A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Birmingham vs. Monaco for Nightlife, Couples, Food, and Families

Should you visit Birmingham or Monaco?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Birmingham and Monaco can help you decide which place is right for you.

Birmingham

Birmingham is a vibrant, fun-filled, and bustling city. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife.

Monaco

Monaco is a captivating, thrilling, and posh coastal resort area. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Birmingham and Monaco: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Birmingham or Monaco?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Monaco. Although Birmingham and Monaco are popular destinations, Monaco has more sights and attractions for tourists. Monaco is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Birmingham attracts visitors for its museums, theatre productions, music, and quaint atmosphere. Monaco is more touristy than Birmingham and is popular for its grand hotels, luxurious casinos, opulent malls, and popularity with celebrities. It is also well known for Monte Carlo. Birmingham is famous for its strong musical routes and its very livable atmosphere.

How is Birmingham different from Monaco?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Monaco and Birmingham. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Birmingham or Monaco?

Birmingham
Monaco

Birmingham is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Monaco does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Birmingham specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Famous sights include the Museum & Art Gallery, Thinktank, and St. Philip's Cathedral.

Monaco does not have museums and landmarks.


Is Birmingham or Monaco Better for Theater?

Birmingham
Monaco

Birmingham is well known for its theatre productions. However, Monaco is not a theatre destination.

Birmingham has a number of performance venues where you can see a variety of shows. The impressive theater scene includes Broadway shows and musicals. Birmingham Hippodrome is a major theater in town.

Monaco is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Birmingham or Monaco? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Birmingham
Monaco

Monaco is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Birmingham is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Monaco. The cuisine is heavily influenced by both French and Italian cuisines. You'll find many dishes that take advantage of the coastal location, with seafood being very common. The national dish is Barbagiuan, which is a deep-fried pastry that is filled with ricotta cheese, Swiss chard, and other vegetables.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Birmingham. Food reviews are mixed around town. The city has its share of award-winning restaurants, but there are also popular dishes that are more of an acquired taste. Local flavors include pork scratching, Birmingham soup, and brummie bacon cakes.

Is Birmingham or Monaco Better for Nightlife?

Birmingham
Monaco

Monaco is an amazing coastal resort area to visit for nightlife. Also, Birmingham is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

Monaco has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. It's where sophistication meets glam, with many luxury nightclubs, cocktail bars, casinos, and even opera houses that you can explore. The city attracts celebrities, wealthy business people, and jetsetters who are looking to socialize, see, and be seen.

Birmingham has plenty to do after the sun goes down. With tons of students and young people looking to party, there is plenty to do in the evening. You'll find no shortage of pubs, clubs, and music venues around town.


Is Birmingham or Monaco Better for Music?

Birmingham
Monaco

Birmingham is an amazing city to visit for its live music scene. However, Monaco is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Birmingham The city has long been a haven for musical creativity, and its influence over the global music scene is apparent. Popular music venues around town include Ghetto Golf, Digbeth Dining Club, and the Sunflower Lounge.

Monaco is not a live music destination.

Is Birmingham or Monaco Better for Resorts?

Birmingham
Monaco

Monaco is an amazing coastal resort area to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Birmingham is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Monaco is a perfect choice. As the playground for the rich and famous, this city has its share of luxury resorts. Famous hotels include the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo, and the Fairmont Monte Carlo.

Birmingham is not a resort destination.

Is Birmingham or Monaco Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Birmingham
Monaco

Monaco is very good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Birmingham is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Monaco. There are both beaches that offer walk-in snorkeling spots as well as boat tours that you can book that will take you to some of the best snorkeling and dive sights around Monaco.

Birmingham is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Birmingham or Monaco Better for Beaches?

Birmingham
Monaco

Monaco is very good for its beaches. However, Birmingham is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Monaco to enjoy the beach. Located along the French Riviera, the beaches are a mix of pebbles and sand. The only public beach is Plage du Larvotto in Monte Carlo and there are a number of activities available including jet skis and wind-surfing. This is also a very family-friendly beach that kids of all ages can enjoy.

Birmingham is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Birmingham or Monaco?

Birmingham
Monaco

Monaco is an amazing coastal resort area to visit for shopping. Also, Birmingham is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Monaco. A visit would not be complete without experiencing the city's shopping. There are couture, luxury brands as well as local boutiques that are frequented by the wealthy and famous. Popular shopping areas include Le Metropole Shopping Center, Fontvieille Shopping Centre, and La Condamine Market.

Birmingham is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city offers everything from large department stores to smaller local shops. There are several good shopping streets around town as well as large markets and even a jewelry quarter.

Is Birmingham or Monaco Better for Families?

Birmingham
Monaco

Birmingham is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Monaco is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Birmingham is a very kid-friendly city. The city has put effort into making sure there are plenty of family-friendly activities around. You can visit a chocolate factory, explore an aquarium, enjoy an animal safari, or explore one of the hands-on museums.

For families, Monaco is not always the best place to visit. The city has a few family-friendly activities like an Oceanography Museum, a Zoological Park, and a harbor where kids can explore. You can also check out the Changing of the Guards in the Old Town. The public beach in town, Plage du Larvotto, is very family-friendly as well.


Is Birmingham or Monaco Better for Couples?

Birmingham
Monaco

Monaco is an amazing coastal resort area to visit for romance. Also, Birmingham is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Monaco has plenty to offer. Filled with luxury, a couple can enjoy perusing the yachts in the harbor, dining on fine cuisine at an award winning restaurant, or staying at one of the many fancy hotels in town. You can also explore the area by air, by taking a truly spectacular helicopter tour.

Birmingham is a very popular place to visit for couples. Romantic activities around town include taking a beautiful stroll through town, wandering around a park or garden, or seeing the ballet.

Is Birmingham or Monaco Better for Students?

Birmingham
Monaco

Birmingham is an amazing city to visit for students. However, Monaco is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Birmingham. With world class academic institutions and a very diverse and international population, this is a popular place for international students to study.

Monaco is not popular with students.

Is Birmingham or Monaco Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Birmingham
Monaco

Birmingham and Monaco both offer nice public transit to get you around.

While Birmingham offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a reasonably comprehensive bus system.

Monaco has a few public transit options. There is a bus system.


Is Birmingham or Monaco a more walkable city?

Birmingham
Monaco

Monaco is an amazing coastal resort area to visit for its walkability. Also, Birmingham is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Monaco is a very easy coastal resort area to get around on foot. It's small and compact size means that it is easy to explore the entire area on foot in a short amount of time.

Birmingham is a very walkable city. Many parts of the city are very walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Birmingham Worth Visiting? and Is Monaco Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Monaco or Birmingham?

How long in Birmingham or Monaco?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Birmingham and Monaco. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Birmingham than in Monaco. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Birmingham, and 1-3 days is enough time in Monaco.

Couples should spend more time in Monaco than Birmingham. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Monaco that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Birmingham than Monaco if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Birmingham.


  • How many days in Birmingham or Monaco? Ideal Length of Stay
    Birmingham 1-5 
    Monaco 1-3

One day in Birmingham or Monaco?

Many travelers enjoy the live music and food when visiting the destination of Birmingham. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

When visiting Monaco, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Monaco, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Birmingham or Monaco?

Birmingham is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the live music, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

When visiting Monaco, people usually allow for lots of time. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this coastal resort area.


Five days in Birmingham or Monaco?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Birmingham. Don't miss the live music, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Monaco, a popular coastal resort area, is full of activities for travelers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Birmingham or Monaco?

Travelers enjoy the museums and theater when visiting the vibrant destination of Birmingham. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Monaco is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Monaco or Birmingham?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Birmingham is £133, while the average daily cost in Monaco is £162. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Birmingham and Monaco in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Birmingham £66
    Monaco £102
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Birmingham £132
    Monaco £204
Compare Hotels in Birmingham and Monaco

Looking for a hotel in Birmingham or Monaco? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Birmingham


Hotels in Monaco


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Birmingham Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Birmingham £25
    Monaco £15

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Birmingham

Also for Birmingham, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Arrival Private Transfers from Airport BHX to Birmingham in Luxury Van: $76
  • Birmingham Airport (BHX): Private Transfer to Birmingham: $111
  • Birmingham Airport Transfers: Airport BHX to Birmingham City in Luxury Car: $101
  • Birmingham Airport Transfers: Birmingham City to Airport BHX in Business Car: $64
  • Birmingham Private Transfer from Birmingham Airport to City centre: $114
  • Birmingham Private Transfer from Birmingham city centre to Birmingham Airport: $114
  • Birmingham to Heathrow Airport private taxi transfers: $280
  • Manchester Airport: BUS Transfer to/from Birmingham: $8.12
  • Private Birmingham Arrival Transfer - Airport to Hotel / Accommodation: $57
  • Private Transfer from Birmingham Airport to Birmingham City: $36
  • Private Transfer from Birmingham to Manchester Airport (MAN): $199

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Monaco

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Monaco:

  • Port Hercule (Monte Carlo Monaco Port): Transfer to Monaco: $228
  • Private Transfer from Monaco to Nice: $192
  • Private Transfer from Monaco to Nice: $171
  • Private Transfer from Nice to Monaco: $150
  • Private Transfer from Nice to Monaco: $123

Is it cheaper to fly into Birmingham or Monaco?

Prices for flights to both Monaco and Birmingham change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Birmingham £38
    Monaco £46
Typical Food Prices in Birmingham

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Birmingham:


  • Two Subs at Birmingham Bus Station
    £5.58

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Birmingham

For Birmingham, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Birmingham Slogging Gangs Walking and Food Tour: $70

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Birmingham £48
    Monaco £20

Tours and Activities in Birmingham

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Birmingham.

  • On the Origins of Charles Darwin: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Shrewsbury: $6.99
  • Winterbourne House and Garden Admission Ticket: $9.99
  • Skip the Line: House and Garden Admission Ticket : $10
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Birmingham Private Self-Guided Walking Tour: $11
  • Self-Guided Smartphone Sightseeing Treasure Hunt: $12
  • City Center Walking Tour (10:30am & 5:00pm): $15
  • Birmingham Walking Tour: Migration Stories from the Stratford Road : $15
  • Birmingham City Centre Daily Walking Tour (10:30am & 5pm): $15
  • Discovering Birmingham Walking Tour: $17
  • 2.5-Hours Walking Tour of Birmingham into Black Heritage Madiba: $18
  • Victorian Canals to Today's City Walking Tour: $19

Typical Entertainment Prices in Monaco

Here are a few typical costs in Monaco for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Grand Prix for Two
    £86

Tours and Activities in Monaco

Here are a few actual costs in Monaco for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Excursion to Eze and Half Day Shared Tour 5h: $70
  • Eze and Full Day Shared Tour: $102
  • From Nice: Eze, Monaco and Monte Carlo Half Day Tour: $70
  • From Nice: French Riviera Full Day Tour: $118
  • From Nice: Full-Day Monaco, Monte-Carlo & Eze Tour: $64
  • From Nice: Italian Riviera, Monaco, & Monte Carlo Tour: $722
  • Guided tour of Monaco in 2 hours: $34
  • Italian Riviera & Monaco/ Monte-Carlo Sightseeing Tour: $722
  • Jewels of Monaco – Walking Tour for Couples: $469
  • La Condamine: City Highlights Walking Tour: $373
  • Monaco & Monte-Carlo: Guided Hidden Gems Tour: $74
  • Monaco City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Birmingham £11
    Monaco £22

Sample the Local Flavors in Birmingham

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Birmingham:

  • Birmingham Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $47

Sample the Local Flavors in Monaco

Also in Monaco, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Nice: Wine Tasting Class in City Center: $73


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Birmingham and Monaco, we can see that Monaco is more expensive. And not only is Birmingham much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Birmingham would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Birmingham and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Monaco would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Monaco than you might in Birmingham.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Birmingham Expensive? and Is Monaco Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Birmingham or Monaco?

Birmingham has a larger population, and is about 970 times larger than the population of Monaco. When comparing the sizes of Birmingham and Monaco, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

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