
Microstate in Western Europe
“A destination made for slow mornings, ocean walks and peaceful escapes.”
Monaco, officially the Principality of Monaco, is a sovereign city-state and microstate in Western Europe. Situated on the French Riviera, it is a semi-enclave bordered by France to the north, east, and west, with the Mediterranean Sea to the south; the Italian region of Liguria is about 15 km (9.3 mi) east. With a population of 38,423 living in an area of 2.08 km2 (0.80 sq mi), Monaco is the second smallest sovereign state in the world, after Vatican City, as well as the most densely populated. It also has the world's shortest national coastline of any non-landlocked nation, at 3.83 km (2.38 mi). Fewer than 10,000 of its residents are Monégasque nationals. Although French is the official language of Monaco, Italian and Monégasque are also widely spoken and understood.
What it’s like to be here — and what to go and see.
Pleasant days and fresh blossoms make wandering the streets a pleasure.
Long, sunny days give you extra hours to explore and soak it all in.
Mellow light and mild weather are perfect for slow, scenic strolls.
Crisp, quiet days offer a peaceful way to take in the sights.
A rough, general read — not a precise guide.
Sights are a little more spread out, but still easily walkable.
Buses and ferries are available, though service can be infrequent.
Pick a category to see what’s there.