MONACO  "Crown Jewel of Riveria"  Watched sunrise over mountains.

Ship anchored in Port Hercule at the base of Monaco-Ville "the Rock." Another great tender ride among the insanely expensive yachts.  The Information Center at the dock had detailed maps; recommended using city bus for places that were not within walking distance. Monaco is roughly three miles long and a little over half-mile wide, and most tourist attractions are in Monaco-Ville, the old city near the Prince's Palace.

Wonderful paved path along the wall above the sea from the Marina to the Museum.
  Even a hidden beach with a stone staircase leading down to it. Only a few people there this morning; when we came past later in the afternoon, it was so crowded you couldn't see any sand. 
 
The path ends by the Oceanographic Museum, a monumental stone building that seems to be dangling along the edge of the cliff. Walked through the car park to the elevator up through mountain to the top of "the Rock"--Old City.

On both sides of the museum are the St Martin Gardens. Wandered along the meandering paths of plants, trees, flora, exotic species from around the world with tranquil water features. Tremendous views across the sea at the lookout point with the bronze statue of Prince Albert I as a seafarer sailor.

Short walk to Cathedral of Our Lady Immaculate (sometimes called Saint Nicholas) where Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace Kelly were married in 1956. Beautiful grand arched interior with an ornate 16th century altarpiece. Cupola mosaic and stained glass windows from 12th century. Gilded wood altar depicts the life of St. Nicolas. 

The beautiful building next to the Cathedral is the Palace of Justice.  

The narrow lane next to it led to Palace Square dominated by the magnificent Palace, built in 1191, which is the official residence of the Prince of Monaco. Since the end of the 13th century, it has been the stronghold and home of the Grimaldi family. 

Walked around the Square enjoying the views from the top of The Rock, 200 feet above the port. Ran into Nellie and Sam from the ship. The four of us went together on the Palace Tour (no photos allowed). Enjoyed the audio tour of the State Rooms of this Renaissance building constructed on the site of a 13th century fortress. Grimaldi family has ruled since 1297 and still reside here. The flag was flying over the Palace meaning the Prince is in residence; however, no luck in spotting him.

Watched the traditional ritual of Changing of the Guards that takes place every day at precisely 11.55 am on the square in front of the Palace. 

Parted with Nellie & Sam who did the Ho-Ho bus, which they said was terrible--bad audio and so crowded had to wait in long lines.
Looked for a place to eat as we walked though the interesting old town lanes. Came upon the delightful-looking Bar L'Express with oudoor tables. Would not let us share a pizza so had to order something else, french fries was Randy's solution. Oh my gosh, the bowl was huge! $50--sure was the most expensive pizza and french fries we've ever had!    

Walked to the City Bus Stop; bought an all-day pass from the machine. Short walk from the Casino stop passing the famous Cafe de Paris dating back to 1868 with a pretty outdoor terrace. What a spot right next to the Casino's impressive grand entrance with the huge Mirror so you see both the Casino and its reflection.

Casino Monte Carlo, built in 1893, definitely lived up to the opulence we expected. Wandered around the very ornate atrium, which is free. Lots of glitz and glam, crystal chandeliers, beautiful stained glass windows, opulent marble, and art-laden walls. "Never Say Never Again, Golden Eye, Casino Royale." were filmed here. 

Walked around entire building through nice gardens. Great views from the back of Monaco and the Mediterranean. Every inch of the building contains amazing architecture!   

Right next door is the Paris Hotel, "one of the most beautiful facades of any grand hotel." Randy asked to go in and they let him take pictures of lobby's magnificent chandelier. So many expensive cars out front!

Exotic Cactus Gardens was next on the agenda, which was Bus #2. Walked to the nearest stop and had to wait about half hour before it came; enjoyed talking with a local lady.  Tour of Gardens wasn't for an hour. At this point in the day, we're hot and tired so decided to head back. Cold drink at LaBoutique cafe while enjoying the really great views way up here.

Bus back to the fort by the harbor past this most unusual "beach" that was a theater-like stadium leading down to the sea where people were sunbathing on the cement. Kind of funny to us Floridians.

Met Nellie & Sam for dinner on the ship. Sure is great meeting people you really "click" with; ended up talking for hours.
Monaco had fireworks at 9:30 so the ship stayed to watch. 

Fun Day in this beautiful country that is immaculate everywhere!