At just over two square kilometres (less than one square mile), Monaco packs a punch way above its diminutive size. It’s a city that you can easily meander through, from the famous place de Casino with its Rococo architecture to its harbour-lined with super yachts. The Old Town offers numerous sights from the Prince’s Palace and Grace Kelly’s tomb to open-air films beneath the stars, while Jardin Exotique is home to contemporary art and cacti. Before you leave, grab a glimpse of the real Monaco at the daily food market in Condamine.
Old Town
Spot the tomb of Hollywood actress Grace Kelly
White stones were brought from the hilltop La Turbie village to build the Notre-Dame-Immaculée Cathedral. This Roman-Byzantine landmark is a focal point of Monegasque life. Grace Kelly and Prince Rainier married here in 1956, while many of the ruling Grimaldi family are buried here too. On Sundays, the much-loved Petits Chanteurs de Monaco choir sings during mass.
Insider’s tip: Look out for the futuristic-looking organ. Built in 2011 by the celebrated Belgian manufacturer Thomas, it took almost two years of design and construction. With 7,000 pipes and four keyboards, it’s one of the most powerful organs in the world.
Contact: 00 377 99 99 14 00
Opening times: daily 9am-6pm; Petits Chanteurs de Monaco (Sundays at 10.30am from September to June)
Prices: Free