Monaco

Although Monaco is not part of the Schengen Area, it has open borders with France, so it can for all practical purposes be considered part of it. If you want a passport stamp, you can queue for one at the Mairie de Monaco. There is border control for arriving boats from outside the Schengen Area.

Like its neighbour, France, Monaco uses the euro. Currency exchange is readily available for a wide range of currencies. ATMs are commonplace. For coin collectors visiting Monaco, its euro coins are issued in limited amounts for general circulation and are perfect souvenirs to bring home.

Note that (as of September 2024) it is very difficult to store luggage. The train station info desk even has a sign outright saying it's not possible anywhere in the country. Walking is by far the best way to get around Monaco; however, there are some areas, such as the Exotic Gardens, that require a large change in elevation and therefore make for rather strenuous hikes. There are also seven public escalators and elevators (all free) that help negotiate the steep slopes of the city. If you find yourself afoot and wanting to reach the opposite bank of Port Hercule, look for the small , a pedes…

French is the official and most frequently used language. Monegasque, the historic language of the native populace, is offered (but seldom taught) in schools, but rarely used outside of official documents and street signs. Due to Monaco's status as a destination for wealthy visitors, English is widely understood. Other languages that are commonly spoken are Italian (many jobs in Monaco require a solid knowledge of Italian), German, and Russian.

Monaco is one of the safest places on the planet, with nationwide video surveillance and one police officer per 100 residents. You can feel safe wearing your diamonds and Rolex, even for a night walk through the streets or coastline, with almost no street-crime, and a strong police presence. It has one of the lowest homicide rates of any country in the world, and among the lowest in terms of overall violent crime. Because of their wealth, public spaces are blanketed with cameras and any kind of disorder may produce an immediate reaction and the attendance of several officers. However, pickpock…

Monaco has its own mobile phone operator, Monaco Telecom, which is not covered by EU's roaming rules. This means that mobile numbers and SIM cards registered in a EU country, including France, may incur roaming charges much like everywhere outside of Europe (or any SIM card from outside of the EU within it). Pay heed to it if you hope to visit Monaco as part of your European trip and make sure to set up your phone NOT to automatically switch to the strongest available network, as well as conside…

In many ways, the Respect section of the France page can detail how to be respectful toward the Monegasque population, but Monaco is a separate nation and it may be insulting to casually conflate the two. Monaco's population retain their own history, their own culture, and their own lifestyle. Directions or other help are only a smile and a question away.