The independent state of Monaco is a wealthy tax haven

Less than two square kilometres, glamorous Monaco is the second smallest independent state in the world (trailing after the Vatican) and a constitutional monarchy ruled by the Grimaldi family.

It is located on the French Riviera, tucked behind the Maritime Alps on the Mediterranean coast.

The state's status as a tax haven attracts the rich and famous, who while away their days at the annual Grand Prix car race, gamble away their fortunes at the casino in Monte Carlo and sail the Med in their extravagant yachts. Aspirational holidaymakers can make do with touring Monaco's coast in a glass-bottomed catamaran.

Other visitor attractions include le Palais de Monaco and its state apartments, Monaco's Cathedral, the Jardin Exotique de Monaco and the Musee Oceanographique and Aquarium.

Monaco does not have a international airport, but there is a heliport with a helicopter shuttle service that links it to the international airport in Nice.

French is the official language in Monaco and the currency is the euro.