Despite its size, Monaco, a tiny principality (just 32,000 people and 1.5 square kilometers), has a lot to offer. The crime rate is relatively low, and the cleanliness of the streets is superb. Despite being its nation, Monaco is sometimes lumped in with France’s Riviera region because of its Mediterranean location and proximity to the French and Italian borders. Most Monegasque residents travel by automobile from neighboring France or Italy or fly into Nice Airport, located only 30 minutes away in the French city of Nice, before making the short journey to Monaco. Transportation to Monaco is available by car, bus, or helicopter from the Nice airport (10 minutes flight for the price of a taxi ride and the helicopter company has a van that can drop you off in town). If you’d instead take the train, there’s a station under the streets of Monaco that you can get to.

The Casino is truly one of the world’s most luxurious venues. The area in front of the Casino is gorgeous and full of life. Visit the former home of Jacques-Yves Cousteau, the Oceanographic Museum, and its stunning aquarium. When you go shopping in Monaco, you’ll feel like you’re in a fairy tale. One of the most prominent venues is the Grand Prix motor racing circuit. You shouldn’t miss seeing the guards change (noon at the Palace Square on the Rock of Monaco).