What to See in Monaco-Ville
The Prince’s Palace of Monaco
Built from the 12th century onwards, the Prince’s Palace is the residence of the Prince of Monaco. It dominates the Rock and reflects the central role of Monaco-Ville in the Principality’s geography. A fortress turned government seat, but also a museum and the emblem of a family, the Grimaldis, who have been tied to Monaco’s destiny for centuries, this monument is open to visitors from April to September, who can discover the Grand Apartments, the Sainte-Marie Tower and the Clock Tower. All year round, Place du Palais is a landmark meeting point in Monaco-Ville, where you can admire the statue of Francesco Grimaldi and orient yourself toward other symbols of local power, such as the Monaco Palace of Justice.
Monaco Cathedral
Filled with remarkable works of religious art, particularly the Altarpiece of Saint Nicholas and paintings depicting Sainte-Dévote, patron saint of the archdiocese, the Notre-Dame-Immaculée Cathedral of Monaco is the Principality’s most important religious building. One of its galleries houses the tombs of most of Monaco’s princes, from Jean II in the 16th century to the funerary monuments dedicated to Prince Rainier III and his wife, Princess Grace. A place of history and spirituality in the heart of Monaco-Ville!
The Oceanographic Museum of Monaco
Since the beginning of the 20th century, Monaco’s ruling family has directed part of its policy toward ocean preservation and research into the seabed. This interest is reflected in the presence, near the Prince’s Palace, of the famous Oceanographic Museum of Monaco, a space dedicated to species conservation, scientific discovery and temporary exhibitions often focused on biodiversity and the environment. One of the most visited aquariums in the world is located by the sea, in the heart of a mythical Monaco district.
The Saint-Martin Gardens
Located between the Oceanographic Museum and Monaco Cathedral, the Saint-Martin Gardens are the green heart of Monaco-Ville. Their unique location, seemingly suspended above the sea, offers a magnificent view of the French Riviera and the surrounding neighborhoods of Monaco.
Practical information for Monaco-Ville in Monaco
How to get to Monaco-Ville
Unlike other districts of the Principality, Monaco-Ville is a restricted traffic area. The Rock is also accessible from Monaco’s main points of interest via the urban bus network. On foot, it is located immediately next to the Fontvieille district and Port Hercule / La Condamine.
Tips for your visit
As Monaco-Ville includes most of Monaco’s institutions - the National Council of Monaco, the State Ministry, Monaco Town Hall, the Municipal Council, the Palace of Justice and the Prince’s Palace - dining and accommodation options are rather limited. However, the hotels and restaurants of Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer, including Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo and Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, are nearby, on the other side of Port Hercule.
Discover Monaco’s Other Districts
Thanks to its central position and special access, Monaco-Ville provides direct access to two other Monaco districts: Fontvieille and La Condamine. The first leads to the Exotic Garden, while the second is a gateway to Moneghetti and Sainte-Dévote, as well as Monte-Carlo. These are all tourist districts that lie very close to one another and are connected by public transport, whose terminus stations include Saint-Roman and Larvotto.
Frequently Asked Questions About Monaco-Ville
Every day at 11:55 a.m., the changing of the guard takes place at the Prince’s Palace. The Prince’s Carabinieri perform this ritual in public: meet at Place du Palais to watch this daily mini-parade.