Gardens and parks in Monaco: green spaces worth visiting
Guide to Monaco's gardens and parks: the Japanese Garden, Fontvieille Park, Princess Grace Rose Garden and other green spaces.
Key facts
- Total green space
- ~35% of Monaco's surface area
- Number of public gardens
- Over 10
- Highlight
- Japanese Garden (designed by Yasuo Beppu)
- Best for families
- Fontvieille Park and Princess Antoinette Park
Green spaces in Monaco
Despite its reputation for high-rise density, Monaco is surprisingly green. Around 35 per cent of the Principality's surface is dedicated to parks, gardens and planted areas. The mild Mediterranean climate means gardens are lush and colourful throughout most of the year.
Japanese Garden
The Jardin Japonais, at the eastern end of Monaco near Larvotto, is a beautifully designed 7,000-square-metre garden created by landscape architect Yasuo Beppu. Opened in 1994 and awarded the highest Japanese certification of authenticity, it features a zen garden, koi pond, waterfall, tea house and carefully placed rocks and plantings. It is one of the most peaceful spots in Monaco. Free entry.
Princess Grace Rose Garden
Located in Fontvieille, this garden was created in 1984 in memory of Princess Grace. It contains over 8,000 rose bushes representing more than 300 varieties. The garden is at its most spectacular from May to July when the roses are in full bloom. A sculpture of Princess Grace stands at the centre. Free entry.
Fontvieille Park
A large landscaped park in the Fontvieille district, ideal for families. The park includes walking paths, a lake, open lawns and a children's playground. Nearby you will find the Jardin Animalier (Animal Park), home to a small collection of exotic animals and a favourite with young visitors.
Saint-Martin Gardens
Stretching along the southern edge of the Rock, the Saint-Martin Gardens offer shaded pathways through Mediterranean vegetation with stunning sea views. The gardens connect the Oceanographic Museum area with the Old Town and are a pleasant way to walk between the two. Free entry.
Princess Antoinette Park
In the La Condamine area, this park offers a playground, olive trees and a petanque area. It is a popular spot for families and has a seasonal mini-golf and small entertainment area for children in summer.
Other notable green spaces
- Casino Gardens (Jardins des Boulingrins): formal gardens around Casino Square
- Roseraie Princesse Grace rooftop garden at the Grimaldi Forum
- Larvotto promenade gardens: landscaped areas along the renovated beachfront
Tips for visitors
- Most gardens are open daily from early morning until dusk
- Dogs on leads are generally permitted in parks
- Shade is plentiful in most gardens, making them a good retreat from the summer heat
- The gardens are well connected by walking paths and public lifts
The information provided is for general guidance only. For official procedures, always consult the official sources.
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