Small Countries of Europe
Europe is full of contradictions – none more fascinating than its tiniest nations and territorial oddities. From fully fledged micro-states like Liechtenstein, San Marino, and Andorra to semi-recognised places such as Transnistria, and even self-governing islands like Sark, Alderney, or the Isle of Man, these are the small places with big stories.
Some have their own coins and stamps, some their own borders or flags, and some simply a strong sense of identity that refuses to be absorbed. This hub brings them together – part political curiosity, part travel inspiration – for anyone who loves discovering Europe’s hidden corners.
Below you’ll find all my guides so far – starting with the classic micronations and my visit to Transnistria, one of Europe’s strangest half-recognized republics. I’ll be adding more over time, including a few British Isles oddities and perhaps even Luxembourg, which may be small but insists it’s not that small.
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Liechtenstein to San Marino by Public Transport: A Four-Country Overland Route
Visiting Liechtenstein and San Marino may feel like two separate trips, but they connect surprisingly well by public transport. We took this overland route from Vaduz to San Marino over the Swiss Alps, stopping overnight in Milan to break up the journey. From Milan, it’s a fast train to the beautiful seaside resort of Rimini – the gateway to San Marino. The journey is scenic, easy to follow, and budget-friendly….
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Best Things to Do in San Marino (and Why You’ll Want to Stay for Sunset)
San Marino is the third smallest country in Europe and proudly calls itself the world’s oldest surviving republic. Perched high on Mount Titano, it’s a maze of steep medieval lanes, arched gateways and stone terraces with sweeping views across Italy. And those views are some of the best you’ll find anywhere in Europe. Read on and I’ll share with you the best things to do in San Marino plus tips…
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15 Things to do in Liechtenstein and the capital, Vaduz
Are you thinking about visiting Liechtenstein? Or maybe you need to know more before deciding? Maybe you’ve heard that it’s boring? Well I didn’t think so, and after two days there, I still plan to head back. Read on and I’ll share with you the best things to do in Liechtenstein plus tips to make the most of your time in this beautiful and mildly eccentric microstate. Is Liechtenstein Worth Visiting Why…
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Transnistria Day Trip from Chișinău – Worth It?
Part Soviet time capsule, part breakaway state – here’s what I found on a surreal day trip to Transnistria
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Beyond Duty-Free Shopping – 21 Best Things to Do in Andorra
So yes, you can shop in Andorra, but there’s so much more! Here’s the things I found to do on my solo short break to this little country, high in the Pyrenees, I’ve included a map and a list of things to do in Andorra, (the things I did and the things I ran out of time for). Plus all the ways you can get to Andorra. If you visit…
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