20 Most Beautiful Smallest Countries in the World

There are several contenders for the world’s most beautiful smallest countries. These small countries have much to offer travellers, from magnificent natural scenery to fascinating mediaeval towns. So, which small country in the world is the most beautiful? Let’s take a deeper look at some of the leading contenders.

Starting with the smallest country in the world, Vatican City is a must-see for anybody interested in art, history, or religion. Despite its small size, this tiny city-state is home to some of the world’s most recognisable structures, including St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel.

Monaco is another lovely tiny country noted for its elegant lifestyle and breathtaking vistas of the Mediterranean Sea. It is one of the smallest countries in the world by population, with just over 39,000 people, but it is crammed with luxury hotels, premium boutiques, and world-class restaurants.

Nauru, on the other side, is one of the world’s tiniest and most remote countries, located in the Pacific Ocean. While it does not have the same level of luxury as Monaco, it does have some of the most beautiful beaches and coral reefs in the world.

San Marino is a landlocked microstate surrounded by Italy. It is a favourite destination for history fans and architecture enthusiasts, thanks to its winding alleyways and mediaeval castles. Liechtenstein, located between Switzerland and Austria, is another gorgeous microstate noted for its stunning Alpine scenery.

Other contenders for the title of the most beautiful smallest country in the world include Andorra, a mountainous principality located between France and Spain; Malta, an archipelago in the Mediterranean Sea known for its ancient ruins and crystal-clear waters; and Seychelles, a group of islands in the Indian Ocean known for some of the world’s most beautiful beaches.

Tuvalu, Palau, Marshall Islands, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Dominica, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Grenada, and the Maldives are other small but beautiful countries. Each country has something unique and beautiful to offer, whether a pristine tropical island or a charming colonial town.

List of 20 most beautiful smallest countries in the World:

Rank	Country	Total Area	Population
1	Vatican City	0.49 km2 (0.19 mi2)	825
2	Monaco	2.02 km2 (0.78 mi2)	36,686
3	Naura	21 km2 (8.1 mi2)	12,511
4	Tuvala	26 km2 (10 mi2)	11,204
5	San Marino	61 km2 (24 mi2)	34,133
6	Liechtenstein	160 km2 (62 mi2)	38,437
7	Marshall Islands	181 km2 (70 mi2)	60,320
8	Saint Kitts and Nevis	261 km2 (101 mi2)	54,263
9	Maldives	300 km2 (120 mi2)	5,67,491
10	Malta	316 km2 (122 mi2)	4,44,867
11	Grenada	344 km2 (133 mi2)	1,13,997
12	Saint Vincent and the Grenadines	389 km2 (150 mi2)	1,11,936
15	Seychelles	452 km2 (175 mi2)	1,00,069
16	Palau	459 km2 (177 mi2)	18,338
17	Andorra	468 km2 (181 mi2)	77,614
18	Saint Lucia	616 km2 (238 mi2)	1,86,000
21	Tonga	747 km2 (288 mi2)	1,09,084
22	Dominica	751 km2 (290 mi2)	72,491
23	Bahrain	778 km2 (300 mi2)	18,69,192
25	São Tomé and Príncipe	964 km2 (372 mi2)	2,30,679

1- Vatican City – 0.49 km²:

Vatican City, officially known as the Vatican City State, is the smallest country in the world in terms of both population and land. It is an independent city-state bordered by Rome, Italy. Vatican City is the spiritual and administrative capital of the Roman Catholic Church, and it is home to the Pope and many of the world’s most prominent religious institutions.

With a population of just over 800 people, Vatican City is the smallest country in the world by population. Its overall area encompasses only 0.17 square miles, making it the smallest country in the world by area as well. Despite its tiny size, Vatican City is rich in history, culture, and beauty.

2. Monaco – 2.02 km²:

Monaco, or the Principality of Monaco, is a tiny yet stunning nation on the southern coast of France. With a total land area of only 0.78 square miles, it is the second-smallest country in the world. Monaco is a tiny country, but it has some of the world’s most stunning sights.

The Monte Carlo Casino opened in 1863 and is a major tourist destination in Monaco. The casino’s reputation for glitz and glamour comes from its grand design and lavish furnishings. Visitors worldwide continue to flock to Monaco’s casino, making it one of the principal tourist attractions there.

3. Nauru – 21 km²:

Nauru, or the Republic of Nauru as it is formally known, is a group of islands in the Pacific Ocean. With a total land size of about 8.1 square miles, it is commonly considered one of the world’s tiniest countries. Nauru is also one of the smallest countries in the world, with a population of 10,000 people.

Nauru’s huge phosphate reserves earned it the title of “richest country in the world” when first discovered and began to be mined for export. Unfortunately, after these resources were depleted, the country’s economy plummeted. The modern economy of Nauru has been supported primarily by visitor spending and overseas funding.

4. Tuvalu– 26 km²:

Tuvalu is a Polynesian island nation in the Pacific Ocean, midway between Hawaii and Australia. It is one of the smallest and most remote countries in the world, with a geographical area of about 26 square kilometres and a population of around 12,000.

The nine small coral atolls that make up the country are barely a few metres above sea level, rendering them extremely vulnerable to climate change and rising sea levels.

The economy of Tuvalu is highly dependent on both international aid and remittances from expatriate Tuvaluans. The economy also benefits somewhat from fishing and tourism. Divers and beachgoers go to the country to enjoy its stunning shores and tranquil lagoons.

5. San Marino – 61 km²:

San Marino is a small nation in the very centre of Italy. Little over 61 square kilometres in size, with a population of over 34,000, makes it one of the world’s smallest countries. San Marino is a little European country, yet it is home to some of the continent’s most stunning landmarks and fascinating history.

The hilltop historic district of San Marino, which overlooks the rest of the country, is a major tourist draw. The city centre is home to many significant sites and monuments, including the seat of government at the Palazzo Pubblico and the country’s most prominent church, the Basilica di San Marino.

6. Liechtenstein – 160 km²:

Liechtenstein is a tiny country in central Europe that can only be reached by land. Liechtenstein, a tiny European country, has a high standard of living and a booming economy that places it among the world’s most fortunate nations. Liechtenstein, with 62 square miles, is the sixth-smallest country in the world and the fourth-smallest in Europe.

Vaduz Castle, the former home of the Prince of Liechtenstein, is one of the most stunning buildings in the entire country. The castle, located on a mountaintop above Vaduz, the nation’s capital, is a sight to behold. The Gutenberg Castle in the lovely town of Balzers dates back to the 12th century and is another notable sight in Liechtenstein.

7. Marshall Islands – 181 km²:

Located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean between Hawaii and Australia is the tiny nation of the Marshall Islands. Only 181 square kilometres of land are available across the country’s 29 coral atolls and 5 single islands.

The Marshall Islands may be relatively small, but their long and varied history of colonization by countries as diverse as Spain, Germany, Japan, and the United States belies their modest size.

The Marshall Islands are an independent nation of about 59,000 inhabitants today. Foreign aid and subsistence farming/fishing drive the economy. The United States maintains a military post on the Kwajalein Atoll; hence a sizeable contingent of American service members also calls this country home.

8. Saint Kitts And Nevis – 261 km²:

Saint Kitts and Nevis is a small island nation in the Caribbean Sea, just southeast of Puerto Rico. Saint Kitts and Nevis, the country’s two principal islands, with a combined land size of just 261 square kilometres. Saint Kitts and Nevis is a little country, but it has a long and interesting history as a French and British colony that ended with independence in 1983.

There are currently roughly 55,000 people living in the country, and its economy is diversified across several sectors, including tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing. Tourists worldwide flock to the country to enjoy its stunning beaches and verdant tropical woods.

9. Maldives – 300 km²:

The Maldives are a group of islands off the southwest coast of India and Sri Lanka in the Indian Ocean. With approximately 298 square kilometres of land, the country comprises 26 atolls and over 1,000 coral islands. The Maldives may be a relatively small archipelago, but its pristine beaches, turquoise oceans, and rich marine life have made it a tourist hotspot.

However, the Maldives’ low-lying geography also presents challenges. Most of the country’s islands are only a few feet above sea level, making them extremely susceptible to climate change consequences, including increasing sea levels and more frequent and severe weather events.

10. Malta – 316 km²:

The little country of Malta can be found in the southern part of the Mediterranean Sea, not far from Italy. Malta, Gozo, and Comino are the three main islands that make up the country. Valletta, the nation’s capital, is a cultural and architectural hotspot. Tourism, the financial sector, and industry all contribute significantly to Malta’s GDP.

Malta’s many museums and historical landmarks attest to the island nation’s extensive cultural legacy. UNESCO World Heritage sites like the ancient walled city of Mdina and the Megalithic Temples of Malta are among the country’s most popular tourist destinations. The island nation of Malta is well-known for its stunning beaches, pristine waterways, and exciting nightlife.

11. Grenada – 344 km²:

Grenada is a small island nation in the eastern Caribbean Sea. Three major islands make up Grenada: Grenada, Carriacou, and Petite Martinique. St. George’s is the island nation’s administrative hub. The agricultural sector, the tourism industry, and the light manufacturing sector drive Grenada’s economy.

Grenada’s beaches, waterfalls, and rainforests are among its most recognisable features. The country’s beaches, snorkelling and diving spots, and historical landmarks like Fort George in St. George’s are among the most popular draws for visitors. The cuisine of Grenada is also well-known for its extensive use of spices, most notably nutmeg.

12. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines – 389 km²:

A group of islands in the southern Caribbean Sea form the country of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. There are more than 30 tiny islands and cays that makeup Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

Kingstown, on the island of Saint Vincent, serves as the nation’s capital. Agriculture, tourism, and some light manufacturing are the pillars of Saint Vincent and the Grenadine’s economy.

Natural beauty abounds in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, from its verdant rainforests to its pristine beaches and colourful coral reefs. The beaches, waterfalls, and trails in this nation are all major draws for vacationers. Bequia, one of the Grenadine Islands, has become a favourite destination for yachting lovers due to its rich sailing tradition.

13. Seychelles – 452 km²:

Seychelles is an archipelago in the Indian Ocean, off the coast of East Africa. It consists of 115 islands. One of the smallest countries in Africa, its population is barely over 98,000. The beautiful beaches, pristine waters, and abundant marine life in Seychelles make it a popular destination for those who enjoy snorkelling and scuba diving.

The cultures of the French, British, and African diasporas have all left their mark on Seychelles’ distinctive way of life. Creole, English, and French are the official languages, and the food is influenced by all three as well as French techniques and Indian spices.

The high standard of living in Seychelles is due in great part to the country’s thriving tourist, fishing, and spice and essential oil export industries.

14. Palau – 459 km²:

Palau is a group of islands in the western Pacific. It is a cluster of islands in the region of Micronesia, and its population is nearly 21,000. Palau is a popular vacation spot due to its beautiful beaches, clear oceans, and abundant marine life.

Palau’s political system is one of a kind, thanks to the “Compact of Free Association,” which guarantees the country’s autonomy while allowing the United States to continue providing defense and development aid.

The government has taken precautions to conserve its natural resources and ensure sustainable growth, as tourism and fishing are the primary drivers of the economy.

15. Andorra – 468 km² :

Andorra is a small landlocked country located in the Pyrenees Mountains between Spain and France. It is one of the smallest countries in Europe, with just more than 77,000 inhabitants.

The beautiful mountains, valleys, and lakes in Andorra draw many nature lovers and adventurers to the country. Because of its status as a tax haven, it is frequently visited by those seeking to purchase high-end items at a discount.

Despite its small size, Andorra has a rich culture and history. Catalan and Spanish are the country’s official languages, and French and Spanish culinary traditions may be tasted in the country’s food. Andorra’s excellent standard of living is due in large part to the country’s thriving tourist, financial, and commercial sectors.

16. Saint Lucia – 616 km²:

Saint Lucia is a small island nation in the eastern Caribbean Sea. Saint Vincent, a smaller island to the north, and Saint Lucia comprise the country. Castries is the capital and largest city of Saint Lucia. The tourist industry, agriculture, and a small manufacturing sector support Saint Lucia’s economy.

Saint Lucia is known for its natural beauty, including its lush rainforests, coral reefs, and beaches. Tourists flock to the country’s beaches, wildlife reserves, and historic landmarks like the Pitons, recognized as cultural and natural treasures by UNESCO.

Saint Lucia’s music, dancing, and food reflect the island’s rich cultural history. Creole food, which visitors enjoy, combines flavors from Africa, France, and the Caribbean.

17. Tonga – 747 km²:

There are more than 170 islands that make up the Polynesian nation of Tonga in the South Pacific Ocean, but only 36 of them are inhabited. It is one of the smallest countries in the world, with a population of just more than 100 thousand. Tonga is well-known for its beautiful beaches, pristine oceans, and extensive cultural history.

Tonga’s music, dancing, and food are distinctive, with strong Polynesian roots. Although English is widely spoken, Tongan is the official language. Coconuts, bananas, and vanilla all play important roles in Tonga’s economy, which relies heavily on agriculture. Because of its striking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, the country’s tourism industry is booming.

18. Dominica – 751 km2:

Dominica is a small island nation in the Caribbean Sea, and it is well-known for its beautiful natural scenery, which includes lush woods, cascading waterfalls, and steaming hot springs.

It is one of the least populous countries in the Caribbean, with only slightly more than 71,000 people calling it home. Dominica’s music, dancing, and food reflect a fusion of African, European, and indigenous influences.

The agricultural sector is vital to Dominica’s economy, with bananas being the primary export item. Natural attractions and exciting outdoor pursuits like hiking, scuba diving, and whale watching have contributed to the country’s burgeoning tourism economy.

19. Bahrain- 778 km²:

Bahrain is a small island country in the Persian Gulf, known for its rich history and modern economy. Only slightly more than 1.7 million people live there, making it one of the smallest countries in the Middle East. A fusion of Arabic, Persian, and Indian cultures may be seen in Bahrain’s lively music, dancing, and cuisine.

Oil and natural gas production, along with the banking and tourist industries, form the backbone of Bahrain’s economy. There are numerous five-star hotels, modern shopping centres, and historical and cultural landmarks to visit in this country.

20. São Tomé and Príncipe – 964 km²:

São Tomé and Príncipe is a small island nation located off the west coast of Africa, in the Gulf of Guinea. It has two main islands, São Tomé and Príncipe, and several smaller islands. About 220,000 people call this tiny country home. It is renowned for its verdant rainforests, beautiful beaches, and thriving culture.

São Tomé and Príncipe was a Portuguese colony until gaining independence in 1975. Agricultural exports like cocoa and coffee are vital to the country’s economy. The government recognizes the potential economic benefits of sustainable tourism and has taken action to encourage its growth.