5 Countries That Don't Have An Airport (And How You Can Still Visit Them)

We live in an age where airports are gateways to the world. They have vast terminals, buzzing travellers, and planes lifting off almost everywhere. In fact, some places around the world are known for housing beautifully high-tech airports that literally become the talk of the town. While airports serve convenience, there are some places that have no airport at all. It seems impossible, right? But there are countries that operate without a single commercial airstrip. For travellers looking for something offbeat yet accessible, these places offer a unique kind of magic. Here are five sovereign states without airports and exactly how you can visit them, for a memorable travel experience.

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Here Are 5 Countries In The World That Don't Have An Airport

1. Andorra

Nestled high in the Pyrenees between France and Spain, Andorra is a dreamy alpine microstate where skiing, mountain views and charming villages combine into a romantic escape. Despite the lack of an airport, it remains a well-loved destination for those craving fresh air and slower travel. For Indian travellers counting off Europe but wanting something different, Andorra gives you mountains, cafes, snow and tranquillity.

How to reach: Fly to Barcelona–El Prat Airport (Spain) or Toulouse–Blagnac Airport (France), then take a rental car or bus about 2–3 hours up into the Pyrenees. Indians require Schengen Visa to visit Andorra to enter either through Spain or France.

2. Monaco

Glamour, the French Riviera and Mediterranean breezes, Monaco is a bright, compact microstate that works beautifully for a short luxury break. While it has no airport of its own, its connections are excellent. Indian travellers who land in Nice can arrive in Monaco in less than an hour with coastal views and train or taxi rides. It's perfect for a quick high-style trip without the hassle of air transfers into tiny airports.

How To Reach Monaco: Even though Monaco doesn't have its own airport, reaching the principality is still straightforward. The most convenient option is to fly into France, landing at Nice Cote d'Azur Airport (NCE). From there, it is roughly a 40-minute drive to Monaco. Aside from your flight, this will likely be the longest leg of your journey, and a scenic one. Indian visitors require a Schengen visa to enter.

3. San Marino

Hidden in North-East Italy, San Marino is one of the world's oldest republics. With medieval towers, hillside vistas and no airport of its own, this tiny country charms with simplicity and heritage. Indian travellers flying into Italy can combine it with Rome or Bologna, then enjoy the switch to local roads and scenic drives that bring a sense of discovery.

How To Reach San Marino: As mentioned above, San Marino is a country where you will first have to arrive in Italy. Fly into Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport or Rimini Federico Fellini Airport, then hop in a bus or taxi about 40 minutes to San Marino. However, the latter is closer to San Marino.

4. Liechtenstein

Tucked between Switzerland and Austria, Liechtenstein is an Alpine gem known for its castles, hikes and serene valleys. Without a commercial airport of its own, access is via its well-connected neighbours. For Indian travellers comfortable with multi-leg journeys, the train or drive from Zurich or Friedrichshafen is part of the adventure, and you arrive in a country that feels untouched by typical tourism.

How To Reach Liechtenstein: You can reach Liechtenstein by flying into Switzerland, typically via Zurich Airport (ZRH) or St. Gallen-Altenrhein Airport (SGZ). If you have the appropriate travel documents for Switzerland, they will also be valid for Liechtenstein. Once you have landed, the drive to Liechtenstein takes anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours, depending on your starting point. Indian travellers require Schengen visa to enter Switzerland.

5. Vatican City

At just 0.44 square kilometers, Vatican City is the world's smallest independent state and has no an airport as there is simply no room for runways. For Indian travellers visiting Rome, the journey into the Vatican is seamless and symbolic. You walk, you explore, you immerse in centuries of art and faith. It is less about transport and more about stepping across a border into something unique.

How To Reach Vatican City: The best option to reach Vatican City is to fly into Rome Ciampino Airport (CIA) in Italy. From there, it is about a 45-minute drive before you arrive in the world's smallest country. Thanks to the open border between Italy and Vatican City, you can move freely between the two without any border checks. However, as an Indian citizen, you will require to get Schengen visa for the same.

Why Visiting Countries Without Airports Can Be A Unique Travel Experience

Countries without airports force you to slow down, to cross borders by road, to savour the journey as much as the destination. For seasoned travellers used to flight-first travel, this shift feels refreshing. You land in a nearby country via a neighbouring hub, you travel scenic routes, and you arrive more slowly, more intentionally, and often with fewer crowds. The hospitality becomes warmer, the pace gentler, and the story richer. Such experiences make your travel memories richer and more substantial.

Mistakes To Avoid While Visiting Countries With No Direct Flights

Some countries may not have their own airport, while others might be well-connected but still lack direct flight options from your location. In such cases, planning ahead becomes essential. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when travelling to destinations that require a bit of extra transit:

1. Not Checking Visa or Entry Requirements Carefully: Many micro-states rely on the visa regime of a neighbouring country.

2. Arriving Too Late In The Day: Once you land, the onward road or rail link may be limited in hours.

3. Under-Estimating Ground Travel Time: What looks like a short distance on a map might mean winding roads or border controls.

4. Ignoring Local Transport Schedules: bus, train or car transfers might be infrequent, especially on weekends.

5. Treating It Like A Regular Airport Arrival: plan extra time, double-check transfers, and keep local currency or card options ready.

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So, if you want an offbeat travel experience, plan a trip to these places today!