Palais du PrinceCity/Region: Monte-Carlo
Established in the 13th century,
Monaco's royal palace has been the residence of the ruling Grimaldi family ever since. The most famous resident was
Grace Kelly, who was married to
Prince Rainier III. Every generation has left their mark on the place, and as a result this is not one of
Europe's most elegant castles from the outside. It is worth taking a look inside though; 15 rooms, including the Throne Room, are open to the public. In the south wing of the palace is the Musée des Souvenirs Napoléoniens, which contains
a collection of Napoleon's memorabilia. The changing of the guard takes place in front of the palace every day, lasting just two minutes, so take care to be on time.
Address: Place du Palais
Phone Number: 9325 1831
Website: www.palais.mc
Transport: Monaco Bus line 1 or 2 to the Place de la Visitation bus stop (signed Terminus Monaco-Ville)
Hours: State apartments: 9.30am to 6.30pm (1 June to 30 September), 10am to 5pm (October). Changing of the Guard: 11.55am
Admission: State apartments: EUR6 (adults), EUR3 (children 8-14). Entrance to the museum is EUR4
Oceanographic Museum and AquariumCity/Region: Monte-Carlo
Monaco's Oceanographic Museum and Aquarium was opened by Prince Albert I in 1910 and houses his personal collection of marine life, models of the Prince's laboratory ships and other crafts made from marine products. The imposing building is perched dramatically on a cliff and faces the sea, providing lovely views. The basement houses an impressive aquarium with over 4,000 fish species and 200 invertebrates, as well as the Shark Lagoon.
Address: Avenue Saint-Martin
Phone Number: 9315 3600
Email Address: rp@oceano.mc
Website: www.oceano.mc
Hours: Daily 10am to 6pm (October to March); 9.30am to 7pm (April to June, and September); 9.30am to 7.30pm (July and August)
Admission: EUR12.50 (adults); EUR6 (children 6-18)
Monaco CathedralCity/Region: Monte-Carlo
The Monaco Cathedral is a beautiful structure that was built in 1875 and rests on a site of a 13th-century church that was dedicated to Saint Nicholas. The Cathedral houses the tombs of the much-loved Princess Grace, as well as the former Princes of Monaco. During religious festivals and religious holidays, the sounds of the Cathedral's splendid four-keyboard organ can be enjoyed, as well as the Sunday mass, which is sung by the Cathedral Choir.
Address: 4 Rue Colonel Bellando de Castro
Phone Number: 9330 8770
Email Address: info@cathedrale.mc
Website: www.cathedrale.mc
Admission: Free
Monte-Carlo CasinoCity/Region: Monte-Carlo
The opulent and world-renowned Monte-Carlo Casino was built in 1878 by
Charles Garnier, architect of the
Paris Opera House. The Salle Garnier hosts ballet, opera and concerts, while the Gaming Rooms are filled with all the glitz and glamour one would expect from a top-class casino. The rooms sport stained glass windows, sculptures, and of course, the rich and famous. Jacket and tie are required for men.
Address: Place du Casino
Phone Number: 9216 2000
Website: www.casino-monte-carlo.com
Hours: Open daily. The European Rooms, Private Rooms and the English Club have different times for their games. No admittance for anyone under the age of 18
