Key takeaways
Monaco is the world's most densely connected country, with Monaco Telecom delivering 100 percent 5G coverage across the entire 2 square kilometre principality at speeds exceeding 500 Mbps. A Roamix Monaco eSIM connects you to local networks the moment you land at Nice Cote d'Azur Airport, the main entry point 30 kilometres away. The principality is walkable in under an hour, but you still need data for the Monaco Grand Prix app, restaurant bookings at three-Michelin-star venues, and real-time yacht race tracking during the Monaco Yacht Show.
- Monaco Telecom provides 100 percent 5G coverage across all of Monaco, with peak speeds exceeding 500 Mbps.
- A Roamix eSIM connects you at Nice Cote d'Azur Airport, the main gateway 30 kilometres from Monaco, before you board the helicopter or bus.
- Monaco is not an EU member, so EU Roam Like At Home does not apply to European SIMs.
- The principality is fully walkable, but data is essential for Grand Prix tickets, yacht show bookings and Michelin restaurant reservations.
- French is the official language and euro is the currency, so payments are seamless for visitors from France.
Best way to get data in Monaco
For most visitors to Monaco, a Roamix eSIM delivering Monaco Telecom 5G access is the fastest, most cost-effective option, especially given that EU roaming protections do not cover the principality.
| Option | Best for | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Roamix eSIMRecommended | Best for: Most visitors | Connects to Monaco Telecom's 5G network from NCE Airport onward. No EU roaming discount applies, so a dedicated eSIM plan outperforms European home-carrier roaming. |
| Hotel wifi | Best for: Light users staying in one hotel | High-end Monaco hotels typically provide excellent wifi, but it does not follow you into the streets during a Grand Prix or Yacht Show. |
| French SIM with roaming | Best for: Visitors already in France | A French SIM roams in Monaco, but check roaming rates as Monaco is outside France and EU Roam Like At Home does not apply. |
| Carrier roaming from home | Best for: Very short visits with no setup time | Monaco is not in the EU, so most European and international carriers charge standard international roaming rates, which are expensive for more than a day. |
Hotels and restaurants across Monaco offer strong wifi, and the principality's public spaces have good coverage. However, hotel wifi is shared and slower than Monaco Telecom's 5G mobile network during peak season events.
How much data you need
Monaco visits are typically short (two to four days), and data needs are modest given the small geography. The main data use is restaurant bookings, event apps during the Grand Prix or Yacht Show, and social uploads benefiting from Monaco Telecom's exceptional 5G speeds.
3 to 5 GB
Weekend break in Monaco
Restaurant bookings, Casino entry registration, social uploads and navigation on a compact principality.
6 to 8 GB
Formula 1 Grand Prix attendance
F1 official app live timing, ticketing QR codes, heavy social media and video uploads of racing around the harbour.
15 GB or more
Luxury extended stay or remote work
Video calls, tethering a laptop at Monaco Telecom speeds and extended social and streaming use.
Data per hour, by activity
- Maps and navigation
- 5 MB
- Social media and browsing
- 100 to 150 MB
- Music streaming
- 70 MB
- Standard video streaming
- 700 MB to 1 GB
- Video calls
- 500 MB to 1.5 GB
Even though Monaco is tiny, keep a moderate data reserve for the Grand Prix or Yacht Show periods when app usage spikes and you may be accessing ticketing platforms and live timing apps continuously.
How to set up a Monaco eSIM
A Roamix Monaco eSIM is best installed over wifi before departure. It activates on a local Monaco or French network the moment you arrive at Nice or Monaco Heliport, so you land ready to book and navigate.
- 1
Buy your Roamix Monaco eSIM plan before departure at the Monaco eSIM page.
- 2
Scan the QR code or install via the Roamix link over wifi at home.
- 3
Label it Roamix and keep your home SIM active for calls and texts.
- 4
Enable data roaming on the Roamix line only.
- 5
Land at Nice or step off the helicopter in Monaco and the eSIM connects automatically.
Works on any eSIM-capable phone including iPhone XS and newer, Google Pixel 3 and newer, and recent Samsung Galaxy models. The device must be unlocked from its home carrier.
Roamix sets the correct APN automatically on most devices. If data does not start, apply the APN from your order and toggle airplane mode off and on.
If no data on arrival, confirm data roaming is enabled for the Roamix line in your phone settings, then manually select the network and restart.
Visa and entry for Monaco
Monaco applies the same visa policy as France and the Schengen Area, as Monaco is in a customs union with France though not an EU member. Citizens of EU and Schengen countries, the USA, UK, Canada, Australia and most other Western nations can enter visa free for up to 90 days.
- eVisa or ETA
- There is no separate Monaco visa. Travellers requiring a Schengen visa apply through France via the French consulate in their home country. British citizens enter visa free for 90 days but are no longer covered by Schengen free movement.
- Passport validity
- Your passport should be valid for the entire duration of your stay. Most border checks simply verify that it has not expired.
- Onward ticket
- Proof of onward travel and sufficient funds may be requested at the French border crossing into Monaco, though checks are infrequent.
Keep digital copies of your travel documents accessible on your phone. Your Roamix eSIM ensures you can pull up hotel confirmations or onward bookings during any border check.
Entry rules can change. Check current requirements with the Direction de la Surete Publique de Monaco or through your nearest French consulate before travel.
When you land in Monaco
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How people message here
French is the official language and WhatsApp is ubiquitous for both locals and the large international resident community. iMessage is common among iPhone users. Business contacts and hotel staff often communicate in English.
Do you need a local number?
Visitors rarely need a Monaco (+377) number. Most services, restaurants and hotels communicate via WhatsApp or email, and your Roamix data line is enough for bookings and navigation.
Keep your home SIM active for SMS two-factor authentication on banking apps, and use the Roamix line for data at Monaco Telecom's exceptional speeds.
Airports in Monaco
NCE
Nice Cote d'Azur Airport
Nice, France
Free wifi throughout Terminals 1 and 2 with reliable speeds in international arrivals. Connect to activate your Roamix eSIM if you have not done so before departure.
NCE is the main gateway to Monaco, 30 kilometres east. With Roamix data active, compare the Monacair helicopter booking (7 minutes, around EUR 170 one way), the airport bus or taxi, and check Monaco traffic before choosing your transfer.
MCM
Monaco Heliport
Monaco
The heliport terminal has complimentary wifi. Flights operate by Monacair and Heli Air Monaco connecting Monaco to Nice Airport and Cannes.
A connected phone lets you check Monacair flight status in real time, coordinate hotel pickup and pull up Monaco navigation immediately after landing on the roof of the heliport above Fontvieille.
CEQ
Cannes Mandelieu Airport
Cannes, France
Free wifi in the terminal. Cannes Mandelieu is a general aviation airport primarily serving private jets and charter flights to the Cote d'Azur.
Useful for private jet arrivals attending the Monaco Yacht Show or Grand Prix. A Roamix eSIM ensures you are connected the moment you clear the terminal for the 40-minute coastal drive to Monaco.
GOA
Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport
Genoa, Italy
Free wifi throughout the terminal building. Genoa is approximately 150 kilometres from Monaco, about 1 hour 45 minutes by car via the A10 autostrada.
An alternative entry point for visitors combining Monaco with the Italian Riviera. Roamix data helps navigate the Italian toll motorway system and cross the border into France at Ventimiglia.
Apps and internet access in Monaco
Monaco has a fully open internet with no restrictions. All apps work normally on a Roamix eSIM, at some of the fastest mobile speeds available anywhere.
There is no censorship of social media, messaging or any mainstream service in Monaco. No VPN is required.
WhatsApp, works
Fully available for messaging, calls and video.
FaceTime, works
Works normally over the 5G network, crystal clear at Monaco Telecom speeds.
Google Maps and Search, works
No restrictions. Use Maps to navigate Monaco's layered streets and tunnels.
Social media, works
Instagram, X, TikTok and Facebook all work at full speed.
Getting around Monaco
Monaco is the second smallest sovereign state in the world and is fully walkable, but its steep topography means the elevators, escalators and public buses are genuinely useful for moving between the Rock of Monaco, Monte-Carlo and Fontvieille. Data is useful for helicopter bookings and Riviera day-trip planning.
Walking and elevators
Monaco's public elevator and escalator system connects the different levels of the principality and is free to use. Google Maps shows the elevator locations and routes between districts.
Public buses
CAM operates six bus routes across Monaco with flat fares. The Monaco Bus app shows real-time departures. Full 5G coverage on all routes.
Taxi and rideshare
Taxis are metered and plentiful around Casino Square and Port Hercule. Uber operates in the Monaco area. Book via app with your Roamix data connection.
Helicopter transfers
Monacair and Heli Air Monaco connect Monaco Heliport to Nice Airport in 7 minutes. Book online in advance via the Monacair app. Check availability and pricing with your Roamix eSIM before arrival.
Day trips along the Riviera
Eze, Menton, Antibes and the French Riviera are within 30 to 60 minutes by car or train. The Monaco train station connects to the SNCF coastal line. Use your Roamix data for SNCF Connect ticket purchases.
The free public elevator system is genuinely useful for getting between the Rock, Monte-Carlo and Fontvieille without climbing steep steps. Download the Monaco Bus app for real-time CAM bus information.
Money and payments in Monaco
Monaco uses the euro and is almost entirely cashless. High-end boutiques, restaurants and the Casino all accept contactless card payments and phone wallets. A connected phone is more useful than a wallet full of euro notes.
- Cards and cash
- Cards are accepted universally across hotels, restaurants and shops. Carry a small amount of euros for market stalls at La Condamine or tips for taxi drivers, but most spending is contactless.
- ATMs
- ATMs are available near the Casino, on Avenue de la Costa and at La Condamine market. Use bank ATMs and choose to be charged in EUR to avoid dynamic currency conversion fees.
- Payment apps
- Apple Pay and Google Pay are universally accepted across Monaco, including at the Casino ticket counters and Michelin-starred restaurants. PayPal is accepted at some online venues.
- Tipping
- Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Leave 10 percent in restaurants and round up for taxis. Service charge is sometimes included in upscale venues.
Daily budget
Monaco is among the most expensive destinations in the world. Budget meals start around EUR 20 to 30, mid-range dining is EUR 60 to 120 per person, and a Michelin-starred dinner is EUR 200 or more per person.
Local tips for Monaco
- Language
- French is the official language. English is widely spoken in hotels, restaurants and tourist areas. A basic merci and bonjour go a long way with locals.
- Food
- Monaco's dining scene is extraordinary for its size, with a concentration of Michelin-starred restaurants rivalling Paris. Look for the Restaurant de Monte-Carlo Beach, Joël Robuchon Monte-Carlo and Le Louis XV by Alain Ducasse. La Condamine market offers fresh produce and casual local fare.
- Plugs
- 230V, Type C and E plugs
Apps worth having
Monaco Bus (CAM)
transit
Real-time departure boards for all six Monaco bus routes and a route planner across the principality.
Monacair
transport
Book helicopter transfers between Monaco Heliport and Nice Airport directly, with live flight availability.
Google Maps
navigation
Shows Monaco's public lifts and escalators as part of walking routes, essential for navigating the principality's multiple levels.
Safety and health in Monaco
Monaco is consistently ranked among the safest places in the world, with one of the highest police-to-resident ratios on the planet. Crime is extremely rare. The main risks are traffic during the Grand Prix when streets are closed and crowds are dense.
- Stay reachable
- Keep your Roamix eSIM active to receive real-time traffic and road closure updates during the Formula 1 Grand Prix, when much of Monaco's road network is sealed off for weeks.
- Health
- Healthcare in Monaco is excellent, with the Centre Hospitalier Princesse Grace providing high-quality care. Travel health insurance is strongly recommended as Monaco is not covered by EU health card reciprocal agreements.
- Tap water
- Tap water is safe to drink throughout Monaco. The principality's water supply meets the highest European standards.
Networks and coverage in Monaco
Monaco Telecom operates the world's densest mobile network, covering 100 percent of the 2.02 square kilometre principality with 5G at speeds that regularly exceed 500 Mbps. A Roamix Monaco eSIM connects to the strongest local network available, so you are online before you step off the helipad at Monaco Heliport or clear the taxi queue at Nice Cote d'Azur Airport.
Monaco Telecom
The only domestic operator in Monaco, delivering 100 percent 5G coverage across the entire principality. Peak speeds exceed 500 Mbps in the Monte-Carlo and Port Hercule areas.
Orange France
French network available at border areas and roaming for visitors with French SIMs entering from the surrounding Alpes-Maritimes department.
SFR France
Secondary French roaming network accessible at the Monaco border and along the Cote d'Azur corridor between Nice and the principality.
- Typical speeds
- 5G delivers 300 to 500 Mbps typical download speeds, with peak measurements above 500 Mbps in central Monaco.
- 5G
- Monaco Telecom operates the world's first 100 percent 5G-covered sovereign state, with full blanket coverage across every street and building.
Monaco Telecom's network is genuinely one of the fastest and most complete in the world. You will stream, upload and video call at speeds most cities cannot match. The one caveat is roaming costs: if you arrive with a European SIM, EU Roam Like At Home does not apply in Monaco, so your home carrier will charge roaming rates.
Monaco itself has perfect coverage everywhere. The only connectivity drop occurs in the tunnels under the Rock of Monaco and some underground parking garages, where signal briefly weakens before restoring. Monaco Telecom uses European 5G and LTE bands widely supported on any eSIM-capable phone from iPhone XS onward, unlocked from its home carrier.
Where to go in Monaco
Monaco packs an extraordinary density of luxury, culture and motorsport history into 2 square kilometres. The principality divides naturally into five distinct quarters, each with its own character, and the whole country can be walked in under 90 minutes. Data is essential for event access, restaurant queues and the helicopter booking system.
Best time to visit
May for the Formula 1 Grand Prix, when the city is at its most electric. September for the Monaco Yacht Show with mild Mediterranean weather. March to May and September to October for the most comfortable temperatures without peak summer heat.
Monte-Carlo
The glamorous heart of Monaco, home to the legendary Grand Casino, the Hotel de Paris, the Casino Square and the Cafe de Paris. Monte-Carlo draws visitors from around the world for its Belle Epoque architecture, high-end boutiques and the lap of the Formula 1 circuit.
- Casino de Monte-Carlo
- Hotel de Paris Monte-Carlo
- Casino Square
- Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo
- Cafe de Paris
Perfect 5G coverage from Monaco Telecom throughout Casino Square, the hotel district and the Monte-Carlo seafront. Speeds consistently exceed 300 Mbps.
Monaco-Ville (Le Rocher)
The historic rock district rising 60 metres above the port, home to the Prince's Palace, the Oceanographic Museum founded by Prince Albert I, the Monaco Cathedral and the Old Town's narrow lanes. This is the oldest and most culturally rich part of the principality.
- Prince's Palace of Monaco
- Oceanographic Museum of Monaco
- Monaco Cathedral
- Place du Palais
- Sainte-Devote Church
Full 5G coverage across the Rock of Monaco, including the palace forecourt and the Oceanographic Museum gardens. Tunnels beneath the rock briefly drop signal.
La Condamine and Port Hercule
The bustling commercial district and working harbour district at the foot of the Rock, where Port Hercule hosts superyachts, the Monaco Yacht Show and the swimming pool pontoons used as a pit straight during the Grand Prix.
- Port Hercule
- Marche de la Condamine
- Stade Louis II
- Quai des Etats-Unis
- Swimming Pool hairpin
Excellent 5G coverage throughout La Condamine market, along Quai Albert I and across all of Port Hercule, ideal for uploading yacht photos.
Fontvieille
Monaco's industrial and artisan quarter reclaimed from the sea, housing the Jardin Exotique cliffside botanical garden, the Princess Grace Rose Garden, the NMNM art foundations and the Fontvieille shopping centre. Quieter and more residential than Monte-Carlo.
- Jardin Exotique de Monaco
- Princess Grace Rose Garden
- Musee des Voitures Anciennes
- Fontvieille Port
- Larvotto Beach
Full 5G coverage in Fontvieille including the Jardin Exotique clifftop viewpoints overlooking the Mediterranean.
Larvotto and the Beaches
Monaco's only public beach area, stretching along the eastern edge of the principality with the Larvotto Marine Reserve, beach clubs, and the Monte-Carlo Sporting Club that hosts summer concerts and events.
- Plage du Larvotto
- Monte-Carlo Sporting Club
- Larvotto Marine Reserve
- Beach clubs
- Grimaldi Forum Monaco
Strong 5G along the entire Larvotto beach front and the Monte-Carlo Sporting Club complex, with full coverage into the marine reserve area.
Off the beaten path
One of the most famous buildings in the world, the Belle Epoque Casino de Monte-Carlo has operated since 1863 and is the centrepiece of the Grand Prix circuit's Casino Square chicane.
Signal: Full 5G coverage throughout Casino Square and the Casino entrance. The Casino requires visitors to register and present a passport, so having your Roamix data active helps pull up the entry requirements.
Founded by Prince Albert I in 1910 and perched on the cliffside of the Rock of Monaco, this is one of the oldest and most respected marine science museums in the world, with a spectacular living reef aquarium.
Signal: Full 5G coverage outside the museum and on the Rock of Monaco. Interior coverage is strong throughout the aquarium halls.
The official residence of the Grimaldi family since 1297, open to visitors in summer for guided tours of the State Apartments and Grand Courtyard with panoramic views over Port Hercule.
Signal: Strong 5G on Place du Palais and throughout the surrounding Old Town. The Changing of the Guard at 11:55 daily draws a crowd; arrive early with your Roamix data for the best navigation to the square.
A stunning botanical garden built into a south-facing cliff, housing one of Europe's finest collections of succulents and cacti, with panoramic views across the entire principality and the Ligurian coast.
Signal: Full 5G coverage at the cliffside garden with exceptional views over Monaco and the Mediterranean. Signal is strong throughout the winding cliff paths.
The Monaco Grand Prix is the most prestigious race in Formula 1, run through the narrow streets of the principality each May since 1929. Walking the circuit outside race week is free and gives an extraordinary perspective on the barriers and elevation changes.
Signal: Perfect 5G coverage around the entire 3.337 kilometre street circuit. The F1 app delivers live timing data and telemetry at full speed from any point on the circuit.
One of the most famous harbours in the world, where superyachts fill the quays and the sea-level section of the Formula 1 circuit runs through the harbour area past the swimming pool complex.
Signal: Excellent 5G coverage across all quays and the marina walkway. The Monaco Yacht Show transforms the entire port each September with boats blocking the normal views.
Monaco's only traditional food market, open every morning, selling Provencal produce, fresh fish, flowers and local specialities. A favourite with Monaco residents for its reasonable prices relative to the surrounding restaurants.
Signal: Full 5G coverage at the covered market building on Place d'Armes. This is one of Monaco's most local and unpretentious spots.
Monaco's only public beach, with a protected marine reserve where snorkelling is allowed. Beach clubs line the eastern section, while the western end is free public beach. Clear water and a walkable promenade to the Monte-Carlo Sporting Club.
Signal: Strong 5G coverage along the entire Larvotto promenade and into the sea swimming area. Beach clubs require reservations and have dedicated wifi for their guests.
Monaco's main conference and cultural centre built over the sea, hosting major international art exhibitions, classical concerts and the Rose Ball each spring. The summer outdoor cinema on the terrace is a local favourite.
Signal: Full 5G coverage at the Grimaldi Forum complex on Avenue Princesse Grace, with excellent indoor signal in the main exhibition and concert halls.
The National Museum of Monaco operates two Belle Epoque villas hosting international contemporary art exhibitions. Villa Paloma perches above the town with garden terraces, while Villa Sauber fronts Larvotto beach.
Signal: Full 5G coverage at the Villa Paloma museum and the Villa Sauber branch of the National Museum of Monaco, both easily accessible with your Roamix data active.
Events and seasons in Monaco
January
Monte-Carlo Rally
Monaco and surrounding Alpes-Maritimes
The opening round of the World Rally Championship, one of the oldest and most prestigious events in motorsport. Cars start and finish in Monaco while competing on icy mountain stages in the surrounding Alpes-Maritimes and Ardeche.
January to February
Monaco International Circus Festival
Chapiteau Fontvieille, Monaco
Arguably the world's most prestigious circus festival, founded by Prince Rainier III in 1974, awarding the coveted Golden Clown prize to the best acts from across the globe and presided over by Princess Stephanie.
March
Monaco Rose Ball
Salle des Etoiles, Sporting Monte-Carlo
A prestigious annual charity gala organised by Princess Stephanie in aid of the Princess Grace Foundation, held at the Sporting Monte-Carlo with a different thematic decor each year. One of Monaco's most glamorous social events.
April
Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters
Monte-Carlo Country Club, Roquebrune-Cap-Martin
One of the most scenic ATP Masters 1000 clay court tournaments, played at the Monte-Carlo Country Club perched on a cliff above the Mediterranean at Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, just across the French border from Monaco.
May
Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix
Monte-Carlo street circuit, Monaco
The crown jewel of Formula 1, run through the narrow streets of Monaco since 1929. The race week lasts five days with practice, qualifying and the race on Sunday. Grandstand tickets are extremely scarce and expensive; most viewing is from terraces, boats in Port Hercule or the Circuit de Monaco public areas.
May
Monaco E-Prix (Formula E)
Monaco street circuit
The Monaco round of the ABB Formula E World Championship, using a shorter version of the iconic Grand Prix circuit. The event often shares the same weekend as or is held close to the F1 Grand Prix, giving motorsport fans back-to-back electric and combustion racing.
June
Monaco Ironman 70.3
Monaco and surrounding Cote d'Azur
A prestigious triathlon event based in Monaco, with the swim in the sea off Larvotto Beach, a cycling leg through the Alpes-Maritimes and a run along the Monaco seafront promenade. One of the most scenic and challenging Ironman courses in Europe.
July and August
Monte-Carlo International Fireworks Festival
Port Hercule, Monaco
An annual international fireworks competition staged over Port Hercule on several Saturday evenings through the summer, with teams from different countries competing for the Pyrotechnic Art prize.
Late September
Monaco Yacht Show
Port Hercule, Monaco
The world's leading superyacht show, filling Port Hercule with up to 600 of the most extraordinary sailing and motor yachts on the planet. The public days allow visitors to walk the quays alongside industry buyers and yacht owners.
November 19
Monaco National Day (Fete Nationale)
Place du Palais and Monaco-Ville
Monaco's national day celebrating the reigning sovereign, with a solemn High Mass at the Cathedral, a military parade on Place du Palais, fireworks over Port Hercule and outdoor concerts across the principality.
Through the year
- Spring
- March to May is the build-up to the Grand Prix, when Monaco transforms with grandstand construction from late April. The Rolex Masters tennis arrives in April. May brings the biggest event in the principality's calendar and the highest prices and crowds of the year.
- Summer
- June to August is peak season with Mediterranean temperatures around 28 to 32C, the Monaco beach season in full swing and the Monte-Carlo Sporting Club hosting outdoor concerts. Accommodation prices are at their highest and Port Hercule is at maximum superyacht capacity.
- Fall
- September to October is arguably the best time to visit, with warm temperatures around 20 to 25C, the Monaco Yacht Show in late September and the Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters in April. Crowds thin after late August and accommodation prices moderate.
- Winter
- November to February is quiet and mild by northern European standards, around 10 to 14C, with the Formula E calendar, the Circus Festival in January and Monaco National Day in November providing events. The Monte-Carlo Rally in January brings a burst of motorsport activity.
Working remotely from Monaco
Monaco is a viable luxury remote work base for short visits, with excellent 5G connectivity and many hotel business centres. It is expensive for longer stays but the network quality is unmatched.
- Connection
- Monaco Telecom 5G delivers 300 to 500 Mbps consistently, making video calls and cloud uploads faster than most dedicated coworking spaces in larger cities. A Roamix plan handles a full working day with ease.
Several Monaco hotels offer day office and workspace services for non-residents. Use your Roamix eSIM as the primary connection for security, rather than shared hotel network infrastructure.
