6 small countries you can explore in a single day

Some countries need days or even weeks to explore properly. Others are so small that you can move from one end to the other in just a few hours. These places may look tiny on the map, but they are far from ordinary. They are filled with history, culture and landmarks that attract visitors from around the world.

Many of them have existed for centuries and still hold strong identities today. Some are known for wealth and modern living, while others are famous for their history, religion or unique location. 

What they all have in common is their size, which makes it possible to see their major sights in a single day without much hassle. 

In this article, Tribune Online looks at six of the world’s smallest countries that can be visited in a single day.

Liechtenstein

Located between Switzerland and Austria, Liechtenstein is small, orderly and quietly picturesque. Its capital, Vaduz, can be covered on foot, with museums, vineyards and calm streets leading up to the hilltop Vaduz Castle.

The country stretches across roughly  160 square kilometres, making it one of Europe’s smallest, yet it ranks among the wealthiest per person.

San Marino

Surrounded entirely by Italy, San Marino rises along the slopes of Mount Titano. Its stone towers, narrow lanes and open viewpoints can be explored within a few hours.

What sets it apart is its long history. Founded in 301 AD, it is widely recognised as the world’s oldest surviving republic.

Vatican City

The smallest independent state in the world, Vatican City covers less than half a square kilometre. Its size means it can be crossed in minutes, but that hardly reflects its significance. 

Within its walls are globally recognised landmarks such as St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel. 

Monaco

Monaco lies on the Mediterranean coast, covering just over two square kilometres, it is the second-smallest country in the world. Despite its size, it carries a global reputation for luxury. 

From the Monte Carlo Casino to the harbour filled with yachts and the historic quarter of Monaco-Ville, most of its highlights are within easy reach.

Gibraltar

At Europe’s southern tip, Gibraltar is defined by the imposing Rock of Gibraltar, which rises sharply above the coastline and looks out towards North Africa.

Its small size makes it easy to move between its historic tunnels, coastal routes and the habitats of the Barbary macaque, the only wild monkeys in Europe.

Macau

A former  Portuguese colony, Macau blends European and Asian influences in a compact setting. Its historic centre brings together churches, temples and colonial architecture within a walkable area.

Sites such as the Ruins of St. Paul’s sit close to busy food streets, making it possible to take in much of the territory in a single day.

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