Usually we choose larger and more famous countries for travel. After all, a wide range of activities, modern infrastructure and amenities for tourists are concentrated in large tourist countries. However, there are many small countries in the world that you can fall in love with. We talk about the 10 smallest countries in the world that are worth visiting

Most tourists, when planning a vacation, usually choose large countries due to the large number of attractions, modern infrastructure and popularity. However, there are many small countries in the world, a trip to which will surely impress the most demanding researchers.

Did you know about the smallest country in the world, which is visited by 5 million tourists every year? Or about a country that in 2023 is ruled by a royal family living in a castle on a hill? These pearls are hidden on the world map and are ready to invite tourists on a fabulous journey.

Due to its small size, it is possible to explore the main sights of some states even in one day. Therefore, tourists will be able to discover one of these wonderful countries even next weekend.

What are these places? We will tell you more about the 10 smallest countries in the world that are worth visiting in 2023/2024.

Vatican

Area: 0.5 km²;

Population: 800 people;

Nearest airport: Leonardo da Vinci International Airport (FCO), Rome, Italy.

The Vatican is the smallest country in the world in terms of area and population, which receives about 5 million tourists every year. The state is also known as a "city within a city", because it is an enclave in the center of the Italian capital - Rome. Although the Vatican is not a member of the UN, it is widely recognized as an independent country.

Most tourists come to the Vatican to see the beautiful St. Peter's Basilica, an architectural gem of the Renaissance, as well as the incredible collections of the Vatican Museums. It is also here that the Sistine Chapel is located, which is famous for its frescoes on the ceiling.

It is worth noting that the Vatican is the main place for Christian pilgrims from all over the world, because the country is the residence of the Pope.

What to see?

- Saint Peter's Basilica

- Vatican Museums

- Castle of Saint Angel

- St. Peter's Square

- Gardens of the Vatican

- Vatican Apostolic Library

Monaco

Area: 2 km²;

Population: 39,250;

Nearest airport: Nice - Cote d'Azur Airport (NCE), Nice, France.

Thanks to its favorable tax environment, Monaco has long been a favorite among the rich and famous from around the world. It is here that Europe's largest casinos are located, and the most influential entrepreneurs and stars rest on yachts near the shore. World-famous restaurants and night clubs, the world's most famous casino and exclusive shops operate in the state. The Formula 1 Grand Prix is also held in Monaco.

What to see?

- Princely Palace of Monaco

- Casino Monte Carlo

- Oceanographic Museum

- Gardens of Saint Martin

- Casino Square

Nauru

Area: 21 km²;

Population: 10,900 people;

Nearest airport: Nauru International Airport (INU), Nauru.

Nauru is a land of tradition and history, located near Kiribati and the Solomon Islands. Once inhabited by Polynesian explorers, these places are now one of the world's best vacation spots.

Nauru is a stunning island surrounded by coral reefs. To enjoy the beauty of this place, swim in the waters of the Pacific Ocean. Lovers of hiking are advised to take a walk to the Command Ridge.

What to see?

- Mokva well

- Anibare Bay

- Laguna Buada

- Nauru Museum

Tuvalu

Area: 26 km²;

Population: 11,800 people;

Nearest airport: Funafuti International Airport (FUN), Tuvalu.

Tuvalu is an incredibly beautiful country, which is mainly made up of corals, which provide the environment for the island's rich biodiversity. The most popular activities among visitors to Tuvalu are snorkeling and diving. In the capital, you can also buy products of traditional local crafts.

What to see?

- Funafuti

- Marine reserve

- Nanumanga

- Locations of World War II aircraft wreckage

- Philatelic Bureau of Tuvalu

San Marino

Area: 61 km²;

Population: 34,000 people;

The nearest airport: Airport named after Federico Fellini (RMI), Rimini, Italy.

San Marino is located on the northeastern slope of the Apennine Mountains and is landlocked. The country gained independence thanks to many treaties, including the Convention of Friendship, which the country signed in 1862 with the Kingdom of Italy.

Today, San Marino is often called one of the richest countries in the world. Tourism makes a significant contribution to its economy, because the country is rich in historical and architectural monuments.

What to see?

- Rocca Guayta

- Mount Titano

- Palazzo Publico and Piazza della Liberta

- Basilica of San Marino

- Museum of culture and traditions of agriculture

- Ferrari Museum in Maranello Rosso

Liechtenstein

Area: 160 km²;

Population: 38,200 people;

Nearest airport: Zurich (ZRH), Switzerland.

Liechtenstein is located on the banks of the Rhine River, between Austria and Switzerland. The sixth smallest country in the world, which will surprise and amaze travelers with the beauty of its mountains, as well as the last remnants of the Holy Roman Empire.

The country is still ruled by the Liechtenstein family, which lives in a castle on a hill.

Wine connoisseurs can enjoy tasting local drinks in princely wine cellars here. In addition, it is worth paying attention to the Liechtenstein Treasury Museum, the Liechtenstein National Museum and the Cathedral of St. Florin.

The country is also a paradise for skiers. Beautiful alpine nature, steep peaks, perfect slopes and excellent infrastructure will give you a fantastic vacation in Liechtenstein at any time of the year.

What to see?

- The capital of Vaduz

- Chamber of treasures

- Art Museum of Liechtenstein

- Gutenberg Castle

- The cities of Nendeln and Eschen

- The city of Shaan

St. Kitts and Nevis

Area: 261 km²;

Population: 53,200 people;

Nearest airport: Robert Llewellyn Bradshaw International Airport (SKB), St. Kitts.

The Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis is a small Caribbean island nation filled with history, entertainment, beaches and fantastic mountain peaks. This island once survived at the expense of the tobacco and sugar industries. Currently, the main economic source of the state's life is tourism.

If you're more into history and culture, visit Brimstone Hill Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or Romney Manor. For the more adventurous, hike the crater of Mount Liamuiga or go scuba diving in Frigate Bay.

The country also offers a lively nightlife, numerous entertainment and a variety of restaurants.

What to see?

- Brimston Hill Fortress National Park

- Old treasury building and museum

- The Romeiv Manor

- Fairview Great House and Botanical Gardens

- Independence Square

- Old Road Bay

Maldives

Area: 300 km²;

Population: 540,500 people;

Nearest airport: Male Velana International Airport (MLE), Maldives.

Maldives is called "paradise on earth". The country consists of 26 coral atolls, which are divided into 200 inhabited islands and 80 with tourist resorts.

The Maldives Islands offer a variety of activities such as deep sea fishing, scuba diving, snorkeling, cooking classes, non-motorized water sports and relaxing massages at the spa. White sand beaches and crystal blue water make the Maldives an ideal vacation destination. Search for a guide to the Maldives for 2023-2024 at the link. How to plan the perfect trip to the Maldives, we told earlier.

What to see?

- Little

- Hulhumale Island

- Maafushi

- Uteem

- Feidu

- Banana reef

Malta

Area: 316 km²;

Population: 525,285 people;

Nearest airport: Malta Luqa International Airport (MLA), Malta.

Malta is an ideal place for a seaside holiday, as the country has almost 300 sunny days a year. The state also has a fascinating history, many ancient temples and fortresses. Valletta - the smallest capital in the EU is the only capital where the entire city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Beautiful beaches and clear water ensure peace and relaxation. Many festivals are also held on the island.

What to see?

- Valletta is the capital of Malta

- Gozo Island

- The medieval city of Mdina on top of a hill

- Casa Bernard and Domvs Roman Museum in Rabat

- Hal Saflieni

Grenada

Area: 344 km²;

Population: 113,000 people;

Nearest airport: Maurice Bishop International Airport (GND), Grenada.

The island of Grenada, known as the Spices, is home to exotic plants, flowers and an abundance of spice trees. The country is also a major supplier of nutmeg, cloves, ginger, cinnamon and cocoa. The island offers its visitors lush green rainforests with colorful hillside towns, towering waterfalls, cascading rivers and breathtaking mountain lakes, white sand beaches, the first underwater sculpture museum and rum winery tours. Visitors can also enjoy authentic fairs and festivals with fresh seafood, live music and lots of parties

What to see?

- Grand Anse beach

- Morne Rouge beach

- Concord Falls

- Annandale Falls and Forest Park

- Belmont Estate

The smallest countries in the world can amaze and surprise even the most demanding travelers, so we advise you to pay attention to our list when planning your next vacation.

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