In a world dominated by sprawling superpowers and expansive continents, there exist nations so small, they can fit into a single city neighbourhood - literally! These microstates may lack size, but they make up for it with rich culture, history, economic uniqueness, and even global influence.
From religious capitals to luxury havens, here's your ultimate guide to the smallest countries by area — with everything you need to know if you're a travel enthusiast, geography nerd, or just plain curious.
Top 10
| Country | Continent/Region | Area (sq mi) | Area (sq km) | Capital |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vatican City | Europe | 0.17 | 0.44 | Vatican City |
| Monaco | Europe | 0.8 | 2.1 | Monaco |
| Nauru | Oceania | 8 | 21 | Yaren (de facto) |
| Tuvalu | Oceania | 10 | 26 | Funafuti |
| San Marino | Europe | 24 | 61 | San Marino |
| Liechtenstein | Europe | 62 | 160 | Vaduz |
| Marshall Islands | Oceania | 70 | 181 | Majuro |
| Saint Kitts and Nevis | Caribbean | 102 | 263 | Basseterre |
| Maldives | South Asia | 114 | 298 | Malé |
| Malta | Europe | 122 | 315 | Valletta |
1. Vatican City – 0.17 sq mi (0.44 sq km)
Continent: Europe
Population: ~800
Currency: Euro (€)
Home to the Pope, Vatican City is the world’s smallest independent state, both in terms of population and size. This tiny country packs significant cultural, religious, and historical influence. Its main attractions include the Vatican Museums, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Sistine Chapel.
Extra Insight: Vatican City generates income from tourism, museum fees, and stamp sales.
2. Monaco – 0.8 sq mi (2.1 sq km)
Continent: Europe
Population: ~39,000
Currency: Euro (€)
Bordered by France and the Mediterranean Sea, Monaco is famous for its wealth, casinos, and the Monaco Grand Prix. It has no income tax, attracting wealthy residents and celebrities from across the globe.
Extra Insight: Monaco has the highest GDP per capita globally.
3. Nauru – 8 sq mi (21 sq km)
Continent: Oceania
Population: ~10,800
Currency: Australian Dollar (AUD)
Once rich from phosphate mining, Nauru now struggles economically. The country does not have an official capital, but the de facto capital is the Yaren district.
Extra Insight: Nauru has a 19 km road circling the country, which can be driven in under an hour.
4. Tuvalu – 10 sq mi (26 sq km)
Continent: Oceania
Population: ~11,200
Currency: Australian Dollar (AUD)
Tuvalu is an island nation comprising nine small islands in the Pacific Ocean. It is one of the most climate-threatened countries due to rising sea levels.
Extra Insight: Tuvalu generates income by leasing its ".tv" domain to video content providers.
5. San Marino – 24 sq mi (61 sq km)
Continent: Europe
Population: ~34,000
Currency: Euro (€)
San Marino is a landlocked microstate surrounded by Italy, known for its medieval architecture, fortresses, and its status as the world’s oldest surviving republic.
Extra Insight: San Marino has no national debt and a stable economy.
6. Liechtenstein – 62 sq mi (160 sq km)
Continent: Europe
Population: ~39,000
Currency: Swiss Franc (CHF)
Liechtenstein, a small principality between Switzerland and Austria, is known for its alpine landscapes, banking industry, and absence of a national airport.
Extra Insight: Liechtenstein has no airport. Travellers use Zurich Airport in Switzerland, 130 km away.
7. Marshall Islands – 70 sq mi (181 sq km)
Continent: Oceania
Population: ~42,000
Currency: U.S. Dollar (USD)
The Marshall Islands consist of over 1,000 small islands scattered across the Pacific Ocean. It has strong ties with the United States and faces challenges related to nuclear testing in the region.
Extra Insight: The Marshall Islands' economic zone covers a vast area of the Pacific Ocean.
8. Saint Kitts and Nevis – 102 sq mi (263 sq km)
Continent: Caribbean
Population: ~47,000
Currency: East Caribbean Dollar (XCD)
Saint Kitts and Nevis is a two-island nation known for its tropical beaches, volcanic mountains, and tourism-driven economy. It also offers a citizenship-by-investment program.
Extra Insight: Nevis is said to be the birthplace of U.S. founding father Alexander Hamilton.
9. Maldives – 114 sq mi (298 sq km)
Continent: Asia
Population: ~521,000
Currency: Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR)
The Maldives is an island paradise in the Indian Ocean, known for its stunning resorts and beautiful coral reefs. However, it is also highly vulnerable to climate change.
Extra Insight: The Maldives' average ground elevation is just 1.5 meters above sea level.
10. Malta – 122 sq mi (315 sq km)
Continent: Europe
Population: ~531,000
Currency: Euro (€)
Malta is a historic Mediterranean nation famous for its ancient ruins, British influences, and as a modern hub for digital nomads and expats.
Extra Insight: Malta is one of the oldest inhabited places in Europe, with settlements dating back to 5900 BC.
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About the Author:
Akanksha Sinha
I'm Akanksha Sinha, an expert in writing sports blogs, news, and various articles for entertainment and more. I bring a unique flair to my work, providing insightful perspectives on the world of sports.
My articles aim to inform and entertain, making me a go-to source for sports enthusiasts seeking a blend of information and enjoyment. With a passion for storytelling and a keen eye for detail, I consistently deliver compelling narratives that resonate with a diverse audience.
