Despite the size of these countries, they are still rich in culture, history, and charm. You don't need to spend days and days here just to experience
what the country has to offer; only a few hours would be perfectly enough. Here are a few countries that you can add to your travel bucket list when you want to say that you’ve explored a whole country in 24 hours.
Vatican City
Vatican City is the smallest country in the world at just 0.2 square miles, and you can easily explore it on foot. However, it isn’t just about the size; this tiny enclave inside Rome is the spiritual centre of the Catholic Church and home to breathtaking treasures. You can spend the morning mesmerised by St. Peter’s Basilica, or wander through the Vatican Museums in the afternoon, and get lost in the beauty of the Sistine Chapel. Doesn’t matter if you only have a few hours; the experience itself is unforgettable.
Monaco
If you are craving glamour, glitz, or a taste of the high life, Monaco is the place you would want to be. It is nestled on the French Riviera, with a 0.78 square-mile microstate that is packed with yachts, casinos, and stunning sea views. Take a stroll along the Monte Carlo harbour, visit the Prince’s Palace, and you can even try your luck at the iconic Casino de Monte-Carlo. Within a day, you will feel like you’ve stepped into a James Bond movie.
Liechtenstein
Liechtenstein feels like a fairytale kingdom, which is tucked between Switzerland and Austria. It is only around 25 kilometres long, making it easy to drive across in under an hour. But don’t rush! Spend your day wandering the beautiful streets of Vaduz, visiting medieval castles perched on hills, and soaking in the Alpine views. It is one of those places where it feels like time slows down, even if the country is small.
San Marino
Marino is one of the world’s oldest republics, and it is perched on a mountain in northern Italy. Despite being just 24 square miles, this country is full of medieval charm. A day is enough to climb its famous towers, walk through the cobbled streets, and enjoy the stunning views of the Italian countryside. Don’t forget to grab a delicious meal at a local trattoria (Italian eatery), and you will likely get some of the best pasta of your trip here.
Malta
Malta is tiny but full of life, and this country is a blend of history, sunshine, and Mediterranean charm. From wandering around the ancient city of Mdina to enjoying Valletta’s vibrant and colourful streets with beautiful seafront views, there is so much that is packed into this small nation. Golden beaches, breathtaking blue waters, and a mix of cultures shaped by centuries of travellers who are in awe of this small country. Malta is the definition of big experiences that come in small packages.
