Collection de Voitures Anciennes

Overview

The Collection de Voitures Anciennes (Collection of Vintage Cars) displays Prince Rainier III's personal collection of over 100 classic automobiles. Located in Fontvieille, it spans a century of motoring history from a 1903 De Dion-Bouton to modern Formula 1 cars.

Highlights

• Royal Fleet: Vehicles used for state occasions, including the Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud that carried Grace Kelly to her 1956 wedding.
• Racing Heritage: Formula 1 cars driven by Monaco Grand Prix champions, including vehicles from the Scuderia Ferrari.
• Vintage Rarities: A 1903 De Dion-Bouton, 1929 Bugatti Type 35, and 1952 Rolls-Royce Phantom IV among the collection highlights.

History

Prince Rainier III began collecting cars in the 1950s. The museum opened in 1993 in a purpose-built space in the Fontvieille district. The collection was expanded by Prince Albert II, who added modern vehicles and racing cars to reflect Monaco's Grand Prix legacy.

Visitor Tips

• Photography: Allowed without flash; the polished cars photograph beautifully.
• Combine With: Fontvieille Park and the nearby Stamp and Coin Museum.
• Duration: 45 minutes–1 hour.