Place du Palais: Monaco's Royal Square
Experience royal Monaco at Place du Palais: history, views, and the changing of the guard await!
Place du Palais, perched high on Monaco's rocky promontory, is more than just a square; it's the ceremonial heart of the principality. This historic landmark provides an uninterrupted view of Port Hercule and Fontvieille, blending the grandeur of the Prince's Palace with the daily life of Monaco. The square is guarded by sentries and historic cannons, remnants of its past as a Genoese fortress dating back to 1215. The Palace itself has been the home of the Grimaldi family since 1297, witnessing centuries of transformations and serving as a symbol of their enduring power. The statue of François Grimaldi commemorates his capture of the fortress, disguised as a monk. Visitors can witness the changing of the guard ceremony, a daily tradition that occurs at 11:55 AM. The square also provides access to other attractions, such as the Monaco Cathedral and the Oceanographic Museum, making it an ideal starting point for exploring Monaco-Ville.
Local tips
- Arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
- Don't miss the changing of the guard ceremony, which takes place daily at 11:55 AM.
- Bring a camera to capture the panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding landscape.
- Explore nearby attractions like the Monaco Cathedral and the Oceanographic Museum for a full day of sightseeing.
A brief summary to Place du palais
- Monaco, 98000, MC
Getting There
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Walking
From the Monte Carlo Casino, walk east on Avenue de Monte-Carlo, continue onto Boulevard de la République. Turn left and follow the signs for Monaco-Ville. Ascend the steps to Place du Palais. Allow approximately 20-25 minutes. No costs involved.
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Public Transport
From the Monte Carlo Casino, take bus line 1 or 2 from the Casino de Monte-Carlo stop towards Monaco-Ville. Get off at the Monaco-Ville stop and follow the signs to the Prince's Palace. The walk is about 5 minutes. A single bus ticket costs €2 if purchased on board, or €1.50 if purchased in advance via the Monapass app.
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Taxi
From the Monte Carlo Casino, a taxi to Place du Palais typically costs €18 for an immediate pick-up within Monaco. The journey takes approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic.
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Parking
If driving, parking is available at Parking des Pêcheurs. From there, it's a short walk to Place du Palais. Parking rates start at €2.80 for 1 hour and 15 minutes, up to €7.30 for 2 hours. A 24-hour parking costs €24.
