A palace under guard
The history of the Principality was born on the heights of its Rock , behind the walls of Monaco's Prince's Palace . It is the beating heart and living memory of the Principality. Immerse yourself in this fascinating history with a tour of the Palace's grand apartments, featuring Renaissance splendor, delicate tapestries and polychrome woodwork, not to mention the elegant marble staircase in the Cour d'Honneur. Also not to be missed: the changing of the Carabinieri Guard , every day at precisely 11:55 a.m. on the vast Place du Palais. A few minutes' walk and you're in front of the Notre-Dame-Immaculée Cathedral the final resting place of the late Princes. Adorned with the white stones of La Turbie, it watches over Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace. Combine your visit to the Palace with that of the Collection of Cars of H.S.H. the Prince of Monaco , below, along Port Hercule : a treasure trove for all lovers of fine motorcars!
Gardens from near and far
Monaco boasts countless parks and gardens. Head for the Land of the Rising Sun, along the paths of the Japanese Garden , a stone's throw from the Grimaldi Forum and the new Mareterra eco-district. A peaceful stroll bathed in Zen thoughts among stone lanterns, red bridge and waterfalls, streams and Koi carp ponds. On the heights of Monaco, the Monaco Exotic Garden invites you to stroll among cacti, euphorbias and aloes. It's the world's largest rock garden of succulent plants, with an exceptional view over the Bay of Monaco. Below, the Grotte de l'Observatoire, an underground marvel shaped by water over the millennia and home to 350,000 years of human history. Its visit is included in the garden entrance ticket, so enjoy! Also attached to the Exotic Garden is the Botanical Centre of the Monaco Exotic Garden, home to one of the world's finest collections of cacti and succulents. From the light-filled greenhouses, the panorama is splendid! From the kingdom of greenery, move on to the animal kingdom at the Rainier III's Zoological Garden for a "wild walk" on the heights of the Port de Fontvieille, among some 300 animals of some sixty different species. As for the Jardins Saint-Martin , suspended between sea and sky on the Rocher, they are the ideal setting for a pleasant family stroll along the winding paths with a breathtaking view of the Mediterranean. And not far from there, below the Prince's Palace, a "knights and princesses" themed Playground will provide the perfect opportunity for a fun break.
Sharing art and culture
On the cliffside, it has been watching over the Grande Bleue for over a century. The monumental Oceanographic Museum of Monaco invites you to plunge into the heart of the Mediterranean marine world, as you explore its tanks housing almost 6,000 specimens. And don't miss the famous shark lagoon! Another trip, to the Museum of Prehistoric Anthropology : a journey back in time to the origins of mankind, with temporary exhibitions and educational activities. Finally, the New National Museum of Monaco, divided between the Villa Sauber and the Villa Paloma combines contemporary art with Monegasque heritage, all in the context of carefully-designed scenography for young visitors.
A majestic casino
The other emblem of the Principality: the Casino de Monte-Carlo. From 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., enjoy the morning calm - and the players' rest - as you explore this mecca of gaming and refined luxury designed by Charles Garnier. Its majestic halls and marble-paved atrium set with 28 onyx columns make it an impressive Belle Époque jewel. A fascinating visit, even for the youngest visitors! Outside, continue your exploration in the Casino Gardens. Rising gently from the Place du Casino, the Jardins des Boulingrins impose their French landscape art, while the Jardins de la Petite Afrique unfurl their exotic luxuriance in the heart of the Monte-Carlo district, with palm trees, waterfalls and rare species. Two of the Principality's most sparkling green diamonds!