Basics

Time: Local time is GMT +1 (GMT +2 from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October).
Electricity: Electrical current is 220 volts, 50 Hz. European round 2-pin plugs are used.
Money: The unit of currency is the Euro (EUR), divided into 100 cents. Money can be exchanged at banks, bureaux de change or hotels. Bank hours are usually 9am to 12pm and 2pm to 4pm Monday to Friday and are closed on weekends. The Credit Foncier de Monaco is open daily. Travellers cheques (US$ are the preferred currency) are not widely accepted and should be exchanged at banks or a bureaux de change. All major credit cards are widely accepted. Currency Exchange Rates

€ 1.00 =

A$ 1.63

C$ 1.60

IRR 14,652.04

NZ$ 2.07

£ 0.79

US$ 1.57

R 12.23

Note: These currency exchange rates are not updated daily and should be used as a guideline only.

Language: The official language of Monaco is French, but English and Italian, as well as Mongasque and Occitan (local languages) are also spoken.
Entry requirements:
Entry requirements for Americans: US nationals do not require a visa for stays of up to three months; a passport is required.
Entry requirements for UK nationals: British Citizens require a passport but no visa is required. Passports endorsed British National (Overseas); British Overseas Territories Citizen and British Subject, all with the right to abode in the UK, do not require a visa for a stay of three months.
Entry requirements for Canadians: Canadian nationals do not require a visa for stays of up to three months; a passport is required.
Entry requirements for Australians: Australian nationals do not require a visa for stays of up to three months; a passport is required.
Entry requirements for South Africans: South African nationals require a visa (a Schengen visa is valid if endorsed 'also valid for French territories'); a passport is required.
Entry requirements for Irish nationals: Irish nationals do not require a visa, but a passport is required.
Entry requirements for New Zealand nationals: New Zealand nationals do not require a visa for stays up to three months; a passport is required.

Passport/Visa Note: Any foreign national who wishes to enter Monaco for a period not exceeding three months must have the document required for entry into France. Passengers must also hold return or onward tickets, sufficient funds and the necessary documents for return or onward journey, except for members of EEA states and Switzerland.
Health: In general, no immunizations are necessary for travel to Monaco and there are no major health risks. The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) does not provide health cover in Monaco. It is advised to carry enough personal medication with accompanying doctor's letter. Medical insurance is recommended.
Tipping: Most hotels and restaurants add a service charge, but tipping extra for excellent service is appreciated. Porters/valets usually expect a tip. It is not necessary to tip taxi drivers, as they are self-employed. Climate: Monte-Carlo, like Monaco, has a spectacular Mediterranean climate, boasting roughly 300 days of sunshine a year. July and August are the hottest months, while spring and autumn are the best times to visit, as temperatures are milder.

Safety: Trips to Monaco are usually trouble-free, but the usual, sensible precautions such as being vigilant after dark and taking care of valuables apply.
Customs: Swimsuits, bare chests and bare feet are restricted to beaches and swimming areas only. Appropriate dress is required for visits to religious buildings (Monaco is largely Roman Catholic). Jacket and tie are required at the Casino.
Business: Business is usually conducted formally and suits and ties are the norm. Greetings are made with a handshake and business cards can be exchanged. French is the official language of Monaco, though some English is spoken; it is best to ascertain beforehand which language will be used. Business hours are usually 9am to 12pm and 2pm to 5pm Monday to Friday.
Communications: The international access code for Monaco is +377. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the United Kingdom). Mobile phone coverage is excellent and roaming agreements exist with most international mobile companies (it is best to check with phone providers). Internet cafes are common.
Duty free: Currency must be declared on arrival and passengers are allowed 400 cigarettes, one litre of liquor and a reasonable amount of perfume for personal use.