Many travelers will visit great countries for the number of attractions they have. But there are smaller countries that, despite not being very large in size, make up for it with incredible things to see and do. So you don’t necessarily have to visit big countries to live incredible adventures and enjoy the pleasure of traveling.
If you are one of those who loves to travel the world or simply likes to know a little more about different tourist destinations. You will surely want to find out which are the smallest countries in the world and the main reasons why they are definitely worth visiting. So we invite you to discover it below.
The 10 smallest countries in the world
1. Vatican City State
With an area of 44 hectares and around 1000 people as a population, this is among the smallest countries in the world number one in both area and population. However, it is proof that small does not equate to uninteresting or uninfluential. It also has a great cultural impact. St. Peter’s Basilica is a baroque masterpiece, the Sistine Chapel is gloriously painted by Michelangelo, and the Vatican Museums house the richest art collection in the world. If you fancy something a little different, book a tour of the Vatican Gardens. See vaticanstate.va
2. Principality of Monaco
This mini-state on the French Riviera is just over two square kilometers (and counting, thanks to land reclamation), but it boasts the densest population in the world and an astonishing array of sights, including a palace, a cathedral, several lovely gardens, the excellent Oceanographic Museum and, of course, its famous casino. This is arguably the most glamorous of small countries: sunny, impeccably manicured, and enticing with every extravagance.
3.Tuvalu
This sleepy assortment of three islands and six atolls only packs 10 square miles of land. It is located halfway between Queensland and Hawaii, and is so remote that it only receives a couple of thousand visitors a year. Travelers who crave an eco-friendly getaway of low-key lodging, individual exploration, and a complete absence of cruise ships and tours will be happy to dive the lagoons and soak up the laid-back charm.
4. Republic of San Marino
Founded in 301, this northern Italian enclave is the oldest sovereign nation in the world and the last surviving among the independent states that once existed in Italy. At 61 square kilometres, it manages several villages and some rugged landscapes, as well as some spectacular outcroppings topped by castles. Its eponymous capital is included in the World Heritage list; visit the Museo di Stato for an overview of the history of this curious nation.
5. Principality of Liechtenstein
This sliver of a country nestles on the flanks of Austria and Switzerland, and shares the Rhine Valley and splendid alpine scenery, making it an unusual spot for jaded travelers to ski, hike, or mountain bike. The high-altitude Prince’s Trail is an epic but uncrowded hike. The snow-covered 12th-century Vaduz Castle above the capital is an impressive sight, although it is closed to the public.
6. Republic of the Marshall Islands
Although independent, this Pacific nation is an associated state of the US, the United States underpins its economy and currency. It has more than a thousand islands and 29 coral atolls; Bikini Atoll was made famous by the atomic bomb tests and gave the swimsuit its name. This is a diving mecca, especially for sunken WWII ships, including an aircraft carrier. It is also a great destination for surfing, kitesurfing and deep sea fishing.
7. Republic of Nauru
The smallest island nation and republic in the world is surrounded by reefs in the Pacific Ocean. As the host of Australia’s offshore detention center, it’s in the news for all the wrong reasons. A perimeter road offers resplendent scenery (the interior is barren) and old Japanese World War II remnants provide passing interest, but, with no great beaches and little tourist infrastructure, this is the one micro-nation you probably don’t need to visit. .
8. Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis
The Caribbean nation informally known as Saint Kitts and Nevis is the smallest country in the Western Hemisphere and has Queen Elizabeth II as its head of state. The main attractions are beautiful reef-protected beaches, dormant volcanoes like Mount Liamuiga and Mount Nevis, rugged rainforest, colonial-era towns, and the splendid Brimstone Hill Fortress. Nevis is the quietest island and has beautiful botanical gardens.
9. Republic of Maldives
Asia’s smallest country by both population and area is made up of a scattering of islands across vast areas of the Indian Ocean. Its highest natural point is 5.1 meters above the waves, making it an unfortunate poster child for global warming. It’s best known for its snorkeling and scuba diving, dazzling white-sand beaches, and luxury resorts, though local guesthouse accommodations also put this destination within reach of budget travelers.
10. Republic of Malta
The 10th smallest country in the world has two main islands (Malta and Gozo) and several others, influenced by centuries of domination by Mediterranean powers. Though small, it boasts three World Heritage Sites, some of Europe’s longest history (including megalithic temples dating to 3150 BC), and sumptuous architecture, culminating in its Renaissance-era fortified capital, Valletta. Add a spectacular coastline and almost perpetual sunshine for big pleasures in a small place.
Without a doubt, these are the smallest countries in the world, but as you could see, that does not mean that they also lack places and attractions to enjoy and live a beautiful travel experience. Since each one enchants those who dare to visit them. And which one would you visit first?