Explore 10 Smallest Countries in Europe

Travel Guide + Flights with Fly Fairly

🌍 Discover the Smallest Countries in Europe with Fly Fairly ✈️

Big Adventures Await in Europe’s Most Charming Microstates

Size doesn’t always matter especially when it comes to travel in Europe.
In fact, some of the smallest countries in Europe are also the most enchanting, historical, and culturally rich places you’ll ever explore.

As someone who’s traveled across the continent from the grandeur of Rome to the quiet alleys of San Marino, I can confidently say: Europe’s tiny countries pack a huge punch.

And now, with Fly Fairly, you can book flexible flights to all of them — often for less than you think with Buy Now, Pay Later options, no hidden fees, and over 650 airlines to choose from.

🧭 What Are the Smallest Countries in Europe?

Here’s your essential list of Europe’s smallest sovereign nations, ranked by size — and yes, they’re all accessible with flights booked via Fly Fairly!

The World’s Smallest Country with the World’s Largest Influence

1. Vatican City 🇻🇦

Area: 0.49 km² | Capital: Vatican City
Closest Airport: Rome Fiumicino (FCO)

The spiritual heart of Catholicism, Vatican City is a micro-nation steeped in power, beauty, and mystery.

Completely surrounded by the city of Rome, this independent city-state is the spiritual heart of the Catholic Church and the official residence of the Pope. The legacy of Vatican stretches across centuries and continents.

Despite its religious foundation, Vatican City welcomes around 19,000 visitors every day, regardless of faith. It’s home to some of the world’s most iconic landmarks, including:

St. Peter’s Basilica – an architectural marvel and one of the holiest sites in Christianity
The Vatican Museums – filled with ancient Roman artifacts, Renaissance masterpieces, and religious relics
The Sistine Chapel – world-famous for Michelangelo’s breathtaking ceiling fresco

🎟️ Entry to St. Peter’s Basilica is free, but you’ll need a ticket for the Sistine Chapel and Museums — worth every euro for art lovers and historians alike.

✒️ Languages Spoken

While Italian is the most commonly spoken language here, Vatican City also functions in Latin (its official language), as well as Spanish, French, English, and others — reflecting its global reach and diplomatic presence.

🍝 Food in the Vatican

Dining in Vatican City feels like a more intimate version of Rome’s culinary scene. You'll find plenty of quaint pizzerias, trattorias, and cafés just steps from St. Peter’s Square. Whether you're indulging in fresh pasta, polenta, risotto, or a slice of classic Italian pizza, the food here is simple, satisfying, and deeply rooted in local tradition.

✈️ Fly Fairly Tip:

Book flights to Rome, then take a short metro or taxi to the Vatican. Easy day trip — unforgettable experience.
Book flights to Rome during shoulder season (April-May, September-October) for better prices and fewer crowds. Many airlines offer competitive rates to FCO, and Fly Fairly's comparison tools help you find the best deals from your departure city.

The Billionaire Playground on the French Riviera

2. Monaco 🇲🇨

Area: 2.02 km² | Capital: Monaco
Fly into: Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE), France

A sovereign city-state on the Mediterranean coast, Monaco is the definition of high-end living where luxury cars line the streets, grand casinos buzz with excitement, and yachts drift along turquoise waters.

Tucked between France and the sea, this second-smallest country in the world is only about the size of New York’s Central Park, yet it packs in a world-class mix of glamour, culture, and cliffside beauty. Monaco also holds the title of the most densely populated country on Earth, with nearly 26,000 residents per square kilometer.

Despite its reputation for extravagance, Monaco has a warm, walkable charm. The country is divided into distinct neighborhoods — with Monte Carlo being the flashiest, while Monaco-Ville (the Old Town) offers a quieter, more traditional escape.

Must-see highlights include:

Monte Carlo Casino – world-renowned for its Belle Époque architecture and elite clientele
Prince’s Palace – perched on a clifftop, it’s the official residence of the royal family and offers panoramic coastal views
Oceanographic Museum – dramatically built into a cliff, this institution combines marine science with stunning architecture
Larvotto Beach – Monaco’s public seaside escape, free to access and perfect for people-watching

🎟️ Entry to many landmarks is free or modestly priced, and there are scenic public pathways along the coast — proving you can enjoy Monaco without spending like a millionaire.

✒️ Languages Spoken

French is the official language, but many residents also speak English, Italian, and the local dialect Monégasque. Multilingual signage and hospitality make it easy for international visitors to navigate.

🍝 Food in Monaco

Monaco’s cuisine blends French finesse and Italian flavor. You’ll find everything from fine-dining Michelin-starred restaurants to cozy cafés and local patisseries. Don’t miss trying barbajuan (a savory Monégasque pastry) or enjoying seafood fresh from the coast.

✈️ Fly Fairly Tip:

Book a flight to Nice (NCE) — Monaco is just 30 minutes by train or private car along the scenic Côte d’Azur. Helicopter transfers are also available if you’re feeling fancy.
For better rates and smaller crowds, travel in the shoulder season (April–June or September–October). Fly Fairly lets you compare flight deals and book with Buy Now, Pay Later options for a more flexible luxury escape.

The Oldest Republic You've Probably Never Heard Of

3. San Marino 🇸🇲

Area: 61 km² | Capital: San Marino

Closest Airport: Federico Fellini International Airport (RMI), Rimini, Italy

Perched high on Mount Titano, San Marino is the world’s oldest surviving republic, dating all the way back to 301 AD. With its medieval towers, cobbled lanes, and panoramic vistas, this tiny country is a slice of living history that feels like it’s been lifted straight out of a fairytale.

Completely surrounded by Italy, San Marino is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere than its bustling neighbors. Despite its modest size, the microstate is rich in political history, architecture, and national pride — and it makes for an ideal day trip from Italian cities like Rimini or Bologna.

Top attractions include:

Guaita, Cesta & Montale Towers – the iconic trio perched dramatically along the mountain ridge, offering stunning views and Instagram-worthy shots
Piazza della Libertà – the heart of the city with its striking neo-Gothic Government Palace
Basilica di San Marino – a serene neoclassical church honoring the country’s founder
Museo di Stato – a compact yet fascinating national museum exploring the republic’s deep roots

🎟️ Entry to the towers and museums is inexpensive, and simply walking the scenic cliffside paths between them is a highlight in itself.

✒️ Languages Spoken

Italian is the official language, but locals are deeply connected to their Sammarinese identity and often speak with pride about their unique heritage and independence. Many residents, especially in tourist areas, also understand English.

🍝 Food in San Marino

Expect rustic Italian flavors with a Sammarinese twist — think handmade pastas, mountain cheeses, and regional wines. Try torta tre monti, a layered chocolate-hazelnut wafer cake that pays homage to the country’s iconic three towers.

✈️ Fly Fairly Tip:

Book a flight to Rimini (RMI) — from there, it’s just a 45-minute bus or taxi ride up to San Marino. You can also reach it from Bologna if you're exploring northern Italy.
Visit during spring or early autumn for fewer crowds and clear skies. With affordable prices on food, shopping, and souvenirs, San Marino is perfect for travelers looking for an enriching but budget-friendly escape. Use Fly Fairly to compare flight options and pay flexibly with Buy Now, Pay Later partners like Atome and Klarna.

A Storybook Alpine Escape Between Giants

4. Liechtenstein 🇱🇮

Area: 160 km² | Capital: Vaduz
Closest Airport: Zurich Airport (ZRH), Switzerland

Tucked between Switzerland and Austria, Liechtenstein is a storybook Alpine microstate where snow-capped peaks meet medieval castles and charming villages. Though small in size, this German-speaking principality is rich in natural beauty, political stability, and quiet luxury.

Best known for its hiking trails, ski resorts, and cycling routes, Liechtenstein is a dream destination for nature lovers. From forested valleys to high mountain passes, every trail feels like a postcard. It’s also one of the safest countries in the world, making it ideal for solo travelers, couples, and families alike.

Top places to visit include:

Vaduz Castle – the royal family’s hilltop residence (viewed from outside) with stunning Alpine views
Malbun – the country’s primary ski village, offering winter sports and peaceful summer hikes
Kunstmuseum Liechtenstein – a modern art museum in the heart of Vaduz
The Liechtenstein National Museum – a great introduction to the country’s culture and royal history
The Liechtenstein Trail covers the entire country in a day's hike, offering passport stamps at checkpoints.

🎟️ Most attractions are walkable, and the entire country can be explored comfortably over a long weekend.

✒️ Languages Spoken

German is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist-facing areas. Locals are friendly and well-educated, and Liechtenstein’s strong European ties make it easy to navigate.

🍝 Food in Liechtenstein

Cuisine here is a fusion of Swiss, Austrian, and southern German flavors. Try traditional dishes like Käsknöpfle (cheesy dumplings), Ribel (a hearty cornmeal dish), and apple strudel served warm from a mountain lodge.

✈️ Fly Fairly Tip:

Liechtenstein doesn't have its own airport, but the best way in is to fly into Zurich (ZRH) — then take a scenic 1.5-hour train and bus combo through lush countryside and alpine foothills straight into Vaduz.
Travel during April–June or September–October for mild weather and fewer tourists. With Fly Fairly, you can book your Zurich flight and pay in instalments with Klarna, Afterpay, and more — perfect for making your European escape more flexible and affordable.

A Mediterranean Treasure of History and Hidden Beaches

5. Malta 🇲🇹

Area: 316 km² | Capital: Valletta
Closest Airport: Malta International Airport (MLA)

Set in the heart of the Mediterranean between Sicily and North Africa, Malta is a sun-soaked island nation packed with more history, charm, and natural beauty than you’d expect from a country just one-third the size of London. It’s made up of three main islands — Malta (the largest), Gozo, and Comino — each offering its own unique blend of cultural heritage and coastal serenity.

A former British colony, Malta gained independence in 1964 and is now part of the Commonwealth. Its dual official languages — Maltese and English — make it incredibly easy to navigate for international travelers. With a relaxed vibe, low cost of living, and a deep cultural identity, Malta is perfect for both history buffs and beach lovers.

Highlights across the islands include:

Valletta – the capital city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, full of baroque cathedrals, palaces, and sea-facing fortresses
Mdina – Malta’s silent, walled medieval city, often used as a filming location for Game of Thrones
Blue Lagoon (Comino) – a turquoise paradise ideal for swimming and snorkeling
Ġgantija Temples (Gozo) – older than the pyramids of Egypt, these prehistoric megaliths are a must-see
Diving Sites – explore underwater caves, reefs, and sunken WWII wrecks

🎟️ Many historical sites charge a modest entrance fee, while Malta’s beaches, promenades, and coastal paths are free and accessible year-round.

✒️ Languages Spoken

Both Maltese and English are official languages, and almost everyone speaks fluent English — one of the many reasons Malta is a top choice for first-time Europe visitors.

🍝 Food in Malta

Maltese cuisine is a blend of Mediterranean influences, with dishes inspired by Italy, North Africa, and the Middle East. Don’t miss pastizzi (flaky pastries filled with ricotta or peas), fenek (stewed rabbit), or freshly grilled seafood along Marsaxlokk’s waterfront.

✈️ Fly Fairly Tip:

Book direct flights to Malta International Airport (MLA) from most major European cities. Malta is also a great stop on a multi-country Mediterranean itinerary.
Malta's mild climate makes it perfect for off-season travel when flight prices drop.

Mountain Kingdom of the Pyrenees

6. Andorra 🇦🇩

Area: 468 km² | Capital: Andorra la Vella
Closest Airports: Barcelona El Prat (BCN), Spain or Toulouse-Blagnac (TLS), France

Tucked high in the Pyrenees Mountains between France and Spain, Andorra is a hidden gem for outdoor adventurers and alpine lovers. Though larger than the other microstates on this list, it still ranks among Europe’s smallest — and most scenic — nations.

Andorra is famous for its ski resorts in winter, hiking trails in summer, and duty-free shopping year-round. The capital, Andorra la Vella, holds the title of Europe’s highest capital city, sitting 1,023 meters above sea level. Here, you’ll find a warm alpine vibe, cozy cafés, and a mix of traditional stone buildings and modern boutiques.

Top attractions include:

Grandvalira & Vallnord – world-class ski resorts with hundreds of kilometers of pistes
Barri Antic – the Old Quarter of Andorra la Vella, filled with cobbled alleys and centuries-old architecture
Caldea Spa – one of Europe’s largest thermal spas, offering hot springs with mountain views
Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley – a stunning glacial valley and UNESCO World Heritage Site perfect for day hikes

🎿 Whether you're hitting the slopes or soaking in a mountaintop spa, Andorra blends natural beauty with cultural charm.

✒️ Languages Spoken

Catalan is the official language, but Spanish, French, and English are widely spoken, especially in hospitality and tourism. The population is a mix of Andorran, Spanish, Portuguese, and French communities, making for a multilingual and friendly experience.

🍝 Food in Andorra

Expect hearty mountain fare — grilled meats, fondues, local trout, and stews — perfect after a day on the slopes. Try escudella, a traditional Catalan-Andorran winter stew, or coca masegada, a dense flatbread often served with chocolate or jam.

✈️ Fly Fairly Tip:

Andorra doesn't have its own airport, but it’s easily accessed from Barcelona (BCN) or Toulouse (TLS) — both just 3 hours away by scenic bus or private transfer. Fly Fairly can help you book multi-leg routes that combine Spain, France, and Andorra seamlessly.
For ski lovers, visit between December and March, while hikers and cyclists will love June to early October. With Fly Fairly’s flexible payment options and crypto support, your next alpine escape is just a few clicks away.

Little Nation, Big Heritage

7. 🇱🇺 Luxembourg

Area: 2,586 km² | Capital: Luxembourg City
Closest Airport: Luxembourg Findel Airport (LUX)

Surrounded by France, Germany, and Belgium, Luxembourg is one of Europe’s smallest sovereign countries — and one of its most underrated. Often overlooked by travelers racing through Western Europe, Luxembourg offers a fascinating blend of medieval charm, modern infrastructure, and multilingual culture, all within a compact and incredibly green landscape.

Despite its size, Luxembourg ranks among the wealthiest and most developed nations in the world. Its capital, Luxembourg City, is uniquely built atop a network of cliffs and fortifications, offering dramatic views, lush river valleys, and a mix of historic and futuristic architecture.

Top places to visit include:

Bock Casemates – a network of underground tunnels and military fortifications carved into the cliffs
Grund District – a picturesque riverside neighborhood known for its peaceful ambiance and charming cafés
Vianden Castle – one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Europe, located in the north
Müllerthal Trail – dubbed “Little Switzerland” for its rocky forests and hiking trails

🚶 Luxembourg’s size and public transport system make it easy to explore in just a few days — perfect for weekend trips or short stopovers.

✒️ Languages Spoken

Luxembourg is proudly trilingual. The national language is Luxembourgish, but French and German are also official and widely used. Most locals also speak English, especially in hospitality, making it a welcoming destination for global travelers.

🍝 Food in Luxembourg

Luxembourgish cuisine is hearty and comforting, influenced by French, German, and Belgian traditions. Try dishes like Judd mat Gaardebounen (smoked pork with broad beans), Gromperekichelcher (crispy potato fritters), or finish with Quetschentaart, a delicious plum tart.

✈️ Fly Fairly Tip:

Book your flight into Luxembourg Findel Airport (LUX) and connected to cities like Paris, Frankfurt, Amsterdam, and Zurich.
Visit in May–June or September for pleasant weather and vibrant landscapes, or travel in off-season months like January for quieter streets and more affordable fares. With Fly Fairly, you can compare routes, book stress-free, and pay later using flexible BNPL options or crypto.

Island of Myths and Sunshine

8. Cyprus 🇨🇾

Area: 9,251 km² | Capital: Nicosia
Closest Airports: Larnaca International Airport (LCA) and Paphos International Airport (PFO)

Located in the eastern Mediterranean, Cyprus is an island that bridges three continents — Europe, Asia, and Africa — offering a captivating blend of ancient history, sun-soaked beaches, and vibrant cultural layers.

Cyprus is divided into two main regions: the southern (Greek Cypriot) region, home to Paphos, Limassol, and Larnaca, and the northern (Turkish Cypriot) region, with its capital in North Nicosia. The island’s official languages are Greek and Turkish, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.

With a population of around 1.2 million, Cyprus attracts visitors year-round thanks to its golden beaches, archaeological wonders, and Mediterranean climate. You can explore Greek temples, Byzantine monasteries, Roman mosaics, and Ottoman mosques all in one day — making it a dream for history lovers and sun-seekers alike.

Must-see experiences include:

Kourion Archaeological Site – an ancient Greco-Roman city with a dramatic amphitheatre overlooking the sea
Tombs of the Kings in Paphos – underground burial sites carved from rock dating back to the 4th century BCE
Blue Lagoon in Akamas Peninsula – crystal-clear turquoise waters perfect for boat trips and snorkeling
Troodos Mountains – home to painted churches and scenic hiking trails

🎟️ Entrance fees to historic sites are low, and many of the island’s beaches and natural attractions are free to enjoy.

✒️ Languages Spoken

While Greek and Turkish are official, English is commonly used in hotels, shops, and transport services. Most locals are multilingual, making it easy for travelers to communicate across the island.

🍝 Food in Cyprus

Cypriot cuisine is a delicious mix of Greek, Middle Eastern, and Turkish influences. Be sure to try halloumi cheese, souvla (spit-roasted meat), kleftiko (slow-cooked lamb), and meze platters that let you sample a bit of everything. And don't skip dessert — loukoumades (fried honey dough balls) are a local favorite.

✈️ Fly Fairly Tip:

You can fly into either Larnaca (LCA) on the southeast coast or Paphos (PFO) in the west. Both airports offer direct flights from Europe, the UK, and the Middle East. Fly Fairly helps you compare fares across airlines and book with Buy Now, Pay Later options — ideal for planning that summer escape or off-season bargain.
☀️ For the best weather without peak season crowds, travel in May–June or September–October, when temperatures hover around 30–35°C. For a more budget-friendly trip, February is a great time to visit with lower airfare and fewer tourists.

Fjord-like Coastline & Rugged Charm

9. Montenegro 🇲🇪

Area: 13,812 km² | Capital: Podgorica
Closest Airports: Podgorica Airport (TGD) and Tivat Airport (TIV)

With its dramatic mountain landscapes and Adriatic coastline, Montenegro is a rising star in European travel — and it still feels like a secret. Though larger than some other microstates, it remains one of Europe’s smaller and most scenic countries, beloved for its medieval towns, crystal-clear bays, and wild, rugged beauty.

From beach days to canyon hikes, Montenegro’s diversity is incredible for its size. You can go whitewater rafting in the Tara River Canyon (Europe’s deepest gorge), walk centuries-old city walls in Kotor, and sunbathe on the Budva Riviera — all in a single trip.

Must-see experiences include:

Kotor Old Town – a UNESCO-listed maze of stone alleys, churches, and fortress walls with breathtaking bay views
Durmitor National Park – perfect for hiking, skiing, and rafting, this area features glacial lakes and dramatic peaks
Perast & Our Lady of the Rocks – a charming village and man-made island chapel on the Bay of Kotor
Budva – Montenegro’s main beach resort, combining nightlife, history, and seaside charm

🎟️ Entry to national parks and heritage sites is affordable, and food and accommodations are budget-friendly compared to Western Europe.

✒️ Languages Spoken

Montenegrin is the official language, but Serbian, Bosnian, Croatian, and Albanian are also widely spoken. English is common in tourist areas, especially along the coast.

🍝 Food in Montenegro

Expect hearty Balkan dishes with Mediterranean flair. Local favorites include cevapi (grilled sausages), sarma (stuffed cabbage rolls), fresh seafood, and kacamak, a traditional cornmeal-based comfort food. Don’t miss the local wines and rakija (fruit brandy)!

✈️ Fly Fairly Tip:

Book your flight into Podgorica (TGD) for central access, or Tivat (TIV) for easy arrival near the Bay of Kotor. Both airports are serviced by regional and European carriers. With Fly Fairly, you can compare routes easily, pay with BNPL options like Afterpay, Grab, Klarna or Atome, or even use crypto to book your Balkan adventure.
🌤️ For the best mix of sun and sightseeing, visit in May–June or September–October. Summer offers stunning beach days, but shoulder seasons are quieter and more budget-friendly. Montenegro is compact, unforgettable, and perfect for travelers seeking nature, history, and coastal charm — all in one place.

Nature’s Microcosm

10. Slovenia 🇸🇮

Area: 20,273 km² | Capital: Ljubljana
Closest Airport: Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport (LJU)

Tucked between Italy, Austria, Croatia, and Hungary, Slovenia is one of Europe’s most underrated treasures — a compact country that offers alpine peaks, turquoise lakes, medieval towns, and wine-country valleys, all within a few hours’ drive. It’s the kind of place where you can ski in the morning and swim in the Adriatic by afternoon.

With its clean cities, lush national parks, and a strong eco-tourism ethos, Slovenia is ideal for travelers who crave both natural beauty and cultural depth — without the crowds of its more famous neighbors.

Top attractions include:

Lake Bled – Slovenia’s most iconic postcard: a mirror-like lake with a tiny island and a fairy-tale church at its center
Ljubljana – the vibrant, green capital, known for its dragon bridges, riverfront cafés, and relaxed artsy vibe
Triglav National Park – home to Mount Triglav and the stunning Soča River Valley, perfect for hiking, rafting, and photography
Postojna and Škocjan Caves – two of Europe’s most spectacular underground cave systems, complete with trains and waterfalls
Piran – a coastal town that feels like a mini Venice, complete with narrow lanes, seafood markets, and sunset views over the Adriatic

🎟️ Many of Slovenia’s top experiences — from lakeside strolls to castle views — are free or budget-friendly, making it perfect for nature-lovers and slow travelers.

✒️ Languages Spoken

Slovene is the official language, but English is widely spoken, especially among younger generations and in tourist areas. You’ll also hear Italian, German, and Croatian in border regions.

🍝 Food in Slovenia

Slovenian cuisine blends Central European and Mediterranean influences. Try jota (a hearty bean and sauerkraut stew), žlikrofi (stuffed dumplings), Kranjska sausage, and Bled cream cake for dessert. The country’s wine scene is also excellent — especially in the Vipava and Maribor regions.

✈️ Fly Fairly Tip:

Book your flight into Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport (LJU) for central access, or explore nearby alternatives like Trieste (TRS) or Zagreb (ZAG) for additional flight options. With Fly Fairly, you can compare fares, pay with crypto, or split payments using Klarna, Atome, or ZIP — making your adventure to Slovenia even easier to plan.

🌿 The best time to visit is May–June or September–October, when the weather is mild, the hiking trails are open, and the tourist crowds are low. Whether you're road-tripping through the Julian Alps or sipping wine by the sea, Slovenia offers big experiences in a small, unforgettable package.

Visit European microstates with Fly Fairly

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🧳 Travel Itinerary Tip: Combine & Conquer

These small countries are close to larger cities — so why not build your own microstate adventure circuit?

✈️ Rome + Vatican City + San Marino
✈️ Nice + Monaco + Andorra (via road)
✈️ Zurich + Liechtenstein + Innsbruck

Multi-country bookings? No problem with Fly Fairly.

✨ Pro Travel Tips from a Frequent Flyer

Visit in shoulder season (April–May, September–October) to avoid crowds and get better flight deals
Pack light. Many of these countries are walkable or best explored on foot
Plan multi-country trips. Combine Monaco with France, or Liechtenstein with Switzerland and Austria
Use local transport. Buses and trains are cheap, scenic, and incredibly efficient
Always carry local currency and travel cards. Some microstates accept fewer cards and have fewer ATMs

Real Travelers, Epic Reviews ⭐️

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