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Full country name: Principality of Monaco
Area: 1.95 sq km
Population: 32,150
Capital city: Monaco
People: French 47%, Monégasque 16%, Italian 16%, other 21%
Language: French, Monégasque, Italian, English
Religion: Roman Catholic
Government: Constitutional monarchy
Head of State: Prince Rainier III

GDP: US$800 million
GDP per head: US$25,000
Major industries: Tourism
Member of EU: no

Events

Monaco is a country that thrives on spectacle and glitz. The big one for the year has to be the Formula One Grand Prix, held in mid-May, when the world's best drivers hit the city streets and crossing the road becomes an extreme sport. Those who can't get enough of big, throbbing engines should also be in town in January for the Monte Carlo Motor Rally. Dedicated to showing off in all its forms, Monaco also hosts the International Circus Festival in January, the Great Magic Prize (an international prestidigitators' playoff) in March and the International Fireworks Competition (duked out in the natural amphitheatre of Monaco's harbour) in July.

Traveling Guidelines

Visas: No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days
Time: GMT/UTC plus one hour (plus two hours in summer)
Electricity: 220V, 50Hz
Weights & measures: Metric

Ideal time to visit

The shoulder seasons - April/May and September/October - are the most pleasant times, climatically, to visit Monaco. Summer - June to August - can be very hot, and you'll be pressing flesh with most of Europe. Winter is a better bet, as it may be a bit rainy but it's unlikely to be too cold. Car-racing fans will probably want to be here either in January for the Motor Rally or May for the Grand Prix.