A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Corfu vs. Monaco for Food, Nightlife, Resorts, and Beaches

Should you visit Corfu or Monaco?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Corfu or Monaco, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Corfu

Corfu is a striking, relaxing, and stunning island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Monaco

Monaco is a thrilling, posh, and glitzy coastal resort area. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Corfu and Monaco: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less attractive beach
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Corfu or Monaco?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Monaco than Corfu, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Monaco is better known for its nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Corfu is more popular for its food, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Monaco is more touristy than Corfu and is popular for its grand hotels, luxurious casinos, opulent malls, and popularity with celebrities. Also, Monaco is famous for Monte Carlo. Corfu is well known for its charming villages, gorgeous beaches, and pristine landscape.

How is Corfu different from Monaco?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Corfu
Monaco

Corfu is an amazing island to visit for its restaurant scene. Also, Monaco is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Corfu has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The island's local dishes are heavily influenced by the surrounding areas. You'll find similarities to Greek and Venetian dishes as well France and Mediterranean flavors. Common ingredients include wine, garlic, cloves, cinnamon, and allspice and several traditional dishes that you should try include pastitsado (red wine stew), sofrito (garlic seasoned beef), and veal fricando (roasted veal).

Monaco has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.


Is Corfu or Monaco Better for Nightlife?

Corfu
Monaco

Monaco is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Corfu is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its evening party scene.

People head to Monaco just to party. 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.

Corfu offers plenty to do in the evening. It's a large island that attracts a number of students, so you can expect a party during the summer months. The most popular areas for nightlife are Kavos, Ipsos, Kontokali, and Sidari. You'll also find clubs in many of the resorts and there are often all night parties even during the off seasons.

Is Corfu or Monaco Better for Resorts?

Corfu
Monaco

With a similar set of options, terrific resorts can be found in both Corfu and Monaco.

Corfu offers an unforgettable resort vacation. The diversity of resorts, from family-friendly to romantic or all-inclusive, means there really is something for everyone. There are also a number of villages so you can find a location that perfectly lines up with your needs.

Monaco is a world class resort vacation destination. 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.

Is Corfu or Monaco Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Corfu
Monaco

Corfu is well known for its diving and snorkeling. Also, Monaco is still popular, but not quite as popular for snorkeling and scuba diving.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Corfu. The island is large enough that it has a number of spots to choose from. One of the most beautiful is Afionas, in Port Timone. It's only accessible by boat or a 45 minute hike. Paleokastritsa is a more accessible snorkeling and dive area with facilities and luxury villas where you can stay. For scuba diving, you can also head to Agni, but the busy boat traffic means it's not the best place for snorkeling.

Monaco has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. 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.


Is Corfu or Monaco Better for Beaches?

Corfu
Monaco

Corfu is an amazing island to visit for the beache. Also, Monaco is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beach.

With world-famous beaches, Corfu is a very popular vacation destination. The island is known for its stunning beaches which offer a diversity of settings ranging from family-friendly to natural or party-focused. The most famous beach resort area is Paleokastritsa but other nice places include Pelekas, Agios Gordis, and Glyfada. On the western side of the island you'll find mostly long sandy beaches and on the eastern side you'll find more pebble beaches.

Monaco has a beach worth visiting. 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.

Is Corfu or Monaco Better for Hiking?

Corfu
Monaco

Corfu is an amazing island to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Monaco is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Corfu specifically for its hiking. The stunning natural beauty of the island means you'll find some of the most breathtaking hikes in the Greek Isles. From the lush green rolling hills to the striking blue waters, there are many places to soak up this island's idyllic setting. The island is also rich in plant life and you'll find more than 30 species of orchids here. Popular hiking trails include Vlacherna Trail (good for beginners and families), Mount Pantokrator Trail (the most challenging on the island), and Old Town Hiking Trail which takes you through the history of the area.

Monaco is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Corfu or Monaco?

Corfu
Monaco

Monaco is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Corfu is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Monaco draws large crowds to its stores. 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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Corfu. You'll find most of the shops concentrated in Corfu Town. Popular items to purchase include leather goods, jewelry, ceramics, and items made from olive wood.


Is Corfu or Monaco Better for Families?

Corfu
Monaco

Corfu is an amazing island to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Monaco is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Corfu is one of the most popular family destinations. Because it is so beautiful with amazing beaches, it makes an ideal destination for kids and adults. There are many places where kids can swim as well as a number of great activities for everyone. The whole family will enjoy glass bottom boat rides, horseback riding, and even a visit to the popular Hydropolis Waterpark. There are also a huge number of kid-friendly resorts around the island.

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 Corfu or Monaco Better for Couples?

Corfu
Monaco

Corfu and Monaco are both terrific to visit as a couple.

Corfu has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It's idyllic natural setting and stunning beaches make this a truly romantic island. It's a favorite honeymoon destination for newlyweds from around the world. There are luxury hotels and resorts that have spas, pools, and fine dining options. Whether you're looking for a place to relax or a more adventurous experience, you'll find it all here.

Monaco is a great island for couples, as it 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.

Is Corfu or Monaco Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Corfu
Monaco

Corfu is well known for backpackers. However, Monaco is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Corfu is a great island to visit for backpackers. The island is a favorite, particularly during the crowded summer months. There are a number of hostels where backpackers can stay and an active nightlife if that's your style. There are also quiet and more peaceful settings if you want to escape the crowds.

Monaco is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. Known for it's luxury accommodation and posh visitors, this coastal area isn't known for its backpacker friendly atmosphere. Most budget travelers skip the glitz and glam of this microstate in order to save a few bucks.


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

Corfu
Monaco

Corfu is well known for its public transit. Also, Monaco is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Corfu can get you to some places easily. There's a decent public bus system on the island. The blue buses stay near Corfu Town while the green buses go further around the island.

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

Is Corfu or Monaco a more walkable city?

Corfu
Monaco

Monaco is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Corfu is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its ease of walking around.

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.

Corfu is a very walkable destination. It's easy to walk around Corfu Town, and if you plan to spend most of your time at the beach there's really no need for a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Monaco or Corfu?

How long in Corfu or Monaco?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Corfu and Monaco. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Corfu than in Monaco. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Corfu, and 1-3 days is enough time in Monaco.

Families should spend more time in Corfu than Monaco. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Corfu, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Corfu 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 Corfu.


  • How many days in Corfu or Monaco? Ideal Length of Stay
    Corfu 5-7 
    Monaco 1-3

One day in Corfu or Monaco?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Corfu. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Each neighborhood in Monaco has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This coastal resort area offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.


A weekend in Corfu or Monaco?

Corfu is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Monaco. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Corfu or Monaco?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Corfu. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Monaco is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the big city destination of Monaco. 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.

A week in Corfu or Monaco?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the relaxing destination of Corfu. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the captivating big city of Monaco. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Athens, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Athens.


Which place is cheaper, Monaco or Corfu?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Corfu is €113, while the average daily cost in Monaco is €189. 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 Corfu and Monaco in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Corfu 49
    Monaco 119
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Corfu 98
    Monaco 238
Compare Hotels in Corfu and Monaco

Looking for a hotel in Corfu 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 Corfu


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: Corfu Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Corfu 55
    Monaco 17

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Corfu

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

  • Transfer Preveza/Lefkas Airport to/from Parga Area: $138
  • (CFU) Corfu Airport To Acharavi Private Transfer: $109
  • (CFU) Corfu Airport To Agios Stefanos Private Transfer: $109
  • (CFU) Corfu Airport To Kassiopi Private Transfer: $109
  • (CFU) Corfu Airport To Kavos Private Transfer: $119
  • (CFU) Corfu Airport To Roda Private Transfer: $98
  • (CFU) Corfu Airport To Sidari Private Transfer: $98
  • Corfu Airport (CFU) to Corfu Island - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $77
  • Corfu Airport (CFU): Private Transfer to Corfu Island hotels: $242
  • Corfu Airport (CFU): Transfer to Corfu Neo Limani Cruis Port: $124
  • Corfu Airport Private 1-Way Transfer: $76
  • Corfu Airport Private Arrival transfer: $81

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Monaco

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Monaco:

  • Port Hercule (Monte Carlo Monaco Port): Transfer to Monaco: $231

Is it cheaper to fly into Corfu or Monaco?

Prices for flights to both Monaco and Corfu 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
    Corfu 31
    Monaco 53

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Corfu

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

  • Private Traditional Albanian Lakror Cooking Class in Ksamil: $41
  • Traditional Dinner with a Magnificent View: $97
  • Greek Cooking Class & Olive Oil Tasting: $98
  • Corfood bites - Cooking classes by Christos: $99
  • Private Corfu Food Tour Taste Corfu Culinary Treasures with Guide: $193

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Corfu 15
    Monaco 23

Tours and Activities in Corfu

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

  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour: $5.43
  • Corfu Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.63
  • Corfu City Exploration Game and Tour: $7.06
  • Corfu Aquarium Ticket with Tour Included: $8.84
  • Skip the Line: Casa Parlante Historical Museum Tour Ticket in Corfu: $13
  • City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $24
  • City Sightseeing Corfu Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $24
  • Royalty Winery tour with tasting at Theotoky Estate in Corfu: $25
  • Corfu Town: Dark Myths and Legends Tour: $26
  • Corfu Town: Dark Myths and Legends Tour: $27
  • Corfu Town: Historic Assassinations Walking Tour: $27
  • Ghost Stories and Legends Tour: $27

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
    101

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: $71
  • Eze and Full Day Shared Tour: $103
  • From Nice: Eze, Monaco and Monte Carlo Half Day Tour: $71
  • From Nice: Italian Riviera, Monaco, & Monte Carlo Tour: $733
  • Italian Riviera & Monaco/ Monte-Carlo Sightseeing Tour: $733
  • Jewels of Monaco – Walking Tour for Couples: $477
  • La Condamine: City Highlights Walking Tour: $379
  • Monaco & Monte-Carlo: Guided Hidden Gems Tour: $141
  • Monaco City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.52
  • Monaco Old Town Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $5.43
  • Monaco Private Walking Tour: $339
  • Monaco by Night Private Tour: $505

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Corfu 8.57
    Monaco 26

Sample the Local Flavors in Corfu

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

  • Private Corfu Wine Tasting Shore Excursion: $456
  • Private Shore Excursion: Corfu's Highlights & Wine Tasting: $467

Sample the Local Flavors in Monaco

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

  • Wine Tasting : Tour de France in Nice city centre: $74


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Corfu and Monaco, we can see that Monaco is more expensive. And not only is Corfu much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Corfu would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Corfu 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 Corfu.

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


Which is Bigger, Corfu or Monaco?

Corfu has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Monaco. When comparing the sizes of Corfu 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.