Currency exchange in Monaco: practical guide for residents and visitors

Currency in Monaco

Monaco uses the euro (€) as its official currency. Visitors from the eurozone have nothing to arrange. Visitors from outside the eurozone — the UK, Switzerland, the United States, Japan and elsewhere — will need to exchange currency before or during their stay.

Withdrawing cash

ATMs are available throughout the Principality: near the banks, the SNCF train station, the Casino and along the main shopping streets. They accept Visa, Mastercard and most foreign cards with a PIN.

Withdrawal fees depend on your home bank. Some online banks offer fee-free international withdrawals, which can be useful for a stay in Monaco.

Exchanging currency

Monaco has no tourist-facing currency exchange bureaux. Currency exchange is handled primarily through:

• Banks: several banking institutions operate in Monaco, including BNP Paribas, Crédit Agricole, Société Générale and HSBC. Counter exchange is available, often reserved for account holders.
• Hotels: some luxury hotels offer exchange services to guests, generally at less competitive rates.
• Nearby airports and stations: Nice Côte d'Azur airport (30 minutes away) and Nice station both have currency exchange desks with variable rates.

Card payments

Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted in virtually all shops, restaurants and hotels in Monaco. American Express is also well accepted in upscale establishments. It is worth keeping some cash for small shops, markets and tips.

Multi-currency bank accounts

For Monaco residents with international income or business activities, most Monegasque banks offer multi-currency accounts allowing balances in USD, GBP, CHF, JPY and other major currencies. These accounts simplify international transfers, payroll management and protection against exchange rate fluctuations.

SWIFT (international) and SEPA (European) transfers are available through all banks. Processing times vary by destination country.

Currency risk management

Residents and businesses with exposure to multiple currencies can use hedging instruments: forward contracts, currency options and swaps. These services are offered by banks and authorised brokers operating under the supervision of the CCAF.

Regulatory framework

All currency exchange and forex activity in Monaco is regulated by the Commission de Contrôle des Activités Financières (CCAF). Operators must comply with European requirements on financial transparency and anti-money laundering (AML/KYC).

Further reading

• Opening a bank account in Monaco
• Tax system in Monaco