7 countries and territories so small you can explore them in a day — and what it costs to visit

Have you ever wondered how many places you can cover in a day? Not sure most probably. But what if we tell you that there are countries that you can actually cover in a day. Yes, sightseeing, museum visits, and more, all that in one day. These are countries that offer a rare travel advantage, but are you ready for it? These compact destinations pack up history, scenery, culture, into bite-sized borders, and are worth all your money and effort. So, here are those tiny countries that are small enough to explore in a day, and how much it will cost to visit.

Without any doubt, it’s a postcard-perfect destination tucked between Switzerland and Austria, which can be easily visited in a few hours. Vaduz, its capital, is home to museums, and vineyards, while you can also enjoy the views of Vaduz Castle perched above the Rhine Valley. There are also scenic walking trails and mountain paths to keep you occupied, and which makes it an ideal destination for a slow-paced day trip.
Approximate cost: €80–120 per day (excluding accommodation), including local transport, meals, and museum visits.

Surrounded by Italy, and founded in 301 AD, San Marino claims the title of the world’s oldest surviving republic. Spread across just 61 sq km, the country’s historic centre sits atop Mount Titano. Those visiting this destination can explore its narrow cobbled streets, medieval towers, and not to forget, panoramic viewpoints. Needless to mention, all these within a few hours.
Approximate cost: €60–100 per day. Do note that it will depend on your dining choices and places you visit.

To give you a context, Monaco is smaller than New York’s Central Park. But that does not take away its glamorous shine. It's synonymous with luxury, yachts, and the surprising, Formula 1. It's glamorous in every way, yet surprisingly walkable. In a single day, you can cover almost everything, from Monte Carlo’s casino district, to the old town of Monaco-Ville, the harbour, and the Prince’s Palace.
Approximate cost: €120–200 per day, with food being the biggest expense.

Vatican City is the smallest country in the world, and covers less than half a square kilometre. This shouldn't come as a surprise why a day would be enough to explore it. Visit St Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel, while also experiencing the vibe of St Peter’s Square all in a day.
Approximate cost: €40–70 per day, including museum tickets and meals.

It’s a British Overseas Territory set at the southern tip of Europe. It’s compact and dramatic, a unique combination of a place. The Rock of Gibraltar dominates the skyline, and a cable car ride to the top is something that anyone shouldn’t avoid to enjoy sweeping views of Europe and Africa. Encounters with the famous Barbary macaques and walks through historic tunnels further make it a rewarding one-day destination.
Approximate cost: £60–100 per day.

Nestled between France and Spain in the Pyrenees, Andorra feels like a high-altitude alpine village spread across an entire country. Indeed truly beautiful! Though mountainous, its main attractions are ski towns, hiking trails, Romanesque churches, and duty-free shopping, all of which can be checked in a single well-planned day.
Approximate cost: €70–110 per day, depending on activities.

Macau, which was formerly a Portuguese colony and is currently a Special Administrative Region of China, is another small territory that can be explored in a single day. Its cathedrals, temples, and UNESCO-listed old center are all close enough to explore on foot, and that too in a day. The local food vendors will further help you to satiate your hunger pangs.
Approximate cost: MOP 400–700 per day (or HKD 380–650) (excluding accommodation), including meals, transport, and sightseeing.