Safety & Security in Monaco

The World's Safest Country

Expat Guides » Monaco » Safety
Exceptionally Safe: Monaco has the lowest crime rate in the world. With one police officer for every 100 residents and comprehensive CCTV coverage, violent crime is virtually nonexistent. Petty theft is rare but can occur during major events.

Emergency Numbers

112

European Emergency Number (works everywhere)

Police

17

Sûreté Publique

Fire/Medical

18

Sapeurs-Pompiers

Hospital

+377 97 98 99 00

Princess Grace

US Embassy

+33 1 43 12 22 22

Paris (nearest)

Why Monaco Is So Safe

Police-to-Resident Ratio

1:100

Highest police presence per capita in the world

Security Infrastructure

Crime Statistics

Personal Security

Day-to-Day Safety

During Major Events

The Grand Prix, yacht shows, and other events bring crowds and slightly elevated risk:

Grand Prix Weekend

The Monaco Grand Prix brings 200,000+ visitors to a country of 40,000. Security is enhanced but petty theft increases. Many residents leave during the event.

The Sûreté Publique

Monaco's police force (Sûreté Publique) is distinct from the French police and known for:

Carabiniers du Prince

The Prince's Guard (Compagnie des Carabiniers) provides ceremonial and palace security but also supplements public safety during major events.

Maritime Security: Monaco has its own maritime police and coast guard presence. Yacht owners benefit from secure harbor facilities with 24/7 surveillance.

Building Security

Most Monaco residential buildings have substantial security:

  • 24/7 concierge: Standard in luxury buildings
  • Key card/code access: Multiple entry barriers
  • CCTV: Lobby, garage, and common area coverage
  • Secure parking: Underground garages with controlled access
  • Delivery protocols: Packages received by concierge

Private Security Services

For additional protection, private security services are available:

  • Personal bodyguards
  • Residential security details
  • Event security
  • Travel security coordination

Costs typically range from €500-2,000/day (~$540-2,160 USD) for personal protection details.

Health & Medical Emergencies

Monaco's emergency medical response is excellent:

  • Ambulance: Call 18 or 112
  • Response time: Minutes given Monaco's size
  • Air ambulance: Heliport enables rapid evacuation to Nice CHU if needed
  • Princess Grace Hospital: Full emergency department

Medical Helicopter

Monaco's heliport can facilitate emergency medical evacuation. Nice University Hospital (CHU) is 7 minutes by helicopter for trauma or specialized care.

Natural Hazards

Monaco has minimal natural disaster risk:

  • Earthquakes: Minor seismic activity in the region, rarely felt
  • Flooding: Sophisticated drainage systems prevent flooding
  • Fire: Well-managed, rapid fire department response
  • Storms: Mediterranean storms occasionally impact, usually minor

Climate Considerations

  • Summer heat (30-35°C / 86-95°F) can be intense for unaccustomed
  • UV exposure is significant; sun protection recommended
  • Air quality is generally excellent

For Americans

US Consular Services

Monaco has no US consulate. The nearest is:

  • US Consulate General Nice: 7 Avenue Gustave V, Nice (closed 2019; services moved to Marseille)
  • US Consulate General Marseille: Place Varian Fry, Marseille (~2.5 hours)
  • US Embassy Paris: For complex matters

STEP Program

Register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for:

  • Safety alerts and updates
  • Embassy communication in emergencies
  • Easier assistance if needed

Emergency Assistance

If you need emergency consular assistance:

  • Call US Embassy Paris: +33 1 43 12 22 22
  • After hours emergency: Same number, select emergency option
  • Overseas Citizens Services: +1 202 501 4444

Practical Safety Tips

  • Discretion: Monaco culture favors understated displays of wealth
  • Document security: Keep passport and residence permit secure; carry copies
  • Banking: Use bank vaults for valuable documents and items
  • Insurance: Ensure adequate coverage for valuables despite low crime
  • Event awareness: Know the calendar—Grand Prix, yacht show, etc.

Cultural Note

While Monaco is exceptionally safe, the culture emphasizes discretion. Flashy displays of wealth, while possible, are not the norm among established residents. Quiet confidence is the Monaco style.

Disclaimer: While Monaco has an excellent safety record, no location is entirely risk-free. This is educational information only. For specific security concerns, consult local police or private security professionals. Information current as of January 2026.