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Esplanade Rainier III: A Serene Viewpoint in Monaco

A peaceful escape in Monaco offering stunning views, a unique sundial, and the Jardin Animalier, all in a serene setting.

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Esplanade Rainier III Square, nestled in Monaco's Fontvieille district, offers a tranquil escape with stunning yacht port views. Named after Prince Rainier III, it features the Jardin Animalier de Monaco and a unique sundial, providing a serene experience amidst the city's bustle.

A brief summary to Esplanade Rainier III Square

Local tips

  • Visit the Jardin Animalier de Monaco, located on the esplanade, to see a variety of animals in a unique setting.
  • Check out the sundial on the square, which accurately displays the time, day, and month.
  • Enjoy the panoramic views of the yacht port and the Mediterranean Sea from the esplanade.
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the Rainier III Sculpture Trail to explore Monaco's artistic heritage.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Monaco Yacht Club, head northeast on Avenue de la Costa toward Boulevard Louis II. Continue straight, passing shops and cafes, until you reach the roundabout at Port Hercule. Continue onto Boulevard Albert I, then turn left onto Avenue de la République. Walk for about 300 meters and turn right onto Avenue Rainier III, which leads directly to Esplanade Rainier III Square. This walk is free and offers scenic views.

  • Public Transport

    From the Monaco Yacht Club, walk to the nearest bus stop on Boulevard Louis II (Bus Stop 'Monte Carlo Casino'). Take Bus Line 1 or 2 towards 'Roquebrune' or 'Menton'. Disembark at the 'Casino' stop. Walk towards the Casino de Monte-Carlo, then continue onto Avenue de la République. After approximately 400 meters, turn right onto Avenue Rainier III, which leads directly to Esplanade Rainier III Square. A single bus fare is approximately €2 if purchased on the bus or €1.50 if purchased in advance.

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Discover more about Esplanade Rainier III Square

Esplanade Rainier III Square, located in the Fontvieille neighborhood of Monaco, provides a peaceful retreat with scenic views of the yacht port. This state park is named in honor of Prince Rainier III, whose long-standing patronage significantly developed Monaco's artistic heritage. Under his leadership, numerous works were acquired, and he wished to create an open-air museum in Monaco, providing free access for the public. Established in 1954, the square is home to the Jardin Animalier de Monaco, a zoo housing around 250 animals from approximately 50 different species. The zoo hosts a diverse collection of animals, including exotic birds, turtles, caimans, hippopotamus, reptiles, primates, and lemurs. The animals housed in the Jardin Animalier are often donated, abandoned, recovered from customs seizures, or come from other parks. In addition to the zoo, the esplanade features a memorial sign and a sundial that accurately displays the time, day, and month. The Rainier III Sculpture Trail, inaugurated in May 2023 as part of the Prince's centennial celebrations, also showcases Monaco's artistic heritage, linking Monaco-Ville, Fontvieille, and Monte-Carlo. This trail includes 200 monumental works, immersing visitors in the Principality's sculpted history. The esplanade provides a serene environment for leisurely strolls, picnics, and enjoying the Mediterranean breeze.

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