Are you looking for a peaceful getaway far from the hustle and bustle of big cities? If so, you might want to explore the world’s least populated countries. These tiny nations, officially recognized by the UN, are known for their small communities, with the largest on this list barely exceeding 73,000 people and the smallest home to just over 500 residents. Whether you’re planning a quiet vacation or simply curious about these miniature nations, here’s a rundown of the top ten smallest countries in the world by population.
- Dominica – 73,006 People
Nestled in the Caribbean between Puerto Rico and Trinidad and Tobago, Dominica is a stunning island nation with a land area of 751 km². Unlike its often-confused neighbor, the Dominican Republic, Dominica gained independence from British rule in 1978. This lush island is known for its rugged terrain, rich history, and for electing the Caribbean’s first female prime minister, Mary Eugenia Charles, who served from 1980 to 1995.
- Saint Kitts and Nevis – 47,745 People
Saint Kitts and Nevis, the smallest independent country in the Western Hemisphere, comprises two beautiful Caribbean islands covering just 261 km². Gaining independence from the United Kingdom in 1983, this tropical paradise is well-known for Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nevis attempted to become an independent country in 1998 but failed in a referendum.
- Marshall Islands – 41,952 People
Located in the Pacific Ocean, the Marshall Islands consist of five major islands and 29 coral atolls, totaling 1,225 islets and islands across 181 km². While the nation is famous for its picturesque beauty, it also holds a darker past as the site of nuclear tests at Bikini Atoll. After being ruled by Spain, Germany, Japan, and the USA, the Marshall Islands gained independence in 1979.
- Liechtenstein – 39,558 People
Tucked between Switzerland and Austria, Liechtenstein is a doubly landlocked European nation with a land area of 160 km². It boasts breathtaking Alpine scenery, including the Rhätikon Mountains and Grauspitz Peak, which stands at 2,599 meters. Despite its small size, Liechtenstein is known for its high quality of life and impressive medieval castles, such as Vaduz Castle.
- Monaco – 36,313 People
The tiny yet glamorous nation of Monaco covers just 2 km², making it the second smallest country in the world by land size. Despite its small population, Monaco is the most densely populated nation globally. Famous for its luxurious casinos, the prestigious Monaco Grand Prix, and the royal marriage of actress Grace Kelly to Prince Rainier, this Mediterranean hotspot is a playground for the elite.
- San Marino – 33,644 People
Enclaved within Italy, San Marino is one of the world’s oldest republics. Covering 61 km², it is known for its medieval architecture, stunning hilltop views, and struggling national football team, which is often ranked among FIFA’s lowest. Despite its size, San Marino prides itself on its rich history and independent governance.
- Palau – 18,058 People
Located in the Pacific Ocean, Palau is a sparsely populated country consisting of around 340 islands with a total land area of 459 km². With human settlements dating back to 1000 BC, the nation gained independence from the Federated States of Micronesia in 1994. Palau is renowned for its pristine waters, diverse marine life, and breathtaking Rock Islands.
- Nauru – 12,769 People
Nauru, a small island nation in Oceania, has a land area of just 21 km², making it the smallest island country in the world. Once a wealthy nation due to its phosphate resources, Nauru has faced economic struggles in recent years. It gained independence in 1968 and briefly became a tax haven before reforming its financial policies in 2005.
- Tuvalu – 11,387 People
Consisting of nine coral atolls in the South Pacific, Tuvalu spans only 26 km². Despite its small size, the nation made headlines by leasing its “.tv” internet domain name for millions in royalties. Tuvalu, which became independent in 1978, is among the countries most at risk from rising sea levels due to climate change.
- Vatican City – 517 People
With an official population of just 517, Vatican City is the smallest country in the world in both population and land area (0.44 km²). Nestled within Rome, it serves as the spiritual and administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church. Founded in 1929, Vatican City is home to iconic landmarks such as the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica, and St. Peter’s Square.
Final Thoughts
If you’re seeking a peaceful destination or simply curious about the world’s tiniest nations, these ten countries offer unique histories, stunning landscapes, and fascinating cultures. Whether you dream of a Caribbean retreat, a Pacific paradise, or a European microstate, these small but mighty nations are sure to capture your imagination.
