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Prince’s Palace

The Palace has a long history and has been extended and renovated several times over the centuries. Its origins date back to the early thirteenth century – 1215 to be exact. Following a succession of transformations, the ancient Genoese fortress became one of the most luxurious residences of the seventeenth century, in a style extremely characteristic of the Louis XIV era.

Prince Honoré II assembled substantial collections of artworks here, which unfortunately disappeared during the French Revolution, when the Palace was looted and used as a hospital for troops from the Italian Army.

Today, it is possible to admire the splendours of the Palace, including: the Palace Chapel, dedicated to St. John the Baptist, the Hercule Gallery, the Mirror Gallery, the Red Room, the York Room, the Yellow Room or Louis XV Bedroom, and the Throne Room, as well as numerous frescoes, tapestries, and items of furniture.

The State Apartments  are not accessible by wheelchair, since they are accessed via staircases.

OPENING TIMES: From 26 March to 30 June: 10 am to 5 pm. Palace closes at 6 pm. From 1 July to 31 August: 10 am - 6 pm. Palace closes at 7 pm. From 1 September to 13 October: 10 am - 5 pm. Palace closes at 6 pm.

Visit duration : 30 minutes

ADMISSION PRICES: Adults (18 and over): 10 euros Children (6-17), Students (with school ID): 5 euros Groups and Agencies: on request Adult groups (minimum 20 persons): 8 euros per person Child groups (minimum 20 persons): 4 euros per person (1 adult paying 2 euros for every 10 children)

Tickets may be purchased:

- on site (cash, cheque, or card) or by pre-paying (no refunds are given).

- via the free  Monapass  app.

For more information about admission prices and combined attraction tickets (Prince's Palace, Cars Collection, etc.): Prices

Visit Prince's Palace of Monaco

Discover the heritage of the Prince's Palace

An extraordinary tale

The frescoes of the palace of monaco

The Palace of Monaco is open to visitors from March 26 to October 13, 2024. Enter the Prince’s Palace and visit the sumptuous State Apartments. Discover over 600m2 of unique frescoes that date back to the Italian Renaissance.

Hidden from view, for nearly five centuries in some cases, the Palace of Monaco frescoes have been brought to light by a series of events that owed much to chance. Starting in 2015 with major discoveries and astonishing twists, evolving on a daily basis. The restauration’s outcome goes well beyond anything imaginable!

Placed under the auspices of HSH Prince Albert II, the fresco conservation and restoration projects have strengthened the Palace of Monaco’s place in the history of global art. Not only is this due to the scale of the discoveries, but also the innovative and sustainable approach to their restoration.

Beyond the revelation of these exceptional frescoes dating back to the Italian Renaissance, this discovery resonates with the very history of the Principality and its secular connections to the Mediterranean world as well as the great myths that shaped its culture, and, more generally, its influence in the western world. Today, two heroes and a heroine of Antiquity, Hercules, Odysseus and Europa, have been brought back to life through the Palace frescoes.

Book your tickets

Ticket Office

PRINCE'S PALACE OF MONACO - Adventure through the frescoes

Tours of the State Apartments are currently open.

Opening Hours: March 26 to June 30: 10am – 5pm. The Palace closes at 6pm. July 1 to August 31: 10am – 6pm. The Palace closes at 7pm. September 1 to October 13: 10am – 5pm. The Palace closes at 6pm. Visits will be closed during the F1 Grand Prix weekend. For any further information, please contact the Palace via email: « [email protected] »

Behind the scenes

Latest News

Pablo Picasso and Antiquity 16 September – 15 October 2023

Nearly 140 children attend Changing of the Guard on Place du Palais

Mystery can only be explained by mystery…

Organized visits

VIP & Group Visits

Guided group tours around the Prince’s Palace are available to book. For further information on how to book, kindly click : ``Group visit request``

You can also offer your best customers, your partners, an exceptional visit to discover « The Prince’s Palace ». Find all the information you need on: « VIP Visits »

The prince's palace

Practical information

Opening hours, prices, access and FAQ, find all the practical information concerning visits to the Prince's Palace.

The prince's palace

The State Apartments are open from March 26th to October 13th 2024.

Opening Hours

From March 26th to June 30th:

10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Palace closes at 6 p.m.

From July 1st to August 31st:

10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Palace closes at 7 p.m.

From September 1st to October 13th:

10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Palace closes at 6 p.m. Tours will be closed during the F1 Grand Prix weekend.

Ticket prices

Adults: 10 € Children (6-17 years old) & students: 5 € Groups and Agencies: available upon request

Cars and coaches are advised to park at the “Parking des Pêcheurs”. Please kindly note vehicles registered outside Monaco and Alpes Maritimes (06) are unable to access Le Rocher or Monaco-ville. Monaco bus service: Lines n° 1 and n° 2 - Stop at “Place de la Visitation”. On foot, 10 mins from Place d'Armes via the Rampe Major, 5 mins from Place de la Visitation through the narrow streets of the Le Rocher.

Due to the Palace being a seat of Sovereignty, there may be unexpected closures to the public without prior notice.

For further information, please kindly contact the Palace via email: «[email protected]»

For the perfect visit

To make your visit as pleasant as possible, a range of services and guides are available.

Audio guides available in 11 languages

Downloadable smartphone app:, children’s booklet (6-11 years old), braille booklet for the visually impaired and blind, guide dogs are accepted as well as any other medical service animal, as the prince’s palace is a historic building, the palace is unfortunately unable to offer wheelchair access (access via stairs only).

More questions?

Frequently Asked Questions

How can i buy tickets.

Tickets can be purchased online ( https://www.visitepalaisdemonaco.com/#billetterie ) or on site at the ticket office located on Place du Palais.

If you have any questions regarding ticket purchasing, you can contact us by email at the following address: [email protected]

We recommend that tickets be purchased in advance to save time when you visit.

Are group visits available?

Yes, group visits are available for parties of 20 or more.

To organize a group visit, please email us on: [email protected]

Are there reduced ticket rates?

A reduced ticket price (5 euros) applies to the following: – students on presentation of their student card – children aged 6 to 17 – individuals with disabilities

Admission is free for children under 6 years old.

Is there a restaurant or food shop at the Palace?

No, however you will find many options for dining nearby, on Le Rocher.

Are animals accepted at the Prince’s Palace?

Service animals, such as guide dogs for the blind, may enter the Palace. Unfortunately pets are not accepted, unless they remain in a small bag.

Can tickets be purchased over the phone?

No, it isn’t possible to purchase tickets for the Prince’s Palace of Monaco over the phone.

Tickets can be bought online ( www.visitepalaisdemonaco.com ) or at the ticket office located on site.

For group reservations, please kindly email us at [email protected]

I would like to cancel my prebooked ticket. Will my ticket cost be reimbursed?

Unfortunately, ticket refunds are not available. But tickets are valid for the entire 2023 season and your visit can be postponed to the date of your choice.

Do you offer audioguides?

Yes, audioguides available in 11 languages for the Prince’s Palace of Monaco. You can also download the Palais Monaco App, available on smartphones through the App Store and the Playstore. For the visually impaired or the blind, a Braille booklet is available at the entrance point. A booklet for younger audiences is also available on site for 6-11 year olds.

Are there guided tours?

Guided tours can be booked in advance. Please kindly contact us via email for more information: [email protected]

Can we buy our tickets directly at the Palace?

Absolutely, however it is preferable to buy them beforehand via our website: www.visitepalaisdemonaco.com

Is the Palace of Monaco open on public holidays?

Yes, the Prince’s Palace of Monaco remains open on public holidays.

Are visits accessible for people with disabilities (reduced mobility)?

Unfortunately, as the building dates back to the 13th century, accessibility is limited and cannot accommodate for people with disabilities.

Contact-Us!

Palais des Princes, 98015 Monaco

+377 93 25 18 31

OPENING TIME

From March 26th to June 30th: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Palace closes at 6 p.m. From July 1st to August 31st: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Palace closes at 7 p.m. From September 1st to October 13th: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Palace closes at 6 p.m. The Palace will be closed during the F1 Grand Prix weekend.

Cars and coaches are advised to park at the “Parking des Pêcheurs”. Please kindly note vehicles registered outside Monaco and Alpes Maritimes (06) are unable to access Le Rocher or Monaco-ville. Monaco bus service: Lines n° 1 and n° 2 - Stop at “Place de la Visitation”. On foot, 10 mins from Place d'Armes via the Rampe Major, 5 mins from Place de la Visitation through the narrow streets of the Le Rocher. Due to the Palace being a seat of Sovereignty, there may be unexpected closures to the public without prior notice. For further information, please kindly contact the Palace via email: «[email protected]»

Musées et visites

Museum and visits.

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ENTRY TICKETS

Grand Apartments of the Prince's Palace

Tickets are not exchangeable or refundable. Those tickets will be valid for the new season from the 26 March to the 13th of October 2024.

Timetable: From March 26th to June 30th : 10H - 17H ; Closing of the Palace at 18H. From July 1st to August 31st : 10H - 18H ; Closing of the Palace at 19H. From September 1st to October 13th : 10H - 17H ; Closing of the Palace at 18H. The Palace Tours will be closed on the weekend of the F1 Grand Prix.

For more information, you can contact us by email «[email protected]».  

Car Collection of S.A.S. The Prince

Le Jardin Animalier de Monaco

Tickets are not exchangeable or refundable. Horaires d'ouverture :

• Du 1er mars au 31 mai : de 10h à 12h et de 14h à 18h
• Du 1er juin au 30 septembre : de 9h à 12h et de 14h à 19h 
• Du 1er octobre au 28 février : de 10h à 12h et de 14h à 17h 

Renseignements complémentaires :

Le Jardin Animalier Esplanade Rainier III Terrasse de Fontvieille 98000 MONACO ✆ 377 93 50 40 30 [email protected]

TWIN TICKETS

Grand Apartments of the Prince's Palace and Collection of Cars

Tickets are not exchangeable or refundable. The tickets will be valid for the period of opening of the visits of the Palace to the public is from the 26 March to the 13 October.

From 26 March to June 30 th  : 10H - 17H; Closing at 18H. From July 1 st to August 31 st : 10H - 18H; Closing at 19H. From September 1 st to October 13 th : 10H - 17H; Closing at 18H.

The Palace Tours will be closed on the weekend of the F1 Grand Prix. 

Taking a look at the Prince’s Palace of Monaco

The Prince’s Palace of Monaco is the resplendent official residence of the Sovereign Prince of Monaco, Prince Albert II, and of his wife, Princess Charlene and their twins, Princess Gabriella and Prince Jacques.

Although Monaco has existed since ancient times, it wasn’t until 1191 that a residence was built – initially as a fortress of the Genoese granted by the German Emperor Henry IV to protect the coastline from pirates.

Genoa was a wealthy nation in the 12th century, as its people were merchants and often acted as bankers for other nations. But, per the Monegasque Princely Family’s official website, “When the Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II… challenged the authority of Pope Innocent IV, the Genoese divided into two parties: the Guelphs sided with the pope and the Ghibellines with the German Emperor. The Grimaldis belonged to the Guelphs…”

Eventually, in the late 13th century, the Ghibellines won and ousted the Guelphs (and the Grimaldis) from Genoa. But in January 1297, François Grimaldi disguised himself as a monk and sought refuge at the fortress. He murdered the guard, and his men came to help him capture the fortress. For the next 30 years, the fortress was fought over, and in 1341, the first Lord of Monaco, Charles I began his reign.

In the 1400s, the Grimaldi Family purchased Monaco and became the official owners and rulers of the Principality. Monaco was a protectorate of France until the French Revolution in 1814. In 1815, the Kingdom of Sardinia took over as protectorate. In 1860, Monaco became a French protectorate again, until 1918 when the Franco-Monegasque Treaty limited the protection.

It wasn’t until the reign of Honore I in the 1500s that the fortress on the Rock of Monaco was transformed into something resembling a palace, and this is what the modern version of the Prince’s Palace is based upon.

“In the courtyard, architect Dominique Gallo designed a portico with two double-decked galleries, each with twelve arches, with white marble balustrades on the upper gallery, which is known as the Gallerie d’Hercule,” reads the Princely Family’s official website.

“A new wing was constructed on one side of the courtyard, and Genoese painter Lucas Cambiaso was commissioned to paint frescoes on the walls.”

A new tower was built and reinforced with additional towers and a cistern that could hold 3,963 gallons of water – enough to provide 1,000 soldiers for a 648-battle.

Over the ensuing centuries, the Sovereign Princes of Monaco updated the Prince’s Palace to include and expand the State Apartments and State Rooms, art collections, and other additions.

Prince Rainier III is credited for restoring the Prince’s Palace to its glory, and shortly after his accession, he began a full-scale restoration and renovation project.

“Many of the external frescoes on the courtyard were restored, while the south wing, destroyed following the French Revolution, was rebuilt,” reads the Prince’s Palace Wikipedia entry.

The Prince’s Palace of Monaco is open to visitors during the summer months, closing in October every year. Prince Albert II uses the Palace for official functions, receiving Monegasques in the Gallery and using the State Apartment for official receptions and for the annual Christmas Party for Monegasque children.

The courtyard is used by the Monte Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra for open-air concerts and has been since 1960.

In the court of honor, a horseshoe-shaped staircase inspired by the one in Fontainebleau leads to the main entrance of the palace and the open Gallery of Hercules. Then on the way to the throne room, visitors walk along an enfilade of rooms and galleries: the long Mirror Gallery which was inspired by the Hall of Mirrors in Versailles is followed by the Officer’s Room and then by the Blue Room, a large drawing room decorated with blue brocade. The ultimate room at the end of the ceremonial route is the Throne Room with ceiling frescoes painted by Orazio de Ferrari depicting the surrender of Alexander the Great. The throne was made in the Empire style and is placed beneath a red silk canopy topped with a gilt crown. The throne room has host state ceremonies since the 16th century.

The State Apartments feature lavish furnishings and expensive works of art, marble floors and stairways, Renaissance ceiling frescoes, and panelled walls. The state apartments and the throne room can be visited on a guided tour.

The State Apartments are “inlaid in marble with mosaic designs including the double R monogram of Prince Rainier III. The Florentine and Bouille furniture is from the reign of Francois I,” according to the family’s official website.

“The walls are draped in silk brocade and damask and hung with royal portraits executed by well-known artists…all these attest to the devotion to art that is constantly being renewed.”

The State Apartments include:

– The Red Room, which is “furnished in the style of Louis XV” and features art by Jan Breughel, Mignard and Charles Le Brun. – The York Room, named after the Duke of York (brother of King George III), who died in Monaco in 1787. The Room features frescoes that highlight the four seasons, done by Gregorio de Ferrari and royal portraits – The Yellow Room, also known as the Louis XV bedroom, and features period furniture and tapestries. – The Officers Room, which is used by the Protocol Office – The Blue Room, which is used for the official receptions and is named for the blue silk brocade that lines the walls, and features Grimaldi portraits and Venetian chandeliers. – The Throne Room, where all official ceremonies take place – The Mazarin Room, which features “ornate Italian woodwork done by Italian artists brought to France by the Cardinal,” explains the family’s website – The Louis XII Bedroom – The Matignon anti-room – The State Hall, connecting the eastern and southern wings of the Palace, and which leads to the dining room and the Private Apartments with a marble staircase.

Sources: royalcentral.co.uk  and  frenchmoments.eu

Photo sources:  www.secretearth.com , photos.monte-carlo.mc and  www.palais.mc

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The palace of the Prince in Monaco

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Prince's Palace of Monaco

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Prince's Palace of Monaco

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• The Prince’s Palace of Monaco: A Mini-Guide

The Prince’s Palace of Monaco: A Mini-Guide

Last Updated:  19 September 2022

Standing on a rocky promontory ( Le Rocher ), the Prince’s Palace of Monaco is the official residence of the ruling Prince of Monaco . The castle has been the home of the Grimaldi dynasty since the end of the 13th century. The Palais de Monaco occupies a unique and spectacular geological site, facing the Mediterranean Sea at the foot of the Alps. Here’s what you need to know about the Palais princier.

Watch our short video on Monaco: Facts & Figures!

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• 🏛 Visit the Oceanographic Museum on the Rock of Monaco
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• 🗺 Download the free City Map of Monaco

History of the Prince’s Palace of Monaco

The modest size palace was originally edified as a Genoese fortress in 1191. In 1215 the defensive system of the castle was upgraded with the construction of a rampart with four towers and a curtain wall.

The legend of the false monk

Legend has it that on 8 January 1297, Francesco Grimaldi , known as “the Malicious”, posed as a Franciscan monk seeking shelter for the night in the castle. He managed to enter the citadel and opened the doors to his soldiers. Through this trickery, they captured the fortress of Monaco. Since then, the building has become the seat of the Grimaldis.

This is why the coat of arms of the House of Grimaldi and the principality depicts two monks, each armed with a sword, holding the coat of arms of Monaco.

This event is celebrated by the statue of Francesco Grimaldi in the Place du Palais.

However, modern historians have disputed this legend.

Successive restorations

The palace underwent heavy and continuing restoration from its creation to the 20th century. The Grimaldis upgraded the castle into a royal residence in the 15th century. The Italian Renaissance aspect of the palace in the courtyard and its interior was added in the 16th century by hired artists from Italy.

During the French Revolution, the revolutionaries confiscated the palace. It became a military hospital and poorhouse.

The Treaty of Paris gave the Palace of Monaco back to the Grimaldis in 1814. In the 19th century, the succeeding Princes worked on restoring the palace and retrieving the furnishings and works of art that had been dispatched during the French Revolution.

Map of the Prince’s Palace of Monaco

• A: Entrance
• C: State flats
• E: Swimming pool
• F: Toussaint tower (tour Toussaint{)
• G: Serravalle
• H: Midi tower (tour du Midi)
• K: Middle tower (tour du Milieu)
• M: Sainte-Marie tower (tour Sainte-Marie)
• N: Administrative offices and servants’ quarters

The exterior of the palace

To admire the façade of the Prince’s Palace of Monaco, you have to stand in the centre of Place du Palais , the Principality’s most famous square.

In  Place du Palais , sentries and cannons guard the palace.

Walk around the square to see more cannons facing the port of Fontvieille.

The changing of the guard

The changing of the guard (‘ la relève de la garde ‘) takes place every day at 11.55 am. The event is announced by a musical element (two drums and two trumpets). Apart from a few details, the parade dress remains that of the beginning of the 20th century (white uniforms in summer and black uniforms in winter).

The Prince’s Company of Carabinieri ( Compagnie des Carabiniers du Prince ) has 124 officers and men and is the military unit of the Monegasque public force.

Although the defence of the Principality of Monaco is placed under the protectorate of France, a unit for the protection of the Prince of Monaco ensures the safety of the Prince and the princely family.

The Prince’s Carabinieri Company was created on 8 December 1817 under the reign of Prince Honoré IV for the protection of the Principality of Monaco .

Its motto is “HONOUR – LOYALTY – DEVOTION” ( Honneur, Fidélité, Dévouement ).

Prince Albert II has held the rank of colonel in the Carabinieri Company since 11 November 1986.

The architecture of the Prince’s Palace of Monaco

The external aspect of the palace is a blend of medieval fortifications and Renaissance features. Unlike other royal palaces (Versailles, Buckingham…), it lacks symmetry as it was initially built as a defensive castle to protect Monaco and its coastline from piracy.

Although its façade has a defensive appearance, the crenellated square towers rising behind the classical façade were actually rebuilt during the 19th century.

The Baroque entrance to the palace was added by Prince Louis I . Executed by Antoine Grigho , it features a large arch surmounted by a broken pediment containing the coat of arms of the Grimaldis.

Interior of the Prince’s Palace of Monaco

In the inner courtyard  ( cour d’honneur ), a horseshoe-shaped staircase inspired by the one in Fontainebleau leads to the main entrance of the palace and the open Gallery of Hercules.

Then on the way to the throne room, visitors walk along an enfilade of rooms and galleries: the long Mirror Gallery, which was inspired by the Hall of Mirrors in Versailles, is followed by the Officer’s Room and then by the Blue Room, a large drawing room decorated with blue brocade.

The ultimate room at the end of the ceremonial route is the Throne Room, with ceiling frescoes painted by Orazio de Ferrari depicting the surrender of Alexander the Great. The throne was made in the Empire style and is placed beneath a red silk canopy topped with a gilt crown. The throne room has hosted state ceremonies since the 16th century.

The state apartments feature lavish furnishings and expensive works of art, marble floors and stairways, Renaissance ceiling frescoes, and panelled walls.

For more information about visiting the state apartments and the throne room, check out the official website of the Prince’s Palace of Monaco.

More practical info about Monaco

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What to do in Monaco?

Want to know what you can do in and around Monaco? Click on the image below for a list of activities:

From Private Guided Walking Tour to Lamborghini Driving Experience and French Riviera Cruises, the Principality dazzles with glamorous activities you won’t forget. Here’s a little list of what’s on offer!

Where to stay in Monaco?

Did you know? There are 12 hotels in the Principality, four ***** and four ****. Unsurprisingly, accommodation in the Principality is very expensive. Unless you absolutely want to stay within the Principality, there is a cheaper alternative. For this, you should look at the Beausoleil district in France, a few minutes walk from the Monaco train station. Prices are much more affordable than in Monaco.

Click here to choose your accommodation in Monaco and its surroundings, or browse the map below:

How to get to the Principality of Monaco

Arriving by car.

Monaco is accessible from Nice via the scenic coastal Corniche roads :

• the Corniche Inférieure road follows the coast via Beaulieu,
• the Moyenne Corniche passes through Èze,
• and the Grande Corniche crosses La Turbie.

The Principality is bordered by the French A8 motorway linking Provence to Italy. Paris is 950 km away via the A6, A7 and A8 motorways.

Thanks to the A8 motorway, you can reach the centre of Monaco in less than 30 minutes from Nice and its airport.

• Exit 56 “Monaco” in the direction of France -> Italy
• Exit 58 “Roquebrune Cap Martin” in the direction of Italy -> France

However, please note that access to Monaco-Ville ( Le Rocher ) is limited to users whose vehicle is registered in Monaco and the French département of Alpes Maritimes [06].

How to park in Monaco

Other vehicles should park in the Parking des Pêcheurs , which has pedestrian access to the Rock in a few minutes.

It is advisable to leave your vehicle in one of the many public car parks. The Principality has no less than 40 car parks with 15,500 spaces.

All the car parks are underground, guarded and secure. They are therefore the best solution for parking your vehicle. All public “Monaco Parking” offers free parking for 1 hour. For more information, visit the official website of the Monaco Carparks .

Nearest Airport

Nice-Côte d’Azur International Airport links the Principality of Monaco to more than 86 destinations worldwide.

Through Nice Airport (25 minutes away by motorway), Monaco is linked daily to the main European capitals and, beyond, to all continents.

The airline Air France offers 73 flights a day to Nice Airport, directly from 15 cities in France and seven cities worldwide.

Moreover, the airport is 7 km away by helicopter to the Monaco heliport situated in the Fontvieille district.

Monaco Train Station

Monaco is located on the Marseille-Ventimiglia railway line. The underground SNCF station at Monaco-Monte-Carlo, offers daily TGV services to Paris, and up to ten other cities, via the nearby Nice-Ville station.

TER trains link Monaco to Menton and Ventimiglia to the north-east, Nice, Antibes, Cannes, Grasse and Saint-Raphaël to the south-west.

In addition, there are several daily connections to Turin, Milan and Rome via Ventimiglia.

Six entrances allow users to access the underground railway station via a series of escalators or lifts:

Sainte Dévote Bridge, Parvis de la Gare (behind Sainte Dévote Church), Port Hercule, Jardin Exotique, Allée Lazare Sauvaigo/Rue Grimaldi/Rue Suffren-Reymond, Avenue Prince Pierre.

English-French Vocabulary

(f) for  féminin , (m) for  masculin,  (adj) for  adjective  and (v) for  verbs

• Alps = Alpes (f,p)
• castle = château (m)
• changing of the guard = relève de la garde (f)
• court of honour = cour d’honneur (f)
• French Riviera = Côte d’Azur (f)
• fortification = fortification (f)
• guard = garde (f)
• harbour = port (m)
• marina = port de plaisance (m)
• Maritime Alps = Alpes Maritimes (f,p)
• Mediterranean Sea = Mer Méditerranée (f)
• micro-state = micro-état (m)
• Mirror Gallery = Salle des Glaces (f)
• old town = vieille-ville (f)
• palace = palais (m)
• Prince = Prince (m)
• Principality = Principauté (f)
• port = port (m)
• rock = rocher (m)
• state apartments = appartements d’état (m,p)
• throne room = salle du trône (f)

Featured image: The Prince’s Palace of Monaco. Photo: @SNABSA via Twenty20

About the author

Pierre is a French/Australian who is passionate about France and its culture. He grew up in France and Germany and has also lived in Australia and England. He has a background teaching French, Economics and Current Affairs, and holds a Master of Translating and Interpreting English-French with the degree of Master of International Relations, and a degree of Economics and Management. Pierre is the author of Discovery Courses and books about France.

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24 PLACES TO SEE IN FRANCE

5 things you need to see when visiting the Princely Palace of Monaco

The Prince’s Palace will close its doors on 15 October, leaving three and a half months to enjoy this treasure, which is rarely open to the public. The editorial team has selected 5 things for you to see during your visit.

This summer the Princely Palace is open to the public! The Covid situation meant that the public has been unable to visit the Prince’s Palace for the past two years. A blessing in disguise, in a sense, as conservators were able to use the two years to work on Renaissance frescoes that were discovered in 2015 .

The Palace, a long history

Monaco has not always been independent. The town once belonged to the flourishing city of Genoa, which rapidly fortified the Rock to defend its western border and protect the port of Monaco.

The Monaco legend began in 1297, when François Grimaldi, from an influential family in Genoa, seized the fortress by posing as a monk. The name Monaco dates in fact from this historical event, since Monaco means monk in Italian.

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Genoa tried to take the fortress back by force for hundreds of years. In 1506, the Republic of Genoa besieged Monaco but, with help from France, the siege was lifted. However, the city had to be rebuilt. A protection pact with Spain ensured Monaco was safe and the Palace, as it appears today, was built in the middle of the Renaissance, in the 16th century.

Thanks to its alliances, with France in particular, Monaco has managed to maintain its independence up to the present day. It is one of the few remaining Principalities in Europe.

1. Changing of the Guard

There is nothing like watching the changing of the guard in the Palace Square to soak up the princely atmosphere. Every day at 11.55 am, the 124 Prince’s Carabinieri rotate in a solemn, century-old ritual that visitors are sure to enjoy.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Monaco Tribune (@monacotribune)

2. The Cour d’Honneur (ceremonial courtyard)

A must-see if you decide to visit the Palace, the Cour d’Honneur is the centrepiece of the Palace as a whole. Richly decorated, it houses the iconic horseshoe-shaped staircase commissioned by Prince Louis I in the 17th century, as well as the splendid Galerie d’Hercule, where one of the largest restoration projects on the site was carried out.

The Cour d’Honneur has witnessed many events. Not least, the very enjoyable concerts performed each summer by the Monte-Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra. It is also the where Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene said “I do”  11 years ago .

3. Restored ceilings

Le Palais a complètement changé de visage par rapport à il y a deux ans. Les fresques retrouvées derrière les peintures abîmées et restaurées donnent une allure Renaissance au Palais. Plus chargées qu’auparavant, ces fresques replongent le visiteur cinq siècles en arrière, lors de la construction du Palais sur la forteresse qui protégeait Monaco.

The Throne Room, with the Nekyia of Ulysses, and the European room feature some of the finest works of the period. To create a cohesive whole, each room has been re-arranged with new exhibits. The Green Antechamber was even provided with new flooring.

4. Royal Antechamber

A small but nevertheless important room, the Royal Antechamber is a testament to history. Located just after the Officers’ Lounge, as you follow the tour, it was here that actress Grace Kelly and Prince Rainier III first met in 1955. A year later, the Prince and Princess were married, forming one of the most iconic couples of the 20th century.

5. Princes’ Gallery

© Geoffroy Moufflet /  Monaco Palace archives 

The Princes’ Gallery is the last room on the Palace tour. Visitors end their tour in this remarkably bright room, surrounded by the illustrious Princes of Monaco.

In contrast to the white sculpted busts of the Princes of the Grimaldi dynasty, Prince Albert II’s head sits at the far end of the gallery. Made in gold by artist Barry X Ball, the head comprises different marine plant species, symbols of the Sovereign’s commitment to ocean preservation.

The Prince’s Palace has designed a “Visit the Palace of Monaco” application, which can be used to visit the architectural complex from home, and for further information during the tour on site.

The Prince’s home is open every day from 10 am to 7 pm until September, and from 10 am to 6 pm, in September and October. Tours cost €10, with a €5 reduced rate.

More information on the Palace tour: Prince’s Palace of Monaco

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Museum and visits

The state apartments.

The Palace of Monaco was originally the western border fortress of the Republic of Genoa, built from 1215. It became the residence of the Grimaldi family when, between the end of the 13th and the beginning of the 14th century, they established their sovereignty over Monaco. At the beginning of the 16th century, the lords of Monaco definitively detached themselves from their mother country and had their independence recognised by the European powers: in 1512 by the King of France and by the Emperor and the Pope in 1524. Their medieval residence gradually took on the appearance of a palace and was strongly influenced by the Italian Renaissance. The original painted decorations of the Cour d'Honneur and a number of rooms in the wing of the State Apartments bear witness to this and are now being completely updated, preserved and restored. Honoré II (1604-1662), the first Grimaldi to bear the title of prince from 1612, endowed his house with architectural marks that signed the dynasty’s move towards a monarchy. During the reign of his grandson Louis I, the Court of Honour was enhanced by a large horseshoe staircase, reminiscent, but in a mannerist style, of that of Fontainebleau, one of the residences of the King of France, who has been the protector and ally of the Principality since 1641. In the 17th and 18th centuries, the palace housed extensive art collections, particularly paintings, which were scattered when the French Revolution reached Monaco. After lying disused for more than twenty years, the palace was refurbished after the restoration of the Princes in 1814 and most notably at the end of the 19th century. The ceremonial rooms of the State Apartments were then arranged more or less as they are today.

The Archives of the Palace of Monaco hold many documents relating to European history, including the former fiefdoms of the dynasty granted by Charles V in southern Italy in 1532 (such as the Marquisate of Campagna), those granted following the Treaty of Peronne in 1641 (the Duchy of Valentinois in the Rhone Valley, marquisate of Les Baux in Provence, county of Carladès in Auvergne), or inherited by marriage (barony of Saint-Lô and county of Torigni in Normandy, seigneury of Matignon in Brittany, duchy of Mayenne, marquisate of Chilly, county of Longjumeau, duchy of Mazarin, counties of Thann, Ferrette, Rosemont, Altkirch in Alsace, etc.). ). Today, these territories are grouped together in a network based on friendship and cultural promotion: the Grimaldi Historic Sites of Monaco .

Five years ago, H.S.H. Prince Albert II decided to carry out a major restoration of the palace's exterior and interior painted decorations, as well as to renew the presentation of the public visitor circuit, usually open from April to October. The approach taken by the restoration team is intended to respect both the environment and the integrity of the historical heritage. For the public, a new look inside the palace should be possible from spring 2022 onwards.

USEFUL INFORMATION

Exceptional closing

Visits of the Prince's Palace/State Apartments  are currently closed.  It will re-open on July 1st, 2022.

The State Apartments are not accessible to those in wheelchairs. Access only by stairs.

• Vehicle Access   The only vehicles that may drive into the Old Town (Monaco-Ville) area are those having Monaco license plates or French license plates with the last two digits 06 from the Alpes Maritimes Department.  All other vehicles are strictly forbidden to drive to Monaco-Ville.  Parking : Busses and cars are advised to park in the Parking des Pecheurs.
• Bus Access   One may take either Monaco Bus line 1 or 2, which ends at the Place de la Visitation bus stop and signed Terminus Monaco-Ville. The bus stop is next to the Museum Chapelle de la Visitation. From the Place de la Visitation bus stop one follows the posted signs through the small streets to the Palace, a short 5-minute walk.
• On Foot   One may take the 10-minute walk from Place d'Armes up the Rampe Major that brings you right to the Palace Square.

ADMISSION COST

Prince's palace: State Apartments

• Adults: 10 euros
• Children (6-17 years old), Students: 5 euros
• Adults groups (from 20 persons) : on request

For more information :

Email :  [email protected]

• Prince's Palace Monaco

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The inside story

Monaco may be one of the smallest states in Europe, but its palace packs in plenty. Built in the 12th century, the official residence of the Prince of Monaco is full of lavishly decorated drawing rooms, artworks and antique furnishings. There’s also a museum dedicated to Prince Rainier’s huge collection of classic cars, and zoological gardens complete with exotic birds, primates and hippopotamus.

How to get there

Prince's Palace

Price & Hours

• Facilities 4.0
• Atmosphere 4.0

This grand Prince's Palace in Monaco-Ville , up on the rock, has sheltered the Grimaldi family since the 13th century, including Prince Rainier III and his Oscar-winning actress wife, Grace Kelly (of the 20th century). Today, Rainier's heir, Prince Albert II, calls the Palais du Prince home. Every day at 11:55 a.m., there is a changing of the palace guard, called the Carabinieri Corps, who have been protecting the palace since 1817. Many visitors recommend at least stopping by to see the exterior of the palace on your Monaco vacation, even if you're not up for a tour of the state rooms. Travelers also say the views from the nearby terraces are impressive. Some said the changing of the guard is nothing special.

The state apartments are typically open from April through mid-October; you can tour the rooms for 10 euros (about $11) for adults and 5 euros (around $5.50) for children 6 to 17. Audio guides for the palace interiors are available to download on your mobile device for free.

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#1 Oceanographic Museum of Monaco

Founded in 1910 by Prince Albert I (a sea explorer and scientist), this museum and aquarium are must-sees in Monaco. The prince went on dozens of expeditions, the fruits of which are on display here: for example, the skeleton of a whale featured in the museum's zoology room. And the aquarium – widely considered one of the best in Europe and a favorite for local families – contains more than 90 tanks with 6,000 creatures, including a shark lagoon. From the aquarium, you can access the open-air Sea Turtle Odyssey.

Most travelers highly enjoyed their visit here. Many said it's a great place to bring kids, as the exhibits are engaging and there are plenty of exotic animals and fish to see.

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Luxury Travel Blog

Ideas to inspire your world: luxury, culture, food, travel, style, august 17, 2023, top 10: highlights of monaco.

On a narrow slice of land on the French Riviera between the French Alps and the Mediterranean Sea, the Principality of Monaco has the distinction of being one of the world’s smallest—and wealthiest—countries. Synonymous with luxury and Old-World glamour, Monaco is known for its picturesque Mediterranean setting, legendary casino, Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix circuit and luxurious hotels.

Beyond that, however, the city-state also offers visitors 800 years of history, including a well-preserved historic center, beautiful Belle-Epoque architecture, subtropical gardens, acclaimed restaurants and luxury shopping.

Artisans of Leisure arranges private tours of the highlights of Monaco, which we often combine with touring in nearby France and Italy. Some of our favorite Monaco attractions and experiences include:

1. Touring the Prince’s Palace

Built in 1215 as a defensive fortress atop the craggy hill known as Le Rocher (The Rock), the Prince’s Palace is a Monaco landmark and the official residence of the ruling monarch.

The Grimaldi family has lived in the Prince’s Palace since they seized control of it in 1297, expanding and transforming it over the centuries from a medieval fortress to a lavish royal residence. The result is a combination of architectural styles, including medieval, Renaissance and Baroque.

Whether watching the Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix, attending the Monte Carlo Rally to see the latest automobile innovations or just enjoying spotting Bentleys, Lamborghinis, Bugattis and Rolls Royces on the streets, Monaco has long been a destination for car enthusiasts. One notable Monegasque car enthusiast was Prince Ranier III, who began collecting cars in the 1950s.

The Prince’s impressive car collection of around 100 classic automobiles and F1 cars is exhibited in a museum near the Automobile Club de Monaco and the famous Grand Prix racetrack.

Monaco’s picturesque Old Town (also called Monaco-Ville) is the principality’s charming historic quarter.

Characterized by narrow streets and pastel buildings, this hilltop district is known for sites such as the Prince’s Palace, La Condamine Market, the  Oceanographic Museum and St. Nicholas Cathedral, where Prince Rainier III married American actress  Grace Kelly.

La Condamine Market offers fresh produce and flowers.

Constructed in the late 1850s as part of a redevelopment program to transform Monaco into a vacation resort, the casino is one of Europe’s most lavish examples of Belle-Epoque architecture.

The sumptuous interiors, terraces and gardens are well worth a visit, even for travelers not interested in gambling.

The casino complex also includes the ornate red-and-gold Opera de Monte Carlo, known as the Salle Garnier after Charles Garnier, the French architect who designed it. Garnier also designed the renowned Palais Garnier Opera House in Paris .

Artisans of Leisure arranges private tours of the Monte Carlo Casino, including visits to the private gaming rooms. Upon request, we can also arrange a tour or tickets to a performance at the Opera de Monte-Carlo.

We arrange for our travelers to stay at the top luxury hotels in Monaco that are known for their historic architecture, magnificent style and prime locations.

Hotel de Paris and Hotel Hermitage provide access to the Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo, a vast 71,000-square-foot spa considered one of the best in Europe.

Dining in Monaco’s upscale restaurants, stylish beach clubs and elegant cafes is part of the experience of the Monegasque lifestyle.

Artisans of Leisure arranges reservations at the top restaurants in Monaco, including favorite historic cafes and classic bistros.

Monaco is a luxury shopping destination offering haute couture, high-end designer brands, fine antiques, ceramics, perfume and jewelry.

Upon request, Artisans of Leisure can arrange a private shopping experience with a personal shopper, including private visits to ateliers and private fittings.

Since 1929, Monaco has hosted one of the world’s most prestigious car races, the Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix . The race takes place in the narrow, winding streets of Monte Carlo and is considered the most difficult F1 course.

Many travelers plan their private France tour around the Monaco Grand Prix. Artisans of Leisure can tailor any of our private France tours to incorporate Formula 1 VIP access with preferred seating, gourmet hospitality packages, private transfers, exclusive access to events and accommodation at Monaco’s top luxury hotels.

 9. Visiting the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco

Founded by Prince Albert I in 1910, the striking Oceanographic Museum in Monaco’s Old Town is one of the world’s leading institutes of marine sciences.

The complex includes an active research institute, a giant aquarium, an open-air space dedicated to sea turtles and permanent exhibits focused on marine biology and oceanography. Hands-on activities and interactive displays make the museum a family favorite.

10. Touring the Jardin Exotique de Monaco (Exotic Garden)

Monaco has a number of gardens, but the Jardin Exotique de Monaco (Exotic Garden of Monaco), located on cliffs high above the city, is one of the best.

Subtropical plants spill down the terraced hillside, and the garden has one of the world’s largest collections of cacti and succulent plants.

A unique feature of the Exotic Garden is the Grotte de l’Observatoire (Observatory Cave), a limestone cave with ethereal stalagmite and stalactite formations.

(For travelers interested in gardens, we also arrange visits to other notable gardens along the Cote d’Azur in France, such as the Exotic Garden in Eze and the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild gardens in Saint-Jean-Cap Ferrat.)

A private luxury tour of Monaco combines well with destinations along the Cote d’Azur in France, including Nice, Cannes and Antibes. Other nearby options we combine with Monaco are Provence and Genoa and Portofino in Italy.

Contact us to arrange a private Monaco tour.

Destinations:   Europe , France , Monaco

Tags:   Cafe de Paris , car tours , casino tours , Circuit de Monaco , Cote d'Azur , Exotic Garden , F1 , Formula 1 , France luxury resorts , French Riviera , French Riviera tours , garden tours , gardens , Grace Kelly , Grimaldi , Hotel de Paris , Hotel de Paris Monte Carlo , insider shopping , Jardin Exotique de Monaco , luxury , luxury spa and wellness tours , luxury spas , Monaco , Monaco casino , Monaco gardens , Monaco Old Town , Monaco shopping , Monaco tours , Monaco-Ville , Monte Carlo , Prince's Palace , Prince's Palace tours , shopping tours

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• Iconic Alps Excursions from Interlaken, Switzerland: Jungfraujoch and Schilthorn
• Postcard from Mexico: Cenote Snorkeling in the Riviera Maya

Featured Tours:

Provence & the French Riviera (7 Days) Luberon Valley, Cote d'Azur

France & Italy: Best of the Riviera (7 Days) Cote d'Azur, Portofino & Cinque Terre

France in Style (13 Days) Paris & Versailles or Giverny, Luberon Valley, Aix-en-Provence, Cote d'Azur

Resorts of Southern France (10 Days) Provence, Cote d'Azur (Saint-Tropez & Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat)

Introduction to Rwanda (6 Days) Kigali, Volcanoes National Park

• Luxury Tours

• Preplanned tours
• Daytrips out of Moscow
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• Customized tours
• St. Petersburg

Moscow Metro

The Moscow Metro Tour is included in most guided tours’ itineraries. Opened in 1935, under Stalin’s regime, the metro was not only meant to solve transport problems, but also was hailed as “a people’s palace”. Every station you will see during your Moscow metro tour looks like a palace room. There are bright paintings, mosaics, stained glass, bronze statues… Our Moscow metro tour includes the most impressive stations best architects and designers worked at - Ploshchad Revolutsii, Mayakovskaya, Komsomolskaya, Kievskaya, Novoslobodskaya and some others.

What is the kremlin in russia?

The guide will not only help you navigate the metro, but will also provide you with fascinating background tales for the images you see and a history of each station.

And there some stories to be told during the Moscow metro tour! The deepest station - Park Pobedy - is 84 metres under the ground with the world longest escalator of 140 meters. Parts of the so-called Metro-2, a secret strategic system of underground tunnels, was used for its construction.

During the Second World War the metro itself became a strategic asset: it was turned into the city's biggest bomb-shelter and one of the stations even became a library. 217 children were born here in 1941-1942! The metro is the most effective means of transport in the capital.

There are almost 200 stations 196 at the moment and trains run every 90 seconds! The guide of your Moscow metro tour can explain to you how to buy tickets and find your way if you plan to get around by yourself.