Monaco may only occupy some 499 acres, but this tiny city state is filled with jaw dropping architecture. Whether you are visiting or residing in the principality, take time out and enjoy a Monaco building tour. And, thanks to the city states diminutive size you can easily enjoy a Monaco building tour by foot all in a day.
Here are some of the best Monaco buildings
Casino de Monte Carlo
Probably one of the most striking examples of belle epoque architecture in the world, the Casino de Monte Carlo is a must-see during a Monaco building tour. Designed by Charles Garnier, the architect behind the famed Paris Opera House, The Casino de Monte Carlo is a wonderful example of the principalities glitz and glamour. This extravagant building is filled with marble, gold, sculptures, and allegorical paintings, while its striking exterior doesn’t disappoint either. Head inside and see if Lady Luck is on your side, or simply admire its grandeur from the street.
Hotel de Paris Monte Carlo
Built more than 150-years ago, this historical Monaco building boasts a stunning belle epoque facade and a striking interior that features a wealth of modern facilities. It is also home to two world-famous Michelin starred restaurants, Louis XV and Le Grill. It’s gorgeous 19th century interiors are laced with marble and gold, making this hotel a truly opulent one. Find this striking Monaco building located next to the Casino de Monte Carlo.
Tour Odeon
One of Monaco’s most iconic luxury real estate developments. This glittering double skyscraper soars into the Monaco skyline and is a popular residence in Monaco. The first high-rise to be built in Monaco since the 1980s its development was given the seal of approval by the Prince of Monaco. Indeed, this Monaco building is now seen as a reminder of the principalities renewed economic development. The collective vision of developer Groupe Marzocco, architect Alexandre Giraldi, and interior designer Alberto Pinto, Tour Odeon offers its residents unrivalled luxury across its 60 serviced apartments, duplexes, and a breathtaking penthouse. If you seek a Tour Odeon apartment for sale, be sure to enlist the help of an expert agent, such as La Costa Properties Monaco to help you find your ideal Monaco residence.
Monte Carlo Train Station
This striking underground building is not only a convenient way for residents and visitors to travel in and out of the city state, but also a fabulous piece of modern architecture. The station also boats exceptionally long platforms – designed to be able to accommodate the longest of trains. Indeed, it will take you 15 minutes to walk from one end of the platform to the other. A series of escalators takes travellers up to ground level from this marvellous underground Monaco building.
Oceanographic Museum
Perched right on the cliff edge with the Mediterranean Sea gently lapping at its shores, the Oceanographic Museum is a striking Monaco building which is not to be missed. Founded by Prince Albert II of Monaco, this architectural masterpiece is inspired by the oceanographic world, featuring sculptures that represent sea life. Its interior exhibits are as equally as fascinating as its exterior, including a number of aquariums boasting exotic sea life, including sharks, piranhas, stonefish, and seahorses.
St. Nicholas Cathedral
Located in Monaco’s old town, this much-visited Roman Byzantine architectural landmark is a central point to local life and a popular stop-off during a Monaco building tour. Work on the cathedral began in 1875, but it wasn’t until 1911 that it was finally consecrated. Built from white stones sourced from La Turbie, France, inside you can see the 16th century altarpiece of Saint Nicholas – the only surviving relic of the original 13th century chapel that used to stand on this spot.
Hexa Grace
While technically not a Monaco building, Hexa Grace is still worth seeking out. Located just behind the Casino de Monte Carlo, this striking mosaic artwork is actually the roof of the Monaco Convention Centre. This piece of art was designed by the Vasarely Foundation in Aix-en-Provence, a museum dedicated to the works of artist Victor Vasarely. The Hungarian-French artist is viewed as the founder of the optical art movement, a style of art that plays with the viewer’s eyes through its clever use of optical illusions. Filled with the colours of the rainbow, the location of this spectacular piece of work also offers wonderful Mediterranean Sea views.
Hotel Hermitage Monte Carlo
Filled with belle epoque charm, this luxurious hotel in Monaco is well worth visiting for its beautiful internal and external design. This Monaco building was built in the 1890s and was designed by architect Nicolas Marquest. One of the building’s most striking elements is its beautiful lobby designed by architect Gustave Eiffel, the showpiece being its spectacular glass domed ceiling. Other notable features include a ceiling mural inspired by the frescos of artists Francois Boucher and Jean-Honore Fragonard in the Belle Epoque dining room – the hotel’s most iconic room. The ceiling is the work of artist Gabriel Ferrier.
Prince’s Palace
No visit to Monaco would be complete without visiting the Prince’s Palace, located in the very heart of the principality. This spectacular Monaco building stands on the site of an old fortress, which was constructed by the Genovese in 1215. Here you can tour the State Apartments, which are open to visitors for part of the year, and are filled with spectacular paintings, frescoes, tapestries, and stunning items of furniture. Make sure you time your visit for the traditional ritual of the Changing of the Guard, which takes place daily at precisely 11:55 a.m.
Featuring a wonderful fusion of both modern and classical styles spanning Monaco residences, hotels, and museums, a Monaco building tour is a must. Which one will you visit first?
