Monaco is a country unlike any other. Whether by land or sea, travellers along the famous Cote d’Azur may pause as they approach one particularly glamorous locale and ask themselves, “Is Monaco a country?”. Or perhaps they are so taken in by the extraordinary natural beauty of the area that they ask themselves, “Where is Monaco located?, Is Monaco part of France? or How big is Monaco?”. The answers to all of these questions and more are answered in this guide.
Is Monaco a country?
Yes, Monaco is a country. The sovereign Principality of Monaco is the second-smallest country in the world.
While historically Monaco was part of France, in 1215, it became a colony of Genoa, Italy. Some 80 years later, the Grimaldi family settled in Monaco, and their descendants continue to rule the principality to this day.
Is Monaco part of France?
Though France surrounds it, Monaco is not officially part of France. The principality gained independence in a treaty signed in 1861 when France guaranteed Monaco’s sovereignty.
Monaco’s border with France is open, and travellers freely cross between the two countries, whether for business or pleasure. Italy’s borders are just 10 miles away (about 16 km), which makes it a popular destination for people in Italy too. The principality tops many lists as the wealthiest, safest, cleanest and most glamorous destination on the French Riviera. For these reasons, many choose to invest or buy property in this storied locale.
How big is Monaco?
Monaco is a small country, the second smallest in the world. Its area is 0.76mi² (1.98 km²), with a population of roughly 36,686 (2021) – among which 8,378 are Monegasque citizens – including residents from 125 nationalities. Monaco is the world’s most densely populated country, with approximately 18,750 inhabitants/km². Despite its diminutive size, Monaco hosts some of the world’s most iconic events, including the F1 Monaco Grand Prix and the Monaco Yacht Show, which is held in Port Hercules.
Where is Monaco?
Along the Côte d’Azur, the Principality of Monaco is between Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat and Menton and is very close to the Italian Riviera. It is 8 kilometres west of the Italian border, on the Mediterranean Sea. and 15 kilometres east of Nice, France.
It’s easy to reach Monaco from the Nice-Cote d’Azur airport or by high-speed train from France. For those arriving by superyacht, Monaco offers accessible deepwater ports.
What languages are spoken in Monaco?
Monegasques are a minority in their own country. The 8,378 Monegasque passport holders only account for about a quarter of Monaco’s population. There are over 139 nationalities that call Monaco home, with French (9,286), Italians (8 172), and British (2,795), as well as Swiss (1,187) and Belgians (1,073) having the largest share of the population.
French is the official language of Monaco, but Italian and English are widely used. Monaco also has its very own language, called “monegù”, which is still taught in schools today.
Is Monaco a city or a state?
Monaco is a sovereign city-state, meaning it is an independent country governed by a constitutional monarchy. It is split into various districts, the most famous being Monte-Carlo, which is home to iconic destinations such as the famed Monte-Carlo Casino. It is also here that the most exclusive real estate can be found. The Principality of Monaco enjoys French military protection following an agreement that has been in place since 1861.
Is the Principality of Monaco in Europe?
Yes, Monaco is in Europe. The country is nestled along the French Riviera and is bordered by France, with its coastline lapped by the Mediterranean Sea. Its idyllic location makes it a sought-after destination to live in, enjoying a warm and sunny year-round climate and easy access to the rest of Europe, including European countries like London, Paris, Geneva, and Rome.
Who governs Monaco?
The Principality of Monaco is a sovereign state and has been governed by a constitutional monarchy since 1911. Currently, Monaco is governed by Prince Albert II, who ascended to the throne in 2005 following the death of his father, Prince Rainier III. He is married to Princess Charlene and has two young children, twins Princess Gabrielle and Prince Jacques, who is the heredity Sovereign Prince of Monaco.
Why Monaco?
Once you’ve answered the questions “Is Monaco a country?” and “Where is Monaco?”, don’t hesitate to visit (long – or short-term) one of the world’s premier luxury destinations. Spend some time and take full advantage of the glorious Mediterranean climate, acclaimed Michelin-starred restaurants, the historic Monte-Carlo Casino and superior five-star hotels.
The principality has a global reputation for its commitment to the environment, evident in its lush, natural landscaping, eco-friendly residential and commercial buildings, and emphasis on sustainability on land and sea. Our Monaco real estate agency delivers excellent service and is happy to help new residents find homes in this spectacular part of the world.
Don’t miss out on lavish shopping opportunities, in addition to world-renowned events such as the Monaco Yacht Show, the F1 Grand Prix, the Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters tennis tournament, and the elegant Rose Ball, as well as a major jazz festival and numerous concerts.
Now that you know where Monaco is and its status as a country, why not consider Monaco properties for sale? Buying a second home or buying a permanent residence, whether a spacious penthouse or a stunning apartment or villa on the water’s edge, is an excellent investment. Many residences feature spacious terraces with exceptional views, security services, private fitness areas, swimming pools, and parking. And finally, the principality is known for its tax advantages: No personal income tax and low business tax.
