Top 5: Small Countries Worth Visiting

As the saying goes, big things can come in small packages … or even within small borders. Just because a country is small doesn’t mean it can’t offer the same awe-inspiring experiences as some larger nations. Here are a handful of small countries worth passing through. 

Costa Rica

From the United States, tropical getaways often come in the form of tiny Caribbean islands, but less-visited Costa Rica may be a better alternative for surfers and fans of rainforests and hot springs.

Monaco

Nestled between France and Italy, the principality of Monaco is known for its opulence. Expensive cars, designer shops and its signature casino draw lovers of all things luxurious to the Mediterranean nation where yachts pull in for brief stays in the 485-acre country.

Vatican City

Surrounded on all sides by Rome, the location of the two cities makes it unthinkable to miss a visit to Vatican City where St. Peter’s Basilica shines and can be seen from all corners of Rome, and the Sistine Chapel houses some of the world’s best art.

Dominican Republic

Cultures coalesce in this island nation in the Caribbean Sea where influences from the Americas, Africa and Europe pop up in the food, fashion and architecture.

Belgium

Barely the size of Connecticut, Belgium may be small but has more than one city worth passing through, from cosmopolitan Brussels to historic Ghent to medieval Bruges.