Countries around the world range greatly in size. 

In fact, the combined area of the five smallest countries in the world is less than 50 square miles. 

Vatican City is the smallest country in the world, followed by Monaco, Nauru, Tuvalu and San Marino, in that order. 

Read more about the smallest countries in the world by area below. 

Vatican City, with an area of approximately 0.17 square miles, is the smallest fully independent nation-state in the world. 

The landlocked country is surrounded by Rome and serves as the seat of the Holy See, the governing body of the Catholic Church, led by the Pope. 

Despite its size, Vatican City attracts millions of visitors annually. 

One of the most popular attractions in Vatican City is St. Peter’s Basilica, located in the heart of the tiny country. 

Monaco, the second-smallest country in the world, covers approximately 0.8 square miles. 

Tourism is a significant contributor to Monaco’s economy. 

This European nation is a luxurious destination for tourists, boasting beautiful beaches and stunning architecture within its small borders. 

Monaco is also renowned for the historic Monaco Grand Prix, an annual car race held in Monte Carlo, typically in late May. 

Another popular attraction for tourists is the Monte Carlo Casino. 

Nauru, the third-smallest country in the world, has a land area of approximately 8.1 square miles. 

Historically, Nauru served as a supply point for European whalers. In 1888, it was annexed by Germany, and later captured by Australian forces following World War I. 

During World War II, Japan occupied Nauru, which subsequently became a United Nations Trust Territory under Australian administration. Nauru declared independence in 1968. 

Phosphate mining was a major industry in Nauru for many years, but officially ceased in 2006. 

Nauru joined the United Nations in 1999. 

Tuvalu, the fourth-smallest country in the world, covers approximately 10 square miles. 

Located in the South Pacific, Tuvalu consists of several atolls and reef islands. 

The islands that make up Tuvalu are Nanumea, Nui, Nukufetau, Funafuti, Nukulaelae, Nanumanga, Niutao, Vaitupu, and Niulakita.

Tuvalu gained independence from the United Kingdom in 1978. 

San Marino, the largest country on this list, has an area of approximately 23.6 square miles. 

Surrounded by Italy, San Marino’s landscape is dominated by Mount Titano. 

in San Marino. Additionally, revenue is generated through postage stamps and coins, which are popular among collectors, according to the BBC.