Money, cards and ATMs in Monaco

The currency

• Monaco uses the euro under a monetary agreement with the EU, and mints its own coins - Monegasque euro coins are collectable and rarely seen in circulation.
• Cards work everywhere.

Prices

• Monaco is expensive and its restaurant and hotel prices reflect a resident population with no income tax.
• Eating in neighbouring Beausoleil, which is France and is up the hill, costs a fraction. The border runs through the middle of streets there.
• The bus and the public lifts are cheap or free, so getting around is not where the money goes.

ATMs

• Always refuse the machine's offer to charge you in your own currency. Dynamic currency conversion at an ATM or a card terminal costs several per cent, every time, and the offer is worded to sound helpful. Choose the local currency and let your own bank convert.
• Use bank ATMs rather than the independent machines in tourist areas, which add their own fee on top.

The Grand Prix

• Prices multiply during the Formula 1 weekend in late May and accommodation books a year ahead. If you are not coming for it, avoid that week entirely.