Europe is home to a number of ‘micro states,’ including Luxemburg, the really tiny Andorra, Monaco, San Marino and others. They have been created by historical accidents and survived wars and remained sovereign states. They are so small that are hardly ever included on world maps, and even if they are shown on a Europe map, they appear as cities or tiny regions.
Andorra
Welcome to the mountain kingdom of Andorra – the ‘Land of the Valley!’ With some of the most dramatic scenery in all of the Pyrenees, beautiful rivers, duty-free shopping, outstanding spa treatments, gastronomical delights, a wide range of attractions, including museums, churches, galleries and monuments, and a plethora of activities like hiking, biking, fishing, trekking and canyoning, this tiny European country is a perfect getaway for leisure and business travelers alike, ensuring unforgettable and colorful holidays you’ll remember forever!
Ideally nestled in the southwestern Europe on the southern slopes of the Pyrenees Mountains, between France and Spain, Andorra covers a total area of 468 sq km and is considered the largest of the European microstates. Its capital is Andorra la Vella, surrounded by magnificent mountains up to 2,400 m high. Most of Andorra is an enormous ski resort that in summer turns into a world-famous shopping centre with prices more American than European, especially for electronic goods, cosmetics and alcohol.
Accommodation options vary greatly in Andorra, from apartments and bed and breakfast to stunning hotels in the most idyllic mountain places. There is so much to do in Andorra, that if you are an outdoor enthusiast, this country could be your dream come true. One of the most attraction tourist destinations in Andorra is the not-to-be-missed World Heritage Site Madriu Valley. Other attractions worth a visit include the Church of Santa Coloma with its freestanding 12 the-century bell, the Museu Nacional de l’Autumòbil and the Església Sant Romàde les Bons. Spend a hectic day skiing! Chilling out at a pub! Or Listen to live Music in one of Andorra fine restaurants! This is all about Andorra – a skier’s vacationland!
Monaco
Located towards the western part of Europe along the Mediterranean coast and with a total 485 acres of land, Monaco is a unique family travel destination blessed with suitably glamorous history, diverse flora and fauna, posh hotels, luxury shops, fancy restaurants and world-class casinos. Every year during May Monaco hosts the Formula 1 Grand Prix, so if you are a racing enthusiast plan your visit in that month.
Monaco simply teems with tourist attractions, which are the main reason why so many domestic or international tourists visit the city-state every year. Popular tourist draws in the city include:
- The Exotic Garden (Jardin Exotique), located in the hills of Monte Carlo, features more than six hundred different kinds of cactus from several faraway arid zones (hence the name ‘Exotic’). This fascinating open-air setting is also a perfect resting spot. Jardin Exotique is open every day except on National Holiday and Christmas Day. Once you get the tickets to the Exotic Garden, you also get access to the Observatory Cave and the Anthropology Museum.
- The Monte Carlo Casino is another ‘must visit’ attraction in Monaco. Established in 1863, the casino in Monte Carlo is the most famous location in the world for poker, blackjack and roulette, offering the best casino experience ever. The casino is exquisite in its design, offering 21 gaming rooms elegantly decorated with sculptures and colors with a choice of European rooms, private rooms and the English Club room. There have been certain rules at the Monte Carlo casino since it began, one of which is that men should wear a jacket and tire while women should dress casually.
- The Palais du Prince (Prince’s Palace) — Europe’s most elegant castle, also merits a visit. Prince’s Place is located in old Monaco-Ville and for centuries has been the residence of the ruling Grimaldi family. The 15 rooms of the Palace, including the Throne Room, are open to public. Do not miss out the changing of the guard that takes place daily at 11:55 am. While you are on the hill near the palace, be sure to stroll over and admire the marvelous views of harbor on both sides.
Monaco offers a number of five-star luxury hotels and very few options for budget travelers. Monaco is less than 2 kilometers across, so it’s not necessary to take transport within the principality.
San Marino
San Marino, the oldest republic in the world, has also plenty to interest visitors. Ancient fortresses and churches, museums, libraries, art collections, botanical gardens and fine shopping is what makes San Marino a gorgeously striking country. Though small in size (only 24 sq miles), it is an important travel destination with thousands of visitors flocking to it from all over the globe. Architecture lovers will find a number of fascinating sights among which are the noteworthy La Rocca fortress, dating back to the 11th century also known as the Guaita or First Tower; the most spectacular Basilica del Santo – built in the 19th century and containing the remains and artifacts of San Marino, the city’s patron saint, as well as the 17th century throne of the Captain Regent; State Museum of San Marino, established in the second half of the 19th century with a variety of historical and artistic collections that illustrate the republic’s history, as well as Monte Titano, the geological feature of San Marino, a limestone outlier with 3 summits, the highest being 2,457 ft in elevation.
Do not forget that San Marino travel becomes more special and pleasurable with the excellent hotels of the country that provide even the most discerning travelers with the utmost amenities and facilities. An interesting fact about San Marino is that it has two heads of state at the same time that are selected every six months.
Plan your holidays in these tiny ‘hideaways’ and enjoy your trip to the fullest!