What would an internationally famous resort be without novel ways to drain your cash supplies? Foremost among Monaco’s entertainment options is a flutter at the casino. Celeb spotters will be unable to resist Monte Carlo’s beaches, where the swimming is lousy but the tanning and conspicuous yacht parties are world class. Those with a taste for strolling should be able to circumnavigate the country (4.5km of borders) before lunch, taking in some beautiful gardens, touristy alleys and views of France and Italy along the way.

Jardin Exotique

Who would’ve thought cacti could be so much fun? With 7000 varieties of cacti and succulents, the Jardin Exotique is paradise for prickle-lovers. If 7000 cacti is about 6998 too many, the garden is still worth a visit for its spectacular views.

Musée National de Monaco

This ain’t your usual collection of dusty rocks and stuffed animals: the Musée National de Monaco is dedicated to dollies and their frightfully spooky siblings, automata. The museum has everything from a dancing Josephine Baker robot to the Ken and Barbie owned by Princess Caroline and a gigantic 18th-century nativity scene packed full of little locals. Put your hair in pigtails and get on down.

Palais du Prince

Monaco’s royal palace has been around since the 13th century. Every Grimaldi since has found it necessary to leave their mark on the place, and as a result this is not one of Europe’s most elegant castles. It is worth taking a look inside though - 15 rooms, including the Throne Room, are open to the public.

If you’ve already blown your cash and can’t afford the entrance fee, the changing of the guard won’t cost you a cent. It starts just before noon and is over within two minutes, so be on time.

In the south wing of the palace, the Musée des Souvenirs Napoléoniens has a collection of Napoleon’s personal knick-knacks, including one sock, a handkerchief and a bunch of medals, coins, uniforms and swords.

Musée Océanographique

If you’ve got a thing for fish, it’s worth making the trip to Monaco just to come here. The museum is probably the best aquarium in Europe, with 90 seawater tanks and a display of living coral. There’s also a display on the work of the late, great Jacques Cousteau, as well as other ocean explorers.

If you’re unlucky enough to hit Monaco on one of those 65 rainy days, this is the perfect place to console yourself.