For century's famous travellers left Europe to explore new lands, trade with far away peoples, and return with wonderful stories. In the 21 st Century, though, the opposite is true. Europe is now the most visited continent, with millions every year taking a trip to one of the forty plus countries who pride themselves on being part of this eclectic union.

To describe Europe in one word, it would be diverse . Nowhere else does the landscape change so rapidly, or so often. Cultures, religions, languages, and traditions, can all be different in towns just a few miles from each other. The style of buildings, roads, even clothes, can tell the seasoned European traveller quite accurately which area he might be in, even if his map has long since vanished.

That diversity is the reason so many head to Europe . Colourful festivals, thousands of miles of beaches, centuries of history, breathtaking lakes and mountains, vibrant and cultural cities, and mouth-watering cuisine, all draw travellers from far and wide.

For many their first experience of Europe will be London , which has the busiest airport in the world at Heathrow. They say ‘if you're tired of London , you're tired of life', and there's certainly a vibrancy about this city that you automatically buy into as you tread the well-worn tourist trail. The best way to see the city centre is on foot. Witness the ‘Changing of the Guard' at Buckingham Palace , and then walk along The Mall to Trafalgar Square . Time your day to be in Covent Garden around lunchtime, and soak up the atmosphere in a pavement café whilst watching the bustling markets and street entertainment. In the afternoon, a trip on the London Eye will give you a bird's eye view of the city, and in the evening the lively bars and restaurants around Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus are the place to be. If you have more time, all the major London museums are free to enter. If you happen to be in London on the August Bank Holiday weekend, then the famous Notting Hill Carnival is a must. Second only to Rio de Janeiro 's carnival in size, it's a three day spectacular of music and colour.

Around the rest of the United Kingdom marvel at picture postcard villages, and rose clad thatched cottages. They are the real England , not just for the travel brochures, and surprisingly common. First stop outside London is often Stonehenge , a four thousand year old enigma of massive stones for tourists to wonder at, and historians to argue over. But continue southwest to the rugged Atlantic and Channel coasts, and to Land's End . Tiny fishing villages nestled in rocky inlets are the place to sample England 's best know cuisine – Fish and Chips.

Take time to admire the Roman remains in the city of Bath , before crossing the towering Clifton suspension bridge into Wales . Immediately the landscape changes and the mountains grow higher as you travel north towards Mount Snowdon . You can walk up from the nearby village in a few hours along a reasonable good path, or take the little mountain railway if you've booked early enough to get a seat.

The north of England also boasts some high peaks in the walker's paradise of the Lake District , but for the really dramatic scenery continue on to the Scottish Highlands. Here the landscape has been largely unspoilt since the Loch Ness Monster was still a baby. Scotland 's capital city, Edinburgh , is worthy of special note, and is best enjoyed during the three week long Edinburgh Festival. This brings all manner of arts and entertainments to fill every venue you can find, creating a wonderful party type atmosphere, and boosting the alcohol sales significantly.

From Scotland , it's a short ferry crossing to Ireland . With the exception of Dublin , which has much the same atmosphere all year round as the Edinburgh Festival, Ireland is probably the best place in Europe to visit if you want to sit back and relax. There is a warm welcome, and little to do except enjoy the pleasant green countryside, and enjoy a chat with the friendly locals. It has an endearing feel, and you'll leave with the impression that you are almost one of the family.

Britain 's other neighbour has a whole different feel. Head south-east from London through the county of Kent , known as the Garden of England . Follow the same road that the Roman army built when it invaded in 43AD, and you'll arrive at Dover . Famous for its white cliffs, and the towering castle overlooking the English Channel, its just 22 miles from France .

As soon as you arrive on mainland Europe you immediately notice how different it feels. There are the obvious things such as driving on the right, but somehow you can just sense you are in France . Avoid jumping on the motorway and heading to Paris . Instead take some time to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and stylish 19 th century resorts of northern France , such as Le Touquet, and Dinard, or picturesque fishing villages such as Boulogne and Honfleur. If you're into history there is ample opportunity to visit museums and the invasion beaches of Normandy , of for the more cultural, Rouen demands some time to appreciate fully. Although the city has been largely restored since the Second World War, the medieval style still impresses, and the Cathedral de Notre Dame which dates from the 12 th Century is mostly original. The shuttered windows on the town houses, the smell of cheese shops, and bustle of pretty pavement café's adds to the general laid back ambience.

It's an ambience that Paris itself, in the city centre at least, seems largely to have lost. The street life of modern day Paris is very different from that seen in those romantic movies from the 1950's. The café's, bars, and restaurants along the River Seine, and Champs Elysee add to an atmosphere that is busy, lively, and chic. Favourite pastimes here are sipping coffee, reading, and people watching. It's a strange combination alongside a city which otherwise is so busy. It was during the time of Louis XIV that this most glamorous of European capitals first rose to prominence, and its style and elegance are still much in evidence. The main tourist zone is quite compact, making it an easy walk to take in the sights. Top of everyone's list is the Eiffel Tower , of course, but go early to avoid the queues in the summer months. The views from the first and second level are often better than the extreme top on cloudy days, so glance upwards and check its worth waiting for your turn in the lift before you line up. If you want a more comfortable view, try the Montparnasse Tower – Eiffel's modern air-conditioned and fully enclosed neighbour – that has equally panoramic views.

Across the Seine it's a short walk to the Arc de Triomphe, at the head of the Champs Elysee. A wonderful monument somewhat spoiled by being the centre point of a six lane roundabout. At the opposite end of this famous boulevard is La Louvre, where you can gaze into the eyes of the Mona Lisa. If architecture is more your thing, cross the bridge to the Cathedral Notre Dame, built on an island in the river, and without a hunchback in sight. This area has some of the best small restaurants in the city. France is much hailed for its cuisine, but do ask the waiters for a translation of the menu if your French isn't good, as some choices are very much an acquired taste.

From Paris , many families head east to Disneyland, but for a more relaxing exit to Paris , call in at the Palace of Versailles . The building itself may not be as beautiful as many other French stately homes, but is notable for its links to Louis XIV and Napoleon. It is a huge affair, lavish as you would expect, and with delights such as the hall of mirrors. But don't spend all your time on the interior, as the endless gardens also need exploring. The formal layout nearer the palace has beautifully tended beds, fountains, and most of the visitor attention, but wander further and you will discover the best parts.

If impressive buildings and lush green scenery impress you, then continue on to the Loire and Dordogne Valley regions. It's an area sadly missed by those intent on rushing south to the sunny beaches of the Mediterranean, but with a little planning can be a delight to sample.

It's easy to be overwhelmed when you look at the list of chateaus in the Loire valley, but if you make a stop to marvel at the beauty of Azay-le-Rideau, and take in the fortified medieval chateau at Loches, you won't be disappointed. If your schedule allows, Chenonceaux, built across the river, and home to Henry II's lover, has plenty so view. Its will need time though, so go if you're in a rush.

Further south in the Dordogne , it's the scenery that will have you reaching for your cameras. Pretty villages nestle amid every shade of green, and the rivers sparkle through gaps in the trees on every road. Upstream are the high cliffs and steep valleys, where you shouldn't miss the famous stone-age cave paintings Les Eyzies.

Germany also has its share of picturesque river valley's, with a similarly generous sprinkling of castles, villages, and viewpoints. The Rhine is most spectacular in the area of the high gorge between Rudesheim and Koblenz . The roads hug the river banks on both sides of this fifty mile stretch, vying for space with the railway and cycle paths. The western side has the best views, especially of the famed Lorelei rock, but the eastern bank has the best villages. Rudesheim has its narrow Drosselgasse, which is hailed as the prettiest street in Europe , full of surprisingly reasonable bars and restaurants. Near the top you can climb aboard the cable car for a short ride to the summit.

Further south the Rhine is not so impressive, until you reach the thundering Rhine Falls just over the Swiss border. Southern Germany is much visited for another reason, though. The Black Forest is actually a general term for around a thousand square kilometres of dark forest, interlaced with serene lakes, spa towns, and a labyrinth of paths and tracks. It's a walker's paradise, and no longer the misty wilderness of a century ago.

Germany 's south-west should also be considered, at least for the lavish architecture of Munich , the medieval splendour of Rothenburg, and the world famous towers of Neuchwanstein Castle just a few miles from the Austrian border. If it looks familiar it's because it was the inspiration for the Disneyland castle, and was used in the classic children's film Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.

Heading back the river valley's, in the heart of the Neckar Valley is the historic city of Heidelberg . For such an old city, it has a strangely cosmopolitan feel, with the bustle of students and tourists along the main streets and riverside. It's a great place to try that German delicacy, the cream cake, which will have you drooling as you make your choice.

Koblenz sits at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle , in front of a huge monument known as the Deutsches Eck, or German Corner. If you're able to be here for the Rhine in Flames festival each autumn, you'll see spectacular firework and light shows across the river, where the massive Ehrenbreitstein castle dominates the skyline. As with even the most minor festivals in German, the party spreads across the city, for these are people who love to enjoy themselves. Wine festivals, beer festivals, carnival, and New Year, are all good examples, but if you're in Germany at the time of any such event, don't expect an early night!

The Moselle valley is more gentle, greener, and covered in every direction with vineyards. For a trip with a difference try cycling along the excellent cycle paths that are common to most of Central Europe . Stop off in the medieval village of Bernkastel , which despite becoming very touristy in recent years, still maintains is relaxed charm. Closer to the Luxembourg border is the Roman city of Trier . This is Germany 's oldest city, which avoided the worst ravages of the Second World War to retain an impressive amount of architecture and monuments from its time as Emperor Constantine's western capital.

On the north-western side of the river the rolling green hills begin to get higher and more dramatic, as you head up into the Ardennes , and the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. The capital, Luxembourg City , is built around two deep river gorges. The old city around the Palais Grand Ducal is pleasant to wander through, and the views of the canyons from the Fortress Walls will be the ones to your album. The locals are pleasant, business-like, but seem content to let tourists just do their thing unhindered, which can be a refreshing change.

Neighbouring Belgium is often written off by tourists as having little to offer, but there are a few notable exceptions. The country was not lucky with its design when it comes to attracting visitors, since the best towns to visit all lie on the flat coastal areas closer to the coast, and the infinitely more attractive high Ardennes has only a few places worthy of a stop.

Brussels straddles the dividing line between the countries two population groups, Flemish speaking in the north, and French speaking Walloons in the south. You will see most signs written in both languages, which can get confusing. The museums and galleries in the centre, the beautiful architecture of the old city, and the lively street scene and nightlife rival the best in Europe , although without the hype. And that really says a lot about the Belgian people. They are quiet, unassuming, but very welcoming and a delight to spend time with.

Standing high over the north of the city is perhaps the most visited landmark, the Atomium. Prepare to feel un-nerved as you travel about inside it on moving stairs, as it plays tricks on your sense of direction. It was built in the 1950's for the World Fair, and now houses a museum and an overpriced restaurant. History buffs will want to head south to the site of the Battle of Waterloo, and more recent battlefields and much visited cemeteries from the First World War on both sides of the French border.

On the coastal plain are the delightful historic towns of Bruges and Ghent . The centres have much to remind the visitor of their trading heyday in centuries past; although today they owe much more to the coaches full of travellers. The coast itself has little of note, although the sandy beaches can be appealing in good weather. Towards the Dutch border you find the city of Antwerp . It's busy, congested, and in places somewhat run down, as seems common with many large ports. But the jewel in its crown – literally – it having the largest diamond industry in the world. There are plenty of opportunities to visit diamond producers, museums, and jewellers who will delight in parting you from your cash. But the skilled work of the diamond cutters is a marvel to watch.

Along with Luxembourg and Belgium , Holland (or The Netherlands, depending on your preference) makes up the trio known as the Low Countries . To most people it means windmills, canals, flowers, and clogs. It has an enviable quality of making visitors feel like they belong there, that they are amongst friends, and that they can relax.

If Antwerp 's diamond's shine for Belgium , then for the Dutch it's the bulbfields. For two months each spring thousands come to gaze in awe at mile after mile of brightly coloured fields, with tulips, daffodils, and more. Keukenhof is the largest in the world, with a mind blowing six million flowers on display.

Amsterdam is a happy marriage of new and old, as canals lined with medieval merchants houses blend seamlessly with modern clubs and bars. It's a city that makes you feel young, vibrant, and just pleased to be there. Check out the Rijksmuseum for a glimpse into a past when Amsterdam was one of the trading capitals of the world, and take the obligatory canal trip to see the sights.

Holland is a country that's best explored slowly. The fact that it's flat means many visitors choose to do this on a cycling holiday. Campsites, hostels, and guest houses, are frequent, friendly, and reasonable. Meander along tree-lined canals and through pretty towns with pedestrianised centres, you'll begin to feel you're part of a much larger family, who all have bikes and are also on holiday. Everyone will nod and say hello as they pass, and happily give you directions if you're lost.

To the north the coast is long, generally uncrowded, and mostly sandy, as it continues across into Germany . In fact the north of Germany has many similarities and links to Holland , although perhaps the locals are a little slower with that welcoming smile than their Dutch neighbours.

If you really want to experience a city with a difference, Berlin will confuse, amaze, and inspire you, all at the same time. Divided for so long, the affluent and arty western side is still very different to the post communist eastern areas. It's a bewildering mix of rebuilding, both physically and emotionally. Reunification was sought for so long, and now it seems nobody is quite sure what to do now its here. The more adventurous will revel in the nightlife, which varies from the regular nightclubs to some extremely ‘alternative' venues.

The Scandinavian countries of Denmark , Sweden , Norway , and Finland , enjoy a relatively low key tourist industry, often trading visitors largely amongst themselves. Denmark is home to the children's construction giant Lego, and thousands flock to the colourful Legoland theme park to inspire their children, and remember their own childhood. Norway 's visitors often don't even set foot on dry land, with cruises through the fjords attracting an ever-increasing fan base. The steep cliffs tower over even the largest liner, with waterfalls cascading down, and forests lining the sides. In Sweden and Finland those forests attract their visitors when covered with snow, as this is Lapland . Trips to see Santa Claus at home in the frozen north have thrilled many young travellers in recent years, and shown their parents a part of Europe that before would have seldom seen foreigners.

The countries of what was communist Europe are slowly beginning to develop their facilities to welcome tourists. For many, now is a good time to go there, before the inevitable commercialism takes over too much, and while the original feel of the countries remains undiluted. Polish hospitality, for example, at the moment is still probably the best in Europe . Stay in any one place for more then a couple of days and you will certainly leave having made new friends, and probably you'll have been to their house, if not a cousin's wedding. Sacrifice a visit to the modern capital Warsaw in favour of the old capital Krakow , which is where you'll find the elegant buildings, and historic roots from the days of the monarchy. If you have transport, a drive along the Vistula River boasts scenery and castles to rival the Rhine, and the beauty and tranquillity of the Tatras mountains attracts hikers and writers to its alpine air.

Mountains don't respect national boundaries, of course, and the Tatras continue south into neighbouring Slovakia . The terrain means scenery is the main draw for visitors coming to this deeply religious country. There are pretty medieval towns, and some promising spa towns, but don't expect a sophisticated tourism industry just yet. The other half of the former union, the Czech Republic , has a far more refined approach to visitors. Indeed it has done for several hundred years, as it was the favoured hideaway of many of Europe 's aristocracy and well-to-do. The lush green Bohemian countryside hides many villages which have changed little since the middle ages, and the capital, Prague , has architecture to match that of London or St Petersburg . Considering its central European location, it's something of a miracle that so many wars have barely touched it. The castle and St Vitus Cathedral, which dates from the 14 th Century, are a striking combination, and dominate the old city. The adjacent Royal Gardens give a hint of Prague 's high status past, and the former summer house, called the Belvedere, houses an impressive art collection. At night it's very much a young persons city, with a pavement café type feel, albeit with mostly classical music, that is still rare in Eastern Europe .

To the south is Hungary , the rebel of the Balkan countries, and perhaps the last undiscovered gem of central Europe . Despite being the first Communist bloc country to open its borders, travelling independently is still the only real way to see the undulating lands away from the capital, Budapest . The resort towns on the banks of the Lake Balaton still fill mostly with local tourists, but if you can find a space the atmosphere is lively and the scenery very picturesque. More suited to western tastes are the villages along the river Danube , especially as it twists amid the high valleys upstream from the capital.

Budapest itself, or more truthfully the twin towns of Buda and Pest , is not to be missed. The ‘ Pearl of the Danube ' is nowhere better appreciated than on Castle Hill, where a succession of kings have built their palaces on the imposing plateau. Go early to avoid the crowds, and try the century old funicular for a touch of style. The old town areas on both banks are crammed with ornate, impressive, historic buildings, best seen as you amble around the ancient streets. Take time to try one of the many superb restaurants, and sample the Hungarian national dish of Goulash, or local speciality cherry soup. If you can be in the city for Constitution Day in August, the river area comes alive with celebrations culminating in a huge firework display.

The Black Sea countries of Romania and Bulgaria , like Hungary , need independently exploring to see the best of the lands away from the coast. But neither are the easiest due to poor infrastructure, a lack of accommodation, and unenthusiastic locals. If you persevere you'll be richly rewarded with high mountainous countryside, fortified towns, and the impression you've stepped back in time to the 19 th Century. The fabled Transylvania is perhaps the most visually stunning in Romania , or its Bulgarian counterpart the Rila mountains. The coastal resorts are well established, if not quite up to the standards of Spain or Italy , and represent good value for money.

The beaches of Greece , of course, have been long established as a visitor's paradise. Around 4000 years! With over 150 islands surrounding the mainland there are plenty to choose from. Greece and her islands have been invaded so many times, and from every direction, over the centuries that it's hard to tell where any particular style has derived from. It would be impossible in the space here to give even a general guide to all the islands, as each is unique, and every one worth visiting in its own way. History is everywhere, as are modern hotels, café's, and bar's, but the one thing you will always remember from a stay in Greece is the people. Many still wear the traditional embroidered costumes, smile at you with missing teeth as they sit mending fishing nets, or embroidering yet more clothes. At the merest sign of an excuse, they will be dancing, playing music, and hugging you. If you want to see more than one island there are numerous ferries, or if your budget is higher maybe consider one of the many sailing tours or cruises. On the mainland, Athens must be your main destination. Overlooked by the magnificent Parthenon, there has been a city here for over 7000 years, and much of the city still feels stuck in the past. Chickens still run in dusty yards next to modern banks. Locals will carry a pig to the market on a gleaming new bus. It's a hot, bustling, chaotic place, and one that will be etched on your memory forever.

By contrast, its ancient rival, Rome , is far more a modern city whilst still celebratory of its glorious and historic past. The modern, cosmopolitan feel of the city away from the relics is wholly in contrast to the feel around the Coliseum, for example. Rome is a city that needs time, not least because to piece together how 2000 year-old remains relate to each other, amid a mass of modern roads and buildings, is like figuring out a giant jigsaw puzzle. But time is something most Romans, and indeed most Italian city dwellers, seem to have little of. Everything is done in a rush; traffic hustles for position at every set of lights, then races to the next to do the same again. Venice is the obvious exception, due only to its lack of suitable roads. Even on the canals, though, there is a definite one-upmanship amongst the gondola pilots, as they guide you around the sights. Venice is a pretty city, which, if it wasn't for the water, would deserve far less attention. But water it has, and so tourists come in their thousands to stand in St Mark's Square, cross the Rialto Bridge , and see the Basilica. Go well away from these areas to find a sensibly priced café, and try and avoid coming in peak season.

The other main city of Northern Italy high on most traveller's ‘must see' list is Florence . Very much a city to appreciate the fine and the beautiful in terms of art and architecture, the city is not as glamorous as Paris, or as ornate as Prague, but the museums house some of Italy's most famous works, and you'll come away feeling a sense of satisfaction and awe. The cities of Italy 's south have less to attract, but are a good base to explore the countries other marvels. Naples is a short drive from the monastery at Monte Cassino, the spectacularly pretty Amalfi coast, and probably the most memorable place you will ever visit in Europe, Pompeii . The Roman city which was destroyed by the nearby volcano Vesuvius leaves visitors amazed, sad, and visibly moved.

In the extreme north of Italy the Alps rise dramatically, with a series of long thin mountain lakes. In the summer, the mountains both in Italy , and neighbouring Slovenia , Austria , Switzerland , and France , are frequented by hikers, climbers, and those who marvel at the dramatic scenery. When the snow comes, they are replaced by skiers, snowboarders, and the like, as the busy winter sports scene takes over. Switzerland has the most dramatic scenery, with resorts such as St Moritz and Davos attracting the rich and famous to its slopes. Austria and France are more reasonably priced, and with an equally wide variety of facilities. All share a great ambience, and the evening ‘après-ski' is as important part of your holiday as the time on the snow. The French Alps continue all the way to the Mediterranean, and provide the stunning backdrop to resorts such as Nice, and the tiny principality of Monaco .

Monte Carlo is for the rich. There is little to keep you here if you can't dig deep in your pockets. However, it is an interesting stop for a few hours to marvel over the Ferrari's, Lamborghini's and other expensive marques, and spot the odd celebrity. It is also surprisingly friendly, and one of the safest places in Europe .

Further along the coast in resorts such as Cannes , and St Tropez, the welcome is more formal, and the glamour reserved for the areas close to the beach. Much of France 's Mediterranean coast is now covered with lines of tents and mobile homes, as the masses head to the area for their two weeks in the sun. As you approach the Spanish border it can sometimes feel like the whole world has moved into a tent, although inland the Pyrenees, and mountain locked Andorra , provide a welcome diversion, and a more rugged scenic appeal than the Alps .

The Spanish coast is similarly taken over by tourism, although here it's almost continuous hotels along the various Costa's. It's difficult to find a quiet, unspoilt beach in the entire length from the French border to Gibraltar . That's not to say it's all unpleasant. It's not. The coastal towns have a certain charm, much aided by the generally good weather. But they unmistakeably exist for the tourists, and you won't find much in the way of traditional Spain here. Travel a few miles inland, however, and you begin to see what a diverse and interesting land it really is. One of pony trekking holidays, wine festivals, and little hilltop villages that have changed little since the 19 th Century.

Cities such as Barcelona , Grenada , Cordoba , and Seville , all have much to offer, and certainly more than the capital, Madrid . Spain has a multitude of festivals, carnivals, and fiesta's. The Running of the Bulls at Pamplona is best watched from a vantage point high enough to avoid the bulls' horns, as the novices tend to make the best targets for the beasts. The April Fiera in Seville is another to savour, when the whole city is given over to a week of flamenco music and dancing, with bullfights in the stadium, and general revelry around the streets. For the arts inclined head north to the Atlantic port of Bilbao , and its wonderful modern art galleries and liberated atmosphere.

If you're still looking for that secluded beach, however, then head west to Portugal . The southern Algarve coast has sandy coves, backed by low rocky cliffs, and for the most part plenty of space. It has a far more relaxed feel to the Spanish resorts. Portugal is far more golf and wine, compared to Spain 's volleyball and beer. The Atlantic coast is still largely unspoilt, as is Portugal 's interior. As a seafaring nation, this is the place to try some of the best seafood in Europe , washed down with some locally produced wine.

Not only is Europe diverse, so is every country within it. It's friendly, welcoming, wonderfully scenic, with exciting cities, and amazing history. It will give you great memories, wonderful stories, and without doubt, it will leave you wanting more.

Monaco

Cast as the playground of the rich and famous, Monaco lies on the spectacular Mediterranean Côte d'Azur. It is an independent city-state tucked into Southern France with sunny panoramic views, perfect weather, opulent attractions, and home to one of the most glamorous royal families.

Millionaire gamblers pack the renowned Monte Carlo Casino and wealthy sports fans flock to Monaco's prestigious Grand Prix, UEFA Super Cup, and the Monte Carlo Rally race. Water sports are wildly popular in Monaco, as there are numerous facilities for diving, snorkeling, sailing, surfing, water skiing, and yachting.

Surrounded by cannons from the time of Louis XIV's reign, The Prince's Palace overlooks the yacht-filled harbor of Monte Carlo and is open to the public. The

Salle Garnier Opera House has hosted the world's most prolific operatic voices of the last 130 years. Monaco Cathedral is the famous final resting place of the beloved Princess Grace. The Fort Antoine Theater is a fabulous outdoor theater that produces memorable shows and performances.

The Oceanographic Museum & Aquarium is a monument to marine science with its impressive "Shark's Lagoon" and massive collection of sea creatures. Just across the street from the Aquarium, you can catch the Azur Express Tourist Train and take a leisurely excursion through the Old Town section of Monte Carlo. The Old Town is filled with centuries-old homes, gardens, and most notably, the Saint-Martin Gardens, which are said to have inspired the great poet Guillaume Apollinaire.

No trip to Monaco would be complete without a shopping excursion to find the latest couture fashions, trendy shoes, expensive perfumes, and high-end jewelry. In the legendary Golden Circle, surrounded by Avenue des Beaux-Arts and Avenue Monte Carlo, you can find Chanel, Gucci, Prada, Dior, Lacroix, and Cartier.

Monaco food culture ranges from the French soul food of the Old Town to the elite fine dining of Joel Robuchon at the Metropole Hotel. You can find every style of cuisine from Mexican and Japanese, to local Monegasque specialties.

Spoil yourself with abundant healing and restorative spa services. The Monte Carlo Spa is known for its rejuvenating seawater treatments, therapeutic massage, and modern facilities. Les Cinq Mondes and the Fleur de Peau Institute are renowned for their intense massages and invigorating facials. The ESPA Monte-Carlo at the Metropole Hotel feature individualized signature spa treatments, a swimming pool filled with heated outdoor seawater, and a teak sun deck to catch some rays.

Walking is the easiest and fastest way to get around Monaco. With public elevators and escalators everywhere, it is easy to go from the shores of the Mediterranean up to the Exotic Gardens without breaking a sweat. With its strong police presence, Monaco is uniquely crime-free. The official language of Monaco is French, however, English and Italian are widely spoken.

For an indulgent romp on the French Riviera, Monaco has everything a discerning traveler could ever want. Monaco is the place to see and be seen!