Port Hercule: Monaco's historic harbour and marina

About Port Hercule

Port Hercule is Monaco's principal harbour, nestled in a natural deep-water bay at the foot of the Rock. Used since ancient Greek times, the port today is one of the few deep-water harbours on the Cote d'Azur and a magnet for some of the world's largest private yachts.

The harbour sits in the La Condamine district and serves as a natural gathering point between the Old Town above and Monte-Carlo to the east.

What to see

A walk around the port is one of the quintessential Monaco experiences. The waterfront promenade offers close-up views of superyachts, sailing boats and the occasional cruise tender. Key landmarks around the port include:

• Quai Albert Ier, the main promenade along the south side of the harbour
• The Tabac swimming pool and public beach area at the port's edge
• The Church of Sainte-Devote, dedicated to Monaco's patron saint, tucked into the ravine at the port's western end
• La Rascasse, the famous bar at the final corner of the Grand Prix circuit

Events at the port

Port Hercule is central to several major events:

• Monaco Grand Prix (May): the iconic Formula One street circuit runs directly along the harbour, with grandstands lining the quays
• Monaco Yacht Show (September): one of the world's leading superyacht exhibitions
• Monaco Historic Grand Prix (biennial, May): classic car racing on the Grand Prix circuit
• Christmas Village (December): a seasonal market and ice rink set up on the port

Dining and nightlife

The quays around Port Hercule are lined with restaurants and bars, including Conscientiae (formerly Stars'N'Bars) and Quai des Artistes. More upscale options are found along the eastern quay and towards the Yacht Club de Monaco, designed by architect Norman Foster.

Getting there

Port Hercule is centrally located and easy to reach on foot from most parts of Monaco. CAM bus lines 1, 2 and 6 serve nearby stops. The Monaco-Monte-Carlo train station is a 10-minute walk uphill. The underground car park beneath the port provides convenient parking.