Monaco (MC)
Monaco is the world's most expensive and glamorous sovereign micro-state — a 2.
Currency & Money
Practical money tips for living in Monaco.
Denominations
Coins: €0.01, €0.02, €0.05, €0.10, €0.20, €0.50, €1, €2. Monaco mints its own limited-edition euro coins (collector's items) but French euro coins circulate freely. Banknotes: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, €500 (French notes, same legal tender).
Payment Culture
Card payments (Visa, Mastercard, Amex) universally accepted. Contactless payment standard across restaurants, hotels, boutiques, and taxis. Apple Pay and Google Pay widely available. Cash less essential than in neighbouring France but still useful for small purchases, parking meters (Monaco mostly card-now), and tips. Monaco operates essentially as a cashless luxury economy.
ATM Tips
ATMs available at major banks (BNP Paribas, Société Générale, CIC) along Boulevard des Moulins and around Casino Square. French ATM network fully interoperable — use French bank ATMs with no additional surcharge if your bank is SEPA-compatible. International card fees (2–3%) apply from most non-EU banks. Revolut and Wise are popular for fee-free access.
Exchange Tips
Monaco uses the euro — no currency exchange needed for euro-zone arrivals. For non-euro arrivals: exchange at any Monaco bank branch or use ATM. Avoid airport exchange counters. Wise and Revolut offer best rates for larger currency conversions.
Pro tip: Best apps for expats
- • Wise — Send money internationally at near-interbank rates
- • Revolut — Multi-currency account, free ATM withdrawals (limits apply)
- • N26 — German IBAN, free account, good for EU residents