Vatican City, an enclave within Rome, is the world’s smallest country. In contrast, Russia is the largest and is tens of millions of times bigger than Vatican City. Let’s take a look at the five smallest countries in the world.
The 5 smallest countries in the world
1. Vatican City
Vatican City is the smallest country in the world, covering just 0.49 square kilometers. It is an enclave within Rome, Italy. Its population is estimated to be around 800-900.
2. Monaco
Monaco, with an area of just 2 square kilometers, is the world’s second smallest country. Located on the southeastern coast of France, it is a major tourist destination, especially for visitors from Western and Southern Europe. Monaco is also one of the most densely populated countries in the world.
3. Nauru
Nauru is a small island nation in Oceania. With an area of 21 square kilometers, it is the world’s third smallest country. Its population is around 11,950 (2024 estimate).
4. Tuvalu
Tuvalu is another island nation in Oceania, located southeast of Nauru. It is slightly larger than Nauru, with an area of 26 square kilometers and a population of around 9,650 (2024 estimate).
5. San Marino
San Marino is another enclave country within Italy. The world’s fifth smallest country, it covers around 61 square kilometers and has a population of around 34,000 (2024 estimate).
(Also read: Top 10 largest landlocked countries in the world)
The 5 smallest countries in the world
| Country | Area (sq km) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Vatican City | 0.49 |
| 2 | Monaco | 2 |
| 3 | Nauru | 21 |
| 4 | Tuvalu | 26 |
| 5 | San Marino | 61 |
