Visiting small countries has always been appealing to a lot of travelers. Even though they are small land areas, they absolutely have a lot of things to offer. Small countries are often quaint and cozy,and their size makes it easier for travelers to complete their itineraries in a short period of time.
Here are the 10 smallest countries in the world by land area for your 2020 travel bucket list:
1. Vatican
The Vatican, also known as the Holy See,is not only the smallest country in the world, it is also in a very strange location, being situated within the city of Rome, Italy. Although it is small with only 0.27 square miles (0.44 square kilometers)in land area, it is frequented by millions and millions of visitors every year.
Being the center of the Catholic Church and the home of the Pope, it is no surprise that most visitors come here for religious reasons. St.Peter’s Basilica, the biggest Catholic church in the world, is one of the most frequented places in the Vatican. You can find precious art works in here, such as The Pieta and the Creation of Adam.
2. Monaco
Monaco is the playground of the rich and famous. With only 1.24 square miles (2 square kilometers) in total land area, it is the second smallest country in the world. Contrary to its size, Monaco is home to a lot of billionaires and millionaires.
Seeing luxury cars on the streets and in parking lots on a regular day is a normal sight in the city. Monaco is popular for its wonderful beaches, casinos, luxury goods, and Formula 1 races. It maybe small, but it is definitely wealthy.
3. Nauru
The Republic of Nauru is the third smallest country by land area and is the smallest island country in the world. It was formerly known as Pleasant Island and only has an area of 13 square miles (21 square kilometers).
Nauru may not be that popular with tourists as of recent years, but if you plan on visiting this country, Anibare Bay, Central Plateau, and Moqua Well are the top places you should check out.
4. Tuvalu
With a total of 16 square miles (26 square kilometers) of land area, Tuvalu is the world’s fourth smallest country. Formerly known as Ellice Islands, this Polynesian island nation is situated in the Pacific Ocean.
Its neighbors are Hawaii and Australia. It has lovely beaches and beautiful sunsets. The best way to appreciate the island is to hop on a motorcycle and drive along the coast. Their marine life is bountiful, so snorkeling and diving are popular activities among locals and visiting tourists.
5. San Marino
This tiny European country is an enclaved microstate surrounded by Italy. Also known as the Most Serene Republic of San Marino, this country is the 5th smallest country in the world with a total area of 37.9 square miles (61 square kilometers).
This is the perfect country to fly to if you love medieval vibes and quaint little specialty shops. San Marino has three famous fortresses that sit on top of a mountain. It is perfect for getting an aerial view of the city; your photos would look amazing, too. The Museum of Curiosities is also a must-visit. It has displays of entertaining and fancy things that will keep you occupied for hours.
6. Liechtenstein
The sixth smallest country in the world is a German-speaking country called Liechtenstein.Reaching this small country is no easy feat, since it is located in the Alps and is bordered by Switzerland and Austria. Even though it is only 99 square miles (160 square kilometers) big, Liechtenstein is a rich country and has a very low unemployment rate. Although it would take a great deal of effort to get here, the picturesque alpine view of the country is definitely worth the trip.
The Gutenberg Castle is a must-see for visiting tourists. It is on top of a hill and has a massive rose garden. The castle also holds cultural activities during summer. The lovely mountains of Liechtenstein have great hiking trails which are perfect for summer outdoorsy activities. Come wintertime, skiing becomes popular in the country. If you visit during August, you might even catch the Liechtenstein Festival and join in the celebration of the country’s music, dance, cuisine, history, and so much more.
7. Marshall Islands
The Republic of the Marshall Islands is the seventh smallest country in the world with only 112 square miles (181 square kilometers). Since it is located near the equator, it has a tropical climate which is perfect for your summer vacation. Marshall Islands is made up of twenty-nine atolls which are worth visiting.
The Arno Atoll in the north pacific region of the country is one of the most popular among tourists. It has crystal clear waters and a healthy marine life. Take a dive or bring your snorkeling gears when you are in the country, since its underwater scenes are truly a paradise on Earth. Likiep Atoll and Maloelap Atoll should also be on your Marshall Islands itinerary.
8. Saint Kitts and Nevis
Also known as the Federation of Saint Christopher and Nevis, Saint Kitts and Nevis is the world’s eight smallest country. Since Saint Kitts and Nevis is an island country located in the Caribbean, it is no surprise that it has beautiful beaches and scenic views that travelers and cruise passengers.
One of the best ways to enjoy the country’s beautiful nature is to ride the St. Kitts Scenic Railways. The ride lasts for about three hours, and will give the passengers the glimpse of villages, historic sites, lush rainforests, deep-blue oceans, sugar cane plantations, and so much more. Once you have had your fill of the land tour, you can also take a Catamaran Cruise and you will be taken to different islands and bays in the country. One of the most popular stops is the Shitten Bay. The country also has fortresses and museums that are perfect for day trips.
9. Maldives
When you think of a perfect getaway that involves white beaches, crystal clear blue waters, tropical fruits, unlimited fresh sea food, and swimming to your heart’s content, you think of Maldives. Maldives is not only a popular vacation getaway in the Indian Ocean, it is also the smallest country in Asia in terms of area and population. It is also the ninth smallest country in the world with a land area of just 186 square miles (300 square kilometers). Island hopping is a given in Maldives. It has a lot of beautiful islands that you can explore during your holiday.
It also has villas built above the waters which would allow you to go swimming right away, even without walking more than ten steps from your bedroom. Mahiri, Male, and Kanuhura are among the most beautiful islands in Maldives, although all islands in the country are beautiful. If you are travelling with children, Whale Submarine in Male is the perfect place to be. No need to fear though, even though its name says “whale,” Whale Submarine is for observing life on a reef. The submarine tour will allow you and your kids to see the beautiful world underwater. Colorful fishes and corals are the highlight of the tour. Maldives also has shops, museums, and restaurants that would make your vacation even more relaxing and enjoyable. The Seagull Café and Thai Wok Restaurant are both highly recommended.
10. Malta
The tenth smallest country in the world is the Republic of Malta. It only has a land area of 196 square miles (316 square kilometers). It is also an island country located in the Mediterranean. Malta may be small, but it has a lot of things in store for you. You can spend a week or two here and still not run out of things to do. Malta is often frequented by tourists because of its sunny weather and pristine beaches. If you are in dire need of sea and sun, fly to Malta and have the best time lounging on the beach while enjoying your favorite drink.
The country has postcard-worthy spots such as the famous Azure Window in Gozo Island. If you would like to take a break from swimming, diving, snorkeling, and other water activities, you can take a day trip to the medieval hilltop town of Medina. It is a fairytale-like city and would make you feel like a knight and a princess in a horse-draw carriage will pass by at any moment. Museums, cathedrals, old ruins, and antique shops can be found all over the country. Prehistoric temples such as the Hagar Qim Temple are also must-sees especially if you are on a culture trip and would like to know about about Malta’s history and culture. Visiting tourists do not leave the country without taking a trip to the Blue Grotto. Even if cliff-diving isn’t your thing, you can hike up the trail and just enjoy the beautiful view of the ocean from the cliff. The Dingli Cliffs also is a great place to watch the sunset.
