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This lovely place is located along the southern Mediterranean coast of France, very close to the Italian border. Monaco is the world's second smallest independent state; the only one that is smaller is the Vatican in Rome, Italy. Despite the small size, however, Monaco is truly a place that seems "larger than life" to all who venture there.
There are no significant natural resources in Monaco (other than its spectacular location and extremely pleasant climate) so its growth and influence is centred on tourism, casinos, and serving as a tax sanctuary for international businesses of all kinds. Over the years Monaco has become a playground for the very wealthy, those who love to gamble, and visitors looking for a spectacular holiday experience. Most of the action takes place in Monte Carlo, the principality's primary city.
Monaco is full of absolutely gorgeous landscapes, most of which are carved out of rugged terrain and steep hillsides. The harbour is considered one of the most beautiful on the Mediterranean, so be sure to take a walk along the harbour front to soak up the sights and the sounds. When you are done there, head to Avenue Saint-Martin where you will find some amazing gardens carved right into the cliffs along the side of the walkway. This route will also take you past the Monaco Cathedral, a stunning church dating back to the 19th century. It is the church where Grace Kelly and Prince Rainier of Monaco were married, and it is also where Princess Grace and several other Grimaldi ancestors are laid to rest.
Another location you should absolutely plan to visit is the Palais Princier, or Prince's Palace. It is home to Monaco's royalty and a truly stunning structure. Guided tours of the palace are available nearly every day except Sunday; check the schedule when you arrive for exact times. Regardless of whether you choose to go on a full tour or not, make time to watch the famous changing of the guard ceremony. It takes place daily and is a wonderful example of this type of uniquely European ritual.
In Monte Carlo proper there is a wide range of activities and interesting sights for the holiday traveller; this is generally where most visitors spend the majority of their time. One of the first stops many travellers make is to explore one or more of the spectacular casinos located in Monte Carlo. The gambling industry prides itself on offering the most luxurious and elegant casinos found anywhere in the world, which makes these fabulous places well worth visiting even if you don't care to gamble. Be aware, though, most of the very opulent casinos, such as the Monaco Casino, charge an entrance fee of €10 or more per day. Another option is the Casino de Paris, where those over eighteen years of age can enjoy several parts of the casino without an entrance fee.
Because Monaco is so small, it does not have its own airport. The closest one is the Cote-d'Azur International Airport in Nice, France; there are plenty of flights to and from this airport from all parts of Europe. Or, if you want to soak up the sights at your own pace consider hiring a rental car and taking one of the scenic highways into Monaco from either Italy or France. Another interesting way to get to Monaco is to take one of the scheduled European trains that meander through France or Italy, with stops in Monaco.
Wiki:- Monaco
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