The principality, or sovereign city-state of Monaco covers less than 2 km² and has a population of approximately 33,000. Bordered on three sides by France and on the fourth by Italy, Monaco plays a leading role in the life of the Mediterranean coast of southeastern France, known as the Côte d'Azur or the French Riviera.

Known widely for the casinos of Monte Carlo, the affluent and prestigious region offers a wealth of events year round to accommodate all tastes and interests. The Monaco Grand Prix, held in May, is an upper echelon Formula One race, first run in 1929. As the leading item on the local calendar, the Grand Prix stands with the Indianapolis 500 and the 24 Hours of Le Mans as an informal Triple Crown of Motorsport.

Drivers negotiate 77 laps through the winding streets of Monaco at relatively low speeds, but with a degree of technical difficulty so great that the race is considered one of the most dangerous in the sport. Spectators watch the four day event from the 3,000 officially available seats as well as from private terraces hired out as viewing platforms.

Throughout the year, however, life in the principality includes wide-ranging celebrations, and cultural offerings. The Monte Carlo opera season opens in January and lasts three months. Les Ballets de Monte-Carlo holds a spring season in April, and a summer programme in July, with the winter performances running across December and January.

The ballet was a personal project of the late Princess Grace and in March, the charity Rose Ball is held in support of her foundation with proceeds awarded to different causes each year. Celebrities and the general public alike congregate during the event for performances at the Sporting d'Eté complex's Salle des Etoiles.

Late in January, the International Circus Festival draws the world's finest circus performers and acts in a premier showcase of talent. January is also the month for the Monte Carlo Rally, held by the organisers of the Grand Prix and dating from 1922.

In July and August, the night skies over Monte Carlo are lit by the spectacular performances of the International Fireworks Festival. November brings the International Marathon, which sends runners across portions of France, Monaco, and Italy.

The Christmas festival in Monaco combines a variety of cultural celebrations marking the traditional December 25th observance of the Christian holiday. There are gala dinners, large and small-scale parades, concerts, and activities throughout the principality. All the region's hotels and resorts offer special packages for tourist families to celebrate the season in a warm and luxurious style.

Though small and reliant upon tourism for its existence, the principality of Monaco claims status as one of the world's premier destinations both for its own traditions and for its proximity to the French Riviera. Once an exclusive playground for the rich and famous, in modern times Monaco offers something for every visitor and every travelling budget.