Monaco is one of the world’s most unique states, where pleasant weather combines with luxury.
Monaco is an independent city-state and the world’s second-smallest country, nestled between France and the Mediterranean Sea on the French Riviera. It only borders France. Its territory, which consists almost entirely of Monaco city, is the most densely populated country in the world.
Table of Contents
Monaco attractions
Prince’s Palace
The palace, standing on a hill above the harbor, is the symbol of the principality.
The palace was originally built in 1191 when the Genoese erected a fortress here to protect this strategic point of the Mediterranean. In 1297, the Grimaldi family, which still rules Monaco today, captured the fortress, and it has been the family’s residence ever since. Its architectural style is unique as it bears the marks of several periods, as the original medieval fortress was gradually modernized over the centuries.
Its most beautiful part is the throne room. This ornate room is the venue for official state events, featuring rich frescoes and gilded decorations. The changing of the guard ceremony takes place every day at 11:55 AM in the square in front of the palace, which is a popular tourist attraction.
During summer months, part of the palace is open to the public, including the royal apartments, where visitors can admire a rich art collection and historical furnishings.
Saint Martin Gardens (Jardins Saint-Martin)
Located close to the Prince’s Palace, this garden offers one of the most beautiful views of Port de Fontvieille harbor.
The garden features numerous local and exotic plant species, including fragrant pines, palm trees, olive trees, bougainvillea, and other colorful flowers. Thanks to the Mediterranean climate, the garden remains beautifully green throughout the year.
Several art pieces have been placed in the park, including monuments and sculptures. Among these is the statue of Prince Albert I.
Monaco Cathedral
Located near the Prince’s Palace, this is one of Monaco’s most significant and beautiful churches.
Construction of the cathedral began in 1875. It was inaugurated in 1903 and dedicated to Monaco’s patron saint, the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary. The building reflects both the simplicity of Romanesque style and modern elements of 19th-century architecture. The cathedral was built from distinctive white limestone.
It is famous for being the resting place of members of the Grimaldi dynasty, including Prince Rainier III and his wife, Princess Grace Kelly. Their tomb is one of the most visited spots in the church.
Casino Square (Place du Casino)
Monaco’s most iconic location is home to one of the world’s most famous casinos, the Monte Carlo Casino.
In the center of the square is an elegant circular fountain surrounded by manicured lawns and ornate flower beds. The mirror-like water surface of the fountain is particularly popular among photographers as it reflects the casino’s facade.
The square is famous for being a kind of „showroom” for the world’s most expensive cars: Ferraris, Lamborghinis, Rolls-Royces, and other exclusive vehicles park here. Additionally, luxury brand boutiques such as Cartier, Chanel, and Louis Vuitton can be found here.
Monte Carlo Casino (Casino de Monte Carlo)
Located on Casino Square, this building is not just a gambling venue but also an architectural masterpiece.
The casino was founded by Prince Charles III of Monaco to improve the principality’s economic situation. Construction began in 1863, and the plans were designed by famous French architect Charles Garnier (designer of the Paris Opera House).
The casino’s facade is adorned with magnificent statues, columns, and decorations. Upon entering, visitors find themselves in a lobby decorated with marble columns and beautiful frescoes. The casino has several gaming rooms, each with its own style.
Only those over 18 can enter the casino. Dress codes are strict: visitors must appear elegant, and sporty attire is not allowed.
Hotel de Paris
One of Monaco’s most famous and luxurious hotels stands on Casino Square.
It opened its doors in 1864 on the initiative of Prince Charles III, who envisioned a luxury hotel following the success of the Monte Carlo Casino. The building was designed in neoclassical and Belle Époque style, evoking 19th-century elegance. The facade is imposing, enriched with ornate statues, columns, and window frames.
Every room is furnished with luxury materials (silk, marble) and equipped with modern technology. The famous Prince Rainier III suite is one of the hotel’s most expensive and luxurious suites, occupying an entire floor and featuring its own pool.
Sainte-Dévote Cathedral
The chapel is dedicated to Monaco’s patron saint, Saint Devota, who is a central figure in local beliefs and religious traditions.
The chapel’s origin dates back to the 4th century when Saint Devota, a Christian martyr, was traditionally buried near Monaco’s shores. The chapel has stood on this site since the 11th century.
The chapel’s architecture is simple but elegant, with a neo-Romanesque facade. The altar and interior decorations are enriched with symbols and historical relics dedicated to Saint Devota.
One of the most important events is also connected to the chapel. The Feast of Saint Devota (Fête de Sainte-Dévote) is celebrated at the end of January each year. Its traditional ceremony involves burning a fishing boat model, paying tribute to Saint Devota’s memory.
Port Hercule
This harbor is Monaco’s most famous part, appearing in most pictures.
Its history dates back to ancient times: Greeks and Romans used this natural bay as a safe harbor. Modernization began in 1901, and it officially opened in 1926.
You can admire the world’s most luxurious yachts, often owned by billionaires and celebrities. The port can accommodate up to 700 boats at once.
Japanese Garden (Le Jardin Japonais)
This beautiful small garden is located not far from the casino.
It was created on the initiative of Prince Rainier II to build a Japanese-style sanctuary in part of Monaco. The garden was designed by Yasuo Beppu, a renowned Japanese landscape architect who created the space in the spirit of traditional Japanese garden design techniques.
At its center is a beautiful crystal-clear pond where koi carp swim. Additionally, there is a rock garden, a miniature waterfall, traditional Japanese-style pavilions, and red wooden bridges.
Champions Promenade
One of Monaco’s special attractions pays tribute to football’s greatest legends.
Famous players’ footprints are cast in bronze and displayed here. Next to each footprint are the player’s name, nationality, and most important career events. Footprints of legends such as Diego Maradona, Pelé, Roberto Baggio, Ronaldinho, Zinedine Zidane, and Cristiano Ronaldo can be found here.
Oceanographic Museum
Monaco’s most important museum showcases the wonderful diversity of the marine world.
It was founded in 1910 by Prince Albert I of Monaco, who was a committed supporter of marine research and scientific education. The museum’s name reflects the prince’s objectives, as he himself was a famous sailor and scientist who directed several expeditions to research seas and oceans.
One of its main attractions is the display of various marine creatures, including fish, marine mammals, starfish, corals, and other marine life. In the museum’s huge aquariums, visitors can get acquainted with more than 450 marine species.
The Grand Aquarium, located on the building’s lower level, is one of the world’s largest marine aquariums. Colorful fish, rays, turtles, and various coral reefs can be viewed in the aquarium.
The museum also houses an archaeological collection that reveals maritime history through the display of ancient shipwrecks and other findings.
All information can be found here!
The Prince of Monaco’s Car Museum
As the name suggests, the museum showcases the princely family’s car collection.
The museum was founded by Prince Rainier III in 1993 to display the family’s car collection, which was built up over decades. The prince was a great enthusiast of cars and motorsports.
There are more than 100 vehicles representing different eras and types in automotive history. The collection includes classic cars, race cars, luxury vehicles, and rare models. These include Rolls-Royce, Bugatti, Ferrari, Mercedes-Benz, and Porsche.
All information can be found here!
Botanical Garden (Jardin Exotique)
A true paradise for exotic plant lovers.
The garden is located on a steep cliff in Monaco-Ville, providing fantastic views of the principality and the Mediterranean Sea. It lies about 200 meters above sea level, offering truly unique panoramas.
It houses more than 1,000 plant species, most of which come from tropical and subtropical climates. One of the most well-known plant groups includes agaves, cacti, and other succulent plants. Additionally, palm trees, colorful flowers, and trees can be seen.
A special feature of the garden is the Grotte de l’Observatoire, a natural cave where exciting geological formations and plant life can be found.