Free: All time
Perched up in the old city in Monaco-ville, the Prince’s Palace is a must-visit spot for those visiting Monaco. Besides being able to catch a magnificent panoramic views during sunrise or sunset, visitors visiting at noon can also catch the changing of the guards ceremony at the Prince’s Palace. The ceremony takes place at 11:55am everyday. Arrive early to secure a good spot for the performance. In winter, the guards wear dark uniforms, in summer, white. When you’re walking into the square, look for the statue of Francesco Grimaldi “the Cunning.” Francesco dressed as a Franciscan monk and approached the gates of Monaco’s castle to then seize the castle with his cousin and a group of men behind him. His cousin’s descendants, the Grimaldi family, still rule Monaco until today. Once you’re done with the ceremony, consider heading over to the Monaco Cathedral nearby.
Address: Place du Palais, Monaco-Ville 98000, Monaco
Opening hours: Guard Changing Ceremony Daily 11:55am
Direction: Bus No.2 Direction Terminus Monaco-Ville, get off at Place de la Visitation (the last stop) and the Palace Square is 5-minute walk away
Phone: +377 93 25 18 31
Website: www.palais.mc/en
Photo credit: Archangel12 (Flickr CC), Jarod Carruthers (Flickr CC), Tristan Schmurr (Flickr CC), Niels Mickers (Flickr CC)
