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Esplanade Rainier III Square, Fontvieille Travel Guide

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Discover Esplanade Rainier III in Monaco: panoramic views, a royal memorial, and a unique sundial in a serene setting.

Esplanade Rainier III Square, nestled in Monaco's Fontvieille district, offers visitors a tranquil retreat with stunning views of the yacht port. Named after Prince Rainier III, the square features a memorial sign, a unique sundial, and access to the Jardin Animalier, making it a blend of history, leisure, and scenic beauty.

A brief summary to Esplanade Rainier III Square

Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Esplanade Rainier III Square.

  • Visit during sunset for breathtaking views over the port.
  • Take time to observe how the sundial functions and appreciate its design.
  • Combine your visit with nearby attractions like the Jardin Animalier de Monaco for a full experience.

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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Fontvieille, walk south towards the port. Esplanade Rainier III Square is located overlooking the Port de Fontvieille, near the Jardin Animalier. The walk is relatively flat and takes about 5-10 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    Take bus lines 1, 4 or 6 to the 'Héliport' stop. From there, walk towards the port (approx. 5 minutes). The Esplanade Rainier III Square will be on your left, overlooking the harbor and near the zoo. A single bus ticket costs €2 if purchased from the driver or €1.50 if purchased in advance.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Monaco. A short taxi ride from Monte Carlo to Esplanade Rainier III Square will cost approximately €18-€25. You can hail a taxi or use the Taxi Monaco app.

Discover more about Esplanade Rainier III Square

Esplanade Rainier III Square provides a peaceful escape with panoramic views of Monaco's bustling yacht port. Named in honor of Prince Rainier III, who ruled Monaco for 56 years (from 1949 to 2005) and married American actress Grace Kelly , the esplanade offers more than just a pretty view. Visitors can explore a large sundial that accurately displays the time, day, and month, a testament to both artistry and precision. The Jardin Animalier de Monaco, a zoo established by Prince Rainier III in 1954, is also located here, housing around 250 animals from approximately 50 different species. This unique zoo is home to animals that have been donated, abandoned, or recovered from customs seizures.The square itself serves as a memorial to Prince Rainier III, with a commemorative sign honoring his legacy. The esplanade is part of the Rainier III Sculpture Trail, which was inaugurated in May 2023 to mark the Prince's centenary. This trail links Monaco-Ville, Fontvieille, and Monte-Carlo, immersing visitors in the Principality's sculpted history. The location provides a blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, making it a must-visit destination in Monaco.

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