Monaco

Monaco Geography Overview

Monaco, the world's second-smallest sovereign state, is a unique blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty, nestled along the Mediterranean Sea. Spanning an area of just 2 square kilometers, it is approximately three times larger than the National Mall in Washington, D.C. Despite its diminutive size, Monaco boasts a 4.1 km coastline and is renowned for its picturesque hills and rocky landscapes. The principality is located in Western Europe, bordered by France along a 6 km land boundary, and lies close to the Italian border. Monaco's climate is distinctly Mediterranean, characterized by mild, moist winters and hot, arid summers, making it a favored destination for both tourists and residents. Interestingly, Monaco is entirely urban with no natural resources or agricultural land, emphasizing its role as a vibrant city-state. As the second most densely populated nation globally, Monaco offers a unique geographical and cultural experience that is unmatched.

Area

land

2 sq km

water

0 sq km

total

2 sq km

Climate

Characterized by a Mediterranean climate featuring mild, moist winters and hot, arid summers

Terrain

marked by hills, rugged terrain, and rocky landscapes

Land use

other

100% (2022 est.)

forest

0% (2022 est.)

agricultural land

0% (2022 est.)

agricultural land: arable land

arable land: 0% (2018 est.)

agricultural land: permanent crops

permanent crops: 1% (2018 est.)

agricultural land: permanent pasture

permanent pasture: 0% (2018 est.)

Location

Situated in Western Europe, adjacent to the Mediterranean Sea along the southern coast of France, close to the Italian border

Coastline

4.1 km

Elevation

lowest point

Mediterranean Sea 0 m

highest point

Chemin des Revoires on Mont Agel 162 m

Irrigated land

0 sq km (2022)

Map references

Europe

Land boundaries

total

6 km

border countries

France 6 km

Maritime claims

territorial sea

12 nm

exclusive economic zone

12 nm

Natural hazards

none

Geography - note

the world's second-smallest sovereign state (following the Holy See); the smallest nation with a coastline; predominantly urban in character

Natural resources

none

Area - comparative

approximately three times larger than the National Mall in Washington, D.C.

Geographic coordinates

43 44 N, 7 24 E

Population distribution

the second most densely populated nation globally (trailing Macau); its entire populace resides on an area of 2 square kilometers (0.8 square miles)