Did You Know These Countries Have No Airports? Here’s How To Get There

While most travelers rely on airports to reach their destinations, a few countries in the world have no airports at all. Visiting these places requires a bit more planning, often involving scenic road trips, boat rides, or even hiking through remote landscapes. From hidden gems in the Pacific to secluded spots in Europe, these countries offer unique travel experiences for those willing to take the road less travelled.

Liechtenstein

Liechtenstein is a small, doubly landlocked country in Central Europe, nestled between Austria and Switzerland. A prosperous constitutional monarchy ruled by a prince, it is known for its high per capita income, strong banking sector, low crime rate, and highly industrialized economy. The official language is German, the capital is Vaduz, and the currency used is the Swiss franc. Covering just 62 square miles (160 km²), it is the sixth-smallest country in the world and lies in the scenic Upper Rhine valley of the European Alps.

Getting There

Liechtenstein has no commercial airport, though it does have a heliport in Balzers. The nearest airports with scheduled flights are St. Gallen–Altenrhein in Switzerland and Friedrichshafen in Germany. For international travellers, Zürich Airport (ZRH) in Switzerland is the most convenient. From there, visitors can take a train or bus to Buchs or Sargans, and then continue by postal bus or local train into Liechtenstein. Travelers from Austria can similarly combine flights with short drives or rail connections to reach this Alpine microstate.

Monaco

Monaco is the world’s second-smallest country, a glamorous principality perched on the French Riviera. Famous for its luxury lifestyle, casinos, and the iconic Grand Prix, Monaco is a sovereign city-state with a high population density and a remarkable concentration of millionaires. The country is a member of the United Nations but not the European Union, and it uses the Euro as its currency.

Getting There

Monaco does not have a commercial airport, but it has a heliport in Fontvieille for helicopter transfers. The nearest major airport is Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE) in France. From there, visitors can reach Monaco by train, bus, or a scenic drive along the French Riviera. For those seeking a luxury experience, helicopter transfers from Nice are also available.

Vatican City

Vatican City is the world’s smallest independent country, a city-state nestled within Rome, Italy. It serves as the spiritual and administrative hub of the Roman Catholic Church and is home to iconic landmarks such as St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel. Established in its modern form by the 1929 Lateran Treaty, Vatican City has its own government, currency (Euro), post office, and police force, with a population mainly made up of clergy and staff.

Getting There

The nearest airport is Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport. From there, Vatican City is easily reached by foot, taxi, or public transport. Its central location within Rome makes it highly accessible, allowing travellers to seamlessly enter this extraordinary city-state.

San Marino

San Marino is a tiny, landlocked microstate completely surrounded by Italy, perched on the slopes of Monte Titano. Founded in 301 A.D., it holds the title of the world’s oldest republic. The capital, Città di San Marino, is a charming medieval town, and the country’s economy relies heavily on tourism, along with industries such as ceramics, textiles, and wine.

Getting There

San Marino has no commercial airport, though it has a heliport in Borgo Maggiore and a small grass airfield in Torraccia. The nearest major airports are Federico Fellini International Airport in Rimini and Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport. From either airport, San Marino is accessible by car, bus, or a combination of public transport options.

Andorra

Andorra is a tiny, landlocked principality nestled in the Pyrenees between Spain and France. Renowned for its stunning mountain landscapes, world-class ski resorts, and duty-free shopping, it attracts tourists year-round. The capital, Andorra la Vella, is the highest capital city in Europe. Catalan is the official language, and the economy is driven largely by tourism and a banking sector with partial tax-haven status.

Getting There

Andorra has no airport or train service, so access is entirely by road. From Spain, the nearest airports are Andorra–La Seu d'Urgell Airport (12 km away), Lleida–Alguaire Airport, and Girona–Costa Brava Airport. From France, Carcassonne Airport and Perpignan–Rivesaltes Airport are the closest options. Buses, taxis, and car rentals from these airports make reaching Andorra straightforward.

FAQs

Which countries in the world don’t have an airport?
Some countries without airports include Vatican City, Monaco, San Marino, Liechtenstein, and Andorra.

How do you reach these countries if there is no airport?
They are all accessible via nearby airports in neighbouring countries, followed by road, train, bus, or helicopter transfers.

Can you fly directly into these countries by helicopter?
Some, like Monaco and Liechtenstein, have heliports, allowing helicopter arrivals, while others rely solely on road access.

Are these countries easy to visit for tourists?
Yes, despite lacking airports, they are well-connected by roads and public transport from nearby major airports, making them accessible for travellers.

Can you drive through these countries easily?
Yes, all these countries are small and have well-maintained road networks, making them easy to explore by car, taxi, or local buses.