Vatican City an enclave within Rome is the world’s smallest country. Interestingly, Russia the world’s biggest country is nearly 35 million times bigger than the world’s smallest country Vatican City. Let’s take a look at the 5 smallest countries in the world.
The 5 smallest countries in the world
1. Vatican City
Vatican City is the smallest country in the world. It has an area of just 0.49 square kilometers. The population in 2019 was less than 500. The city holds religious and cultural significance for Roman Catholics all over the world.
2. Monaco
Monaco with an area of just 2 square kilometers is the world’s second smallest country. Located southeast of France, Monaco is a tourist magnet, especially for people living in western and southern Europe. Monaco is also one of the most densely populated countries in the world.
3. Nauru
Nauru is a small island country in Oceania. With an area of 21 square kilometers, it is the world’s third smallest country. Nauru has a population of around 11,000 (2020).
4. Tuvalu
Tuvalu is another island country located southeast of Nauru. It is just a tad larger than Nauru. Tuvalu has an area of 26 square kilometers and a population of around 12,000 (2021).
5. San Marino
San Marino is another enclave country within Italy. The fifth smallest country in the world has an area of around 61 square kilometers and a population of around 34,000 (2023 estimate).
(Also read: Top 10 largest landlocked 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 |