10 Smallest Countries in the World

If you are looking for some travel destinations that are small in size but big in charm, you might want to check out these 10 smallest countries in the world. These tiny nations are spread across different continents and oceans, but they all have one thing in common: they are packed with history, culture, and natural beauty.

Here are the 10 smallest countries in the world by total land area, according to the World Bank:

1. Vatican City (0.44 km2)

The smallest country in the world is also the spiritual center of the Roman Catholic Church. Located within Rome, Italy, Vatican City is home to the Pope, the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter's Basilica, and some of the world's most precious artworks and relics.

2. Monaco (2.02 km2)

The second-smallest country in the world is a glamorous playground for the rich and famous. Situated on the French Riviera, Monaco is known for its casinos, luxury hotels, yacht-filled harbor, and prestigious events like the Monaco Grand Prix and the Monte Carlo Casino.

3. Nauru (21 km2)

The third-smallest country in the world is a remote island nation in the Pacific Ocean. Once a prosperous phosphate mining country, Nauru has suffered from environmental degradation and economic decline. Today, it relies on foreign aid and hosts a controversial Australian immigration detention center.

4. Tuvalu (26 km2)

The fourth-smallest country in the world is another island nation in the Pacific Ocean. Tuvalu consists of nine coral atolls with pristine beaches, lagoons, and palm trees. It is also one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change and rising sea levels.

5. San Marino (61 km2)

The fifth-smallest country in the world is a landlocked enclave surrounded by Italy. San Marino claims to be the oldest surviving sovereign state and constitutional republic in the world, dating back to 301 AD. It has medieval architecture, a UNESCO World Heritage Site capital city, and its own stamps and coins.

6. Liechtenstein (160 km2)

The sixth-smallest country in the world is a landlocked principality between Switzerland and Austria. Liechtenstein is a prosperous and highly developed country with a low tax regime, a strong banking sector, and a high standard of living. It is also known for its castles, museums, and winter sports.

7. Marshall Islands (181 km2)

The seventh-smallest country in the world is a group of over 1,000 islands and islets in the Pacific Ocean. The Marshall Islands were once a nuclear testing site for the United States, which left behind a legacy of radiation and health problems. The country is now a member of the United Nations and a popular destination for scuba diving and fishing.

8. Saint Kitts and Nevis (261 km2)

The eighth-smallest country in the world is a twin-island federation in the Caribbean Sea. Saint Kitts and Nevis are known for their volcanic mountains, rainforests, sugar plantations, and sandy beaches. They are also home to some of the best-preserved colonial buildings and fortifications in the region.

9. Maldives (298 km2)

The ninth-smallest country in the world is an archipelago of over 1,000 islands in the Indian Ocean. The Maldives are famous for their turquoise waters, coral reefs, white sand beaches, and luxury resorts. They are also at risk of disappearing due to climate change and rising sea levels.

10. Malta (316 km2)

The tenth-smallest country in the world is an island nation in the Mediterranean Sea. Malta has a rich history that spans over 7,000 years and reflects its diverse influences from various civilizations. It has a vibrant culture, a UNESCO World Heritage Site capital city, and some of the oldest free-standing structures in the world.