The glass pyramid
Mirroring sky and sea.
Mister No — CC BY 3.0 · Alexander Migl — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Grimaldi Forum Monaco — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Emeric-topmarquesmonaco — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Benoît Prieur — CC0
The Grimaldi Forum is a big event and cultural venue in the Larvotto ward of Monaco, named after the ruling family. It stands out for its triangular glass roof by the sea and hosts about 120 events and 250,000 visitors a year. It is a destination for major exhibitions and shows more than a heritage site. Princes Rainier III and Albert II inaugurated it on 20 July 2000, part of the aim of making Monaco a centre of European business tourism. A 6,000 square metre extension opened on 16 January 2025. In 2023 it hosted a show of Claude Monet's work, which drew nearly 120,000 visitors, the most visited event in its history. From the plaza you see a broad low pyramid of glass and steel mirroring the sky, with paved walkways and palms above it facing the sea. On a nearby roof lies a big coloured work by Vasarely, with apartment towers on the far side. Inside are two modular halls, three auditoriums and 22 conference rooms, and it is home to the Monte-Carlo Ballets. It is about 190 m in a straight line from the Japanese Garden and close to Larvotto Beach, so combine them on one walk. Entry depends on the events programme, so check before you go, as there may be nothing to see inside. The outdoor plaza is open, good for sea views and lovely at sunset.
Mirroring sky and sea.
Colours on the roof.
Palms and Mediterranean views.
Avenue Princesse Grace, Larvotto
Japanese GardenA peaceful oasis on the seafront in Larvotto, a traditional Japanese garden open2 minutes walk4.5
Larvotto BeachMonaco's main public beach, on the eastern seafront in Larvotto, with clear blue4 minutes walk4.4
Place du Casino and the Opera HouseMonaco's most famous square and its glamorous showcase, in the heart of Monte Ca7 minutes walk
Sainte-Dévote ChurchSainte-Dévote Church is a small Catholic church in a narrow valley in Monaco, de14 minutes walk
Port HerculeMonaco's main harbour, a deep basin between the old Rock and Monte Carlo, lined 15 minutes walk4.9The plaza is open, while the inside depends on the event.
Exhibitions, shows, concerts and conferences.