A typical first trip here runs about $1,725 to $2,325 per person for 7 days at a mid-range style, before flights. Get your own number from the Budget Calculator.
- Barbajuan, Monaco's iconic fried pastry stuffed with Swiss chard, ricotta, and Parmesan; the official national snack
- Fougasse monégasque, an orange blossom and anise-flavored flatbread traditionally given as gifts at Easter and Christmas
- Socca, thin crispy chickpea flour pancake borrowed from neighboring Nice; sold at the Condamine market
- Barbagiuan au four, baked version of the national pastry served in upscale restaurants alongside Ligurian-influenced seafood dishes
- Michelin-starred dining, Monaco has one of the highest concentrations of Michelin stars per capita in the world; dining is a serious affair
- Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix (May), the most glamorous and prestigious race in motorsport; streets become the circuit through the principality
- Monte-Carlo Rally (January), one of the world's oldest and most celebrated motorsport events
- Monaco National Day (November 19), celebrates the ruling Grimaldi dynasty with a military ceremony and fireworks over the harbor
- Monte-Carlo International Circus Festival (January), founded by Prince Rainier III; among the most prestigious circus competitions in the world
- Sainte Dévote Festival (January 26–27), celebration of Monaco's patron saint with a boat-burning ceremony and fireworks
French is the official language and used in all government and daily life. Monégasque (a Ligurian dialect) is the national language and taught in schools as part of cultural preservation.
Italian and English are widely understood, particularly in restaurants, casinos, and hotels. Monaco is a constitutional monarchy, the Grimaldi family has ruled since 1297, making it the world's oldest ruling dynasty.
- Dress code is enforced at the Casino de Monte-Carlo, smart casual at minimum; jackets required in certain rooms; shorts and trainers are turned away
- Monaco is one of the world's wealthiest places, understated elegance is valued over flashy displays; dress well but not ostentatiously
- Respect the Prince's Palace area, changing of the guard at 11:55am daily is a solemn ceremony; silence is expected
- Tipping 10–15% is expected at restaurants; service staff are professional and accustomed to international standards
Latest for Monaco
Updates for Monaco will appear here as they are published. Every update cites official sources, so you can plan on it.