Monaco

Cost of living

What a month costs

Housing is the crushing line item and one of the most expensive on earth. Groceries and dining sit above Nice or Paris, but daily basics are close to the wider Riviera once you look past the casino square.

The scores

How it rates for a moving family

See and do

Top 10 in Monaco

1. Casino de Monte-CarloThe Belle Epoque gambling palace by Charles Garnier and the postcard heart of the city.
2. Prince's PalaceThe Grimaldi residence on the Rock, with the changing of the guard every day at 11:55.
3. Oceanographic MuseumA dramatic aquarium and marine science institute built into the cliff face of Monaco-Ville.
4. Saint Nicholas CathedralThe Romanesque-Byzantine cathedral holding the tombs of Grace Kelly and the Grimaldi princes.
5. Jardin ExotiqueA steep hillside garden of giant cacti and succulents with sweeping views over the principality.
6. Port HerculeThe main harbour where the superyachts moor and the Grand Prix track runs along the water.
7. Japanese GardenA serene authentic garden by Larvotto, a quiet counterpoint to the glitz.
8. Larvotto BeachMonaco's rebuilt public beach with clear water and a run of seafront restaurants.
9. Opera de Monte-CarloThe gilded Salle Garnier inside the casino complex, home to opera and ballet.
10. Prince's Car CollectionThe royal collection of classic and racing cars, newly housed near the port.

Where to go

Weekend escapes

1. NiceHalf an hour west by train or car for a real city, an airport and the long Promenade des Anglais.
2. MentonThe lemon town on the Italian border, warmer and calmer, famous for its February citrus festival.
3. EzeA medieval stone village clinging to a cliff above the sea, with the exotic garden at the very top.
4. San RemoJust over the Italian frontier for a livelier market, cheaper coffee and Ligurian food.
5. CannesAbout an hour along the coast for the Croisette, the film festival glamour and wide sandy beaches.

Coffee

Best cafes

1. Cafe de Paris Monte-CarloThe grand terrace on the casino square, ideal for people-watching over a coffee.
2. Cova Monte-CarloThe Milanese pasticceria in One Monte-Carlo for espresso and Italian pastries.
3. MarlowA small specialty coffee and brunch spot popular with the younger residents.
4. Stars'N'BarsA relaxed American-style hangout on Port Hercule with harbour views.

Restaurants

Where to eat

1. Le Louis XV - Alain DucasseThe three-Michelin-star landmark inside the Hotel de Paris, Riviera haute cuisine at its peak.
2. YoshiJoel Robuchon's refined Japanese room at the Hotel Metropole.
3. Beefbar Monte-CarloA polished steakhouse by the sea that started here before going global.
4. Song QiElegant Michelin-noted Chinese cuisine in a striking modern dining room.
5. Maya BayTwo worlds under one roof, serving Thai and Japanese food in a stylish setting.
6. Blue BayChef Marcel Ravin's Caribbean-Mediterranean cooking at the Monte-Carlo Bay hotel.
7. ElsaA certified organic Michelin restaurant on the Monte-Carlo Beach terrace.

Morning

Best breakfast

1. Cafe de Paris Monte-CarloCroissants and coffee on the terrace as the square wakes up.
2. Cova Monte-CarloCappuccino and cornetti done the proper Italian way.
3. MarlowFlat whites, eggs and healthier brunch plates for a slower morning.
4. Stars'N'BarsA generous harbourside brunch when you want something casual.