In a world where nations span vast territories and comprise millions of square kilometers, the smallest countries in the world provide a captivating contrast.
These microstates or small countries, which can sometimes be no more than a single city or even a tiny island, are remarkable. Despite their small size, these small nations teem up with intriguing cultures, histories, and landscapes.
The world’s smallest countries possess a fascination that surpasses their actual size, from the venerated majesty of Vatican City to the picturesque island charm of Malta.
Therefore, on this list of the top 10 smallest countries in the world, we will delve into the fantastic mosaic of these little countries and learn about their geographic characteristics, demography, and cultural diversity.
What is the smallest country in the world?
Vatican City is the smallest country in the world, with an area size of 0.19 square miles. It is an independent city-state enclaved within Rome, Italy. This country has a population of about 800 people and is home to the spiritual and administrative headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church.
Quickly: What is the smallest state in the US by area?
What are the top 10 smallest countries in the world?
The smallest countries in the world are just a few of the top locations to enjoy vacations around the world. Despite their small landmasses, the geographical diversity of the smallest nations is frequently surprising. Without any further ado, these are the smallest countries in the world.
| # | Country | Area Size (Square Miles) |
| 1. | Vatican City | 0.19 |
| 2. | Monaco | 0.78 |
| 3. | Nauru | 8.1 |
| 4. | Tuvalu | 10 |
| 5. | San Marino | 24 |
| 6. | Liechtenstein | 62 |
| 7. | Marshall Islands | 70 |
| 8. | Saint Kitts and Nevis | 101 |
| 9. | Maldives | 120 |
| 10. | Malta | 122 |
1. Vatican City – (0.19 square miles).
The smallest independent state in the world, Vatican City, is situated in Rome, Italy. It is also the spiritual and governing center of the Roman Catholic Church, covering 0.19 square miles (0.49 square kilometers) of land. The Vatican City State is an ecclesiastical or sacerdotal-monarchical state under the control of the Holy See, with the Pope as its head and the bishop of Rome.
Vatican City is home to prominent sites like the Vatican Museums, which house a significant collection of works of art and historical artifacts, including the Sistine Chapel, which Michelangelo painted and is the most enormous Christian chapel in the world, and St. Peter’s Basilica. Not only is Vatican City an important religious destination, but it is also a vital cultural and historical location.
2. Monaco – (0.78 square miles).
Monaco, formally the Principality of Monaco, is a sovereign city-state on the French Riviera known for its high-class lifestyle and glamorous image. It is approximately 0.78 square miles (2.02 square kilometers) in size, making it the second-smallest country in the world after Vatican City.
Even though Monaco is small, it is a center for high-end tourism worldwide. It has many casinos, high-end resorts, and yearly events like the Formula One Grand Prix race. Luxurious mansions like the Prince’s Palace, which looks out over the Mediterranean Sea, are also in the country.
Monaco’s wealth and tax advantages make it a desirable place to live for the wealthy. The principality is home to 38,682 people, of whom 9,486 are Monégasque nationals; it is widely regarded as one of the world’s most expensive and affluent locations.
3. Nauru – (8.1 square miles).
Nauru is a country on an island in the southwest Pacific Ocean. It is made up of a high coral island that is 25 miles (40 km) south of the Equator in the southeastern part of Micronesia. It covers about 8.1 square miles (21 square kilometers), making it the third-smallest country by area size.
Once, Nauru was known for its large amounts of phosphate, which kept its economy going. But the loss of these tools has made things hard for the economy. The country has tropical plants, coral reefs, and beautiful sandy beaches that make up its scenery. Nauru is known for its unique birds and marine life. This makes it a place that nature lovers and scuba swimmers might want to visit.
4. Tuvalu – (10 square miles).
In the western central Pacific Ocean is Tuvalu, formerly the Ellice Islands. It is an isolated archipelago in the Pacific Ocean made up of nine coral atolls. Tuvalu is one of the tiniest countries in the world, with a total land area of just 26 square kilometers (10 square miles).
Tuvalu actively participates in international efforts to prevent climate change while also dealing with the issues posed by rising sea levels. Visitors looking for a private tropical retreat are drawn to Tuvalu by its immaculate beaches, blue oceans, and vivid coral reefs.
The Island country also attracts travelers looking for an adventure off the main road because of its rich Polynesian culture, welcoming people, and relaxed way of life. The largest city in this country is the city of Funafuti, which serves as its capital.
5. San Marino – (24 square miles).
Officially called the Republic of San Marino, San Marino is a small country wholly encircled by Italy. It is one of the smallest countries in Europe, with an area of only 24 square miles (61 square kilometers).
Saint Marinus, a stonemason from the then-Roman island of Rab in modern-day Croatia, is the source of the nation’s name. With origins in the third century, San Marino claims to be the oldest constitutional republic and sovereign state still in existence. Visitors can get a taste of the exquisite medieval architecture of the nation, especially the Three Towers of San Marino.
Also, San Marino’s hilly terrain gives visitors great views of the area around it. Tourists worldwide come to the country for its lively events, delicious food, and duty-free shopping.
The main parts of the country’s economy are banking, industry, services, retail, and tourism. It has a per capita GDP comparable to the most developed European regions, making it one of the wealthiest countries in the world.
6. Liechtenstein – (62 square miles).
German-speaking Liechtenstein, often known as the Principality of Liechtenstein, is a microstate sandwiched between Switzerland and Austria. It is the sixth smallest country in the world, with a total land area of about 62 square miles (160 square kilometers). Liechtenstein is renowned for its rugged terrain, charming towns, and intact medieval fortifications.
Its capital is Vaduz, and Schaan is the largest of its eleven municipalities. The Vaduz Castle and the Kunstmuseum Liechtenstein, which has a noteworthy collection of modern and contemporary art, are only two of the attractions that Vaduz has to offer in terms of historical and contemporary attractions. Liechtenstein is a small country, yet it has a robust economy and an adequate quality of living.
7. Marshall Islands – (70 square miles).
The Marshall Islands is also one of the smallest countries in the world, and it is situated in the Pacific Ocean. It comprises five single islands and 29 reef atolls and takes up about 70 square miles of land. The Marshall Islands were important in World War II, and the lost ships of Kwajalein Atoll are places people go to learn about their history.
The country’s turquoise lagoons, coral reefs, and white sand beaches make it a popular place for people who like to dive, swim, and do other water sports. The Marshall Islands also maintain their distinctive cultural history, including generations-old customs, arts, and crafts.
8. Saint Kitts and Nevis – (101 square miles).
Saint Kitts and Nevis, also known as Saint Christopher and Nevis, is a state made up of two islands in the eastern Caribbean Sea’s Lesser Antilles.
It is the smallest sovereign state in the Americas in terms of both geographical area and population, with a surface area of 101 square miles (261 square kilometers). Basseterre, located on the larger island of Saint Kitts, is a metropolis. Basseterre is also the primary gateway for cruise ship passengers and cargo.
The islands feature beautiful coastlines, verdant rainforests, and rich colonial history. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park is a testament to the country’s past.
Saint Kitts and Nevis is an attractive travel destination due to its laid-back and hospitable ambiance and its activities, such as snorkeling, hiking, and discovering the vibrant local culture.
9. Maldives – (120 square miles).
Maldives ranks as the ninth-smallest nation in the world, with a total area of 120 square miles. Also known as the Maldives Islands, Maldives is an independent island nation in the northern Indian Ocean.
The country is well known for its stunning natural surroundings, which include beautiful white-sand beaches, glistening waterways, and bright coral reefs. The Maldives, comprised of 26 atolls and more than 1,000 coral islands, provide a paradise-like backdrop for leisure activities, water sports, and underwater research.
Luxury hotels and overwater villas draw honeymooners and discriminating tourists looking for a private hideaway. The location and Islamic customs of the Maldives have shaped its culture, which gives it a unique flavor for tourists.
10. Malta – (122 square miles).
Malta, or the Republic of Malta, is an island nation in Southern Europe that is situated in the Mediterranean Sea. This country is both small and densely populated. Its land area measures 122 square miles (316 square kilometers), making it one of the smallest countries in the world.
The nation’s history spans several millennia and is filled with various fascinating architectural wonders. These include ancient temples, Roman ruins, medieval fortifications, and Baroque architecture. Valletta, the country’s capital, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to notable buildings such as the Grand Master’s Palace and St. John’s Co-Cathedral.
Malta has historically served as a strategic naval hub because of its position. The country offers a wide range of historical landmarks that you can visit and explore. Additionally, you can enjoy a vibrant nightlife scene that is full of excitement and entertainment.
There are also beautiful beaches where you can relax, soak up the sun, and explore several delicious Mediterranean cuisines that will satisfy your taste buds.
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Conclusion
Even though these countries are small, they have unique cultural, historical, and natural features that make them attractive to people worldwide. Each of these smallest countries has something special to offer travelers. And visitors seeking enriching experiences ranging from religious significance to natural beauty.
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