Monaco

Monaco, the second smallest country in the world, packs a lot of luxury into its tiny 2 square kilometers. This microstate on the French Riviera is known worldwide for its glamorous casino, yacht-filled harbor, and prestigious Grand Prix street race.

The country is divided into several districts, with Monte Carlo being the most famous. Here you'll find the legendary Casino de Monte Carlo, designed by Charles Garnier (who also designed the Paris Opera). Even if gambling isn't your thing, the building itself is worth checking out for its Belle Époque architecture.

Despite its reputation as a playground for the rich, Monaco has surprising depth. The old town area, Monaco-Ville, sits on a rocky outcrop called 'The Rock' and features narrow medieval lanes and the Prince's Palace. The changing of the guard ceremony happens daily at 11:55 am and draws quite a crowd.

An interesting fact: Monaco is so small that you can walk across the entire country in about an hour. Despite its size, it boasts the highest population density in the world and the lowest unemployment rate. Plus, residents pay no income tax, which is one reason why it attracts so many wealthy individuals.

The weather in Monaco is typically Mediterranean, with mild winters and warm, sunny summers - making it a year-round destination.