Prince's Palace of Monaco Palace

Address: Prince’s Palace of Monaco, Place du Palais, Monaco

Website: https://www.palais.mc/

Prince’s Palace of Monaco is the official residence of the Sovereign Prince in Monaco, located on the Monaco-Ville district’s rocky promontory known as the Rock. The palace has served as the Grimaldi family residence for centuries and combines medieval foundations with later princely additions.

The State Apartments with decorated rooms and collections open on a seasonal schedule, and visible architectural layers that reflect medieval, Renaissance and later modifications. The palace continues to function as the working residence and office of the ruling prince in addition to its museum role.

The site’s history traces back to a medieval fortress taken by the Grimaldi family in 1297 and transformed over time into a princely palace with ceremonial and residential functions. Elements of the older fortress and chapel remain visible alongside later additions.

Geographically the palace sits atop the Rock of Monaco in Monaco-Ville, overlooking the Mediterranean and Port Hercules at the base of the rock.

• Public access note: Guided visits and timed public openings let visitors see the official state apartments and collections when the palace is not in use for official ceremonies.

What to See#

• State Apartments: State Apartments that include historic rooms and ceremonial spaces opened to the public as part of guided museum tours.
• Old Palace and Chapel: The old fortress core and chapel area that trace the site’s medieval origins and architectural evolution under the Grimaldi family.

The Prince’s Palace sits in Monaco-Ville (Le Rocher). From Gare de Monaco-Monte‑Carlo (the main train station) it is an uphill walk of about 10-15 minutes; local buses also serve Monaco-Ville if you prefer not to walk. By car Monaco is about 20 km (≈12 miles) east along the coast from Nice.

• Arrive around 11:30 a.m. if you want to see the Changing of the Guard, which takes place at about 11:55 a.m.; arriving early secures a good viewing spot.
• If you plan to tour the State Apartments, check the palace's summer opening dates and buy tickets in advance-public access to the apartments is seasonal.
• Allow time to walk the palace terraces and ramparts for panoramic views over Port Hercules and Monaco's harbour; many visitors focus only on the interior rooms.