When planning a traipse through Western Europe, many find it easy to forget about Monaco, the second smallest populated country in the world.
Bordered by France and the Mediterranean Sea, Monaco enjoys a prime location with stunning views of the French Riviera and all the wealth that nestles against its shore.
Attracted by its warm climate and world-class casinos, millions of tourists enjoy Monaco holidays every year, making tourism one of the country's main industries.
See glitz, glamour and a great race
A land of obvious luxury, visitors to Monaco quickly notice the money readily displayed by many of the nation's residents in the form of high-end fashion, cars and boats. After all, the country does boast the greatest number of millionaires and billionaires per capita in the world.
Pay a visit to the lovely Monte Carlo Harbour, a breathtakingly beautiful port where you can people watch and admire the impressive yachts in the dock. Some are even for sale should you dream about making a purchase!
Another essential stop in Monaco is peaceful Larvotto Beach, the perfect place to take a swim, or enjoy a coffee or cocktail with a view of the Mediterranean Sea.
Consult your favourite Monaco travel guide for recommendations about the best luxury shopping and fine dining restaurants, as hip new spots are always opening.
An important date on every Monaco calendar is the local Formula One event. Fans flock to Monaco from all over the world for the popular Monaco Grand Prix, often called 'the most prestigious car race in the world'.
Monte Carlo is the country's largest populated 'quartier' and home to the incredible Casino of Monte Carlo. This ornate, marble and bronze casino is a perfect example of the wealth that makes Monaco the intriguing destination that it is.
Hedge your bets or go all in at a casino
Curiously, locals are not allowed to gamble at casinos so the winnings are all yours for the taking.
Like the casinos, Monaco hotels are also known for being ornate and luxurious. Hotel de Paris is especially notable and offers a tremendous view of the Casino of Monte Carlo.
Getting to Monaco is relatively straight forward with the city centre only a short taxi ride from the airport, which is actually located in Nice, France.
Monaco is so close to both France and Italy that many people commute each day for work and, although French is the country's official language, Italian is spoken and understood by many.
A popular stop on cruise itineraries, many Mediterranean cruises drop off curious tourists each morning leaving you all day to indulge in the temptations of the country's top casinos and shopping meccas.
Showcasing the best in luxury and offering incredible views of the Mediterranean, Monaco is a country everyone should visit at least once in their life - budget permitting of course!
