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

Should you visit Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg and Monaco can help you decide which place is right for you.

Strasbourg

Strasbourg is a impressive, quaint, and historic city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, 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.

Strasbourg and Monaco: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Strasbourg or Monaco?

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

How is Strasbourg different from Monaco?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Many visitors head to Strasbourg specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. It is filled with grand monuments and historic landmarks. Many are concentrated in La Petite France and highlights include Strasbourg Cathedral, Barrage Vauban, Ponts Couverts, and Église Saint-Thomas.

Monaco does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Foodies will find both Strasbourg and Monaco both to be very good destinations.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Strasbourg. The cuisine combines French and German flavors for rich and hearty flavors. Popular dishes include Tarte Flambée, Alsatian Sausages, and Baeckeoffe (meat and vegetable stew). Also make sure you sample the Sauerkraut, munster cheese, and Reisling wine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit 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 Strasbourg or Monaco Better for Nightlife?

Monaco is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Strasbourg. It's most famous for its monuments and charm, but the city also has plenty to do at night. The liveliest areas are The Krutenau (for students and tourists alike), The Grande-île, and La Petite France.

Is Strasbourg or Monaco Better for Resorts?

Monaco is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Strasbourg 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.

Strasbourg is not a resort destination.

Is Strasbourg or Monaco Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Monaco is very good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Strasbourg 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.

Strasbourg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Strasbourg or Monaco Better for Beaches?

Monaco is very good for its beaches. However, Strasbourg 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.

Strasbourg is not a beach destination.

Is Strasbourg or Monaco Better for its Old Town?

Strasbourg is an amazing city to visit for its old town. However, Monaco does not have a historic old town.

Strasbourg offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. Known as La Petite France, the old town is filled with charming squares, historic monuments, and beautiful architecture.

Monaco does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Strasbourg or Monaco?

Monaco is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Strasbourg 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.

Strasbourg is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city center is filled with pedestrian shopping streets and boutique stores. For some of the best shopping make sure you check out the main thoroughfare of Grand'Rue. If you want to pick up some trinkets or souvenirs, head to Place de la Cathédrale, and for department store shopping head to Galeries Lafayette Strasbourg.

Is Strasbourg or Monaco Better for Families?

Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg. Kids who love animals will enjoy a visit to Zoo de l’Orangerie or La Montagne des Singes. If the kids need to stretch their legs you can head to Deux-Rives Garden or on a rainy day check out Planetarium De Strasbourg or the Historical Museum of the City of Strasbourg.

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 Strasbourg or Monaco Better for Couples?

Monaco is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Strasbourg 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.

Strasbourg is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's arguably one of the most beautiful cities in the region and it is filled with romance. There is beautiful architecture, romantic restaurants, wine tours, and flower filled parks. The scenic squares and grand cathedrals offer a truly perfect couples getaway.

Is Strasbourg or Monaco Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Strasbourg is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The city has a handful of hostels that offer affordable accommodation for those on a shoestring budget.

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 Strasbourg or Monaco Better for Students?

Strasbourg is very good for students. However, Monaco is not popular with students.

Strasbourg is popular with students. Students appreciate the mix of traditional culture and international opportunities.

Monaco is not popular with students.

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

Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg can get you to some places easily. The city has six tramlines and a number of bus routes.

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

Is Strasbourg or Monaco a more walkable city?

Monaco is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Strasbourg 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.

Strasbourg is a very walkable city. One of the best ways to explore the city is on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Monaco or Strasbourg?

How long in Strasbourg or Monaco?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Strasbourg and Monaco. In our opinion, Monaco has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Monaco than Strasbourg. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Strasbourg, and 1-3 days is enough time in Monaco.

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

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

One day in Strasbourg or Monaco?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Strasbourg. 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.

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 Strasbourg or Monaco?

Strasbourg 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.

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 Strasbourg or Monaco?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Strasbourg. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

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 Strasbourg or Monaco?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of Strasbourg. This city 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.

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 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Strasbourg or Monaco?

Strasbourg has a larger population, and is about 270 times larger than the population of Monaco. When comparing the sizes of Strasbourg 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.