Monaco: Limited in Size, Overflowing in Cultural Wealth

Since one of the most poignant real-life fairy tales of the modern era played out in Monaco, it's no wonder that this legendarily posh principality identifies itself as something out of a fairy story. Stroll the streets and mingle with aristocracy; dine in fabulous restaurants where celeb chefs like Joel Robuchon preside over Michelin-starred kitchens; or splurge on luxurious spa treatments. Definitely set aside some time for sightseeing, because Monaco's attractions are lovely, diverse, and sometimes unexpected.

There are many gardens in Monaco. One of the prettiest ones open to the public is the Jardin Exotique de Monaco, a botanical garden located on a cliff above ancient caves where archaeologists discovered prehistoric dwellings. Below the Jardin Exotique, the Observatory Grottoes contain some eye-catching and bizarre-looking stalagmites and calcareous rock formations.

It's easy to imagine noble maidens getting married in the baroque masterpiece Chapelle de la Misericorde, which local historians say dates back to 1639. Its collection of paintings, wood carvings, and other works have amassed over the centuries, and its interior was restored to gleaming beauty to commemorate its 350th anniversary. Another grand religious site is the Cathedral, a Romanesque-Byzantine structure made from gleaming white stone.

End with a tour of the Prince's Palace; although the royal family still lives here, it's open for tours daily (June-October). Don't miss the 18th and 19th-century art collection. If this inspires you to begin a collection of your own, there are 50 art galleries to explore—all this cultural wealth contained in a country smaller than Central Park.

Photo Credit: Monte Carlo (Martial Colomb/PhotoDisc)