Nested in the French Riviera in Western Europe Monaco, is beautiful town. It  is not technically a part of France. Nevertheless, its close proximity to Nice and other towns along the Riviera virtually make it a part of the country, and it is a common destination on most tours of the region. Monaco is actually an independent principality that has been governed by members of a single royal family from the 13th century onwards.

Monaco’s primary source of livelihood is the tourist industry, and it seems to have served the town well. The casino at Monte Carlo is virtually synonymous with the Monaco experience, and this establishment alone is responsible for bringing in as sizeable portion of the principality's income. From an architectural standpoint, the casino is an impressive structure indeed. Those interested in marine life will also enjoy the Oceanography Museum and Aquarium with its diverse exhibits and informative displays.

Monte Carlo Casino

The Casino de Monte-Carlo is a grand palace-like building which houses the casino, Grand Theatre of Monte Carlo and the offices of Monte Carlo Ballet. The casino resort complex is run by the Societe des Bains de Mer de Monaco which also owns restaurants, sports clubs, hotels and nightclubs in Monaco.

Oceanographic Museum

The museum is housed in an impressive baroque-revival building perched on a cliff overlooking the sea; it was originally designed as a palace for the arts and sciences. The museum houses live exhibits of marine life including jellyfish, starfish, crustaceans, sharks, sting rays, eels, sea cucumbers, sea urchins, turtles, seahorses and more. In addition to the live exhibits there are artifacts which have been recovered from the sea or used in marine research. On display are model ships, items made from pearls and shells, skeletons of sea animals, an historical collection and a Cabinet of Curiosities. 

Jardin Exotique

Monaco’s Exotic Garden is located in La Condamine on a beautiful cliffside; it is one of several botanical gardens in Monaco. The garden was established under Prince Albert I who acquired the land in 1912 and employed Monaco’s chief engineer, Louis Notari to design the garden