best of the principality without spending a fortune. From a royal palace to scenic walks and viewpoints, beach breaks to market lunches, a day trip to Monaco on a budget proves that you do not need a yacht to feel like a million bucks. 

Have you visited Monaco on a budget? Or do you have questions about planning your day trip? Drop your tips, stories, or questions in the comments below - I would love to hear from you!

Ready to plan the rest of your French Riviera vacation? Do not miss Jetset Seeker's French Riviera Travel Guide for even more things to do and places to visit in the Côte d'Azur!