Europe is a continent with 50 sovereign states. It stands out thanks to its variety of cultures and rich history. Since ancient times, many lands have been conquered, names have been changed and wars have been fought in this territory.

This resulted in what we know today as Europe, one of the richest continents when it comes to cultural diversity and ethnicity.

In Europe, we can find large countries like Russia or small principalities like Liechtenstein. We can learn different alphabets from Cyrillic and Latin to Georgia’s Mkhedruli. It’s also possible to visit Museums like Prado, the Louvre, or the Hermitage.

But today, we want to talk about Europe’s hidden secrets: the six smallest countries on the continent.

Cool facts about Europe’s smallest countries

Many people are familiar with Europe’s ‘best-selling’ countries. According to the World Tourism Rankings, Germany, Spain, Italy, and France are among the world’s most visited countries. But Europe is an extensive continent with a variety of landscapes, languages, cultures, and ethnicities.

Many mid-sized and small countries also offer a fantastic cultural environment. The smallest countries in Europe are generally amongst the smallest in the world. They have some things in common, like top-class tourism, financial services, and ancient sites.

Here are some interesting statistics about the 6 smallest countries in Europe.

Andorra

The first country on our list is located between Spain and France and has 468 square kilometers. It attracts many tourists thanks to its spectacular landscapes, beautiful beaches, and low prices. Visitors can get technology, gadgets, and perfumes with interesting discounts.

Malta

Malta’s 316 square kilometers are spanned across three beautiful islands located south of Sicily. With approximately 400,000 inhabitants, it has one of the highest population densities in Europe (4th place). It’s a popular tourist destination thanks to its breathtaking beaches and Mediterranean weather. But Malta has more than nice seascapes, it also has some of the oldest prehistoric sites in the world.

The 20 oldest prehistoric sites in Europe

  1. Barnenez, France: 4850 BC
  2. Tumulus of Bougon, France: 4700 BC
  3. Saint-Michel tumulus, France: 4500 BC
  4. Monte d’Accoddi, Italy: 4000–3650 BC
  5. Knap of Howar, Scotland: 3700 BC

  6. Ġgantija, Malta: 3700 BC

  7. Dolmen of Menga, Spain: 3700 BC
  8. West Kennet Long Barrow, England: 3650 BC
  9. Listoghil, Ireland: 3550 BC
  10. Stoney Littleton Long Barrow, England: 3550 BC
  11. La Hougue Bie, Jersey: 3500 BC
  12. Midhowe Chambered Cairn, Scotland: 3500 BC
  13. Gavrinis passage tomb, France: 3500 BC
  14. Wayland’s Smithy, England: 3460 BC
  15. Unstan Chambered Cairn, Scotland: 3450 BC
  16. Knowe of Yarso chambered cairn, Scotland: 3350 BC
  17. Quanterness chambered cairn, Scotland: 3250 BC
  18. Loughcrew, Ireland: 3400 BC

  19. Tarxien Temples, Malta: 3250 BC

  20. Newgrange, Ireland: 3200 BC

As we can see from these numbers, Scotland, Ireland, and England have many of the oldest archeological sites. Yet, two of Malta’s prehistoric attractions are amongst the 20 oldest constructions. The country is also home to the Hal Saflieni Hypogeum, one of the most important monuments in the world. This prehistoric burial site dates back to 2500 BC and is one of Europe’s best-preserved subterranean monuments.

Liechtenstein

With 160 square kilometers, this small princedom is one of the world’s favorite destinations for winter sports. It’s located in the heart of Europe near the Alps, which means it has dreamy winter landscapes and excellent skiing options. Considered a tax haven, Liechtenstein is one of the wealthiest countries in the world. Over the centuries, the richest and most powerful families have chosen Liechtenstein as a place where to safeguard their assets.

San Marino

Located North-East of Italy on the Apennine mountains, this country is rich in history and natural beauty. Mount Titano and the Historic Center have been declared world heritage sites by UNESCO. Its area is only 61 square kilometers and is the oldest sovereign state in the world. It’s also the wealthiest country on earth and many consider it to be a tax haven. San Marino is the 7th most densely populated country in Europe.

Monaco

This city-state has surprising characteristics. In its small area of only 2 square kilometers, Monaco has two ports and a renowned casino. This country is home to the Formula 1 championship, a yearly event that receives over 4 million spectators. Monaco has less than 40,000 inhabitants and one of the highest population densities in the world. Its economy is based on luxury tourism and there is no unemployment. The next ranking shows Monaco in the first place of the 10 most densely populated countries in Europe.

The 10 countries with the highest population density in Europe (per km2)

  1. Monaco: 18,960

  2. Gibraltar: 5,011

  3. Vatican City: 1,684

  4. Malta: 1,505

  5. Guernsey: 955
  6. Jersey: 893

  7. San Marino: 546

  8. Netherlands: 421
  9. Flanders (Belgium): 484
  10. Turkey (European part): 473

The ranking includes four of this list’s countries: Monaco, Malta, Vatican City, and San Marino.

Vatican City

This country is located in the very heart of Rome and is only 0.44 square kilometers long. With less than 1,000 inhabitants, it’s the third most densely populated country in Europe. Vatican City is the smallest independent state not only on the continent but also in the world. Nonetheless, it’s home to some of the most beautiful city landscapes like the Saint Peter’s Basilica and square. If we visit the Sistine Chapel, we can find some of the world’s most delicate art.