Discover the Glamour and Lifestyle of Monaco: A Rich Experience
An independent city-state west of the French Cote d’Azur, the Principality of Monaco is the playground of Europe’s celebrities and idle rich. Most people are drawn by the sun, glamorous lifestyle, and tax-free income, and there are more millionaires per capita in Monaco than anywhere else on the planet. True Monacans make up only about 15 percent of the population in a country packed with wealth, opulence, and the world’s most expensive real estate.
The sweeping roads of its unofficial capital Monte Carlo serve as the course for the legendary Monaco Grand Prix. The buildings that line the streets are themselves unattractive monstrosities; huge tiered blocks that belie the fabulous lives of its residents. However, Monaco does have a suitably glamorous history. Disguised as a Franciscan monk, Francois Grimaldi reclaimed a fortress on the Rock of Monaco from a rival Italian bloc in 1297. This gave the principality its name, deriving from the word ‘monk’. Lord Honore II took power in 1604 and declared himself prince. France later annexed Monaco, with the Grimaldis regaining power. In the late 1800s, Prince Charles created the Societe des Bains de Mer in order to restore wealth. It consisted of a casino, hotels, and a theatre, from which sprung the glittering Monte Carlo area.
Monaco isn’t good for those who love the great outdoors, apart from a few ornate parks. Those with light wallets should also stay away, unless they want to try their luck filling it up in Monaco’s famous Casino de Monte Carlo. If one wants to rub cloaks with royalty and high society, then Monaco is the place to be.
Key Facts
- Language:
- The official language of Monaco is French, but English and Italian, as well as Monegasque and Occitan (local languages) are also spoken.
- Passport/Visa:
The borderless region known as the Schengen Area includes the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland. All these countries issue a standard Schengen visa that has a multiple entry option, and which allows the holder to travel freely within the borders of all the aforementioned countries. Monaco is considered a de-facto member of the Schengen zone because a traveller will need to pass through a Schengen zone country to enter Monaco. Although Monaco does not have its own visa policies, it closely follows the Schengen visa rules.
Additionally, non-EEA passengers to Monaco must hold proof of repatriation, such as return or onward tickets, the necessary travel documentation for their next destination, and sufficient funds to cover their expenses while in the country. It is highly recommended that travellers’ passports have at least six months’ validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
- Currency:
The unit of currency is the euro (EUR), divided into 100 cents. Money can be exchanged at banks, bureaux de change or hotels. Bank hours are usually 9am to 12pm and 2pm to 4pm Monday to Friday and are closed on weekends. The Credit Foncier de Monaco is open daily. Travellers cheques (US$ are the preferred currency) are not widely accepted and should be exchanged at banks or a bureaux de change. All major credit cards are widely accepted.
- Electricity:
- The electrical current is 230 volts, 50 Hz. European round 2-pin plugs are used.
Climate in Monaco
Monaco enjoys a mild, pleasant Mediterranean climate, averaging about 300 days of sunshine a year. Summer temperatures are usually in the 80F to 84F (26C to 29C) range, while winter temperatures range between 48F and 58F (8C to 14C). July and August are the hottest months, while spring and autumn are perfect times to travel to Monaco, as temperatures are at their mildest. The winter months of January and February tend to be the coldest and also receive the most rainfall.
Health Notes when travelling to Monaco
In general, no immunisations are necessary for travel to Monaco and there are no major health risks. The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) does not provide health cover in Monaco. It’s advisable to carry enough personal medication with accompanying doctor’s letter; medical insurance is recommended.
Safety Notes when travelling to Monaco
Trips to Monaco are usually trouble-free, but the usual, sensible precautions such as being vigilant after dark and taking care of valuables apply.
Customs in Monaco
Swimsuits, bare chests, and bare feet are restricted to beaches and swimming areas in Monaco. Appropriate dress is required for visits to religious buildings, as Monaco is largely Roman Catholic. Jacket and tie are required at the Casino.
Duty Free in Monaco
Passengers are allowed to bring in 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars, one litre of spirits, medicines sufficient for personal requirements and other goods (for air travellers) up to a total value of EUR 430 per adult.
Doing Business in Monaco
Business in Monaco is usually conducted formally, so suits and ties are the norm. Greetings include a handshake and business cards are exchanged. French is the official language, though some English is spoken; it’s best to ascertain beforehand which language will be used. Business hours are usually 9am to 12pm and 2pm to 5pm, Monday to Friday.
Communication in Monaco
The international access code for Monaco is +377. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the United Kingdom). Visitors can purchase local prepaid SIM cards for unlocked phones; hotels, cafes and restaurants provide WiFi.
Tipping in Monaco
Most hotels and restaurants add a service charge in Monaco, but tipping extra for excellent service is appreciated. Porters and valets usually expect a tip. It is not necessary to tip taxi drivers, as they are self-employed.
Passport/Visa Note
The borderless region known as the Schengen Area includes the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland. All these countries issue a standard Schengen visa that has a multiple entry option, and which allows the holder to travel freely within the borders of all the aforementioned countries. Monaco is considered a de-facto member of the Schengen zone because a traveller will need to pass through a Schengen zone country to enter Monaco. Although Monaco does not have its own visa policies, it closely follows the Schengen visa rules.
Additionally, non-EEA passengers to Monaco must hold proof of repatriation, such as return or onward tickets, the necessary travel documentation for their next destination, and sufficient funds to cover their expenses while in the country. It is highly recommended that travellers’ passports have at least six months’ validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Entry Requirements
- Entry requirements for Americans:
US citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond period of intended stay in Monaco. No visa is required for stays of up to three months.
- Entry requirements for Canadians:
Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond their arrival in Monaco. No visa is required for stays of up to three months.
- Entry requirements for UK nationals:
UK citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond period of intended stay in Monaco. No visa is required for stays of up to three months.
- Entry requirements for Australians:
Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond their arrival in Monaco. No visa is required for stays of up to three months.
- Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Monaco. No visa is required.
- Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond their arrival in Monaco. No visa is required for stays of up to three months.
- Entry requirements for South Africans:
South African citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond their arrival in Monaco. A visa is required.
Tourist Offices
Monaco Tourism Office, Monaco: +377 9216 6116 or http://www.visitmonaco.com
Monaco Embassies
- In the United States:
French Embassy, Washington DC, United States (also responsible for Monaco): +1 202 944 6000.
- In Canada:
Monaco Consulate, Montreal, Canada: +1 514 878 5878.
- In the United Kingdom:
French Embassy, London, United Kingdom (also responsible for Monaco): +44 (0)20 7073 1000.
- In Australia:
French Embassy, Canberra, Australia (also responsible for Monaco): +61 (0)2 6216 0100.
- In Ireland:
French Embassy, Dublin, Ireland (also responsible for Monaco): +353 (0)1 277 5000.
- In New Zealand:
Consulate of Monaco, Auckland, New Zealand: +64 (0)9 523 3313.
- In South Africa:
Honorary Consul of Monaco, Cape Town, South Africa: +27 (0)21 702 0991.
Foreign Embassies in Monaco
- American Embassy
United States Embassy, Paris, France (also responsible for Monaco): +33 (0)1 4312 2222.
- Canadian Embassy
Canadian Embassy, Paris, France (also responsible for Monaco): +33 (0)1 4443 2900.
- British Embassy
British Embassy, Paris, France (also responsible for Monaco): +33 (0)1 4451 3100.
- Australian Embassy
Australian Embassy, Paris, France (also responsible for Monaco): +33 (0)1 4059 3300.
- Irish Embassy
Irish Honorary Consulate, Monaco: +377 93 157 045.
- New Zealand Embassy
New Zealand Embassy, Paris, France (also responsible for Monaco): +33 (0)1 4501 4343.
- South African Embassy
South African Embassy, Paris, France (also responsible for Monaco): +33 (0)1 5359 2323.
Public Holidays Around the World
Planning your year? Knowing public holidays in different countries can help you plan trips, schedule events, or understand global schedules. Below, find a comprehensive list of public holidays sorted by country.
