The main attractions of the Principality of Monaco are concentrated in the historic center of the Principality in the Monaco-Ville (Old Town) area: The Princely Palace, Monaco Cathedral, and the Oceanographic Museum. You could spend a whole day here and still feel like you haven't had enough time to enjoy the beauty of these sights.
To have time to see all the interesting places in all the districts, read our Monaco sightseeing summary and explore the map of Monaco attractions. If you are planning to spend only a short time in the Principality, take a look at the photos of Monaco sights, choose the most interesting ones and get to know this beautiful country!
Princely Palace
In the medieval neighborhood of Monaco-Ville is the residence of the ruling Grimaldi dynasty, the Prince's Palace.
In the palace square, visitors are greeted by the figure of a monk, a monument to the first of the Grimaldi family, while the grand staircase in the main courtyard, witness to all the most important ceremonies of the Principality, invites you to enter the Prince's Palace. The palace square offers a picturesque view of the Principality.
The best time to arrive at the palace square is at 11:55. This is the time every day when the guard of honor of the Prince of Monaco's guards is changed, and tourists gather to witness this mesmerizing spectacle.
The Princely Palace is a mixture of architectural styles, as over the centuries, the ruling princes have changed and improved the appearance of the palace at will.
Frescoes depicting various mythological subjects adorn the walls of the gallery of the Princely Palace (Gallery of Hercules, or Italian Gallery). The history of the Principality is depicted in the frescoes on the left side of the chapel, while the façade features a depiction of Saint Devota, the patron saint of the Principality of Monaco.
The interior of the Princely Palace is also open to curious tourists, but photography is prohibited.
Monaco Cathedral
Monaco Cathedral was built in 1875 on the site of a 13th-century church that was destroyed during the French Revolution. The cathedral sits on an elevated position, as if watching over everything that happens in the Principality of Monaco.
Go inside to pay homage to the Princes of Monaco who are laid to rest here and admire the masterpieces by Louis Brea that adorn the walls of the cathedral.
If you're in Monaco during the summer, you may be lucky enough to catch the International Organ Festival held at Monaco Cathedral.
The chanting sounds of the organ can be heard every Sunday, on church holidays, and on Monegasque National Day (November 19).
Oceanographic Museum
The Monaco's Monaco Oceanographic Museum, which also includes the Institute of Oceanography of Paris, has been in operation for more than a century. The museum was founded by Prince Albert I, who had a passion for sailing (there is a monument to him in Monaco - the Prince with a steering wheel in his hands).
When you arrive at the museum, take note of the building itself. Prince Albert I wanted the architecture of the museum to reflect its purpose, as it is a palace dedicated to art and science.
The Oceanographic Museum is built on a cliff and seems to have emerged from the depths of the seas. Indeed, the museum is so majestic that it is clear why it is also called the Temple of the Sea.
Go down to the lower level of the museum, where models of sea and ocean life are kept. The 90 aquariums here also house many species of fish and coral, while rock-cut tanks have become home to sea urchins, crabs, octopuses, and other underwater creatures.
Make sure to visit Shark Lagoon, which is home to more than 2,000 species of exotic fish and, of course, sharks. To change your mind about the fearsome predators of the deep sea, venture out to pet the sharks.
Even if you don't learn to love sharks, you won't be indifferent to the oceans and seas.
Casino Monte Carlo
Monaco is perhaps the only country in the world whose attractions include a casino.
This building in Monte Carlo has become a symbol of Monaco. Since 1865, when the casino opened, millionaires from all over the world have come here to try their luck.
You can come to the casino just to cheer on the active players. By the way, unlike the famous rule that says there should be no clocks or windows in a casino, the Casino Monte Carlo has both, and casino profits are an important part of the principality's income.
If you win a million or two in the casino, don't rush to buy a house in the principality and become a Monaco citizen, as only foreigners are allowed to gamble in Monte Carlo.
If you're still wary of gambling, admire Charles Garnier's architectural masterpiece from afar, stroll the square near the Monte Carlo casino, and walk the beautiful terraces.
Opera Monte Carlo
Want to diversify your stay in Monaco with a cultural activity? Go to the Opera Monte Carlo. The venue has a 500-seat capacity, but you'll need to worry about tickets in advance.
Architect Charles Garnier designed Monte Carlo in the nineteenth century as a replica of the Grand Opera House in Paris. The entrance to the opera hall through the casino is one of the differences from opera halls around the world.
Another feature of the Monte Carlo Opera House is the presence of windows in the auditorium. You can admire a beautiful view of the sea before the performance begins.
