Location Guide: Monaco

‘There’s no place like home.’ It’s a phrase we hear all of the time, but in motorsport, there’s no experience quite like returning to your roots.

 

It’s a privilege that not every team or driver gets to experience, but this weekend, Maserati MSG Racing will race at its heart as Formula E returns to Monaco.

 

Running onto the Mediterranean, the Principality is understandably a special place, but as its only racing team, turning road to race track brings out a sense of pride – pride in its purest form.

 

Monaco has had an ongoing affair with motorsport since 1929, and even now nearly 100 years on, every memory carries a special shine.

 

Racing is not just part of Monaco’s DNA – it runs deep in its soul and that’s what makes our home so iconic. But Monaco stands for far more. It extends beyond the paddock and pitlane.

 

If you’re visiting, it’s important to embrace our culture in the right way. Explore the unseen and discover the unknown, and very quickly you can truly embrace what we stand for.

 

Monaco was born in Medieval Europe and has an old-world style. But with a triumphant rebirth and renaissance, it has cemented its place in the modern day without losing its identity.

The flag of Monaco, flying proudly in the Principality

With this in mind, it’s best to start where any story should, the beginning, and the Prince’s Palace is a natural first stop. It towers above Monaco and is a stronghold in the truest sense.

 

After first serving as a defensive structure, it started its transition to its current luxurious state in the 16th century and is the home of His Serene Highness, Prince Albert II of Monaco.

 

Be sure to marvel at its white walls and be prepared to have your breath taken away by stunning views of the city below. And be sure to catch the changing of the guard – a matter of routine that is performed every day at 11:55.

 

Like our team, Prince Albert II has a passion for social and environmental sustainability, and for a long time Monaco has held a vision of protecting the planet for future generations by taking action today.

 

The Oceanographic Museum embodies this. It was created in 1910 by Prince Albert I and shares its knowledge with the intention to preserve some of Earth’s many incredible underwater ecosystems.

 

It’s a place where art and science meet in a rich collection that covers every depth, showcasing many impressive discoveries, including those of renowned oceanographer, Jacques Cousteau.

 

From here, discover Monaco’s intimate medieval streets, paths, and alleyways until you come to the Cathédrale de Notre-Dame Immaculée – Monaco Cathedral.

Monaco's medieval streets embody charisma and charm

Built from 1875 to 1903, Monaco Cathedral is covered with intricate carvings that can capture the mind and imagination, while its bold yet brilliant neo-classical archways dominate the nearby area.

 

To continue your breathtaking and mind-opening journey, the Hercules Port should be your next stop. It’s the place to see the stunning yachts that have become synonymous with the local landscape.

 

Over a race weekend, this iconic area is crawling with action, although for a continued walk through the luxurious, head to Carré d’Or or Casino Square – one of Monaco’s more famous sites, having made countless appearances in several James Bond movies.

 

Before Formula E’s crown jewel event, try to squeeze in a visit to La Collection Automobiles de S.A.S le Prince de Monaco – a stunning collection of cars which displays the automotive industry through the ages by blending luxury with rarity.

 

If you have time, head to the Stade Louis II in Fontvieille to see our local football club, AS Monaco, in action and with Spring in full-bloom, go to the Princess Grace Rose Garden, closeby to our headquarters.

 

Regardless of what you do in Monaco, you’ll find that it lives up to its sheek reputation, but it’s vital to remember that this magic is not superficial.

 

While aspirational, causing the imagination to run wild, Monaco has a bright vision for the future. That’s what makes us proud of our home and truly, there’s no place like it.