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

Should you visit Nice or Monaco?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Nice and Monaco can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Nice

Nice is a opulent, trendy, and chic seaside destination. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Monaco

Monaco is a posh, glitzy, and glamorous 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. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Nice and Monaco: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • 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


Is there more to do in Nice or Monaco?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Monaco than Nice, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Monaco is better known for its shopping and big city activities, while Nice is more popular for its food, beaches, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Nice is well known for its beachfront setting in the French Riviera as well as its popularity with A-list celebrities. Monaco is well known for its grand hotels, luxurious casinos, opulent malls, and popularity with celebrities. Also, Monaco is famous for Monte Carlo.

How is Nice different from Monaco?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Nice
Monaco

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

Nice has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The cuisine brings together fresh regional ingredients and mixes Provençal and Niçoise flavors. You'll find a lot of Italian influence as well. Fresh seafood is the thing to try while you're in town, but other local favorites include socca, Ratatouille, and Salade niçoise.

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 Nice or Monaco Better for Nightlife?

Nice
Monaco

Both Nice and Monaco are amazing when it comes to partying.

Nice is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The city has some of the best nightlife on the Cote d'Azur. You'll find a number of nightclubs along the seaside as well a bars and pubs in the Old Town. Some of the best clubs are along Promenade des Anglais.

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.

Is Nice or Monaco Better for Resorts?

Nice
Monaco

If luxury resorts are your style, both Nice and Monaco have amazing options.

Nice is a world class resort vacation destination. The city has boutique hotels as well high end luxury resorts. Popular options include Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée, Hôtel Suisse, and AC Hotel by Marriott.

Vacationers flock to Monaco for its luxury resorts. 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 Nice or Monaco Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Nice
Monaco

Both Nice and Monaco offer notable scuba diving or snorkeling.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Nice. There are some places where you can arrange a snorkeling or dive trip to explore the underwater setting.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery 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.


Is Nice or Monaco Better for Beaches?

Nice
Monaco

Nice is well known for the beache. Also, Monaco is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beach.

Nice is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The city has about 4 miles of beach along its coastline and there are both public and private beaches available. La Réserve is a public beach with a laid back and fun vibe. Plage Beau Rivage is a private beach with many amenities, making it a favorite for visitors. Blue Beach is another private beach that is very family-friendly.

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 Nice or Monaco Better for its Old Town?

Nice
Monaco

Nice is well known for its old town. However, Monaco does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Nice. Wandering around the charming old town is a quintessential part of visiting this city. There are many historic churches and squares, as well as great restaurants and shops that you can pop in.

Monaco does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Nice or Monaco?

Nice
Monaco

Monaco is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, Nice is not as famous, but is still a good seaside destination to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Monaco make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Nice. The city has long been a favorite for the rich and famous, so you'll find plenty of shopping opportunities around town. The boutique shops are chic, trendy, and fashionable, but for those on a budget, you can sometimes find a unique local purchase in your budget.


Is Nice or Monaco Better for Families?

Nice
Monaco

Nice is very good for its family-friendly activities. However, Monaco is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Nice. The town has many fun playgrounds, kid-friendly beaches, and unique cultural opportunities that kids can enjoy. It also makes a great base for exploring the French Riviera and everything that it has to offer.

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 Nice or Monaco Better for Couples?

Nice
Monaco

Both Nice and Monaco are amazing destinations for a couple's getaway.

Nice is a great seaside destination for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The old town is filled with romance and charm. You can also take a walk along the Promenade Des Anglais or soak up the romantic countryside that surrounds the town.

Monaco is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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 Nice or Monaco Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nice
Monaco

Nice is very good for backpackers. However, Monaco is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Nice is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Because it's one of the most popular tourist destinations in France, many backpackers make their way here. Nice is known for its high end vibe, so it can be challenging to find affordable options, but if you know where to look, they are around.

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

Nice
Monaco

Nice 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 Nice can get you to some places easily. There are both buses and trams.

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

Is Nice or Monaco a more walkable city?

Nice
Monaco

Nice and Monaco both are amazing when exploring on foot.

It is easy to get around Nice on foot. You should definitely spend some time exploring the 7 kilometer long Promenade des Anglais.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Monaco or Nice?

How long in Nice or Monaco?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Nice or Monaco?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the quaint destination of Nice. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Monaco is a big city destination where you can fill many days. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.


A weekend in Nice or Monaco?

Nice 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.

Monaco is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Nice or Monaco?

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

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the thrilling big city of Monaco. This coastal resort area offers something for everyone. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Nice or Monaco?

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the opulent destination of Nice. This seaside destination offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

The posh coastal resort area of Monaco offers nightlife and food. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.


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


Which place is cheaper, Monaco or Nice?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Nice is €131, 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 Nice and Monaco in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nice 59
    Monaco 119
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nice 118
    Monaco 238
Compare Hotels in Nice and Monaco

Looking for a hotel in Nice 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 Nice


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: Nice Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nice 25
    Monaco 17

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nice

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Nice:

  • Airport Transfer: Nice Airport NCE to Nice City in Luxury Van: $83
  • Airport Transfer: Nice City to Nice Airport NCE in Luxury Van: $83
  • Arrival Transfer from Côte d'Azur Airport NCE to Nice City in Private Car: $44
  • Arrival Transfer from Nice Airport NCE to Nice city by Sedan: $60
  • Arrival Transfer: Nice Airport NCE to Cannes in Business Car: $104
  • Arrival Transfer: Nice Airport NCE to Cannes in Luxury Van: $118
  • Arrival Transfer: Nice Airport NCE to Monaco in Business Car: $110
  • Cannes Private Transfer from Nice Airport to central Cannes: $298
  • Cruise Port Hercule to Monaco hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $93
  • Day Trip / transfer to and from aéroport Nice Côte d'Azur: $93
  • Departure Transfer from Nice City to Côte d'Azur Airport NCE in Private Car: $44
  • Departure Transfer: Monaco to Nice Airport NCE in Business Car: $105

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 Nice or Monaco?

Prices for flights to both Monaco and Nice 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
    Nice 49
    Monaco 53
Typical Food Prices in Nice

Some typical examples of dining costs in Nice are as follows:


  • Slushee
    2.50
  • Strawberries
    4.00
  • Loaf of Bread
    3.20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Nice

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

  • Nice Small-Group Walking Food Tour with Local Specialties & Wine Tasting: $89
  • Viator Exclusive: Organic French Dinner in the Garden of Nice: $96
  • The Flavors of Nice Food Tour: $104
  • Old Nice Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $105
  • Viator Exclusive: Local Cooking Class & Dinner with View of Nice: $108
  • 3.5-Hour Original Old Town Food Tour: $109
  • Half Day Afternoon Walking Food Tour with Dinner: $149
  • Dinner in the vineyard French Riviera: $175

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nice 12
    Monaco 23

Tours and Activities in Nice

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Nice are as follows:

  • Vieux Nice : Discovery Stroll and Reading Walking Tour: $2.16
  • Nice : Discovery Stroll and Reading Walking Tour: $2.16
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.26
  • Ticket to Musée National du Sport: $6.52
  • Monaco Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.61
  • Nice Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.63
  • Nice's Old Town Highlights: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour: $7.06
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $7.06
  • Nice city tour: audio guide app in your smartphone: $7.60
  • Nice Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Historical Highlights Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.99

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
    Nice 17
    Monaco 26

Sample the Local Flavors in Nice

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

  • Nice Bar Crawl | Ultimate night experience: $8.69
  • Pub Crawl Party with VIP Entry and Free Shots: $16
  • Riviera Bar Crawl Party with Free Shots and VIP Entry: $23
  • Riviera Bar Crawl Nice: $28
  • Pub Crawl/Bar Crawl NICE - The Ultimate Night: $29
  • Brewery Tour and Craft Beer Tasting: $33
  • New Year's Eve Pub Crawl with Shots and VIP Club Entry: $53
  • New Year’s Eve Bar Crawl Nice France: $54
  • Provence Organic Wine Tasting Half Day Tour from Nice: $66
  • Wine Tasting: Tour de France in Nice City Centre: $75
  • Half-Day Saint Paul de Vence and Wine Tasting Tour: $84
  • Exclusive Food and Wine Tour in Menton - 3 hours - small groups: $99

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

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


Which is Bigger, Nice or Monaco?

Nice has a larger population, and is about 330 times larger than the population of Monaco. When comparing the sizes of Nice 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.