Some of the world’s smallest countries are compact enough to explore in just one day, yet rich in culture, history, and scenery. Thanks to their small size, efficient transportation, and well-organized attractions, these destinations are perfect for short trips or stopovers. Here are some of the best small countries you can explore fully in a single day.
Vatican City
Size: 0.49 km² (the smallest country in the world)
How to explore:
- Walking only for less than an hour
Must-visit places in one day:
- St. Peter’s Basilica
- St. Peter’s Square
- Vatican Museums
- Sistine Chapel
Estimated daily cost:
- €20–30 for museum entry
- Food costs depend on where you eat in Rome
Monaco
Size: 2.02 km²
Monaco is small, luxurious, and well connected, making it ideal for a one-day visit.
How to explore:
- Walking
- Public bus
Must-visit places in one day:
- Monte Carlo Casino
- Prince’s Palace
- Port Hercules
- Monaco Cathedral
Estimated daily cost:
- €40–70 (excluding luxury dining or shopping)
San Marino
Size: 61 km²
How to explore:
- Walking
- Cable car
Must-visit places in one day:
- Three Towers of San Marino
- Historic Old Town
- Piazza della Libertà
Estimated daily cost:
- €30–50 including attractions and meals
Liechtenstein
Size: 160 km²
This tiny alpine country between Switzerland and Austria is peaceful and scenic.
How to explore:
- Bus
- Bicycle
- Rental car
Must-visit places in one day:
- Vaduz Castle (viewpoint)
- Vaduz Old Town
- National Museum
Estimated daily cost:
- €40–60
Malta
Size: 316 km²
Although slightly larger, Malta’s main highlights can be seen in one busy day.
How to explore:
- Public buses
- Rental car
Must-visit places in one day:
- Valletta Old Town
- Mdina (Silent City)
- Blue Grotto or coastal viewpoints
Estimated daily cost:
- €40–70
Andorra
Size: 468 km²
How to explore:
- Rental car
- Bus
Must-visit places in one day:
- Andorra la Vella
- Caldea Spa exterior
- Mountain viewpoints
Estimated daily cost:
- €50–70
Singapore
Size: 734 km²
Singapore is extremely efficient, allowing travelers to see many highlights in one day.
How to explore:
- MRT (subway)
- Buses
- Walking
Must-visit places in one day:
- Marina Bay Sands area
- Gardens by the Bay
- Chinatown or Little India
- Merlion Park
Estimated daily cost:
- SGD 50–80
Bahrain
Size: 778 km²
How to explore:
- Rental car
- Taxi
Must-visit places in one day:
- Bahrain National Museum
- Qal’at al-Bahrain
- Manama Souq
Estimated daily cost:
- BHD 20–35
What to Prepare for Exploring a Country in One Day
Comfortable clothing and shoes
You will likely walk a lot, especially in places like Vatican City, Monaco, or Singapore. Wear breathable clothes and comfortable walking shoes to avoid fatigue.
Efficient transportation plan
Research the best transport options in advance, such as public transport passes, hop-on hop-off buses, rental scooters, or walking routes, to maximize your limited time.
Digital maps and itinerary
Save offline maps and create a simple route covering main attractions. This helps you avoid wasting time deciding where to go next.
Reliable internet access
Internet is essential for navigation, ride-hailing apps, ticket bookings, and translation. Using an eSIM makes travel smoother. Eskimo eSIM is now offering a free 500MB global data trial that you can use in 109 countries. Click here to learn more.
Valid travel documents
Bring your passport or ID, especially when visiting microstates near borders like Monaco, San Marino, or Liechtenstein.
Light backpack or day bag
Carry only essentials such as water, snacks, power bank, sunscreen, and a hat to stay comfortable all day.
Local currency or card
While most places accept cards, having some cash is useful for small purchases or public transport.
FAQs
Are one-day country trips suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. These destinations are generally safe, well-organized, and easy to navigate, making them ideal for solo travelers who enjoy independent exploration.
Can these countries be visited as part of a longer trip?
Yes. Many travelers visit these countries as day trips or stopovers while staying in nearby larger countries or cities.
Do I need to worry about language barriers in these destinations?
In most of these countries, English is widely understood in tourist areas, transportation hubs, and attractions, so communication is rarely a problem.
What is the biggest challenge when exploring a country in one day?
Time management is the main challenge. Arriving early, prioritizing attractions, and avoiding peak hours help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
