Monaco is a tiny independent state located between the Mediterranean and the Alps. There are four parts – Monaco-Ville, the Condamine, Monte Carlo and Fontvieille. The Vatican is the only state in the world that is smaller than Monaco.
The state is renowned for its wealth and high class tourism industry. Many of the people who live in Monaco do so for tax reasons. Italy is just a seventeen kilometre drive away.
If you are arriving from Ireland or the UK then the simplest option will most likely be to get a flight to Nice Airport which is around twenty five miles away from the centre of Monaco.
There are bus services available from the airport to Monte Carlo as well as taxi services. Hiring a car at Nice Airport is an excellent option to consider. You may also make use of a car hire Monaco service if you wish to wait to hire a car until you arrive in Monaco.
Monaco is an entirely urban area. The Royal Palace in Monaco dates back to the thirteenth century. It sits on a cliff and is a mixture of various design styles favoured by rulers over the years. There are plenty of places to see in Monaco which will keep any tourist entertained including museums, historical sites, great shops and casinos.
Monaco-Ville is an extremely pretty area to explore by foot. Exquisite pedestrian walkways lead to excellent sights such as the Cathedral, the City Hall and the Saint Martin Gardens. Famous all over the world, the Oceanographic Museum and Aquarium is well worth a visit. Here you can marvel at various sea creatures (skeletal and stuffed) as well as view exhibits of marine fauna. There are over four thousand species of fish at the aquarium.
If you fancy mixing it with some of the world richest gamblers then head for the Grand Casino in Monte Carlo. There is an entrance fee and a passport is required. There is also a strict dress code.
The Formula 1 Grand Prix is a major highlight on Monaco’s calendar. It is a seventy seven lap race over two hundred and sixty three kilometres. You can get a great close up view of the action though the best seats can be very pricey. Canny locals often hire their premises to F1 fans for extortionate rates.