By: Heather Keys
You know the big players on the world map – countries like China, Australia, Brazil, the USA…but what about the nations so tiny they could fit inside your hometown? Some of these places have populations smaller than a quaint beachside tourist town, but they’ve got their own governments and currencies.
From island nations threatened by rising seas to mountain microstates banking billions, these tiny countries pack a ton of personality into impossibly small spaces.
Ready to test your knowledge of the world’s most overlooked nations? Let’s see how many of these pint-sized powerhouses you know!
Tuvalu
Photo by Winston Chen on Unsplash
Location: Pacific Ocean, between Hawaii and Australia
Population: ~10,000
Fun Fact: Leasing its .tv domain name provides a huge chunk of Tuvalu’s national income!
Halfway between Hawaii and Australia lies one of the world’s smallest and least-visited nations, with a total population that would barely fill an arena. This island nation buzzes with community spirit and delivers gorgeous waters, but its remote location means only the most dedicated travelers make the journey.
Tuvalu faces serious challenges from rising sea levels threatening its low-lying islands. The country’s small size and isolation make traditional tourism difficult, but its untouched beaches, clear lagoons, and welcoming communities create a tiny paradise for those who venture there.
Nauru
Photo by Winston Chen on Unsplash
Location: Micronesia, Pacific Ocean
Population: ~12,000
Fun Fact: Nauru is the only country in the world without an official capital!
Nauru defines “blink-and-you-miss-it” destinations. With no official capital and the smallest island area of any country, Nauru has a unique story shaped by its rich phosphate deposits, which once made it one of the wealthiest places on Earth per capita.
Today, Nauru faces depleted resources and environmental damage, resulting in minimal tourism. Yet its beautiful waters and tight-knit community create a rare, off-the-beaten-path experience for travelers who want to visit a place few people have seen.
San Marino
Photo by Philip Myrtorp on Unsplash
Location: Enclave within Italy
Population: ~34,000
Fun Fact: Widely considered to be the oldest republic in the world!
Tucked just inside Italy’s northeastern coast, San Marino is possibly the world’s oldest continuously existing republic, with its founding dating back to 301 CE. This microstate is home to medieval castles and storybook streets, attracting visitors from around Italy and beyond for duty-free shopping, in particular. Though small, San Marino has protected its independence over centuries and maintains its own government and laws.
Liechtenstein
Photo by Henrique Ferreira on Unsplash
Location: Between Switzerland and Austria
Population: ~40,000
Fun Fact: One of the wealthiest countries per capita – and has no military of its own!
Located between Switzerland and Austria, Liechtenstein is a mountainous paradise that, despite its small size, ranks among the wealthiest countries in the world per capita, primarily due to its thriving finance and banking sector. Liechtenstein’s alpine views and hiking trails attract outdoor enthusiasts from around the world, while its tax haven status entices international finance.
Monaco
Photo by Rishi Jhajharia on Unsplash
Location: French Riviera
Population: ~39,000
Fun Fact: Monaco spans only 2.1 square kilometers but is home to some incredibly high-end shopping, luxury hotels, and casinos!
This small city-state on the French Riviera is an absolute playground for the wealthy – known for its Grand Prix, luxury casinos, and endless yachts, Monaco delivers high-life experiences in a tiny package.
Tourism thrives here, with visitors coming to spot celebrities on the regular. With close ties to France, Monaco exemplifies small-state diplomacy and independence, demonstrating that you don’t need a massive territory to live large.
Andorra
Photo by Sante Capobianco on Unsplash
Location: Pyrenees Mountains, between France and Spain
Population: ~81,000
Fun Fact: Andorra has no airport, but it does have three private heliports!
High in the Pyrenees Mountains between France and Spain, Andorra creates a scenic haven for skiers, hikers, and shoppers. Known for its beautiful landscapes and duty-free shopping, this quirky country is governed by two co-princes: the French president and a Spanish bishop.
Andorra’s economy relies heavily on tourism and retail, thanks to its scenic location and tax-free shopping. Popular ski resorts and nature trails bring in visitors, while its political arrangement remains one of the world’s most unique.
- More reading: 20 Fun Facts About Andorra!
Marshall Islands
Photo by Kurt Cotoaga on Unsplash
Location: Micronesia, Pacific Ocean
Population: ~38,000
Fun Fact: The Marshall Islands are home to the world’s largest shark sanctuary!
This scattered island chain in Micronesia might be remote, but it carries significant history, including serving as a major nuclear testing site for the US in the mid-20th century. Today, the islands draw attention for their incredible diving spots and marine life conservation efforts.
Remote location limits tourism, but visitors who make the trip can enjoy pristine beaches and some of the Pacific’s best diving – and if you’re interested in learning about conservation activities and even participating, you can find volunteer programs throughout.
Palau
Photo by Rene Paulesich on Unsplash
Location: Western Pacific Ocean
Population: ~18,000
Fun Fact: You can snorkel with non-stinging golden jellyfish in Palau’s Jellyfish Lake!
Palau is a small island nation with big conservation commitments. With an emphasis on incredible marine biodiversity and ecotourism efforts, tourism in Palau focuses heavily on eco-friendly practices, drawing divers and nature enthusiasts who want underwater adventures while supporting conservation efforts.
Saint Kitts and Nevis
Photo by Omar Martin on Unsplash
Location: Caribbean
Population: ~47,000
Fun Fact: Home to the world’s oldest economic citizenship program!
This twin-island Caribbean nation attracts attention not only for its gorgeous beaches but also for its welcoming Citizenship by Investment program, which grants citizenship to foreigners who invest in the country.
Tourism here blends historic sites with beach relaxation. St. Kitts and Nevis maintains close ties with the UK as a member of the Commonwealth, blending laid-back island vibes with deep historical roots.
Malta
Photo by CALIN STAN on Unsplash
Location: Mediterranean Sea
Population: ~553,000
Fun Fact: Malta has a unique blend of Arab, Italian, and British influences!
Malta is wildly rich in history and culture, reflecting the influence of Arab, Italian, British, and other rule over the centuries. Known for ancient temples and beautiful Mediterranean waters, Malta has become a hotspot for history lovers and beachgoers.
As an EU member, Malta plays an important role in Mediterranean politics. It’s also a major tourist destination thanks to its medieval architecture and stunning waterfront cities.
Comoros
Photo by Dimitri Dim on Pexels
Location: Indian Ocean, near Madagascar
Population: ~850,000
Fun Fact: Comoros is a major exporter of ylang-ylang, which is used in perfumes worldwide!
Positioned between Madagascar and Mozambique, Comoros produces rich volcanic soil and unique flora, including ylang-ylang, a key ingredient in perfumes like Chanel No. 5. This African island nation is a hidden treasure with incredible biodiversity, but limited tourism infrastructure means Comoros faces instability and economic challenges.
Vatican City
Photo by Alberico Bartoccini on Unsplash
Location: Within Rome, Italy
Population: ~825
Fun Fact: The Vatican operates its own postal system, radio station, and bank!
As the world’s smallest country, Vatican City functions as an independent city-state within Rome and serves as the headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church. Although it houses only about 825 residents, its influence extends all the way across the globe. Home to iconic sites like St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, Vatican City draws massive tourist crowds. It operates uniquely as a religious state with diplomatic power, engaging in global diplomacy while maintaining its status as a spiritual center.
How’d You Do?
How many of these tiny nations have you heard of before today? If you knew more than half, you’re a geography wizard! If you’re now googling flights to Palau or wondering how to get citizenship in St. Kitts, well, that’s the power of learning about places that prove big things do come in small packages.
Happy Travels!
About the Author
Originally from Indiana, Heather believes every destination has a story worth telling and a reason to visit. With a deep love of adventure, history, and psychology, she shares travel trivia, tips, and inspiration to encourage you to explore the world with curiosity and optimism. Read her other articles on Frayed Passport here.Featured image by Henrique Ferreira on Unsplash
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