5 countries that prove you don't need an airport to be a traveler's paradise

These five nations show that you don't require a runway to end up on a traveler's list. They don't, and yet they are doing fine. The tiny principality of Liechtenstein, wedged between Switzerland and Austria, has no airport. Situated in the Pyrenees between France and Spain, Andorra is a mountain haven famous for its ski resorts and tax-free shopping. If you know the hustle and bustle of waiting at the airport terminal. You won't be able to imagine a country without a single airport. But believe it or not, there are plenty of countries that have abandoned air travel altogether.For some it's not an option, and for others it's because of need or stability. These five nations show that not having an airport doesn't mean you need to clip your wings.

Vatican City

Covering a mere 0.49 square kilometers, Vatican City is not only the world's smallest country. But it's also the most unusual. Situated in the center of Rome, there is no room (or necessity) for an airport. Travelers just take a flight to Rome's Leonardo da Vinci International Airport and get to the Vatican by car or on foot. In spite of the absence of an airport, millions of tourists and pilgrims flock to St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel annually, making it one of the most populous non-flying nations on earth.

Liechtenstein

The small principality of Liechtenstein, sandwiched between Switzerland and Austria, has no airport of its own, but we have no problem with that. If you visit this small country, you'll be surprised that it has excellent train connections, scenic drives, and easy access to Zurich Airport (just an hour away). Moreover, its small size and efficient public transportation make it a dream for travelers who prefer slow travel.

Andorra

Situated in the Pyrenees between Spain and France, Andorra is a mountain haven famous for its ski resorts and tax-free shopping. The mountains are so rugged that it is nearly impossible to construct a runway, so the nation relies on the surrounding regions. Barcelona and Toulouse airports, then a drive or helicopter ride into the countryside. The absence of an airport hasn't hindered tourism — if anything has occurred, it adds to the excitement.

San Marino

San Marino, the oldest republic in the world, doesn't even have an airport, but that's not holding them back. This microstate perched atop a hill that is surrounded by Italy receives visitors arriving by road from its close-by Italian cities, with the closest airport being Federico Fellini International Airport in Rimini. Its quaint old town, medieval buildings and picturesque views draw the visitor who deviates from the standard Italian travel list.

Principality of Monaco

Monaco could be forever linked with glitz, Formula 1 and superyachts, but there's no airport in the showbiz state. Instead, it has a heliport. There's helicopter transfer from Nice Côte d'Azur Airport in Monte Carlo France (just 30 minutes by car or a seven-minute helicopter ride). The absence of an airport has done little to knock its reputation as a playground for the rich and famous.