Did you know that what’s known as Monaco’s Automobile Museum isn’t really a museum at all? In the words of Prince Rainier III, “It’s not an automobile museum, but a personal collection of classic cars of all ages and from all countries.”
Tour Azur guides you through this extraordinary collection.
The history and origins of the Monaco Automobile Museum
The Musée de l’Automobile de Monaco, now known as“La Collection de Voitures de S.A.S. le Prince de Monaco“, is not a museum in the strict sense of the term, but a private collection open to visitors.
Prince Rainier III began collecting classic cars as early as the 1950s and amassed an impressive collection over more than forty years. He insisted that this was not a museum, but a personal collection of vehicles from various eras and countries.
In 1993, Prince Rainier III decided to show them to the public, and the collection was presented on the Terrasses de Fontvieille. In 2022, it will be transferred to a 3,500 square-meter exhibition space next to the Rainier III water sports stadium.
His son, Prince Albert II, continued this passion, adding to the collection after his father’s death. The collection comprises over a hundred automobiles.
Why visit the Monaco Automobile Museum?
Here are 5 excellent reasons to discover this unique place:
Firstly, it’s a collection unique in the world, featuring over a hundred rare and prestigious vehicles. Models by Rolls-Royce, Ferrari, Maserati and many others are on display.
Then there’s a tribute to Monaco’s legendary races, with the Formula 1 Grand Prix and the Monte Carlo Rally. You’ll be able to admire the cars that left their mark on these competitions, including F1 single-seaters.
What’s more, the Monegasque monarchs have always maintained a strong link with the automobile. You can discover emblematic vehicles, such as those used at the wedding of Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace.
Last but not least, this site is far from being reserved for experts: it will also delight families and visitors in search of an original discovery.
What to see at the Monaco Automobile Museum?
The lower floor houses vintage touring cars, while the upper floor is dedicated to racing cars.
Automobiles of the early 20th century
Step back in time and plunge into the heart of the golden age of the automobile! At the beginning of the XXᵉ century, manufacturers competed in ingenuity to create elegant, powerful and revolutionary vehicles.
Among them is a Napier automobile. Model T78, built in 1914, is powered by an imposing 6-cylinder engine. Its elegant coupé-chauffeur bodywork, created by coachbuilder Cunard, testifies to the expertise and luxury of the period. This car could reach an estimated top speed of 80 km/h.
💡To discover: Renault KJ, Renault CB, Bellanger Frères 17 HP, Peugeot Quadrilette Type 161, Unic C9, Cycle Car Super Levêque, Humber 12/20 HP, Renault AX, Napier 1914, Humber Beeston 1911, Leyat Helica.
Automobiles from the 50s to the 70s
Welcome to the golden age of automotive design! The industry underwent an aesthetic and technological revolution. Elegant bodywork, ever more powerful engines and bold innovations gave rise to models that have become cult favorites.
The famous Renault 4CV is on display. Launched in 1947, this popular little sedan is powered by a 21 hp rear engine, with a top speed of 95 km/h. It marked the renaissance of the post-war French car industry.
💡On display: Porsche 911 Carrera RS, Citroën 2CV, Citroën 15 Six, Mercedes Benz 220a, Nash Healey Roadster, BMW Isetta 300, Cadillac coupé Deville, Facel Vega Facel II, Chrysler Imperial from 1956.
The Roaring Twenties
It’s the era of glamour, extravagance and automotive innovation! With the rise of the combustion engine and the arrival of new designs, cars became true symbols of modernity.
Among the models on display is the Jaguar Mark IV. This model, produced between 1945 and 1948, is in fact a continuation of the 1940 models. Under the direction of Sir William Lyons, the brand’s founder, the Mark IV boasts a sumptuous interior using noble materials such as wood, leather and carpets.
💡To discover: Packard Super Eight Convertible Victoria, Packard S 236 Roadster, Delage D8-15, Lincoln Type L, Hispano Suiza H6B, Delahaye 135 MS.
Italian cars
Passion, elegance and performance: three words that perfectly define the Italian automobile.
Among the models on display is the Maserati Mistral 4000. Named after the Mediterranean wind, it was one of the last Maseratis to be equipped with an in-line six-cylinder engine. Produced between 1963 and 1970, it features bodywork designed by Pietro Frua.
💡To discover: Ferrari 250 GT Cabriolet Série II, Ferrari Testarossa, Cisitalia 202, Lamborghini Countach 5000, Alfa Romeo 1600 Giulia Spider.
Racing cars
For over a century, these cars have shaped the history of motor sport, from mythical circuits to the streets of Monaco.
Among these remarkable pieces, the Lotus F1 E21, raced by the Lotus F1 Team during the 2013 Formula 1 season, was piloted by Kimi Räikkönen and Romain Grosjean. Renowned for its elegant design and outstanding performance, it contributed to several podium finishes during the season.
💡To discover: F1 Mercedes AMG Petronas, F1 McLaren MP4-22, F1 McLaren MP4-19, F1 Jordan Type 193 – Team Sasol, Lancia 037, Bora VW Formule Vee, Porsche 911 Carrera RS, Citroën DS3 WRC Showcar, Mitsubishi Pajero.
Rolls Royce
An absolute symbol of luxury and elegance, Rolls-Royce has embodied automotive refinement for over a century.
The Rolls Royce Phantom I Coupé Martin & King, originally introduced in 1906 as the 40/50 hp, better known as the “Silver Ghost”, represented the pinnacle of technology in its day. The example in the Princely Collection features coupé bodywork by Melbourne-based Australian coachbuilder Martin & King.
💡To discover: Rolls-Royce Phantom II, Rolls-Royce Phantom II, Rolls-Royce Twenty and Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost Limousine Barker.
Historic princely vehicles
From official limousines and ceremonial cars to models used for royal events, these vehicles tell the story of Monaco’s heritage.
The Austin Taxi FX3 was in the service of Princess Grace, who frequently used it to take her children for walks. As a child, Prince Albert II asked his mother Princess Grace for permission to travel a short distance in the luggage compartment.
💡To discover: Chrysler Imperial, Ford Gpw Jeep, Lexus, Lotus Seven IV, Cadillac Fleetwood, Fiat 600 Jolly, Voiture jouet, Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud I, Sunbeam Alpine MK1, Ford Station Woody Wagon, De Dion-Bouton Populaire Carrosserie Tonneau, Dormeuse-Coupé De Poste, Wagonnette (appellation Body Break), Grande Wagonnette (appellation Body Break), Calèche Daumont, Berline de ville Binder Frères, Renault Floride and Humber 2.75 HP.
Practical information for your visit
Opening hours
The museum welcomes visitors every day, with opening hours adapted to the season:
- 10am-7pm in July and August.
- 10am-6pm the rest of the year.
The museum is closed on November 19 and December 25.
In addition, exceptional closures may occur due to special events. For example, due to the Monaco E-Prix, the Monaco Historic Grand Prix or the Monaco Formula 1 Grand Prix.
💡Tour Azur tip:follow the Instagram account of the Collection de Voitures de S.A.S. Le Prince de Monaco so you don’t miss a thing.
Prices and ticketing options
Admission to the museum is available at various rates: €10 for adults, €5 for under-18s and students. Special rates for groups and agencies are available on request. Tickets can be purchased at the museum or on the Palais Princier website.
🌊Tour Azur tip: you can also buy combined tickets to visit the Oceanographic Museum, directly on the Oceanographic Museum’s online ticketing service, for €28 for an adult, €16.50 for a young person (aged 6-17) and €14 for a child under 6. Please note that both visits must take place on the same day.
Access and transport
The car collection is located at 54 route de la Piscine, Port Hercule.
On foot
This is the most practical option. From downtown or the Casino de Monte-Carlo it’s an easy 15-minute stroll along the harbor to the museum.
By bus
Lines 1 and 2 serve Port Hercule. The nearest bus stop is “Place d’Armes”, just a few minutes’ walk from the museum.
Cars and coaches
Several parking lots are available close to the museum, including the Parking de la Piscine and the Parking du Centre Commercial de Fontvieille.
Train and boat
By train, the Monaco-Monte-Carlo SNCF train station is about a 15-minute walk away. You can also take a bus or cab from the station. For visitors arriving by yacht or maritime shuttle, the museum is located directly on Port Hercule, within walking distance of the docks.
Our tips for making the most of your visit to the Monaco Automobile Museum
The best times to visit the museum
Avoid Monaco’s major events, when visitor numbers may be higher. Generally speaking, the museum is not overcrowded, so you can visit with complete peace of mind. In fact, we’ve written an article on the best times to visit Monaco.
Activities and places to visit nearby
After your visit to the Car Collection, you can extend your discovery by exploring sites located just a few steps away:
- Port Hercule is perfect for a stroll along the quayside, with a breathtaking view of the luxury yachts.
- The Place d’Armes is ideal for a coffee break or a meal in one of the many typical restaurants and cafés.
- The Marché de la Condamine is a covered market where you can sample local specialities and enjoy a friendly atmosphere.
- Les Terrasses du Centre Commercial de Fontvieille offers access to stores, restaurants and pleasant sea views.
- The Princess Grace Rose Garden is a haven of peace, ideal for a stroll after your visit.
If you have the time to travel, visit Monaco’s must-sees which we have detailed in a dedicated article on how to Monaco in a day such as the Casino, the Prince’s Palace and the Jardin Exotique.
How long will the tour take?
The average visit lasts around 40 minutes, but car and history buffs can easily spend more than an hour, taking the time to admire each vehicle and read detailed information about its history.
Special events and exhibitions at the Monaco Automobile Museum
The Collection de Voitures de S.A.S. le Prince de Monaco regularly stages temporary exhibitions and special events highlighting prestigious brands or particular automotive themes.
In 2024, for example, the “Ferrari F1 in Monaco: History and Victories” exhibition retraced the history of the Ferrari team’s victories at the Monaco Formula 1 Grand Prix.
Tour Azur offers guided tours of Monaco
We’ll take care of everything so you can enjoy your day to the full.
Private tours
A private tour is the opportunity to treat yourself to a tailor-made experience with one of our dedicated driver-guides. Every step of your journey is carefully accompanied by enriching explanations to help you fully discover the iconic sites.
If Monaco and its Rock are what you’re looking for, we have three exclusive packages to suit you.
Visit the village of Eze and a perfume factory, admire the Princely Palace, the Monaco Grand Prix track and the legendary Place de Monte-Carlo.
Riviera panorama
Join the village of Èze and then Monaco to discover the old town, palace and cathedral. From the Formula 1 Grand Prix circuit, contemplate Monte-Carlo. Then discover Cannes and Antibes.
French art of living
Discover the village of Èze and the Principality of Monaco before visiting the Villa de la Baronne de Rothschild and its botanical gardens. Enjoy a gourmet break at the Baronne’s salon.
Shared towers
Our shared tours allow you to travel in a small group in a shared vehicle on a pre-arranged itinerary. The driver transports you from one stage to the next, without guided pick-up. To discover Monaco, we offer two options to suit your program.
Monaco, Monte-Carlo & Eze from Nice
Riviera panorama
Join the village of Èze, then the Principality of Monaco to discover the old town, its palace and cathedral. From the Formula 1 Grand Prix circuit, drive to Monte-Carlo. Then discover Cannes and Antibes.
Our luxury vehicles for your comfort
For private and shared tours, Tour Azur invites you to travel in the utmost comfort, thanks to a fleet of top-of-the-range vehicles. Aboard our Mercedes Luxury Vito Tourer and Mercedes Prestige Class V minivans, or our Porsche Panamera sedan, enjoy a refined interior with leather seats and optimum air conditioning.
Whether you’re a car enthusiast or just curious, this tour promises a fascinating immersion. Tour Azur is at your disposal to find out more.
To explore the Côte d’Azur, we can also recommend a visit to Saint-Tropez: the Saint-Tropez Citadel an emblematic monument offering an exceptional view of the Mediterranean, as well as the legendary port of Saint-Tropez or the unusual Musée de la Gendarmerie et du Cinéma de Saint-Tropez. In Grasse, discover the enchanting scents of the Fragonard perfumery an emblematic savoir-faire of the region. Why not visit Nice in a day ?
