Bigger Isn’t Always Better: 10 Small Countries Popular With Travelers

Last Updated on February 11, 2026

As with most things in life, bigger isn’t always better…that’s especially true about countries

Estimated reading time: 14 minutes

By Jim Ferri

Around the world there are many interesting small countries. While some will likely never succumb to mass-tourism, other are almost overrun with travelers.

Some of them mesmerize travelers with beautiful beaches and swaying palms. Others dazzle with their urban beauty and incredible art treasures. But each enchants the travelers who search them out.

Here are 10 tiny places, the largest only about 1/3 the size of Dallas, which may well pique your interest. They’re presented in order of size, with the smallest first.

Take your pick, and grab your passport and go.

A Note to Our Readers: You can enjoy wonderful experiences in these small countries with popular and highly rated Viator, a Tripadvisor company. We are big fans of Viator tours since they are available across all price categories, have no cancellation fees, and offer a lifetime of memories. You can see a listing of their tours in the countries below.

Vatican City, the Smallest Country (.2 sq mi)

Primary Airport: Rome, Italy

A city within a city, the Vatican is a small enclave in the city of Rome. It’s a great place to visit when you’re walking about Rome. Although it’s not a member of the United Nations, it is widely recognized as an independent nation. The reason to come to Vatican is twofold. The first is to see the beautiful St. Peter’s Basilica, the architectural jewel of the Renaissance. The other is to see the incredible collections in the Vatican Museums.

Popular events: Easter Week and the Christmas Season (Midnight Mass, Christmas Tree, and Nativity Scene). The Pope also holds a public audience in St. Peter’s Square every Wednesday at 11:00 a.m. Tickets can be booked in the Prefettura della Casa Pontifica (its office is to the right of the basilica).

The Best time to visit Vatican City and Rome: for ideal weather and fewer crowds it’s usually best to visit during the shoulder seasons in April-May and September-October.

Viator tours of Vatican City

Monaco (.7 sq mi)

Primary Airport: Nice, France

Squeezed onto a stretch of Mediterranean coast in the south of France, Monaco owes its popularity to a woman. She’s the late Grace Kelly, the glamorous Hollywood star who married the principality’s Prince Rainier. Today the Principality of Monaco is ruled by their son Prince Albert II, a constitutional monarch from the Grimaldi dynasty,

Adjacent to Nice, France, it’s an exceptionally picturesque place that continues to attract travelers worldwide. That’s because of publicity about the glamorous lives of the royal family. And also, the glamor associated with the world-renown Monte Carlo casino.

Popular events: International Circus Festival (January), the Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters (tennis) (April), the Formula 1 Grand Prix (May), the Rose Ball (March/April), summer Concerts at the Palace, the Fireworks Festival (July and August), and the Monte-Carlo Jazz Festival (November).

The best time to visit this small country is April-May and September-October for fewer crowds than summer. While June-August offers the best weather if you enjoy Monaco’s Mediterranean beaches, it’s also the time of larger crowds and higher prices. Winter in the principality is more budget-friendly but there’s also a potential for rain.

Viator tours of Monaco 

San Marino, a Small Country on a Mountain Top (24 sq mi)

Primary Airport: Rimini, Italy, although Venice provides service from North America

San Marino is a landlocked country, completely surrounded by Italy, located on the northeastern slopes of the Apennine Mountains. Although only about a two-hour drive southeast of Bologna, Italy, San Marino is well off the beaten track.

But this little medieval republic, which claims to be the world’s oldest, still attracts millions of tourists each year. Its economy is fueled by tourism, many visitors arriving via bus from nearby Rimini, Italy. It’s a beautiful little place with streets are lined with countless and shops and ristorantes. You can reach the village by car, cable car or by foot. The latter involves a steep walk up to the town. It’s even steeper up to the imposing fortress towers on the edge of the cliffs.

Popular events: Medieval Days (July), the Feast of St. Marinus & Republic Day (September 3) with grand celebrations, and the elaborate Investiture of Captains Regent (annually on April 1 and October 1). The Captains Regents are the Republic’s two heads of state. Several music festivals are also held through the year.

The best time to visit San Marino is April-June and September-October, days of mild weather and fewer crowds. Summer can be hot, although the temperature is mitigated by the nation’s place on the mountain top. Winter can be cold and potentially snowy.

Viator tours of San Marino

Liechtenstein, a Small Country In the Middle of Europe (62 sq mi)

Primary Airport: Zurich, Switzerland

This small country is visited by relatively few Americans, with fewer being able to spell its name. The principality is on the Rhine River between Switzerland and Austria. Easily accessible from Switzerland, it’s only about four miles wide but renowned for its skiing and hiking.

Liechtenstein is also known for its postage stamps, sought after by collectors around the world. They also come to see its beautiful Alpine scenery, complete with Alpine meadows and idyllic little villages. Everywhere you look you see geraniums cascading from window boxes and fairytale castles dotting the hilltops.

Popular events: Fasnacht (Carnival) in February/March when Liechtensteiners let their hair down and enjoy balls, parades, and various raucous events. National Day on August 15 features fireworks, and summer music events.

The best time to visit Liechtenstein depends on your interests. Summer June-August) is ideal for hiking (as is September-October). December-February are perfect for skiing and other snow sports. You’ll normally find mild weather and lower prices in April and May.

Viator tours of Liechtenstein

Marshall Islands (70 sq mi)

Primary Airport: Majuro Atoll, Marshall Islands

Set in Micronesia roughly halfway between Hawaii and Australia, the Marshalls are well off the beaten path. Still, though, the uncrowded Marshalls attract tourists with its great fishing, surfing, and authentic cultural experiences. A popular attraction for many divers is its beautiful reefs and World War II shipwrecks. Two of the islands in this far-flung chain (there are more than 1,100 of them) are former U.S. nuclear test sites and a third is presently a U.S. missile test range.

Popular events: Constitution Day (Jemenei Day) in May and Manit Day (Culture Day) in September.

The best time to visit the Marshall Islands is during December – April, during the dry season. It’s then the weather is usually sunny, the seas are calm, and the diving excellent. As you may have guessed, that’s also peak tourist season when prices are highest. For fewer crowds and lower prices, you may want to consider the “shoulder” months (late April-early May, October and November), when you still can enjoy fairly good weather and lower prices. The wet season (May-November) is usually rainy, but it is also cheaper. In any case, if at all possible avoid the peak typhoon months (July-November). 

St. Kitts & Nevis (104 sq mi)

Primary Airport: the major airport is on St. Kitts. The smaller airport on Nevis has no service to North America or Europe

This two-island nation is located about an hour by air southeast of Puerto Rico. It’s considered by some to be a near-perfect island in the Caribbean. Mellow and friendly, this small country offers both beaches and mountains. It has protected its colonial past and natural environment by forbidding any building to be taller than the tallest palm. Divers love the pristine waters of St. Kitts and Nevis, while other travelers enjoy lounging about some of the islands’ plantation estates.

Popular events:  St. Kitts & Nevis’s most popular festivals include Sugar Mas Carnival (December – January) with J’Ouvert (when people cover themselves in mud, paint, or oil) and a parade. There’s also the diverse St. Kitts Music Festival (June) featuring global acts, and Nevis Culturama, celebrating African heritage with calypso and street dances. July’s Nevis Mango Festival, a foodie event, showcases Caribbean culture and history.

The best time to visit St. Kitts & Nevis is December – April during the dry season. It’s then you’ll find the sunniest skies and the most pleasant temperatures. That’s also the perfect recipe for peak tourism as well as peak prices. The latter is especially true during the St. Kitts Carnival (Sugar Mas) in late December into early January. For fewer crowds, lower prices and good weather, aim for the shoulder months of May, June, and November. Keep in mind that late June to November is the official hurricane season. 

Viator tours of St Kitts & Nevis

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You may also enjoy: Where to Find 8 Wonderful Walks in Paris / Republic of San Marino, the Least-Visited Country in Europe / Sicily By Car In 8 Days

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Seychelles (107 sq mi)

Primary Airport: on the island of Mahé near the capital city of Victoria

Another of the popular small countries of the world are the Seychelles. They may be a bit far for many American travelers but those that do travel there find it paradisaical. It’s composed of 115 islands are scattered about the Indian Ocean north of Madagascar. They have long been a haven for honeymooners (especially British honeymooners such as Prince William and Princess Kate). The islands’ incredible beauty and luxury accommodations are another reason. But it’s also a legendary ecotourism destination where you can watch birds and giant tortoises in their natural habitat.

Popular events: Seychelles’ most popular festivals include the Festival Kreol in October, celebrating Creole culture with music, dance, and food; the lively La Digue Festival in August, combining Assumption Day with island fun; the Beau Vallon Regatta in August/September with water sports; and national celebrations like Independence Day (June 29). There are other significant local events scattered throughout the year.

The best times to visit the Seychelles are the transitional months of April-May and October-November. Then you’ll find less wind and calmer seas for swimming and diving. There will also  be fewer crowds between the trade wind seasons, perfect for general beach activities and wildlife. For sailing, May-September is ideal due to the southeast trade winds, while October-February is great for turtle spotting, but expect more seaweed and potential rain.

Viator tours of the Seychelles

Maldives (115 sq mi)

Primary Airport: on Hulhule Island in the North Male Atoll, near the capital island Male

For many people the word “Maldives” is synonymous with luxury. Its 2,000 or so islands in the middle of the Indian Ocean offer an incredibly beautiful natural adventure. They also offer some of the most decadent resort vacations anywhere. Come to the Maldives to swim among coral reefs with Crayola-colored fish. Then indulge yourself with a spa treatment “to die for.” And finish the day dining in a world-class restaurant. It’s not cheap, but true luxury never is.

Popular events: the most popular festivals in the Maldives are Islamic holidays such as Bodu Eid (Eid al-Adha) and Kuda Eid (Eid al-Fitr), marking the end of Ramadan. There are also popular national celebrations including Independence Day (July 26) and Republic Day (Nov 11).

The best time to visit the Maldives is during the peak dry season: December to April. It’s for perfect for sunny low-humidity weather, ideal for beaches, diving, and water sports, but, unfortunately, also for higher prices. The wet season (May to November) is much better for budget-minded travelers. Then you’ll find fewer crowds and great surfing. And although there’s sporadic rain, there’s still plenty of sunshine. It’s also the best time for seeing manta rays and whale sharks (June-August).

Viator tours of the Maldives

Maltese Islands (122 sq mi)

Primary Airport: Malta International Airport, southwest of the capital Valletta. It serves the entire Maltese archipelago.

It’s unfortunate that so few Americans visit the small country of Malta since it’s such an incredible mix of architecture, history and culture. The Phoenicians, the Byzantines, the Carthaginians and the Romans have all left their marks on these three islands. In the middle of the Mediterranean south of Sicily, it’s an amalgam of North African/Arab and Sicilian influences. There are plenty of festivals held on the islands throughout the year (and plenty of history to unearth always).

Popular events: the vibrant Carnival (February/March), solemn Holy Week & Easter processions, and the spectacular Malta International Fireworks Festival. There is also the traditional summer Village Festi with patron saint celebrations, the arts-focused Malta International Arts Festival, and music events like the Malta Jazz Festival. Adding to the mix are such seasonal delights as the Strawberry Festival and various wine festivals. 

The best time to visit Malta depends on your priorities. May, June, September, and October provide ideal weather for swimming and sightseeing with fewer crowds. On the other hand,  peak summer (July – August), is both best for sun-seekers but also very hot and busy. Spring (April) and autumn (November) are great for hiking and culture without intense heat. And winter (January-February) is a good time to explore historic sites with fewer tourists, though it is cooler and potentially rainy.

Viator tours of Malta

Grenada (133 sq mi)

Primary Airport: on Grenada near the capital of St. George’s

Know as the Spice Island because of the nutmeg and cinnamon it produces, Grenada is also renown for its natural vistas that range from beaches to luscious rain forests. In the southeastern Caribbean at the southern end of the Grenadines, its capital St. George’s is considered to be one of the prettiest in all the Caribbean. Outside of town you’ll find the hillsides to be a colorful riot of bougainvillea, frangipani and hibiscus.

Popular events: Grenada’s Spicemas (Carnival) in August, is known for its vibrant parades, music, and J’ouvert. In April, Grenadians celebrate their culture with the Carriacou Maroon & Stringband Music Festival. The food-focused Grenada Chocolate Festival takes place in May. Come December, they celebrate during the traditional Carriacou Parang Festival. In January crowds arrive for the lively Grenada Sailing Festival.

The best time to visit Grenada is its dry season December – April, when you’ll have sunny days and festivals, though it’s more expensive and some crowds. For fewer crowds and lower costs, consider the shoulder months (November and May) or the event-filled June-August period. There’s less risk of a hurricane then, but it’s often wetter.

Viator tours of Grenada