MONACO
Larger than only the Vatican, Monaco is the second smallest country in the world. It finds itself 15km from Italy sandwiched between France and the Mediterranean Sea. Also known as "Billionaires' Playground", this microstate is flashy, luxurious, and glamorous to say the very least! Just ask those who attend the Monaco Yacht Show or Monaco Grand Prix!
Updated COVID-19 Travel Information:
Currency:
The official currency of Monaco is the Euro (EUR) (€)
$1 USD = €0.85
Pricing for Leisure Travelers:
Average Hotel Expenses = €208-€220/Night ($250-$265 USD/Night)
Average Food/Drink Expenses = €46-€58/Day ($55-$70 USD/Day)
Pricing for Backpackers:
Average Hotel Expenses = €116-€124/Night ($140-$150 USD/Night)
Note: There are no hostels in Monaco
Average Food/Drink Expenses = €21-€29/Day ($25-$35 USD/Day)
Communication:
Although the official language is French, most residents speak English as well as Italian.
Transportation:
Bus: For those looking to travel within Monaco, there is a local bus service ran by the Monaco Bus Company. For those looking to travel internationally, most routes will run through Nice, France. Tickets from Nice all across Europe can be booked via Flixbus.
Train: France’s national railway company, SNCF, also services Monaco. Travelers looking to travel domestically can book on their website as well as those looking to travel internationally. Expect most international trips to require a transfer in Nice though.
Taxi/Uber: Taxis are everywhere but quite pricey. Uber does not service Monaco.
Miscellaneous:
Although oftentimes seen as a travel destination for high rollers, I recommend backpackers visit, too! A day-trip from Nice to get a feel for what the lifestyle of Monaco entails is a lot of fun; and plus wandering around the city and window shopping is always free!
