A seasoned female solo traveller has revealed six ways to explore the world’s richest country without breaking the bank.
Known for its glitzy casinos, yacht-lined harbours and prestigious events, Monaco has a long-standing reputation for being the ultimate playground for the rich and famous.
More than seven million people flock to the sovereign state each year, many of which are day-trippers visiting famed attractions such as the Monaco Grand Prix and the Casino de Monte-Carlo.
As of 2025, Monaco’s GBP per capita in 2024 stands at $227,073 (£182,467) – making it the wealthiest country in the world, according to World Population Review.
Despite its overwhelming opulence, the majority of residents are not necessarily affluent, which means getting the full experience while visiting the costly country can be surprisingly affordable with a few simple hacks.
Camille Esteve, a solo traveller and writer for Monaco Tribune, laid out her top tips on how to dine, sleep, shop and lap up luxury for less in Monaco.
Booking
According to Camille, choosing the right time of year is crucial for finding cheap prices in Monaco due to high demand during peak seasons, like the Monaco Grand Prix and summer months.
Known for its glitzy casinos, yacht-lined harbours and prestigious events, Monaco has a long-standing reputation for being the ultimate playground for the rich and famous
Despite its overwhelming opulence, the majority of residents are not necessarily affluent, which means getting the full experience while visiting the costly country can be surprisingly affordable with a few simple hacks
Off-peak seasons, such as November or other colder months, offer more affordable options for flights and accommodations.
She added: ‘Plan your visit in September or October when you can enjoy the Indian summer, or between November and April, since the climate is still mild.’
Accommodation
A one-night stay at a hotel in Monte Carlo can cost more than the average person’s monthly rent.
Fortunately, Monaco is surrounded by the French border and all of its quaint, wallet-friendly towns.
The solo traveller suggests booking accommodation in places like Beausoleil, Cap d’Ail or Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, and arrive in minutes to the Principality by foot.
Food
For a reasonably priced, gourmet local meal, Camille recommends La Condamine market (pictured)
Pictured: Monte Carlo Casino
Rather than splurge on high-end dinners at celebrity chef restaurants, Camille chose to take advantage of Monaco’s affordable lunch menus, where many upscale establishments offer three-course meals for under €30 (£26).
For a reasonably priced, gourmet local meal, she recommends La Condamine market.
Located at the foot of the Rock, on the Place d’Armes, this market is a popular gathering spot for local workers and their families.
Inside the food hall, numerous stalls serve Mediterranean specialties prepared with local ingredients at low prices – Italian pasta, fish, socca (chickpea pancakes), pissaladière (a type of pizza), pizzas, roast meats, and Lebanese cuisine are all available to eat in or take away.
Transportation
Although Monaco’s streets are often peppered with Lamborghinis and Ferraris, Camille explored the compact two-square-kilometre principality either on foot or by using public lifts and buses, which cost as little as €1.50 (£1.30).
She noted that some destinations might appear to require a steep climb, but are actually reachable by lift – though these are sometimes discreetly located.
Visitors are advised to look for signage or ask locals for help.
Pictured: Circuit de Monaco, Monte-carlo, Monaco
For rainy days or tired feet, Monaco offers an excellent bus network, with single tickets, valid for 30 minutes, costing €1.50.
These can be purchased via the free Monapass app or by tapping a bank card directly on the terminal inside the bus (up to five uses per day, with one card per person).
To navigate efficiently, she recommended the Citymapper app, which provides precise directions, including which bus to take and where to disembark.
Sights and activities
Monaco can be fully enjoyed without spending a fortune at the Casino, as the principality offers a variety of culturally significant sites and attractions that are either free or available at a very low cost.
Notable landmarks include Monaco Cathedral, the Saint-Martin gardens, Place du Palais (where the changing of the Prince’s Carabinieri guard takes place daily at 11:55 am), the Palais de Justice, the Princess Grace Irish Library, and Fort Antoine (excluding showtimes).
Alternatively, the Casino Gardens, The he Japanese Garden, The Métropole Shopping Centre and The New National Museum of Monaco (Villa Paloma and Villa Sauber) are some great free and affordable options.
Shopping and souvenirs
Pictured: Interior view of Metropole Shopping Center with 80 luxury shops and boutiques
Pictured: Monaco Saint Nicholas Cathedral Cote d’Azur Riviera
Pictured: Saint-Martin Gardens in Monaco
One traveller shared on their blog that they preferred to spend spare euros on day trips to nearby towns rather than new clothes.
However, for those inspired by the opulent fashion of Monaco’s well-dressed residents, Le Port is a more budget-friendly area for shopping compared to Monte Carlo.
Prices tend to start lower there, and occasional discounts can create the sense of finding a real bargain.
As for souvenirs, affordable options are plentiful in Monaco’s historic district, with shirts costing less than ten euros.
