Monaco’s grand events, sporting, cultural, and commercial, draw the eyes of the world. Yet every glittering gala, every roaring engine, every international convention brings with it a familiar problem: the roadways strain, parking disappears, and the clamour of traffic threatens to overwhelm this princely state’s narrow streets.
In response, the government of Monaco has unveiled a bold, simple measure: during major events, the buses of the Compagnie des Autobus de Monaco (CAM) will run free of charge. It’s a practical gesture that will help preserve both the Principality’s allure and its liveability.
The Plan in Motion
The free-bus policy kicks off with one of Monaco’s most glamorous affairs: the Monaco Yacht Show 2025, running from September 19 to October 1. But it isn’t limited to just the show itself, CAM’s free service also covers the setup and dismantling phases, plus the Luxe Pack Monaco event that follows.
Looking ahead to 2026, the policy expands. It will apply to a list of Monaco’s high-profile events: the Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters, the Historic Grand Prix of Monaco, the Monaco E-Prix, the Formula 1 Monaco Grand PrixTM, and also La Vuelta (the cycling race). Specific dates and logistics (times, which bus lines, etc.) will be published in advance by CAM.
Easing Road Congestion
Monaco’s geography, a small area with steep inclines, narrow roads, and few big open spaces, makes traffic control a perennial concern. During major events, the influx of visitors, the need for security, and closures or diversions around the port or key avenues combine to put intense pressure on roads and parking. Free buses offer a compelling counterbalance.
Also, this initiative dovetails with a broader shift: Monaco has been increasing its train service, encouraging public transport and non-car modes of travel, expanding timetables, and electrifying its bus fleet. In 2024, CAM carried roughly 7.6 million passengers, a 4% rise over the previous year. The Principality is serious about easing road congestion, cutting emissions, and offering alternatives to private vehicles.
Evolving Service
Management Free service will likely attract more users. Will CAM manage capacity so that buses don’t become overcrowded? Extra vehicles or express lines may be needed. Even with free buses, people still need to reach final destinations (hotels, meeting venues); walking, bike, Monabike, taxis will still play roles.
In the Shoes of a Visitor
Imagine arriving in Monaco during the Yacht Show. Your luggage tags are sorted, your hotel booked. You glance at your watch: between now and afternoon, you plan to visit several stands, have lunch in Monte-Carlo, catch an evening event by the port. Instead of hunting for parking, you see a CAM bus stop nearby, and ride freely across the network. No ticket needed; no fumbling for change. Later, when roads are closed near the harbour, your bus simply detours.
It may not erase all congestion, but it lowers the friction. Monaco has appealing elegance and accessibility. In a place squeezed by geography and prestige, the people’s flow, on foot, by bus, by train, is part of the prize.
