Imagine walking across an entire country in less time than it takes to watch a movie. The smallest countries in the world make this possible! Nexus Mag explores these tiny nations, from Vatican City’s historic treasures to Monaco’s glamorous shores, with tips to plan your visit.
Why Visit the Smallest Countries?
Spanning less than 500 km², the world’s smallest countries pack a punch with rich cultures, unique histories, and stunning landscapes. Despite their size—smaller than many cities—they boast independent governments, economies, and traditions. Attracting millions of tourists yearly (e.g., Vatican City: 5 million), these nations offer accessible adventures, from Monaco’s Grand Prix to the Maldives’ coral reefs. Perfect for quick trips, they deliver big experiences in compact packages, ideal for travelers seeking unique destinations.
Top 10 Smallest Countries to Visit
Discover these tiny nations, ranked by size, with travel highlights and tips:
1. Vatican City (0.44 km²)
The smallest country, nestled in Rome, is the heart of Catholicism. Visit St. Peter’s Basilica, home to Michelangelo’s *Pietà*, and the Sistine Chapel’s *Creation of Adam*.
Tip: Book Vatican Museums tickets online (~€20); dress modestly. Visit midweek to avoid crowds.
Stat: Population of 842; draws 5 million tourists yearly.
Fun Fact: Independent since 1929 via the Lateran Treaty.
2. Monaco (2 km²)
This Mediterranean principality, the world’s most densely populated, dazzles with Monte Carlo’s casino, the Prince’s Palace, and the Monaco Grand Prix.
Tip: Tour the casino atrium for free (10 AM–1 PM); stay in nearby Nice for budget lodging (~€50/night).
Stat: GDP of $7 billion; home to 36,000 residents.
Highlight: Hosts the world’s richest Formula 1 race.
3. Nauru (21 km²)
A Pacific island republic, Nauru is the smallest island nation. Explore its coral reefs, white-sand beaches, and phosphate mining history.
Tip: Book diving tours (~€50); limited tourism means basic accommodations (~€80/night).
Stat: Population of 9,378; second-least populous country.
Fun Fact: Known as the world’s “most overweight nation.”
4. Tuvalu (26 km²)
This Pacific island nation, with turquoise lagoons, is a snorkeler’s paradise. Visit Funafuti Lagoon for swimming and diving.
Tip: Hard to reach; fly via Fiji (~€500). Collect rare Tuvalu stamps (~€5).
Stat: Population of 10,000; at risk from rising sea levels.
Highlight: A constitutional monarchy, once British territory.
5. San Marino (61 km²)
Europe’s oldest republic, surrounded by Italy, boasts medieval castles like Guaita and a thriving economy with no national debt.
Tip: Visit in September for the Crossbow Festival; entry to castles ~€10.
Stat: Population of 30,000; $2 billion GDP.
Highlight: UNESCO-listed historic center attracts 2 million tourists yearly.
6. Liechtenstein (160 km²)
Tucked between Switzerland and Austria, this alpine microstate offers ski resorts, Vaduz Castle, and tax-haven status.
Tip: Hike the Alps (~€5 trails); stay in Vaduz (~€80/night). Free entry to some museums.
Stat: Population of 39,900; $7.94 billion GDP.
Fun Fact: Uses Swiss Franc; 34% of residents are foreign.
7. Marshall Islands (181.2 km²)
A Pacific archipelago of 29 coral atolls, known for Kwajalein’s massive lagoon and diving among WWII wrecks.
Tip: Fly via Hawaii (~€600); book dive tours (~€60). Limited hotels (~€100/night).
Stat: Population of 39,700; $310 million GDP.
Highlight: Low elevation (avg. 3.4m) makes it vulnerable to climate change.
8. Saint Kitts and Nevis (261.5 km²)
The smallest nation in the Western Hemisphere, this Caribbean duo features volcanic landscapes and Mount Liamuiga (1,156m).
Tip: Hike the volcano (~€30 guided); relax on Pinney’s Beach (free).
Stat: Population of 48,400; $1.13 billion GDP.
Fun Fact: Uses Eastern Caribbean Dollar.
9. Maldives (310.7 km²)
An Indian Ocean paradise of 26 coral atolls, the Maldives is a biodiversity hotspot with over 2,000 fish species.
Tip: Book overwater bungalows (~€200/night); snorkel coral reefs (~€40).
Stat: Population of 544,700; $7.2 billion GDP.
Highlight: World’s lowest nation (max. 2.4m elevation).
10. Malta (316 km²)
A Mediterranean archipelago with prehistoric temples (e.g., Ġgantija) and historic Valletta, Malta blends culture and beaches.
Tip: Visit in June for mild weather; explore Mdina for free.
Stat: Population of 550,100; $22.74 billion GDP.
Highlight: A strategic hub since Phoenician times.
Practical Tips for Visiting Small Countries
Maximize your trip to these tiny nations:
- Budget: Daily costs range from €50 (San Marino) to €200 (Maldives). Budget meals ~€5–€15; hostels ~€20–€50.
- Transport: Fly to hubs like Rome (Vatican), Nice (Monaco), or Fiji (Tuvalu). Local taxis or walking suffice in most (e.g., Vatican: €10/taxi).
- Best Time: Spring (April–June) or fall (September–October) for mild weather; avoid Maldives’ monsoon (May–October).
- Visas: Schengen for Malta, Liechtenstein; visa-free for most in Monaco, San Marino (up to 90 days). Check for Nauru, Tuvalu.
- Activities: Prioritize iconic sites (e.g., St. Peter’s, Monte Carlo Casino); book tours for diving or hiking (~€30–€60).
- Safety: All are safe; guard valuables in touristy spots like Monaco or Malta.
Cost: Entry fees ~€5–€20; many sites (e.g., San Marino’s streets, Nauru’s beaches) free.
FAQs About the Smallest Countries
Why visit the smallest countries? They offer unique cultures, history, and beauty in compact, easy-to-explore packages.
Which is the easiest to visit? Vatican City and Monaco, due to proximity to major cities (Rome, Nice).
Are they budget-friendly? Yes, especially San Marino and Liechtenstein (~€50/day); Maldives and Monaco cost more (~€150/day).
How long to spend? 1–2 days per country; combine Vatican/Monaco with Italy/France for a week-long trip.
What’s the most unique? Nauru for its isolation, Tuvalu for its stamp trade, Vatican for its religious significance.
Explore the World’s Tiniest Gems
From Vatican City’s sacred art to the Maldives’ turquoise lagoons, the smallest countries prove big adventures come in small packages. Plan your visit to these cultural powerhouses with our guide and uncover their unique charm. Discover more travel inspiration in our Travel hub at Nexus Mag.
