HISTORIC CITIES. TIMELESS STORIES.
Monaco
Explore Monaco’s princely palaces, ancient fortress quarter, Belle Époque landmarks and Mediterranean waterfront. From Monaco-Ville’s winding lanes to Monte Carlo’s grand architecture, this tiny sovereign principality offers centuries of history beside the sea.
A PRINCIPALITY SHAPED BY THE SEA AND DYNASTY
Discover Monaco Through the Ages
From a Genoese fortress on the Rock to the enduring Grimaldi dynasty, Monaco preserves a distinctive history of diplomacy, maritime trade and transformation. Explore princely monuments, historic quarters and the Mediterranean setting that shaped this city-state.
EXPLORE BY DESTINATION
Discover Monaco’s Destinations
Monaco-Ville
Explore the old town on the Rock, home to the Prince’s Palace, Monaco Cathedral, medieval lanes and sweeping views over the Mediterranean.
Monte Carlo
Discover Monte Carlo’s Belle Époque grandeur, celebrated Casino Square, Hôtel de Paris and architectural legacy of Monaco’s nineteenth-century expansion.
La Condamine
Wander La Condamine’s traditional market streets and Port Hercule, a historic harbour central to Monaco’s commercial and maritime life.
Fontvieille
Explore Fontvieille’s reclaimed waterfront, landscaped gardens and the Collection of Cars of H.S.H. the Prince of Monaco, reflecting the principality’s modern development.
Larvotto
Stroll Larvotto’s Mediterranean seafront, where Monaco’s transformation into a modern coastal destination meets the natural beauty of its shoreline.
MONACO THROUGH THE AGES
A Brief History of Monaco
Monaco’s past spans medieval fortifications, the rise of the Grimaldi family, diplomatic independence and the transformation of a small coastal principality into a modern sovereign state.
1215
Genoese Fortress
Genoese settlers establish a fortress on the Rock of Monaco, strengthening a strategically important Mediterranean position.
1297
Grimaldi Dynasty
François Grimaldi captures the fortress according to Monaco’s dynastic tradition, marking the beginning of Grimaldi rule.
1641
Treaty of Péronne
The Treaty of Péronne places Monaco under French protection while affirming the prince’s position.
1861
Sovereignty Recognised
A treaty with France recognises Monaco’s sovereignty and sets the course for its modern borders.
1911
First Constitution
Monaco adopts its first constitution, establishing a constitutional framework for princely government.
1993
UN Membership
Monaco becomes a member of the United Nations, reflecting its international role as an independent state.
Fortress Origins
The fortress on the Rock and the old streets of Monaco-Ville preserve the origins of this Mediterranean principality.
Princely Heritage
The Grimaldi dynasty, Prince’s Palace and state ceremonies connect Monaco’s modern identity with centuries of princely rule.
Belle Époque Legacy
Monte Carlo’s Belle Époque architecture, historic harbour and reclaimed districts reveal Monaco’s remarkable urban transformation.
PLAN YOUR MONACO TRIP
Everything You Need for Monaco
Everything you need to plan your trip to Monaco, from places to stay and things to do to transport and flights.
Hotels
Find accommodation in Monte Carlo, near Port Hercule or along the Mediterranean coast, from historic luxury hotels to convenient city stays.
Tours & Activities
Discover palace visits, cultural museums, historic walking tours and experiences exploring Monaco’s waterfront and old town.
Car Hire
Consider a rental car for journeys along the French Riviera; within compact Monaco, walking and public transport are often easier.
Flights
Compare flights to nearby Nice Côte d’Azur Airport, the principal international air gateway for a trip to Monaco.
Trains & Buses
Plan trains and buses to Monaco-Monte-Carlo station and connections with Nice and other French Riviera destinations.