From walled cities to cliff-hugging capitals, these pint-sized nations prove that small doesn’t mean less. In just 24 hours, you can cross entire borders, sample local cuisine, and still have time for a sunset view.

The world is mammoth; however, some nations are so compact that, with a good plan and comfortable shoes, you could realistically see the main highlights in a single day!

And yes, these are fully sovereign countries – not territories – and while traveling to them may take longer, once you arrive, their size works very much in your favor.

Here are eight such nations that are so small that you can explore them to bits in a single day!

1. Vatican City

Don’t let the “city” in its name trick you – Vatican City is the smallest country on Earth with an area of about 0.44 km sq. You could walk across the entire country in under an hour (we aren’t kidding!), though you will want to slow down once you reach St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Museums.

It may be tiny, but it comfortably fills a full day with art, architecture, and crowds moving at a very polite shuffle.

2. Monaco

Monaco is a 2.0 km sq proof that small countries can still feel extravagant. Sitting along the French Riviera, this tiny country packs luxury hotels, a historic palace, a major casino, and a Formula One racetrack into an area smaller than many city parks.

You can walk through most neighbourhoods in a day, with plenty of time still left for coffee breaks. Cute, isn’t it?

3. Nauru

Nauru, with an area of 21 km sq, is the smallest island nation in the world. A single coastal road circles the entire country, making it easy to get around in one day.

Visitors can explore coral cliffs, inland limestone formations, and World War II remnants without ever straying far from the sea.

It is quiet, remote, and refreshingly unrushed, perfect for anyone on a lookout for a tropical downtime.

4. Tuvalu

The low-lying atolls scattered across the Pacific gave birth to a tiny country named Tuvalu, which is just 26 km sq in size! Most visitors spend time on Funafuti, the laid-back capital of this place.

This country is less about landmarks and more about atmosphere: beaches, lagoons, village life, and wide-open ocean views. In one day, you can see much of what Tuvalu offers – and still have time to watch the sun set over the water. Dreamy, yes!

5. San Marino

San Marino is one of the world’s oldest republics, and of course, among the smallest countries on this planet with an area of 61 km sq.

Perched atop the Mount Titano, it is surrounded entirely by Italy and garners attention for its historic hotspots, medieval streets, and famous Three Towers. A day is more than enough to explore the old town, enjoy the views, and appreciate how much history fits into such a small space.

6. Liechtenstein

Liechtenstein is slightly larger (160 sq km area) than the others on this list, but still compact enough for a one-day overview. Nestled between Switzerland and Austria, it offers Alpine scenery, museums, vineyards, and the capital city of Vaduz – all within proximity.

With good planning, you can cover culture and nature in the same afternoon.

7. Marshall Islands

With an area of 181 km sq, Marshall Islands are spread across many atolls. Those who visit this country mostly focus on the main population centres.

Clear lagoons, reef snorkeling, and visible World War II history define the experience. While island-hopping takes planning, the core sights can comfortably fit into a day once you are on the ground.

8. Saint Kitts and Nevis

A two-island country in the Caribbean with an area stretching to 261 km sq, this stunning destination has a lot you can explore in just 24 hours – right from historic forts and coastal towns to beaches and even parts of the rainforest.

Efficient ferries and short driving distances make it possible to sample both islands without rushing too much.

Planning a cherry blossom trip to Japan? What if your journey could go beyond crowded sakura spots? Here are five offbeat experiences that reveal an unforgettable side of Japan

Japan’s cherry blossoms in 2026 are expected to bloom from late March to early April across central regions, with full bloom typically lasting just one week. Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka remain the most sought-after destinations for first-time visitors, drawing crowds eager to witness the fleeting pink spectacle that defines Japan’s most photographed and celebrated season.

While cherry blossoms remain a defining travel moment, Japan offers experiences that stretch far beyond flower-viewing traditions. Travellers often arrive for hanami but leave captivated by the country’s cultural curiosities, wellness rituals, and unusual communities. For those willing to step off the crowded sakura trail, Japan reveals immersive, lesser-known encounters that showcase its layered traditions and distinctive modern eccentricities.

Cat Island: Aoshima Island is one of Japan’s rare “cat islands,” where more than a hundred cats roam freely through a quiet fishing village. Here, felines outnumber humans nearly six to one, curling up in abandoned homes or wandering narrow streets. Growing internet fame has drawn increasing tourists, often overwhelming the island’s small resident population while preserving its oddly tranquil charm.

Hakone’s Unusual Spa Rituals: Traditional bathing meets playful wellness innovation in Hakone’s themed spa pools. Visitors can soak in green tea, coffee, wine, or sake baths, each believed to offer health benefits. Sake baths are said to help reduce freckles and ageing spots, while green tea sourced from surrounding mountains is linked to improved skin and immunity. Wine baths are often associated with rejuvenation rituals.

Kyaraben Workshops: Kyaraben, or character bento, transforms simple lunch ingredients into edible art. Using rice, seaweed, and vegetables, participants learn to recreate cartoon characters, animals, and pop culture icons through intricate food arrangement. These workshops highlight Japan’s culinary precision while revealing how food presentation reflects care, creativity, and emotional expression within everyday Japanese domestic culture.

Shukubo Temple Stays: Staying in a shukubo offers travellers a rare opportunity to experience life inside a Buddhist temple. Guests participate in meditation sessions and traditional vegetarian temple meals, providing a pause from modern distractions. Many temples operate on cash-only systems, and room packages often include dinner and breakfast, creating a structured yet deeply calming introduction to monastic living traditions.

Animal cafés across Japan, especially in Tokyo districts like Harajuku and Akihabara, offer visitors time-limited interactions with animals ranging from Shiba Inus and cats to owls, hedgehogs, micro pigs, and capybaras. Typically operating through paid entry with beverage service, these venues reflect Japan’s fascination with therapeutic companionship and carefully curated animal interaction experiences.

Both Tokyo and Seoul have efficient airport connections and public transport, supporting smooth travel while offering distinct cultural and culinary highlights.

Travelling to East Asia for the first time is an experience filled with excitement, curiosity and discovery. Both Tokyo and Seoul draw visitors from around the world with their culture, food and lively cityscapes. Yet one question sits at the heart of most planning: which of these two capitals is kinder to the wallet? The answer depends on daily expenses, hotel prices, food costs, transportation ease and the value each city offers in return. Understanding these differences can help first-time travellers choose a destination that matches both their budget and expectations. Here is everything you need to know before making that choice.

Here Are 5 Key Things To Know Before Choosing Between Tokyo And Seoul

1. Daily Travel Budget

Tokyo:

Travelling in Tokyo generally costs more, with visitors spending about $181 per day. This includes meals, transport and accommodation, making it the pricier choice for first-timers. Despite the higher cost, travellers often find the city’s cleanliness, efficiency and range of attractions worth the spend.

Seoul:

In Seoul, the average daily spend is about $123 per day, which is much easier on the pocket for newcomers. The city offers excellent public spaces, affordable markets and budget-friendly eateries, meaning your money stretches further. For those planning a week-long trip, this difference can amount to considerable savings without missing out on experiences.

Winner: Seoul

2. Accommodation

Tokyo:

Accommodation is one of the biggest contributors to Tokyo’s overall expense. Travellers spend around $151 per day on hotels on average. Budget options like capsule hotels exist, but prices rise sharply in peak seasons such as cherry blossom time. Tokyo offers a wide range of lodging styles, but first-time travellers should prepare for higher costs, especially in central neighbourhoods.

Seoul:

In Seoul, the average cost of accommodation sits at around $103 per day, making it noticeably more affordable. The city has excellent mid-range hotels, guesthouses and hostels that provide comfort at lower prices. Even in popular areas like Myeongdong or Hongdae, you can find clean, well-located stays without overspending.

Winner: Seoul

3. Food And Dining Costs

Tokyo:

Food in Tokyo is diverse and exceptional, but it comes at a cost. Travellers spend roughly $63 per day on meals. You can save by choosing convenience-store meals or ramen shops, but proper sit-down dining tends to be more expensive. Even so, many travellers feel Tokyo’s culinary scene is worth the investment for its quality and variety.

Seoul:

Seoul offers deeply flavourful food at lower prices, with visitors spending around $49 per day on average. Street food stalls, local markets and small eateries serve hearty dishes without straining your budget. This makes Seoul an ideal choice for food lovers who want to try multiple dishes without worrying about cost.

Winner: Seoul

4. Transportation

Tokyo:

Transport in Tokyo is reliable and extensive, costing travellers about $17 per day. The metro network covers almost every corner of the city, though navigating it can be confusing for first-timers. Despite being more expensive than Seoul, Tokyo’s public transport is exceptionally punctual and well-maintained.

Seoul:

Seoul’s transportation system is not only efficient but also more economical, averaging $15 per day. The subway is user-friendly, well-signposted and offers excellent connectivity at lower fares. For budget-focused travellers, this small daily saving adds up during a longer stay.

Winner: Seoul

5. Attractions And Value For Money

Tokyo:

Tokyo is packed with major attractions including temples, parks, shopping districts and themed experiences. Many iconic sites such as Senso-ji and the Imperial Palace grounds are free to enter, helping offset some costs. However, paid attractions, cafes and experiences can add up quickly. Tokyo offers immense value for travellers who appreciate cultural contrasts and high-end dining.

Seoul:

Seoul provides excellent value through its cultural heritage, shopping markets and low-cost attractions. Visitors can explore palaces, local markets and street performances without heavy spending. The city’s mix of tradition and modernity means you can enjoy a rich experience even on a smaller budget.

Winner: Depends on preference. Tokyo for iconic experiences; Seoul for value and affordability.

So, Which Is Better For First-Time Budget Travellers?

If managing expenses is your top priority, Seoul clearly emerges as the more budget-friendly choice across daily spending, hotels, food and transport. If you are open to spending a little more for refined dining, exceptional order, and world-class attractions, Tokyo offers unforgettable value.

How To Reach

How To Reach Tokyo

Tokyo is served by Narita International Airport and Haneda Airport, both well-connected to the city. Narita handles most international flights, while Haneda is closer to central Tokyo. Travellers can reach the city by express trains like the Narita Express, Keisei Skyliner, airport buses or taxis. The extensive rail options make arriving in Tokyo smooth and efficient.

How To Reach Seoul

Seoul’s main international gateway is Incheon International Airport, located about an hour from the city. Travellers can use the AREX Express or All-Stop trains, airport buses or taxis to reach central districts. The transport network is straightforward, well-signposted and ideal for first-timers.

Either way, both cities provide remarkable cultural depth, memorable food experiences and warm hospitality, ensuring a rewarding trip no matter which one you choose.

For most travellers, tourism is built around freedom, choosing where to go, how long to stay, and what to explore. In many parts of the world, independent travel is taken for granted. However, a small number of countries operate very differently. In these destinations, tourism is tightly regulated by the state, visas are closely controlled, and visitors are often required to follow pre-approved itineraries, travel with authorised guides, or avoid entire regions altogether.

While travel to these countries is not impossible, it comes with limitations that can feel unusual, and sometimes challenging, for international visitors. Here are five countries where tourist travel is extremely restricted, and why.

North Korea

North Korea remains the most tightly controlled tourist destination in the world. All foreign tourists must travel on state-organised tours operated by approved agencies. Visitors are accompanied by official government guides at all times, and itineraries are fixed in advance. Independent movement, unplanned interactions, or deviation from the schedule is strictly prohibited. Photography is heavily regulated, especially around military sites, construction areas, or anything perceived as politically sensitive. Interaction with local citizens is limited and supervised.

Turkmenistan

Turkmenistan allows foreign tourists but under strict administrative control. Most visitors require a government-approved guide and must submit a detailed travel itinerary in advance. Independent backpacking, spontaneous travel, or freely moving between cities is extremely difficult. Photography of government buildings, police, and infrastructure is prohibited, sometimes without clear signage. Regulations can change with little notice, making travel dependent on official guidance throughout the visit.

Eritrea

Tourism in Eritrea is limited and closely monitored. While Asmara is accessible to visitors, special travel permits are typically required to move beyond the capital. These permits must be arranged in advance and approved by authorities. Photography restrictions are common, especially around government buildings, ports, and security installations. Transport infrastructure outside Asmara is limited, and accommodation options are few.

Bhutan

Bhutan represents a different kind of restriction. Rather than political control, the country follows a high-value, low-volume tourism policy designed to protect its environment and cultural heritage. Most international tourists must book their trip through licensed Bhutanese tour operators, and pay a mandatory daily Sustainable Development Fee. Even though travellers can now move independently with a guide, most nationalities must still book their trip through a licensed operator for visa approval, with India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives exempt from this requirement.

Saudi Arabia (Restricted zones)

Saudi Arabia has opened up to international tourism in recent years, but significant restrictions remain. It’s true when it comes to Mecca. Access to the holy city of Mecca, and certain parts of Medina, is strictly limited to Muslims, with enforcement at entry points. Beyond religious restrictions, some border regions and sensitive areas require special permits. Photography of government facilities, military sites, and security infrastructure is restricted. Social behaviour and dress codes are more closely regulated than in most tourist destinations, and visitors are expected to respect local laws and customs at all times.