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

Should you visit Munich or Monaco?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Munich 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.

Munich

Munich is a bustling, high energy, and multicultural city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Monaco

Monaco is a thrilling, posh, and glitzy coastal resort area. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, nightlife, and food.

Munich and Monaco: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
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
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Munich or Monaco?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Munich. Although Munich and Monaco are both popular with visitors, Munich has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Munich is more popular for its museums, music, and big city activities, while Monaco is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Monaco is more touristy than Munich and is known for its grand hotels, luxurious casinos, opulent malls, and popularity with celebrities. Munich is popular for its beer halls (particularly during Oktoberfest), its historic buildings and its castles. It is also home to The Nymphenburg Palace.

How is Munich different from Monaco?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Munich
Monaco

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

Many visitors head to Munich specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Famous sights include the Old Town Hall in Marienplatz, Nymphenburg Palace, and the Munich Residenz.

Monaco does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Munich
Monaco

Both Munich and Monaco offer a number of excellent restaurants to choose from.

Dining out in Munich is an experience not to be missed. Bavaria has some of the best food in Germany. Popular dishes include schnitzel, weisswurst and spätzel.

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.

Is Munich or Monaco Better for Nightlife?

Munich
Monaco

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Munich and Monaco.

Munich is a world class party destination. The city has a young and vibrant population that keep the nightlife scene active and fun. There are many bars and clubs around town, but the city is also famous for Oktoberfest during the months of September and October.

Monaco is a must-see party destination. 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.

Is Munich or Monaco Better for Music?

Munich
Monaco

Munich 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 Munich The city is known for its music festivals, large concerts, and small venues that are diverse enough that there is something for everyone.

Monaco is not a live music destination.


Is Munich or Monaco Better for Resorts?

Munich
Monaco

Monaco is a must-visit destination for its resorts. However, Munich is not a resort destination.

Monaco offers an unforgettable resort vacation. 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.

Munich is not a resort destination.

Is Munich or Monaco Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Munich
Monaco

Monaco is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Munich is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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.

Munich is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Munich or Monaco Better for Beaches?

Munich
Monaco

Monaco is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Munich is not a beach destination.

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.

Munich is not a beach destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Munich or Monaco?

Munich
Monaco

Shopping is a popular activity in both Monaco and Munich.

Munich is a world class destination for shoppers. There are many pedestrian areas and shopping centers where you can find everything from luxury items to bargain finds.

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.

Is Munich or Monaco Better for Families?

Munich
Monaco

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

Munich is a very kid-friendly city. Popular kid activities include going to the top of Stadium Roof at Olympic Park, checking out the movie sets at Filmstadt, and taking a paddle boat ride in the city park.

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 Munich or Monaco Better for Couples?

Munich
Monaco

Monaco is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Munich is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Monaco has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Munich is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Couples enjoy exploring the palaces around the city, visiting the Roman baths at Müller's Volksbad, and checking out the many great restaurants around town.


Is Munich or Monaco Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Munich
Monaco

Munich is an amazing city to visit for backpackers. However, Monaco is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Munich. The city has many fun hostels that often host events and activities for guests. It's easy to meet other backpackers and take advantage of the nightlife around town.

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 Munich or Monaco Better for Students?

Munich
Monaco

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

Students come from all over the world to visit Munich. The city is an economic hub for both Germany and Europe, so it attracts employees from around the world. There are many wonderful university programs, including a great business school in town. The city's multicultural setting makes it great for international students.

Monaco is not popular with students.

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

Munich
Monaco

Munich is an amazing city to visit 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 Munich is top-notch. Transit options include a subway (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses.

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


Is Munich or Monaco a more walkable city?

Munich
Monaco

Monaco is a must-visit destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Munich is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

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

Munich is very walkable. While walking tours are a great way to explore, the city is quite large so you'll want to take public transit as well.

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

Should I spend more time in Monaco or Munich?

How long in Munich or Monaco?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Munich and Monaco. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Munich than in Monaco. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Munich, and 1-3 days is enough time in Monaco.

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

Couples should spend more time in Monaco than Munich. 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 Munich 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 Munich.


  • How many days in Munich or Monaco? Ideal Length of Stay
    Munich 2-5 
    Monaco 1-3

One day in Munich or Monaco?

Munich is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the big city destination of Monaco. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Munich or Monaco?

Munich is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Monaco is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


Five days in Munich or Monaco?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Munich. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Monaco. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Munich or Monaco?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the economically thriving big city of Munich. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the thrilling big city of Monaco. This coastal resort area offers a variety of activities to choose from. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany, and The Best Walking Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Monaco or Munich?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Munich is €148, 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 Munich and Monaco in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Munich 89
    Monaco 119
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Munich 178
    Monaco 238
Compare Hotels in Munich and Monaco

Looking for a hotel in Munich 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 Munich


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: Munich Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Munich 19
    Monaco 17
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Munich

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Munich:


  • Single Zone Trip on Subway
    2.30
  • Inner District Subway Day Pass
    5.20
  • City transport day ticket
    11

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Munich

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Munich:

  • First Class Transfer in Munich Airport MUC: $198
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Munich Airport MUC to Munich in Business Car: $162
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Munich Airport MUC to Munich in Luxury Car: $252
  • Arrival Transfer Munich Train Station to Munich by Luxury Car: $73
  • Arrival Transfer Munich Train Station to Munich by Luxury Van: $64
  • Arrival Transfer from Munich Airport to Munich City by Sedan: $92
  • Arrival Transfer from Munich Train Station to Munich by Sedan: $60
  • Departure Private Transfer: Munich City to Munich Airport MUC in Business Car: $162
  • Departure Private Transfer: Munich City to Munich Airport MUC in Luxury Car: $252
  • From Munich Airport to Nuremberg - Private Transfer - punctual & friendly Driver: $195
  • From Munich Airport to Salzburg - Private Transfer - punctual & friendly Driver: $209
  • Guided Nymphenburg Palace Tour with Transfers & skip the line.: $237

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 Munich or Monaco?

Prices for flights to both Monaco and Munich 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
    Munich 27
    Monaco 53
Typical Food Prices in Munich

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Munich:


  • Bratwurst
    5.00
  • Leberkässemmeln (Veal & Pork Sandwich)
    1.95

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Munich

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Munich.

  • Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $27
  • Viktualienmarkt Gourmet Food Tour: $47
  • Munich Food Tour with Beer Tasting: $48
  • Private Salzburg History & Food Tour with Munich train add-on: $55
  • Beer Tour & Bavarian Dinner with a Local Beer Expert: $75
  • Bavarian Food Tour with 3-Course Meal: $92
  • 6 gears dinner show menu: $101
  • Original Munich Christmas Market Food Tour - all tastings included: $138
  • Lunch Like A Local: The ORIGINAL Viktualienmarkt Food Tour PLUS: $142
  • Munich Food Tour & Food Market with German Delicacies: $265

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Munich 29
    Monaco 23
Typical Entertainment Prices in Munich

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


  • Schack Gallery Entrance
    4.00
  • Munich Zoo Entrance
    9.00
  • Pub Crawl Munich Tour
    14
  • Neuschwanstein Castle (2)
    24

Tours and Activities in Munich

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

  • Selfguided Audiotour "Munich Old Town": $3.25
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.26
  • Victuals Market Self-Guided Audio Tour: $3.80
  • Germany eSIM Tourist Roaming Data Plan: $4.34
  • From Germany eSIM Tourist Roaming Data Plan: $5.43
  • Escape Game and Tour: $5.43
  • Munich through the Centuries: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Self-guided Walking Tour to River Isar Landmarks: $6.41
  • World Famous Spots in City Center Self-Guided Tour: $6.41
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.46
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $7.06
  • Interactive City Tour on Your Smartphone: $7.59

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:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.26
  • Monaco Old Town Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $5.43
  • Monaco City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.52
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Self-Guided Walking Tour of Monte Carlo & Audioguide: $14
  • City Neighborhoods Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Oceanographic Museum of Monaco Ticket: $21
  • Monte Carlo Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $25
  • Formula One Circuit Guided Walking Tour: $54
  • 3-Hour Walking Tour with a local licensed guide: $54
  • From Nice: Eze, Monaco and Monte Carlo Half Day Tour: $71
  • Excursion to Eze and Half Day Shared Tour 5h: $71

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Munich 37
    Monaco 26
Typical Alcohol Prices in Munich

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Munich:


  • Hofbrauhaus
    12

Sample the Local Flavors in Munich

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Munich:

  • Exclusive Brewery Tour & Tasting of 4 Organic Beers: $29
  • Munich's Original Pub Crawl: $31
  • English Guided Brewery Tour in Munich beertasting 4 beers: $38
  • Beer and Brewery Tour in Munich: $47
  • Cheese & Wine tasting: $97
  • The ORIGINAL Munich Christmas Market Festive Wine Tour -with food: $142
  • Private Wine Tasting Tour in Munich with a Wine Expert: $292
  • Private Wine Tasting Tour in Munich with a Wine Expert: $297
  • Bachelor(ette) Party with Pub Crawl: $407
  • Bachelor(ette) Party with Pub Crawl: $407

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 Munich and Monaco, we can see that Monaco is more expensive. And not only is Munich much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Munich would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Munich 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 Munich.

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


Which is Bigger, Munich or Monaco?

Munich has a larger population, and is about 1240 times larger than the population of Monaco. When comparing the sizes of Munich 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.