▲Technically the smallest country in the world, it's more accurate to call Vatican City an independent city-state.

▲Luxembourg is another country with a long, storied history. Capital Luxembourg City is a great center, but the fun doesn't stop there.

▲With a population of around 800, and a history stretching back to 14 BCE, Vatican City is an essential destination for curious explorers out there.

▲Named after its ruling family, Liechtenstein is like a fantasy film. There's 12th-century castles, drawbridges, and a high-brow food culture.

▲With palaces, winding rivers, and ancient castles, the entire country is filled with curiosities and interesting sights to see.

▲Andorra's attractions include ski resorts, towering mountains, and untouched national parks.

▲More microstate than country, Andorra is jointly ruled by Spain and France. Its biggest sell is perhaps tax-free shopping.

▲Take a bike ride along long lakes, and discover all of Andorra's natural wonders.

▲The sixth-smallest country in the world doesn't even have an airport, but Liechtenstein is still a luxurious place to visit.

▲Like Andorra, San Marino is another microstate, found on the Italian Peninsula. It's the third-smallest country in Europe.

▲San Marino boasts incredible medieval architecture, perfect for exploring if you're after something unique.

▲With ancient temples, and plenty of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Malta is a gorgeous location with amazing beaches and a friendly population too.

▲Malta is a jewel of the Mediterranean, a tiny island drifting between Italy and North Africa.

▲This tiny mountainous country is close to Croatia, and filled with amazing activities for explorers.

▲With a stunning coastline, Albania is perfect for surfers and beach lovers.

▲Montenegro boasts gorgeous beaches and a picturesque countryside.

▲In the capital Città di San Marino, there are eccentric museums and exciting military displays.

▲For something different, take a boat out on Montenegro's crystal-clear lakes.

▲Albania isn't a tourist hotspot just yet, but that could all change very soon.

▲Formerly known as just Macedonia, this country is a fascinating place to visit.

▲The landscapes are second to none, with sprawling beaches and gorgeous greenery.

▲To some, Wales may sit in England's shadow, but there are plenty of reasons to visit this small and friendly country.

▲The landlocked nation may miss out on beaches, but it has an ancient cultural history that dates back to the sixth century.

▲With a friendly population and a mouth-watering food culture, Republic of North Macedonia is worth a visit.

▲The country also has a rich heritage, with ancient castles and churches situated in the capital Tirana.

▲There's a lot more to Cyprus than its infamous party islands.

▲Sure, Lake Bled is worth your time, but there are hundreds of other attractions that are worth visiting too.

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Paphos has beautiful beaches and a lively nightlife, and it's also a pretty incredible city in terms of history and heritage.

▲Cyprus has a Turkish north and a Greek south, and that duality makes it a dynamic destination for a vacation.

▲A trip to Slovenia is sure to be successful. Capital Ljubljana has castles atop mountains, farmers' markets, and a treasure trove of cafés and eateries.

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Europe is a wonderful continent, filled with spectacular countries. Thing is, there are plenty of European nations that don't get their due shine. Europe's smallest states and countries are actually some of the continent's most interesting. Find out more about them in this fun gallery.