A country within a country, the Principality of Monaco, sandwiched between Nice and Menton on France's Côte d'Azur (map) is, in theory, an independent monarchy ruled by a hereditary prince.

For travelers, however, Monaco is a delightful historical anomaly: a part of France in all but name, but with a different personality and appeal because of its odd history.

It's simple to include a visit to Monaco in your trip to France's Côte d'Azur: no Customs or Immigration control when you pass from France into Monaco or vice-versa, no different currency. Pretty much everything is the same as in France...except that you're in Monaco.

Go to Monaco and its capital city of Monte Carlo to visit its posh Casino, to gawk at the huge yachts in its harbors and the expensive cars that pull up to discharge their wealthy passengers at the Hôtel de Paris right next to the Casino.

The public buses and trains that run along the Côte d'Azur all stop in Monaco, making transport easy.

Continue northeastward on the train a short way and you're in Italy.

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