For Brits eager to rack up their country count in 2025, visiting nations without an airport may seem like a challenge. With the rise of ‘country ticking’, the trend of tracking and boasting about how many countries one has visited, some destinations hold special appeal due to their inaccessibility by air.
Over one in five (22%) of Brits are actively tracking their country count, using apps like Skratch to compare their tally with others. However, some lesser-known European countries cannot be reached via direct or indirect flights, making them even more desirable for determined travellers.
Despite the absence of international airports, Hadleigh Diamond of luxury airport transfer provider SCSChauffeurs reassures travellers that reaching these hidden gems is far from impossible.
She said: “Whilst these locations don’t have their own international airports, by making use of airport transfers, you can visit all these countries with ease.
“When planning a trip, consider all airports and what airport transfers are available, either with a private driver or public transport.”
Here’s how to reach three beautiful European countries without an airport:
Liechtenstein
Nearest Airport: Zurich (Switzerland) or Friedrichshafen (Germany)
Airport Transfer Time: Approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes by car
As one of the world’s least-visited countries, Liechtenstein is uniquely double-landlocked, surrounded entirely by other landlocked nations. Despite its size, it offers stunning alpine scenery, charming villages, and a rich royal history.
San Marino
Nearest Airport: Rimini (Italy) – 16.8 km away. Other options include Florence (101 km), Bologna (113.1 km), Pisa (166.5 km), and Venice (174.6 km).
Airport Transfer Time: Approximately 25 minutes from Rimini by car
San Marino is the world’s fifth smallest country and has more cars than people. Despite its tiny size, it boasts medieval architecture, breathtaking hilltop views, and its own Olympic Committee.
Monaco
Nearest Airport: Nice (France)
Airport Transfer Time: 1 hour by car, 50 minutes by train, or a 7-minute helicopter ride
Monaco, synonymous with luxury and glamour, offers dazzling casinos, yacht-filled harbours, and the world-famous Formula 1 Grand Prix. Its lack of an airport hasn’t stopped it from being a major European attraction.
For travellers keen to add unique destinations to their list, these three nations present an exciting challenge, and a chance to experience something truly special.
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
