The Prince’s Palace, Monaco: A Visitor’s Guide
Perched on “the Rock,” the Prince’s Palace has been the seat of the Grimaldi family for centuries, and the anchor of Monaco’s most photogenic quarter. Here’s how to visit.
The essentials
| Where | Monaco-Ville (“the Rock”), old town |
| Cost | Free to view; State Apartments ~€13 (Jun–Oct) |
| The ceremony | Changing of the guard, daily at 11:55 am |
| Best light | Morning, ahead of the ceremony |
| Nearby | Cathedral, Rue des Remparts port view |
What to shoot
The Palace Square gives a grand, formal frame of the palace facade — best captured just before or during the 11:55 am changing of the guard, when uniformed guards march the square (arrive by 11:30 am for a clear view).
From the square’s edge, sweeping views open over Port Hercule and the Mediterranean. Wander the surrounding old town lanes, pastel facades, the Cathedral, and quiet cobbled squares, for a quieter counterpoint to the ceremony.
Time it right
Morning is best — arrive by 9-10 am to explore the Rock’s lanes in soft light before the day heats up and tour groups arrive, then time your palace-square visit for 11:55 am.
The Rue des Remparts, just off the square, gives one of the best free port views in Monaco, good in any light.
💡 Local tip: The State Apartments interior only opens June–October — if you’re visiting outside that window, plan around the exterior, the ceremony, and the viewpoints instead.
Make it a story
The Palace square and harbor panorama make a grand, romantic backdrop. See our proposal photography page for other Monaco options.
Plan your shoot
👉 Book a Monaco Photographer →
👉 See Monaco Photography Packages →
FAQ
What time is the changing of the guard at the Prince’s Palace? Daily at 11:55 am, in the Palace Square. Arrive around 11:30 am for a clear view.
Can you go inside the Prince’s Palace? The State Apartments are open to visitors June through October (around €13). Outside that window, the exterior, the ceremony, and the panoramic square views are still well worth the visit.
