Ever imagined stepping into a country that’s smaller than your neighborhood but has its own flag, currency, and even passport stamps? Welcome to the quirky world of micro-nations, tiny self-proclaimed “countries” that exist outside mainstream political borders, often founded out of ideology, rebellion, humor, or pure eccentricity.
Most of them aren’t officially recognized by governments, but they have loyal followers, weird laws, fascinating backstories, and yes, some even welcome curious travelers.
Here are 5 micro-nations you can actually visit for the weirdest, most fascinating “international” trip of your life.
1. The Principality of Sealand – Roughs Tower, North Sea
Population: ~4
Founded: 1967
Where: Off the coast of England
Sealand is perhaps the most famous micro-nation. It’s located on an abandoned World War II sea fort and claims independence from the UK. With its own prince, flag, motto, and passport, it’s like stepping into a Bond villain’s lair, except the prince might offer you tea.
Can you visit?
Yes, but only via private tour (by invitation or special booking). And you can buy yourself a Sealand title like “Lord” or “Duchess.”
2. Republic of Užupis – Vilnius, Lithuania
Population: ~7,000
Founded: 1997
Where: A neighborhood in Vilnius
Bohemian, quirky, and deeply artistic, Užupis is a self-declared republic inside Lithuania’s capital. It has its own constitution (posted in 23 languages), a president, and a tongue-in-cheek military of around 11 people.
Can you visit?
Yes, it’s a walkable district full of murals, galleries, cafes, and a very real border sign welcoming you in.
3. Hutt River Principality – Western Australia (Note: Formerly operational)
Population (at its peak): ~30
Founded: 1970
Where: Western Australia
Hutt River was declared independent by a farmer protesting wheat quotas. For decades, it operated with its own stamps, currency, and passports. Though it officially dissolved in 2020 due to tax disputes, the place remains a pilgrimage for micro-nation fans.
Can you visit?
You can still visit the former site and museum, a bizarre piece of Australia’s counterculture history.
4. The Free Republic of Liberland – Between Croatia & Serbia
Population: ~700,000 online applicants
Founded: 2015
Where: A disputed land on the Danube River
Liberland is one of the most recent and ambitious micro-nations. It claims a no-man’s land between Croatia and Serbia. Though access is tightly controlled by Croatian authorities, Liberland has its own constitution and ambassador network.
Can you visit?
Yes, but it’s tricky. The best bet is to attend one of their official events or apply as a citizen.
5. Molossia – Nevada, USA
Population: ~30 (mostly family members)
Founded: 1977
Where: Dayton, Nevada
Possibly the most elaborate micro-nation in the U.S., Molossia has a national anthem, currency based on cookie dough, and an ongoing “war” with East Germany (yes, really). President Kevin Baugh wears a military uniform and gives guided tours with a straight face and a great sense of humor.
Can you visit?
Yes! Tours are available on select dates, complete with passport control, customs, and souvenir shops.
Final Note
Micro-nations may not appear on most maps, but they live large in imagination, politics, and storytelling. Whether they were born from satire, protest, or just sheer creativity, they’re proof that not all borders are built by governments, some are drawn by dreamers.
So next time you plan a trip, skip the obvious. You might just find an entire country hiding inside a city block, a sea fort, or a backyard in Nevada.
