Monaco for a Holiday: The Rock, Monte-Carlo and the Jardin Exotique

Monaco is a sovereign principality on the Mediterranean coast, surrounded by the French department of the Alpes-Maritimes, between Nice and Menton. It is famous for its casino in Monte-Carlo, its palace and its hotels.

Discovering the Rock of Monaco

The Rock, Le Rocher, is the medieval heart of Monaco, home to the Prince’s Palace, the cathedral and the Oceanographic Museum. Every day at 11.55 am, the Changing of the Guard takes place in front of the palace.

The cathedral holds the tombs of Princess Grace and Prince Rainier III. Nearby, the Oceanographic Museum, founded by Prince Albert I, stands on the side of the Rock overlooking the sea.

Monte-Carlo

Monte-Carlo is best known for the Casino de Monte-Carlo, which opened in 1863.

The Jardin Exotique

Opened in 1933 and built into the cliffside, the Jardin Exotique is filled with cacti and succulents and offers a breathtaking view over Monaco.

Where to stay to discover Monaco

Many visitors choose to stay just outside the Principality, in a villa in one of the neighbouring towns of the Côte d’Azur, such as Eze, Cap d’Ail, Beaulieu-sur-Mer, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat or Roquebrune-Cap-Martin. If you’re visiting for the Grand Prix, read our guide to the Monaco Grand Prix.