Visiting Monaco for the Grand Prix 2025? Here’s How to Save Money, Travel Smart & Explore Like a Local

Planning to attend the Monaco Grand Prix this year?

Are you worried about the price tag? Don’t be! – there are smart and affordable ways to enjoy the full Monaco F1 experience. If you’re staying in Monaco or nearby, this guide covers where to eat on a smart budget and what you can do for free.

Please click here for more information on affordable places to stay near Monaco — in Nice, Antibes, Menton, or Beausoleil, and how to get to Monaco from there!

Why the Monaco Grand Prix is a Must-See

The Monaco Grand Prix, held annually in the Principality of Monte Carlo, is known for its difficult city circuit, challenging hairpin turns, and spectacular views of the Mediterranean. In 2025, the race promises even more excitement, with new team line-ups and technological advancements that will keep every F1 fan on the edge of their seat.

Top Budget-Friendly Restaurants & Cafés in Monaco

Here are some of the best budget-friendly restaurants, cafés, and casual eats across the Principality.

🍝 1. Maison des Pâtes
📍 Locations:

  • 1 Place d’Armes, 98000 Monaco
  • 14 Avenue Saint-Charles, 98000 Monaco

💶 Price Range: €10–€15
Specialty: Fresh, handmade pasta with a variety of classic and seasonal sauces
Why Visit: A true local favorite for quick, delicious, and affordable Italian meals. The pasta is freshly made on-site, and portions are generous for the price. Includes bread and wooden utensils.

🥘 2. Marché de la Condamine
📍 Location: 11 Rue Terrazzani, 98000 Monaco
💶 Price Range: €8–€12
Specialty: A variety of food stalls serving Monegasque street food like Barbagiuan, socca, pasta, pizza, and more.
Why Visit: Barbajuan (sometimes spelled barbagiuan) is a beloved Monegasque street food classic: a crispy, golden pastry filled with a savory blend of Swiss chard, ricotta, leeks, and herbs. A must try!

🍔 3. Grubers Burgers
📍 Location: 20 Rue Princesse Caroline, 98000 Monaco
💶 Price Range: €12–€18
Specialty: Burgers infused with cheese and creative toppings
Why Visit: This casual burger joint puts a gourmet twist on a comfort food classic, ideal for a quick lunch or early dinner near Monte-Carlo.

🍕 4. Tip Top (Open 24 hours!)

📍 Location: 11 Avenue des Spélugues, 98000 Monaco
💶 Price Range: €15–€20
Specialty: Pizzas, burgers, pastas, and salads
Why Visit: One of the few 24-hour restaurants in Monaco, Tip Top is a reliable go-to for classic comfort food: from pizza and fries to burgers and pasta. It’s ideal for late-night cravings.

🍕 5. Cooks
📍 Location: 10 Boulevard Princesse Charlotte, 98000 Monaco
💶 Price Range: €12–€18
Specialty: Fresh pasta and wood-fired pizzas
Why Visit: Known for its fresh, healthy dishes and great value, especially during lunch hours, Cooks is a popular choice for locals. The menu features homemade pastas, light salads, and crispy pizzas from a wood-fired oven. Just a 5-minute walk from the Monaco train station.

🍣 6. Planet Sushi
📍 Location: 17 Boulevard Albert 1er, 98000 Monaco
💶 Lunch Deals: €18–€30
Specialty: Sushi, maki, bowls, and Japanese fusion
Why Visit: One of the most affordable sushi spots in Monaco, especially during lunchtime.

🥗 7. ICI Salad Bar (Great for Vegans & Vegetarians)
📍 Locations:

  • 3 Rue Princesse Caroline, 98000 Monaco
  • 14 Quai Jean-Charles Rey, 98000 Monaco
  • 3 Avenue Saint-Charles, 98000 Monaco

💶 Deals from €15
Specialty: Build-your-own salads and bowls!
Why Visit: This modern salad bar is ideal for vegans & vegetarians, with quick service and plenty of healthy, flavorful options.

 

🍕 8. Lo Sfizio Street (Hidden Gem)
📍 Location : 14 Avenue Saint-Charles, 98000 Monaco
💶 Price Range: €10–€15
Specialty: Italian-style street food, focaccia, and pizza by the slice
Why Visit: Tucked away from tourist zones, this local spot offers authentic, simple eats with great value.

 

 

 

🍰 Best Budget Bakeries & Cafés in Monaco

Looking for a quick breakfast or a sweet treat?

  • One Love Café
  • A Roca
  • Costa Monaco
  • Pain d’Or

 

🍟 Fast-food options:

  • McDonald’s Monaco – Fast & easy if you’re in a rush.
  • Starbucks – Good for Wi-Fi and coffee.

 

🍽️ Bonus Tip: Happy Hour Deals

Brasserie de Monaco, located right on the waterfront at Port Hercule (Route de la Piscine, 98000 Monaco), offers a popular happy hour every day from 18:00 – 20:00 where all drinks are half-price!

Hidden Gems: Free Things to Do in Monaco

Gardens

  • Princess Grace Rose Garden: Stroll among 315+ varieties of roses in this beautifully maintained public garden in Fontvieille. Address: Avenue des Papalins, 98000 Monaco
  • Japanese Garden: Relax in a tranquil, Japanese-inspired oasis complete with koi pond, waterfalls, and traditional landscaping, right near the Grimaldi Forum. Address: 5 Avenue Princesse Grâce, 98000 Monaco
  • Saint Martin Gardens: Take a stroll along the beautiful cliffside gardens overlooking the Mediterranean, right next to the Oceanographic Museum.

Historical Sites

  • Old Town on Top of the Rock (Le Rocher) : Explore Monaco-Ville’s narrow, winding streets, pastel buildings, and panoramic viewpoints, especially around the Place du Palais.
  • Changing of the Guard at the Prince’s Palace: Watch the ceremonial guard change every day at 11:55 AM in front of the palace, an iconic and free Monaco tradition.
  • Saint Devote Church : This 4th-century church is dedicated to Saint Dévote, the beloved patron saint of Monaco. According to legend, She was a young Christian martyr whose body was miraculously carried by boat to the shores of Monaco. Every January 27th in Monaco, a centuries-old tradition sees a symbolic boat burned in her honor. Address: 1 Rue Sainte-Dévote, 98000 Monaco

Art & Culture

  • Marché de la Condamine : Soak up the lively local market atmosphere and enjoy window shopping .
  • Larvotto Beach (Public Areas) : Enjoy the Mediterranean! Most of the Larvotto Beach is free and open to the public, perfect for a sunny break.

Planning Your Trip? Let Globex Help With Your Money Needs

Traveling to Monaco for the Grand Prix? Need to send, receive or change money while you’re in town? Globex is here to make your experience seamless!

Our branch in Beausoleil (just a short walk from the race action) offers a range of financial services, whether you need to send, receive, or exchange money!

Visit our Globex branch: 13 Boulevard de la République, Beausoleil 06240

Call us: +33 4 93 41 64 35
Email: info@globexfrance.com

Monday 8:30 am–12:30 pm, 1:30–6 pm
Tuesday 8:30 am–12:30 pm, 1:30–6 pm
Wednesday 8:30 am–12:30 pm, 1:30–6 pm
Thursday 8:30 am–12:30 pm, 1:30–6 pm
Friday 8:30 am–12:30 pm, 1:30–6 pm

Saturday & Sunday Closed

✅ Money Exchange | Major & Exotic Currencies
✅ Send and receive money internationally
✅ Official Western Union agent
✅ Official Monty Global Payments agent

Visit us: our multilingual Globex team is here to help you!