Smallest Countries in the World by Area – Complete List
Introduction
When we think of countries, we usually imagine vast lands with millions of people. However, not all nations are large. Some countries are so tiny in terms of land area that they can be compared to small towns or even neighborhoods of big cities. These smallest countries in the world by area are unique for their history, culture, and tourism appeal.
In this blog, we will explore the top 10 smallest countries in the world, their size, and key facts.
List of the Smallest Countries in the World by Area
1. Vatican City
- Area: 0.49 sq. km
- Location: Rome, Italy
- Interesting Fact: It is the world’s smallest independent state and the spiritual headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church.
2. Monaco
- Area: 2.02 sq. km
- Location: Western Europe, on the French Riviera
- Interesting Fact: Known for its luxury casinos, yachts, and Formula 1 Grand Prix, Monaco is one of the richest nations.
3. Nauru
- Area: 21 sq. km
- Location: Central Pacific Ocean
- Interesting Fact: Nauru is the smallest island country in the world and has no official capital city.
4. Tuvalu
- Area: 26 sq. km
- Location: Pacific Ocean, between Hawaii and Australia
- Interesting Fact: Tuvalu is one of the least visited countries in the world due to its remoteness.
5. San Marino
- Area: 61 sq. km
- Location: Surrounded by Italy
- Interesting Fact: San Marino claims to be the world’s oldest republic, founded in A.D. 301.
6. Liechtenstein
- Area: 160 sq. km
- Location: Between Switzerland and Austria
- Interesting Fact: Liechtenstein is the only country completely located in the Alps.
7. Marshall Islands
- Area: 181 sq. km
- Location: Pacific Ocean
- Interesting Fact: It consists of 29 atolls and 5 islands, famous for coral reefs and diving.
8. Saint Kitts and Nevis
- Area: 261 sq. km
- Location: Caribbean Sea
- Interesting Fact: This is the smallest country in the Americas, known for its beautiful beaches and volcanoes.
9. Maldives
- Area: 300 sq. km
- Location: Indian Ocean
- Interesting Fact: The Maldives is the flattest country in the world, with stunning overwater resorts.
10. Malta
- Area: 316 sq. km
- Location: Mediterranean Sea, south of Italy
- Interesting Fact: Malta has a rich history with ancient temples older than the pyramids of Egypt.
Quick Comparison Table – Smallest Countries by Area
| Rank | Country | Area (sq. km) | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Vatican City | 0.49 | Europe |
| 2 | Monaco | 2.02 | Europe |
| 3 | Nauru | 21 | Oceania |
| 4 | Tuvalu | 26 | Oceania |
| 5 | San Marino | 61 | Europe |
| 6 | Liechtenstein | 160 | Europe |
| 7 | Marshall Islands | 181 | Oceania |
| 8 | Saint Kitts & Nevis | 261 | Caribbean |
| 9 | Maldives | 300 | Asia (Indian Ocean) |
| 10 | Malta | 316 | Europe |
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