Monaco, the cream of luxury and excess, or so one thinks. This small principality is a haven for billionaires and celebrities alike to sport their bankrolls. But alas! What if I said to you that this glamorous principality can be explored with a broke backpacker’s budget? You heard me right, folks! It isn’t necessary to have a trust fund or a six-figure salary in order to indulge in Monaco’s stunning beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture.
In this blog, let’s dispel the notion that Monaco is only for the well-heeled; we’ll look into budgetary-friendly accommodations, good street food, and free attractions that will make visiting Monaco possible on a broke budget. Get ready to break expectations to experience the best of Monaco without blowing your bank—join me on this journey and let’s discover the ultimate luxury destination for broke backpackers!
Getting there:
Reaching Monaco by train is a convenient and picturesque way to arrive in this stunning principality. The Monaco-Monte Carlo train station is conveniently located in the heart of the city, making it easy to access your accommodation and start exploring. Trains run frequently from nearby Nice, France, with a journey time of approximately 30 minutes and tickets starting from €10. You can also take trains from other French cities like Marseille, Cannes, and Antibes, or from Italian cities like Ventimiglia and Genoa. Simply hop off at the Monaco-Monte Carlo station and you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and the iconic Casino de Monte-Carlo. With its scenic route and affordable prices, taking the train to Monaco is an excellent option for broke backpackers.
Accommodation:
The best way to explore Monaco as a broke backpacker is to just stay in a nearby town and take the train in in the morning, you can also try couchsurfing I’ve had some luck with that in Monaco.
If you have some extra bucks to spare but still want something cheap the following are the cheapest places I’ve found in Monaco.
- Hostel Monaco: Starting from €25 per night, this hostel offers dorms and privates with stunning harbor views.
- Camping Monaco: Pitch your tent or rent a mobile home from €20 per night.
- Airbnb: Find affordable apartments or rooms from €40 per night.
- Auberge de Jeunesse Monaco: A youth hostel with dorms from €30 per night.
- Budget Hotels: Options like Hotel de France or Hotel des Trois Rois offer rooms from €60 per night.
- Monaco Student Accommodation: During summer, student dorms are available for short-term stays from €25 per night.
Cheap/Free attractions:
- Explore the Harbor: Admire luxury yachts and stunning views for free.
- Casino de Monte-Carlo: Visit the iconic casino for free, even if you’re not a high roller, just make sure to dress well as they wont let you in if your not.
- Palace State Apartments: Explore the royal palace for €10.
- Oceanographic Museum: Discover marine life for €14.
- Larvotto Beach: Relax on this free public beach.
- Monaco Grand Prix Circuit: Walk or bike the famous racing circuit for free.
- Jardin Exotique: Enjoy stunning views and exotic plants for €7.20.
- Monaco Cathedral: Visit this beautiful cathedral for free.
- Marché de la Condamine: Explore this bustling market for free.
- Hike to the Tête de Chien: Enjoy panoramic views on this free hiking trail.
- Musée de la Chapelle de la Visitation: Discover art and history for €6.
- Jardin Japonais: Stroll through this serene Japanese garden for €5.
- Monaco Naval Museum: Explore maritime history for €4.
- Saint-Martin Gardens: Relax in these beautiful gardens for free.
- Fontvieille Park: Enjoy this free public park with a lake and walking trails.
- Monaco’s Street Art: Discover vibrant street art throughout the city for free.
- Condamine Market Hall: Sample local food and drinks for €10-€20.
- Monaco’s Harbor Lights: Admire the stunning harbor lights display for free.
- Grimaldi Forum: Explore contemporary art exhibitions for €10.
- Monaco’s Old Town: Wander through narrow streets and historic buildings for free.
- Fort Antoine: Visit this 18th-century fort for free.
- Monaco’s Botanical Garden: Discover a variety of plants and flowers for €5.
- Les Jardins du Casino: Stroll through these beautiful gardens for free.
- Monaco’s Christmas Market: Enjoy festive food, drinks, and crafts for free.
Food:
Street Food and Markets
- Condamine Market Hall: Savor local specialties like socca (chickpea flatbread) and barbagiuan (ravioli) from €5-€10.
- Monaco’s Street Food: Enjoy crepes, paninis, and fresh fruit smoothies for €5-€10.
- Larvotto Market: Discover fresh produce, cheeses, and bread for €5-€10.
Budget-Friendly Restaurants
- La Pizza Cresci: Indulge in delicious pizzas from €12.
- Le Comptoir du Marché: Treat yourself to French bistro fare from €15.
- L’Escalinada: Discover authentic Monégasque cuisine from €20.
- Café de Paris: Enjoy classic French dishes from €15.
- Bistro du Port: Savor seafood and Mediterranean cuisine from €20.
Grocery Shopping
- Monoprix: Stock up on snacks and sandwiches at this affordable supermarket.
- Carrefour: Find fresh produce and essentials at this convenient store.
- Marché de la Condamine: Explore this bustling market for fresh produce and local specialties.
Cafes and Bakeries
- Café de Monaco: Relax with a coffee or pastry from €5.
- Boulangerie de la Condamine: Indulge in fresh bread and pastries from €2-€5.
- Patisserie du Casino: Treat yourself to luxurious pastries from €10.
Nightlife:
- La Rascasse: Enjoy happy hour drinks from €5-€10.
- The Brasserie de la Gare: Savor beers and pub grub from €10.
- Le Bar du Quai: Relax with a drink and harbor views for €10-€15.
- McCarthy’s: Experience Irish pub vibes with drinks from €10.
- Bar du Casino: Enjoy cocktails and slots from €15.
Clubs
- Jimmy’z: Dance the night away for €20-€30 entry.
- The Living Room: Enjoy live music and cocktails from €15.
- Le Crystal: Experience Monaco’s luxurious club scene for €30-€50 entry.
- Twiga: Discover a stylish club with €20-€30 entry.
- Sass Cafe: Enjoy live music and drinks from €15.
Lounge Bars
- The Fairmont’s Saphir Lounge: Relax with cocktails from €15.
- Le Bar de l’Hôtel de Paris: Enjoy drinks and live music from €15.
- La Suite: Experience a chic lounge with drinks from €15.
Conclusion:
Monaco, a country once believed to be only for millionaires, can certainly be visited by broke backpackers. Affordable accommodation, great street food, breathtaking attractions, and pumping nightlife all make this luxury principality more viable for all kinds of budget travelers.
You can get around Monaco without breaking the bank—discover some of its hidden gems, participate in free attractions, and indulge in affordable pleasures. Be it foodies, adrenaline addicts, or any other kind of experiential travelers, Monaco has it all.
Stuff that bacpack, grab the passport, and get ready to discover a more affordable Monaco. With a little creativity and resourcefulness, you can experience the ultimate destination of luxury on a broke budget. Bon voyage!
