Little Giants of Europe

Our Europe trip felt like stepping into a dream, with every moment resembling a scene straight from a postcard—bringing my childhood fantasies to life. From the majestic Eiffel Tower to the legendary Colosseum, each city told its own captivating story, leaving you smitten and yearning for more. While the goal was to check off bucket list destinations, the journey gifted us with unforgettable experiences that will forever be etched in my heart. Whether it was savoring local cuisines or immersing ourselves in the rich art, culture, and history, this adventure left an indelible mark. Speaking of history, Western Europe is also home to several smaller nations—hidden treasures that shine alongside their larger neighbors like jewels on a crown. These “Little Giants of Europe” boast vibrant histories and fascinating stories that make them truly worth discovering. Let’s dive in and explore their unique magic.

Our journey from Brussels to Bavaria brought us to our first stop – the enchanting Luxembourg City. Nestled in Western Europe and bordered by France, Germany, and Belgium, Luxembourg may be small in size, but it stands tall as one of the world's wealthiest nations, renowned for its strong finance and banking sectors. Beyond its economic strength, the country beautifully balances cutting-edge innovation with deep-rooted historical charm. As a founding member of the European Union, Luxembourg plays a vital role in European affairs and is home to several major EU institutions. The capital, Luxembourg City, is a striking fusion of the old and the new. Set dramatically atop cliffs and framed by lush gorges, it captivates with panoramic views, ancient fortifications, and a UNESCO-listed Old Town. With its winding cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and vibrant multicultural vibe, the city offers an unforgettable blend of heritage, culture, and modern elegance.

Fun fact: Luxembourg is the only Grand Duchy in the world! That means it's ruled by a Grand Duke rather than a king or president, making it a truly unique form of monarchy in modern times.

Our next stop was a brief but memorable visit to Vaduz, Liechtenstein, during our drive from Switzerland to Munich. Nestled snugly between Switzerland and Austria, Liechtenstein is a tiny yet captivating principality set amidst the stunning Alps. Renowned for its storybook landscapes, soaring mountain views, and quaint villages, this microstate offers a peaceful blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Despite its modest size, Liechtenstein enjoys a thriving economy, a high quality of life, and a distinctive mix of Swiss precision and Austrian warmth. At its heart lies Vaduz, the charming capital, where a majestic castle overlooks the town from its hilltop perch. Vaduz may be small, but it’s brimming with character—home to notable museums like the Kunstmuseum and the Liechtenstein National Museum, and known for its quiet streets, scenic surroundings, and relaxed atmosphere. This little gem truly feels like a hidden treasure tucked away in the Alps.

Fun fact: Liechtenstein is one of the only two doubly landlocked countries in the world—meaning it's landlocked and also surrounded entirely by other landlocked countries Switzerland and Austria.

Our third and fourth sovereign states are located within Italy, starting with our first stop in San Marino. One of the world's oldest republics, San Marino is a tiny, landlocked country surrounded by Italy. Established in 301 AD, it proudly holds the title of the oldest continuous sovereign state and constitutional republic. Despite its small size, San Marino offers breathtaking hilltop views, beautiful medieval architecture, and a deep historical legacy. The capital, also named San Marino, sits atop Mount Titano and features winding cobblestone streets, ancient towers, and stunning panoramic views. With its rich heritage, picturesque scenery, and independent character, San Marino presents a fascinating mix of history and modern charm, transporting visitors back in time.

Fun fact: San Marino is one of few countries of the world which does not have a national army and instead relies on Italy for defense.

Our final stop was undoubtedly the smallest country in the world – Vatican City. Despite its minuscule size and population, Vatican City holds immense global importance. Nestled entirely within Rome, Italy, it serves as both the spiritual heart and administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church, as well as the residence of the Pope. Although tiny, Vatican City is home to extraordinary treasures, including St. Peter's Basilica, the Sistine Chapel with Michelangelo's iconic ceiling, and the Vatican Museums, which boast some of the most celebrated art collections globally. This exceptional city-state blends rich religious history with breathtaking architecture, making it a pilgrimage destination and a cultural icon for people from all over the world.

Fun fact: Vatican City has an open border agreement with Italy which means no formal border control and you can simply walk into St. Peter's Square from the Italian side.

As our journey came to an end, we couldn’t help but feel grateful for the unique treasures each of these charming places had to offer. From the fairy-tale beauty of Luxembourg City, with its rich history and stunning views, to the peaceful allure of Vaduz, nestled in the Swiss Alps, and the timeless spirit of San Marino, perched high on Mount Titano, each destination left its mark on our hearts. And of course, no trip would be complete without the awe-inspiring Vatican City, where history, art, and spirituality blend in the most magical way. These tiny yet mighty countries may be small in size, but their beauty, culture, and stories are truly larger than life. Our adventure through these hidden gems will remain a collection of unforgettable memories, and we’ll be longing to return for more.