The five must-see European microstates in the spring

Most people like to travel to the beach in summer, in winter some prefer the mountains and others prefer warmer climates. The question arises, where do we travel in the spring or just in the fall? There are five exciting but extremely tiny states that await those looking for active recreation and nature lovers, as well as a red herring, which provides unique experiences for those who are hungry for knowledge and are sn admirer of museums.

This small city-state is located on the French Riviera and is the second smallest state in the world, consisting almost exclusively of the city of Monaco. The Mediterranean climate, the view combining the beautiful mountains and the beach, as well as the world of casinos can win everyone over. Due to the extremely favorable taxes, companies also prefer to choose the state as their headquarters. We wouldn't think so, but this tiny state is the most densely populated country in the world. As Monaco is characterized by immense luxury, there are plenty of attractions to visit.

Such as the exquisite Prince's palace, all the beautiful museums, and cathedrals, however, nature lovers will not leave the city in frustration either, this is ensured by the rich botanical garden. Those who have money to spare can try their luck in one of the famous casinos such as one of the most known, the Casino de Monte Carlo, and risk their money while having a great time. You can end the day by visiting the harbor full of huge yachts, sailboats, and cruise ships.

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The beautiful, clean streets, magnificent buildings, and almost complete absence of criminality make it an ideal tourist destination even for a short, few-day trip to the French Riviera.

We can do this even during the regular Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix if we are open to the charm of the autosport.

The 5th smallest country in the world is a beautiful state landlocked only by Italy. Many don't know, but San Marino is the first republic to be established, so it's not so surprising that its distinctive charm and tourist appeal is given by its own history. Tourists visiting here love the beautifully designed capital witch is named as the state: San Marino was built around an abbey in the 300s. In the old part of the town, everyone will find what they are looking for.

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Monasteries, museums, palaces, and fabulous theaters bearing the artistic marks of the last millennium could tell a lot about the past centuries. However, perhaps the most impressive building is the Guaita the spectacular fortress with awe-inspiring towers, which also displays the flag of the republic.

Maybe it's due to the amazing fortress, maybe the historic capital, the dwarf state attracts approximately 3 million tourists a year.

Our next stop is the only country in Europe that lies entirely in the Alps. Due to its geographical location, it is a highly sought after tourist center. If we want to go somewhere in the spring, where one can rejuvenate in a beautiful environment, away from the world, Liechtenstein was created for that. The country is waiting for us with many exciting programs, one for everyone.

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In spring and summer, mountain hikes and cycling are perhaps the most sought after, but the more adventurous can also try rock climbing. For those looking for peace and retreat, golf and fishing can provide pleasant moments. In winter, skiing and snowboarding await those looking for active recreation.

It is also worth visiting the capital, Vaduz, where the main attractions are the Parliament and the Vaduz Castle, the seat of the princely family.

Its location is picturesque and attractive for tourists, as it is located in the Pyrenees, where the average altitude is close to 2000 meters. Of course, this means that a significant amount of tourists visit Andorra mainly due to the high mountain tourism and the beautiful scenery. Taking advantage of the geographical features, even in winter, due to the possibility of snowboarding, the state is a well sought out tourist destination.

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In spring and summer, the country awaits fans of mountaineering and trekking with open arms. However, there are also 3 national parks in the state where nature lovers can easily find satisfaction. The charming town of the capital, Andorra la Vella, is built of stone houses along meandering streets.

The state parliament is an extraordinary stone building built in the 16th century called Casa de La Vall. This landscape is a paradise for those who want to retreat from the modern world.

Finally, the aforementioned red herring. Another mini-state in Italy, the Vatican is the smallest state in the world with less than 1 square kilometer, as of 2019 had a total population of 825 people. It is strange that many people think that there are no women living in the Vatican, even though 1 nun and approx. 30 secular ladies spend their daily lives here. Incidentally, the state is completely closed off from the world, except the famous St. Peter's Square is surrounded by a wall with only 6 entrances along it. The most famous is the gate opening from the Museum, which as the name suggests leads to the Vatican Museum.

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There has been so much knowledge accumulated here over the centuries that even a day can be too short a time if we want to walk through it all. One of the highlights is the St. Peter's Basilica, especially its lookout witch grants a panoramic view of Rome. The city is also protected by UNESCO.

Any of the 5 mini-states named in our list can provide an abundance of fantastic adventures for tourists whether arriving family or alone. They certainly won't be disappointed.

May 2020