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

Should you visit Utrecht or Monaco?

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

Should I visit Utrecht or Monaco? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Utrecht

The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Monaco

Monaco is a glamorous, captivating, and thrilling 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. It's also known for scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Utrecht and Monaco: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Utrecht or Monaco?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Monaco. Although Utrecht 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, and big city activities, while Utrecht attracts visitors for its museums, historical sights, and quaint atmosphere. Monaco is more touristy than Utrecht and is known for its grand hotels, luxurious casinos, opulent malls, and popularity with celebrities. It is also well known for Monte Carlo. Utrecht is famous for its beautiful canals, huge number of bikes, and charming old town.

How is Utrecht different from Monaco?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Utrecht is very good for its museums and landmarks. However, Monaco does not have museums and landmarks.

Utrecht offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The Dom Tower and St. Martin's Cathedral is a highlight of the city, but you'll also find smaller, more local museums and several beautiful churches. If you're up for heading out of town, you can visit De Haar Castle, which is most accessible if you have a private vehicle.

Monaco does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Monaco is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Utrecht is not as famous, but is still a good to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Monaco makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Utrecht has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a number of interesting international restaurants around town including Greek, Italian, and Spanish tapas. It's particularly fun to dine canal-side and sip wine as the boats pass by.

Is Utrecht or Monaco Better for Nightlife?

Monaco is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Utrecht is not as famous, but is still a good to visit 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.

Utrecht has a large number of nightlife venues. The student population keeps the nightlife scene fun and lively. There are plenty of bars in the old town and you'll find tourists and locals hanging out at the same spots.

Is Utrecht or Monaco Better for Resorts?

Monaco is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Utrecht is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Monaco is a great 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.

Utrecht is not a resort destination.

Is Utrecht or Monaco Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Monaco is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Utrecht is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Monaco has a few good snorkeling spots. 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.

Utrecht is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Utrecht or Monaco Better for Beaches?

Monaco is a popular place for its beaches. However, Utrecht is not a beach destination.

Monaco is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Utrecht is not a beach destination.

Is Utrecht or Monaco Better for its Old Town?

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

Utrecht offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The old town is large, charming, and filled with locals. There are canals that that see a frequent stream of boats and kayakers. There are also historic buildings and cobblestone streets. The city is unique because many cafes offer seating directly next to the canals.

Monaco does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Utrecht or Monaco?

Monaco is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Utrecht is not as famous, but is still a good to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Monaco is a famous shopping destination with plenty of 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.

Utrecht is well-known for its shopping. You'll find both local shops and European chains throughout the old town. There's also a large mall right next to the main tourist area.

Is Utrecht or Monaco Better for Families?

Utrecht 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 Utrecht. There are a few museums around town that are fun for kids. Make sure you check out the Miffy Museum, which is great for younger kids. The Museum Speelklok is fun for kids and adults alike. Families will also enjoy renting bikes for the day or taking a canal boat tour. Also make sure you try some local pancakes.

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 Utrecht or Monaco Better for Couples?

Monaco is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Utrecht is not as famous, but is still a good to visit for its romantic activities.

Monaco makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Utrecht makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The charming old town and cozy cafes make for a wonderful date day. You can take a canal boat tour, sip coffee at a cafe by a canal, or explore the city as it lights up at night.

Is Utrecht or Monaco Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Utrecht is a great to visit for backpackers. It's a university city with a young population and plenty to do in the evening. There are also a decent number of hostels to choose from and a lively atmosphere with fun activities and festivals.

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 Utrecht or Monaco Better for Students?

Utrecht is well known for students. However, Monaco is not popular with students.

Utrecht is very popular with students. This is a great university city. The population is young, but housing can be challenging to find and very expensive.

Monaco is not popular with students.

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

Utrecht 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 Utrecht can get you to some places easily. There are buses around town and two tram lines that travel to the suburbs.

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

Is Utrecht or Monaco a more walkable city?

Utrecht and Monaco both are world-class when exploring on foot.

It is easy to get around Utrecht on foot. The old town is easy to explore on foot, but don't walk in a bike lane or you'll likely receive a firm scolding from a local. Utrecht is regularly ranked as one of the world's most bike-friendly cities.

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 Utrecht Worth Visiting? and Is Monaco Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Monaco or Utrecht?

How long in Utrecht or Monaco?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Utrecht and Monaco. In our opinion, Monaco has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Monaco than Utrecht. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

One day in Utrecht or Monaco?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the quaint destination of Utrecht. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Because Monaco is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This coastal resort area offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Utrecht or Monaco?

Utrecht 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.

Because Monaco is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Monaco has to offer.

Five days in Utrecht or Monaco?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Utrecht. 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 is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Utrecht or Monaco?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the quaint destination of Utrecht. This 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Monaco. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Monaco. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Netherlands, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Netherlands.

When comparing the travel costs between Utrecht and Monaco, we can see that Monaco is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Utrecht or Monaco?

Utrecht has a larger population, and is about 280 times larger than the population of Monaco. When comparing the sizes of Utrecht 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.