Wondering where to go this summer? Dreaming about visiting unique destinations? About going somewhere you have never been before? How about visiting one of the smallest countries in the world!
If you dream about traveling to interesting destinations, one-of-a-kind places that make for a wonderful trip and a unique memory, then this article is for you.
If you are still searching where to go this summer travel off the beaten path and try visiting one of the smallest countries in the world.
Each with its own government, its own traditions, and its own culture, these small countries are some of the most fascinating places in the world.
Vatican City
With a tiny area of around 0.44 square kilometers, Vatican City is by far the smallest country in the world. And yet this small country is very much worth a visit.
Of course, the whole city can be toured in one day; that is why most people add the city on their trip to Italy.
Vatican City was declared an independent state in 1929. It is situated on the western bank of the Tiber River, and its 2-mile border is landlocked by Italy.
Of course, any trip to the Vatican is primarily a culture and art trip, the small country comprises one of the world’s greatest art collections.
Don’t forget to check the Vatican Museums. No one would think such a small country contains such a large museum; the massive museum complex occupies the 5.5-hectare Palazzo Apostolico Vaticano.
Monaco
With a total land area of only 2 square kilometers, Monaco is the second smallest country in the world.
It is also the world’s most densely populated country. However, most of this population is rich, which makes the small country home to the largest number of millionaires and billionaires in the world per capita.
Situated on the French Riviera, Monaco is bordered by the Mediterranean Sea on one side and by France on the other three sides.
One of the most fascinating tourist attractions in Monaco is the aquarium, Musée Océanographique de Monaco.
The aquarium houses around 90 tanks comprising a dazzling 450 the Mediterranean and tropical species, as well as stunning coral reefs.
Tuvalu
With a total area of 26 square kilometers, Tuvalu, formerly known as the Ellice Islands, is a tiny island that looks lost in the mighty Pacific Ocean northeast of Australia.
The incredible turquoise waters, the rich marine life, and the unbelievable quiet and serenity make the remote country worth visiting.
There aren’t many accommodation options in the tiny country, only one hotel, one lodge, one motel, and some family-run guesthouses. But there are, however, some restaurants which are mainly there to accommodate the 10,000 population of the country.
San Marino
With a total area of 61 square kilometers, San Marino, also known as the Most Serene Republic of San Marino, is landlocked by Italy.
It might be one of the smallest countries in the world, but San Marino is one of the wealthiest in terms of GDP per capita.
The country is positioned 657 meters above sea level, which provides outstanding views of the surrounding countryside and Adriatic coast.
The capital, San Marino, is the most beautiful though, even though the surrounding quaint villages are charming in their own way. The site “San Marino: Historic Centre and Mount Titano” has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage List in 2008.
Liechtenstein
With a total land area of 160 square kilometers, Liechtenstein is the richest country in the world by GDP per capita.
It is located between Switzerland and Austria and is the only nation in the world to be completely located in the Alps. Because of its small size and mountainous nature, Liechtenstein does not have an airport. You can only go there by bus from either Switzerland or Austria.
The small country is a haven for nature lovers; the picturesque green mountains, ancient castles, and small villages make this tine country something out of a fairy tale.
See also: Tourism in the Alps: what to do in Liechtenstein
Marshall Islands
Visiting this small country is a life goal for many divers! If you love diving this is where to go!
With a total area of 181 square kilometers, The Republic of the MarshalI Islands is considered to be part of Micronesia.
Approximately halfway between the US State of Hawaii and the continent of Australia, the area surrounding the island features exceptional biodiversity housing more than 800 species of fish and almost 160 kinds of coral.