Palace Square, or Place du Palais, is a plaza in the heart of Monaco's old town at the center of Monacan life. Come here to see the Prince's Palace, a regal home that has a façade with an eclectic mixture of architectural styles. Behind the mansion loom the mountains of southern France. View the glamorous harbors on either side of the square.
As the historic center of town, the square makes a great starting point for sightseers. Approach the plaza from the city below. The first landmark you encounter is the statue of François Grimaldi. Inspect the bronze rendition which depicts the nation's leader disguised as a Franciscan monk. Grimaldi dressed as a monk to gain access to the prized Rock of Monaco in the 13th century. Cross to the west side of the square and notice how cannons line the walls here, recalling the palace's history as a fortress.
Stay on the square to witness the changing of the guard just before noon every day. The Carabiniers, dressed in bright white summer uniforms or black winter uniforms, perform the meticulously executed military drills in a routine that has not changed in 100 years.
Experience life as a royal by touring the State Apartments of the palace. More than a dozen of the ornately decorated rooms are open for the public to explore. Learn about the different functions of each chamber, such as the Blue Room, which was used for official receptions and features paintings of different generations of the Grimaldi family. Visit in summer to see evening concerts in the courtyard.
Facing the plaza is the official building of the Prince's Guard. Follow the narrow alleys leading behind this building to explore the old town, where you’ll find Saint Nicholas Cathedral and the Oceanographic Museum.
Palace Square sits on top of a rocky outcrop in Monaco, so it requires a bit of a climb to get here. Walk up Rampe de la Major or take a public bus. From the station, the journey should take about 15 minutes on foot.
