🐾 Traveling to Monaco with Pets
Pet-Friendly Monaco
Monaco is welcoming to pets, particularly dogs, in its glamorous urban setting. From seaside promenades to luxury gardens, well-behaved pets are often allowed in public spaces, hotels, and restaurants, making it a sophisticated pet-friendly destination on the French Riviera.
Entry Requirements & Documentation
EU Pet Passport
Dogs, cats, and ferrets from EU countries need an EU Pet Passport with microchip identification.
Passport must include rabies vaccination records (at least 21 days before travel) and veterinary health certificate.
Rabies Vaccination
Mandatory rabies vaccination must be current and administered at least 21 days before entry.
Vaccination must be valid for the entire stay; check expiry dates on certificates carefully.
Microchip Requirements
All pets must have ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip implanted before rabies vaccination.
Chip number must match all documentation; bring microchip reader confirmation if possible.
Non-EU Countries
Pets from outside EU need health certificate from official veterinarian and rabies antibody test.
Additional 3-month waiting period may apply; check with Monaco authorities or French embassy in advance.
Restricted Breeds
Monaco follows French regulations; certain breeds like American Staffordshire Terriers are restricted.
Restricted dogs may require special permits, muzzles, and leashes in public areas.
Other Pets
Birds, rabbits, and rodents have different entry rules; check with Monaco authorities.
Exotic pets may require CITES permits and additional health certificates for entry.
Pet-Friendly Accommodations
Book Pet-Friendly Hotels
Find hotels that welcome pets across Monaco on Booking.com. Filter by "Pets allowed" to see properties with pet-friendly policies, fees, and amenities like dog beds and bowls.
Accommodation Types
- Pet-Friendly Hotels (Monte Carlo & Monaco-Ville): Luxury hotels like Hôtel de Paris and Fairmont Monte Carlo welcome pets for €20-50/night, offering dog beds, bowls, and nearby promenades. Many 4-5 star properties are pet-tolerant.
- Seaside Apartments & Villas (Larvotto & Fontvieille): Rentals often allow pets at no extra charge, with access to beaches and gardens. Ideal for families seeking space in Monaco's compact luxury setting.
- Vacation Rentals & Apartments: Airbnb and Vrbo listings frequently allow pets, especially in residential areas. Entire homes offer more freedom for pets to relax.
- Boutique Hotels (La Condamine): Smaller hotels in the port area welcome pets and provide easy access to yacht harbors. Perfect for urban pet adventures.
- Resorts & Spas: High-end resorts like Thermes Marins Monte Carlo offer pet services including grooming and walking, with fees around €30-60/night.
- Luxury Pet-Friendly Options: Iconic hotels like Hôtel Hermitage provide VIP pet amenities, including gourmet treats and concierge pet services for elite travelers.
Pet-Friendly Activities & Destinations
Promenades & Gardens
Monaco's Princess Grace Rose Garden and Japanese Garden welcome leashed dogs for scenic walks.
Keep pets leashed and clean up; these green spaces offer stunning Mediterranean views.
Beaches & Harbors
Larvotto Beach has pet-friendly sections for swimming; Port Hercules allows leashed dogs along the waterfront.
Check seasonal restrictions; summer beaches may limit pet access during peak hours.
Cities & Parks
Monaco-Ville's streets and small parks permit leashed dogs; outdoor cafés in Monte Carlo often welcome pets.
Historic areas are compact and walkable; respect quiet zones near residences.
Pet-Friendly Cafés
Monaco's café culture includes pets at outdoor tables; water bowls are common in luxury districts.
Ask before entering indoor areas; many spots in La Condamine are pet-accommodating.
City Walking Tours
Guided walks around the Rock and harbor welcome leashed dogs at no extra charge.
Avoid indoor sites like the Casino; focus on outdoor historic and scenic routes.
Boat & Yacht Excursions
Some harbor boat tours allow small pets in carriers; fees typically €10-20.
Check with operators; pet-friendly ferries to nearby Nice are available seasonally.
Pet Transport & Logistics
- Trains (SNCF): Small dogs (carrier-sized) travel free; larger dogs need half-price tickets and must be muzzled or in carriers. Monaco station connects to French rail network.
- Buses & Trams (CAM): Monaco's buses allow small pets free in carriers; larger dogs €1.50 with muzzle/leash. Compact network is easy to navigate.
- Taxis: Ask driver before entering with pets; most accept with advance notice. Uber operates in Monaco with pet-friendly options.
- Rental Cars: Agencies like Hertz allow pets with advance notice and cleaning fee (€30-80). Useful for day trips to nearby Côte d'Azur.
- Flights to Monaco: Nearest airports (Nice Côte d'Azur) have pet policies; Air France allows cabin pets under 8kg. Book early and review specific carrier requirements. Compare flight options on Aviasales to find pet-friendly airlines and routes.
- Pet-Friendly Airlines: Air France, EasyJet, and Lufthansa accept pets in cabin (under 8kg) for €50-100 each way. Larger dogs travel in hold with veterinary health certificate.
Pet Services & Veterinary Care
Emergency Vet Services
Clinique Vétérinaire de Monaco provides 24-hour care; nearby Nice has additional options.
Keep EHIC/travel insurance covering pet emergencies; vet costs range €50-200 for consultations.
Pharmacies & Pet Supplies
Pharmacies in Monaco stock pet food and basics; larger stores in nearby France for variety.
Bring prescriptions for specialized drugs; supermarkets like Monoprix carry pet essentials.
Grooming & Day Care
Pet salons in Monte Carlo offer grooming for €30-60 per session.
Book ahead in high season; hotels can recommend local pet care services.
Pet-Sitting Services
Local services and apps like Pawshake operate for pet-sitting during events or outings.
Hotels may offer pet-sitting; ask concierge for trusted providers in Monaco.
Pet Rules & Etiquette
- Leash Laws: Dogs must be leashed in urban areas, parks, and promenades. Off-leash areas are limited; always control pets near traffic.
- Muzzle Requirements: Certain breeds require muzzles on public transport and in crowded areas. Carry one for compliance.
- Waste Disposal: Poop bags and bins are available; fines for not cleaning up (€50-500). Maintain Monaco's pristine image.
- Beach & Water Rules: Larvotto Beach allows pets in designated zones; bans during peak summer (10am-7pm). Respect bathers.
- Restaurant Etiquette: Pets welcome at outdoor tables; indoors only if specified. Keep dogs quiet and off furniture.
- Public Spaces: Avoid pets in the Casino and Palace interiors; stick to outdoor attractions and gardens.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Monaco
Monaco for Families
Monaco offers a luxurious yet family-oriented experience with safe streets, interactive attractions, and Mediterranean charm. From ocean museums to princely palaces, kids enjoy the glamour while parents appreciate the compactness and high-end facilities like stroller access and family dining.
Top Family Attractions
Oceanographic Museum (Monaco-Ville)
Iconic aquarium with sharks, turtles, and marine exhibits in a cliffside palace.
Tickets €19 adults, €13 kids; interactive touch pools and views captivate all ages.
Prince's Palace (Monaco-Ville)
Royal residence with changing of the guard ceremony and throne room tours.
Family tickets €11 adults, €5.50 kids; historic guards and cannons thrill children.
Exotic Car Collection (Fontvieille)
Collection of classic and luxury cars including Formula 1 vehicles.
Tickets €6.50 adults, free for kids under 6; car enthusiasts and families love the displays.
Princess Grace Rose Garden
Beautiful gardens with 300 rose varieties and sea views for peaceful family strolls.
Free entry; picnic spots and photo opportunities make it ideal for young kids.
Port Hercules Yacht Watching
World's largest superyachts in the harbor; free to explore the waterfront.
Boat spotting and gelato nearby create fun, low-key family entertainment.
Larvotto Beach
Sandy public beach with playgrounds, calm waters, and family facilities.
Free access; umbrellas €10-20; perfect for summer splashing and sandcastles.
Book Family Activities
Discover family-friendly tours, attractions, and activities across Monaco on Viator. From harbor cruises to palace visits, find skip-the-line tickets and age-appropriate experiences with flexible cancellation.
Family Accommodations
- Family Hotels (Monte Carlo): Hotels like Novotel Monte Carlo offer family rooms (2 adults + 2 kids) for €150-250/night. Amenities include cribs, pools, and kids' menus.
- Luxury Family Resorts (Larvotto): Beachfront properties with childcare and family suites. Hôtel Miramar caters to families with entertainment and spa access.
- Apartment Rentals: Self-catering options in Fontvieille for €200-400/night with kitchens and space for kids to play.
- Vacation Apartments: Self-catering rentals ideal for families with kitchens and washing machines. Space for kids to play and flexibility for meal times.
- Boutique Family Stays (Monaco-Ville): Smaller hotels with connecting rooms for €120-200/night. Historic charm with modern family facilities.
- Yacht-Inspired Hotels: Stay at Columbus Hotel for nautical-themed family fun near the harbor. Kids enjoy the pool and boat views.
Find family-friendly accommodations with connected rooms, cribs, and children's facilities on Booking.com. Filter by "Family rooms" and read reviews from other parents.
Kid-Friendly Activities by Region
Monaco-Ville with Kids
Prince's Palace guards, Oceanographic Museum, and exotic gardens for exploration.
Narrow streets and viewpoints offer adventure; ice cream stops keep it fun.
Monte Carlo with Kids
Casino gardens, shopping arcades, and people-watching at Café de Paris.
Family-friendly luxury vibes with gelato and fountain shows for entertainment.
La Condamine & Port with Kids
Harbor yacht spotting, local markets, and waterfront walks.
Boat rides and fresh seafood make it engaging for young explorers.
Fontvieille with Kids
Exotic Car Collection, stadium tours, and new marina playgrounds.
Modern district with family parks and easy access to beaches.
Family Travel Practicalities
Getting Around with Kids
- Trains: Children under 4 travel free; ages 4-11 get 50% discount. Monaco station has family areas for SNCF connections.
- City Transport: CAM buses offer family day passes (2 adults + kids) for €5-10. All stops are stroller-accessible.
- Car Rentals: Book child seats (€5-10/day) in advance; required by law for kids under 10 or 135cm. Compact cars suit Monaco's size.
- Stroller-Friendly: Monaco's paths are smooth and elevator-equipped; attractions like the Palace provide stroller parking.
Dining with Children
- Kids' Menus: Restaurants offer children's plates with pasta, pizza, or fish for €8-15. High chairs available everywhere.
- Family-Friendly Restaurants: Waterfront spots in La Condamine welcome families with casual vibes and play areas nearby.
- Self-Catering: Supermarkets like Casino Supermarché stock baby food, diapers, and fresh options. Markets for Riviera produce.
- Snacks & Treats: Gelaterias and patisseries offer treats like macarons and sorbets to delight kids.
Childcare & Baby Facilities
- Baby-Changing Rooms: Available in malls, museums, and hotels with nursing areas.
- Pharmacies: Stock baby essentials and medications; English-speaking staff assist families.
- Babysitting Services: Hotels arrange sitters for €20-30/hour. Use concierge or local agencies.
- Medical Care: Princess Grace Hospital has pediatric services; EHIC covers EU citizens.
♿ Accessibility in Monaco
Accessible Travel
Monaco excels in accessibility with modern lifts, ramps, and inclusive public spaces. The compact size makes it easy to navigate, and attractions provide detailed accessibility info for barrier-free visits.
Transportation Accessibility
- Trains: Monaco station offers wheelchair assistance and ramps; book ahead for SNCF services.
- City Transport: CAM buses are low-floor and accessible; elevators at all major stops.
- Taxis: Wheelchair-adapted taxis available; book via apps or hotels. Standard taxis fit folding chairs.
- Airports: Nice Airport (15min away) provides full assistance, accessible shuttles to Monaco.
Accessible Attractions
- Museums & Palaces: Oceanographic Museum and Prince's Palace have elevators, ramps, and audio guides.
- Historic Sites: Monaco-Ville paths are mostly accessible; some steep areas have alternatives.
- Nature & Parks: Gardens and promenades feature smooth paths and viewpoints for all abilities.
- Accommodations: Hotels indicate accessible rooms on Booking.com; look for roll-in showers, wide doorways, and ground-floor options.
Essential Tips for Families & Pet Owners
Best Time to Visit
Summer (June-September) for beaches and events; mild winters (Dec-Feb) for holidays and fewer crowds.
Spring (March-May) and fall (Oct-Nov) offer pleasant weather, yacht shows, and lower rates.
Budget Tips
Monaco Pass includes transport and attraction discounts; focus on free parks and beaches.
Picnics and self-catering help manage costs in this upscale destination.
Language
French is official; English widely spoken in tourist areas and hotels.
Basic French phrases appreciated; multilingual signs aid navigation.
Packing Essentials
Light layers for Mediterranean climate, swimwear for beaches, and comfortable shoes for walking.
Pet owners: bring favorite food, leash, muzzle, waste bags, and vet records.
Useful Apps
CAM app for buses, Google Maps for navigation, and local event apps.
Monaco Life app provides real-time info on attractions and transport.
Health & Safety
Monaco is extremely safe; tap water drinkable. Pharmacies offer advice.
Emergency: dial 112 for police, fire, or medical. EHIC covers EU citizens.