Europe’s map is dotted with compact towns where centuries of growth met tight geography and old borders, producing surprisingly small municipal footprints. Walking those streets often feels different from larger cities — services, landmarks and daily life are concentrated and close at hand.
There are 22 Smallest Cities in Europe by Area, ranging from Andorra la Vella to Wells. For each entry we list Country,Area (km²),Population — you’ll find below.
How were the city areas measured?
Area figures come from official administrative boundaries reported by national statistical offices or municipal records; where sources disagreed I used the most recent authoritative measurement and noted revisions when available.
Can I compare population density from these entries?
You can estimate density by dividing Population by Area (km²), but keep in mind different countries define city limits differently and some small-area cities include parks or uninhabited land, so density comparisons are a useful starting point rather than a definitive measure.
Smallest Cities in Europe by Area
| City | Country | Area (km²) | Population |
|---|---|---|---|
| Castelmoron-d’Albret | France | 0.04 | 53 (2019) |
| Rattenberg | Austria | 0.11 | 440 (2020) |
| Atrani | Italy | 0.12 | 832 (2017) |
| Vatican City | Vatican City | 0.44 | 825 (2019) |
| Arnis | Germany | 0.45 | 284 (2020) |
| Valletta | Malta | 0.61 | 5,827 (2019) |
| Rochefort-en-Terre | France | 1.22 | 635 (2019) |
| Fürstenau | Switzerland | 1.32 | 350 (2020) |
| Durbe | Latvia | 1.60 | 519 (2021) |
| Panemunė | Lithuania | 1.67 | 217 (2021) |
| Monaco | Monaco | 2.02 | 38,350 (2020) |
| Neumarkt an der Ybbs | Austria | 2.59 | 2,020 (2021) |
| City of London | United Kingdom | 2.90 | 8,600 (2018) |
| Stavern | Norway | 2.95 | 5,989 (2021) |
| Wells | United Kingdom | 5.40 | 12,000 (2018) |
| Gibraltar | Gibraltar | 6.70 | 33,691 (2021) |
| City of San Marino | San Marino | 7.09 | 4,040 (2020) |
| Hardegg | Austria | 9.32 | 86 (2021) |
| Vianden | Luxembourg | 9.67 | 2,212 (2022) |
| Andorra la Vella | Andorra | 12.00 | 22,873 (2021) |
| Glorenza | Italy | 13.22 | 902 (2020) |
| Vaduz | Liechtenstein | 17.30 | 5,668 (2019) |
Images and Descriptions
Castelmoron-d’Albret
Officially the smallest commune in France, this tiny, fortified village near Bordeaux feels like a step back in time. Its medieval charm, narrow cobblestone streets, and historic stone houses are perfectly preserved, offering a unique glimpse into the region’s rich history.
Rattenberg
Austria’s smallest city by area, a medieval gem in Tyrol famous for its glass-making craft. Due to a mountain, the town receives no direct sunlight in winter, but its historic, perfectly preserved center nestled by the Inn River makes it a unique destination.
Atrani
Italy’s smallest municipality by area, a picturesque fishing village on the Amalfi Coast. Tucked into a steep ravine, its cluster of houses, narrow alleys, and small beach create one of the most charming and authentic coastal scenes in the country.
Vatican City
The world’s smallest sovereign state and the heart of the Catholic Church. This walled city-state within Rome is a UNESCO World Heritage site, home to iconic landmarks like St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the vast Vatican Museums.
Arnis
Germany’s smallest city by both area and population, located on a scenic peninsula in the Schlei fjord. This former fishing village is known for its serene maritime atmosphere, four parallel streets, beautiful linden trees, and a historic mariners’ church from 1673.
Valletta
The fortified capital of Malta and one of Europe’s smallest capitals. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this stunning Baroque city was built by the Knights of St. John and boasts magnificent palaces, churches, and fortifications overlooking the Grand Harbour.
Rochefort-en-Terre
Often voted one of France’s most beautiful villages, this charming Breton town is famous for its geranium-draped stone and timbered houses. Its medieval castle, cobblestone streets, and vibrant artisan shops create a perfectly preserved, storybook atmosphere for visitors to explore.
Fürstenau
Claiming to be the world’s smallest city, this historic town in the Swiss canton of Graubünden earned its city rights in 1354. It is known for its two castles, charming medieval core, and the acclaimed fine-dining restaurant, Schloss Schauenstein.
Durbe
One of Latvia’s smallest towns, located in the historical region of Courland. It is famous for the Battle of Durbe in 1260, a decisive medieval conflict. Today, it is a quiet rural center with the ruins of a Livonian Order castle.
Panemunė
Lithuania’s smallest city, situated on the Neman River which forms the border with Russia’s Kaliningrad Oblast. Its most prominent feature is Panemunė Castle, a well-preserved defensive residence that adds historical significance to this tiny border town.
Monaco
A sovereign city-state on the French Riviera, renowned for its glamour, upscale casinos, and the prestigious Monaco Grand Prix. As one of the world’s wealthiest and most densely populated places, it packs luxury and excitement into a very small territory.
Neumarkt an der Ybbs
A small city in Lower Austria with a rich history dating back to Roman times. Situated along the Ybbs river, its well-preserved town center features a historic main square and the Schlosses Lehenhof, reflecting its past as a regional market town.
City of London
The ancient heart and financial district of greater London, often called the “Square Mile.” A city within a city, it has its own mayor and police force and juxtaposes Roman ruins and medieval churches with some of the world’s most modern skyscrapers.
Stavern
A small coastal city in southern Norway, known for its well-preserved 18th-century wooden houses and military history. Once Norway’s main naval base, its historic citadel and beautiful archipelago make it a popular summer destination for boating and recreation.
Wells
England’s smallest standalone city, renowned for its magnificent 13th-century Gothic Cathedral and the historic Vicar’s Close. It offers a charming and exceptionally well-preserved glimpse into medieval English life, nestled in the picturesque Somerset countryside.
Gibraltar
A British Overseas Territory on Spain’s southern coast, dominated by the iconic Rock of Gibraltar. Its unique strategic location at the entrance to the Mediterranean, combined with a blend of British and Andalusian cultures, makes it a fascinating destination.
City of San Marino
The capital of the Republic of San Marino, one of the world’s oldest and smallest republics. Perched dramatically atop Mount Titano, its historic center offers breathtaking Adriatic views, medieval fortresses, and a unique sense of independence.
Hardegg
Austria’s smallest city by population, located in the beautiful Thayatal National Park on the border with the Czech Republic. It is dominated by the impressive Hardegg Castle, one of the largest in Lower Austria, overlooking the scenic Thaya river valley.
Vianden
A charming town in the Luxembourg Ardennes, dominated by the magnificent, fully restored Vianden Castle perched on a cliff above. Its picturesque medieval setting on the River Our makes it one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations.
Andorra la Vella
Europe’s highest capital city, nestled in a valley deep within the Pyrenees mountains. It is a bustling commercial hub, famous for its duty-free shopping and as a gateway to the region’s excellent ski resorts and mountain hiking trails.
Glorenza
A stunningly preserved medieval walled town in South Tyrol, Italy. It’s one of the smallest towns in the Alps to hold city status, featuring perfectly intact defensive walls, corner towers, and a charming, historic town center where time seems to stand still.
Vaduz
The capital of the tiny principality of Liechtenstein, nestled in an Alpine valley on the Rhine River. Though small, it is a major global finance center and is overlooked by the historic Vaduz Castle, the official residence of the reigning prince.
