Monaco
Cote d'Azur, France
The Riviera’s Never Never Land for the rich, offering bling, glamour, sights, high-roller casinos and entertainment galore.
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Monaco Oceanographic Museum
Last updated: 27 May, 2023
Founded in 1906 by Prince Albert I, Monaco’s Musee Oceanographique is one of the oldest scientific marine institutes anywhere.
Located in a remarkable wedding-cake building, cascading over the cliffs towards the sea, it contains fascinating artefacts and stuffed creatures collected by Albert himself during his 24 ocean expeditions.
The basement’s aquarium tanks are one highlight, with examples of over 400 species from the Mediterranean and tropical ecosystems, including a shark tank and live coral reef – all labelled in English.
After taking in the exhibits, take the lift up to the café floor, even if you’re not stopping, for the views over the tiny, high-rise principality and the sea.
Price from: £12
Minimum age: Any
Age suitable: 4+
When: All year around
Getting there & doing it
If you’re taking a Monaco bus, No. 1 and No. 2 both pass by. Or take the commuter boat across the port from Monte Carlo; a lift descends from near the Casino.
If you’re driving, there’s an underground car park accessed from the cliff – then take the lift up to the aquarium. There’s a rooftop cafe with great views, serving reasonably priced food and drinks.
When to do it
Although always interesting, the museum and its aquariums are the classic rainy day family activity on the Cote d’Azur. Try to avoid weekends, when it can get very crowded.
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