Monaco

Monaco has long been a destination for the rich and famous and today offers visitors glamorous nightlife as well as beautiful old buildings and palaces.

Monaco is an independent principality on the Mediterranean, completely surrounded by France. It is a mere 500 acres (202 hectares) but is home to over 35,000 people, making it  among the most densely-populated countries on Earth. It is ruled as a constitutional monarchy and maintains its own government and constitution. The country is best known for the many rich and famous celebrities drawn to Monaco's attractive tax laws and as a glamorous gambling hot-spot.  Although home to some of the world's wealthiest jet-setters, there are still surprisingly affordable vacation options to experience the exciting Monaco lifestyle.

Go for a stroll around Monte Carlo Harbor or the Condamine Marina and gaze at multi-million dollar yachts. Wander over to the Old Town to see quaint old buildings and the Prince’s Palace. You can watch the changing of the guard and even take a tour of the interior. Keep exploring the Old Town to find Monaco Cathedral and the renowned Oceanographic Museum of Monaco. Inside is an extensive array of marine species as well as a fascinating collection artworks and artifacts.

Make your way over to Fontvieille to check out the classic old cars collected by the princes of Monaco. Anyone out to relax should head to the exotic garden in the Condamine or the Japanese Gardens in Monte Carlo. If you need to cool off, go for a swim at Larvotto Beach.

When the sun goes down, change into your best clothes and visit the famous Casino of Monte Carlo. Wander past Lamborghinis and Aston Martins as you walk through to the lavishly-decorated interior. Enjoy the impressive paintings and statues and do some serious people watching. For a special night out, take in a show at the Opera of Monte Carlo. It’s a beautiful old building and hosts some of the most prestigious productions in the world.

Monaco is a great place to get a taste of how some of the world’s wealthiest people live. Enormous yachts sit in the harbour and elegant bars and boutiques abound. You can gamble in the classiest casinos and indulge in the finest cuisine or just wander the streets and take it all in. Be sure to stay at least a few days to really experience this spectacular principality.