GK: From Vatican City To Malta, Check List Of World’s Smallest Countries – News18

Last Updated:January 29, 2025, 11:07 IST

Size isn’t always the defining characteristic of a nation. In fact, some of the smallest countries are among the most fascinating travel destinations.

The world is home to 195 countries, each with vast areas, diverse natural wonders, climates, and ecosystems. However, some are so small that they are often overlooked in favour of their larger counterparts. Despite their modest size, these nations hold unique cultural and historical significance.

We have listed ten countries that, despite their small geographic size, each have distinctive characteristics and make a significant impact on the global economy. Here are the smallest nations in the world, arranged by area:

Vatican City (Southern Europe – 0.44 sq km)

Vatican City, the world’s smallest sovereign city-state, is the administrative and spiritual hub of the Roman Catholic Church, encircled by Rome. Spanning 44 hectares, it is home to around 800 people. Tourists visit famous sites like the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica.

Monaco (Southern Europe – 1.95 sq km)

Monaco, also known as the Principality of Monaco, is a city-state in Western Europe bordered by France and the Mediterranean Sea. It is the second-smallest country in the world, with a population of 39,000. Monaco is famous for its casinos, Grand Prix circuit, and views of the Mediterranean, drawing tourists with its old-world charm.

Nauru (Oceania – 21 sq km)

Nauru, the third-smallest country in the world, spans 21 square kilometres and is home to around 10,000 Nauruan descendants. The administrative centre is Yaren, which lacks an official capital. Nauru, founded over 3,000 years ago, is known for its tropical scenery and marine life. Visitors can explore coral reefs and palm tree-studded beaches.

Tuvalu (Oceania – 26 sq km)

Tuvalu, an island nation in the Pacific Ocean, has a population of about 11,000 and a land area of 26 square kilometres. Its capital is Funafuti. The country’s economy relies on remittances, international aid, and fisheries. Known for its serene beauty and strong sense of community, Tuvalu offers pristine beaches, colourful coral reefs, and warm Tuvaluan hospitality.

San Marino (Southern Europe – 61 sq km)

San Marino, located in northern Italy, is one of the world’s oldest and smallest republics. This 61-square-kilometre city is home to approximately 33,000 people and is known for its rich cultural heritage, quaint cobblestone streets, and medieval fortresses.

Liechtenstein (Western Europe – 160 sq km)

Liechtenstein, a small landlocked nation in Central Europe, is bordered by Austria and Switzerland. Covering 160 square kilometres and with a population of over 39,000, it is famous for its quaint villages and stunning Alpine scenery. Liechtenstein offers a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and touring medieval castles.

Marshall Islands (Oceania – 181 sq km)

The Marshall Islands, located in the central Pacific Ocean, consists of five islands and 29 atolls. With a total area of 181 square kilometres, the country is rich in history and culture. Visitors can explore WWII artefacts, dive among coral reefs, and experience traditional customs. Majuro is the capital.

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Saint Kitts and Nevis (Caribbean – 261 sq km)

Saint Kitts and Nevis, the Federation of Saint Christopher and Nevis, is a small independent nation in the West Indies with an area of 261 square kilometres and a population of about 53,000. The islands, famous for their pristine beaches, jungles, and rich colonial past, offer tourists a relaxed Caribbean atmosphere with quaint villages and water activities.

Maldives (Western Asia – 298 sq km)

The Republic of the Maldives, a tropical paradise in the Indian Ocean southwest of India and Sri Lanka, spans about 298 square kilometres. Known for its stunning beaches, azure lagoons, and luxurious overwater bungalows, the Maldives offers sunset cruises, coral reef diving, and exclusive resorts on its 1,000+ coral islands. Malé is the capital.

Malta (Southern Europe – 316 sq km)

Malta, a small island republic in the Mediterranean Sea, is known for its sophisticated economy and strategic location. Its capital, Valletta, is the smallest in the EU. Famous for its historic ruins, Baroque architecture, and turquoise waters, Malta’s economy is largely tourism-based, attracting visitors and expats alike. Besides swimming in its coves and sampling Maltese cuisine, visitors can explore UNESCO World Heritage sites.