Passport to the peculiar: 7 micronations you can actually visit

Tired of mainstream travel? Then it’s time to trade in your well-worn passport stamps for something truly offbeat.

Enter the wild, weird, and wonderfully whimsical world of micronations—tiny self-declared countries that often exist within or alongside real countries, driven by eccentricity, political protest, or something more fun and intriguing.

Sealand

Imagine a concrete platform in the North Sea claiming to be its own country. Welcome to Sealand, a WWII-era sea fort turned self-declared principality. Founded in 1967, it has its own flag, motto (“E Mare Libertas” – From the Sea, Freedom), and even nobility titles you can buy. It’s not open to the public, but VIP visitors (read: friends of the “royal family”) occasionally get to step foot on the world’s most exclusive helipad nation.

Ladonia

In 1996, Swedish artist Lars Vilks turned a legal squabble over a seaside sculpture into a declaration of independence. Thus, Ladonia was born—complete with an imaginary queen, ministers of silliness, and zero residents. Still, tourists trek through the woods to see its famous driftwood sculptures Nimis and Arx. Warning: Google Maps won’t help. You’ll need a sense of direction and a love for the absurd.

Republic of Molossia

Step aside, Vegas. Real fun begins in Molossia, a desert micronation near Dayton, Nevada. Founded by President Kevin Baugh, this 1.3-acre country boasts a national anthem, customs office, and a deep-seated “war” with East Germany (no, really). Visitors are welcomed on scheduled tours—passport stamps and quirky souvenirs included.

Hutt River

Once one of the world’s most famous micronations, the Principality of Hutt River in Western Australia declared independence in 1970 due to wheat quotas. It issued passports, printed currency, and attracted tourists for decades. While it sadly closed in 2020, stories of its eccentric Prince Leonard still echo across the outback.

Seborga

Nestled in Liguria, the town of Seborga claims it was never legally annexed by Italy. Locals elected a prince, fly their own flag, and even mint their own coins. It’s charming, postcard-perfect, and way more fun than your average Tuscan detour.

Akhzivland

Perched by the Mediterranean, Akhzivland was founded by the late Eli Avivi, who turned a property dispute into a one-man country. With its bohemian vibe, surf-friendly beaches, and its own passport, it’s perfect for sun-seekers who prefer their nation-states with a touch of rebellion.

Užupis

Cross a small bridge in Vilnius, and you’ll enter Užupis, a self-declared republic full of artists, poets, and free spirits. With its own constitution (posted on a wall in multiple languages), four flags, and a celebration of “Užupis Independence Day” on April 1st, it’s the most delightfully ironic place you’ll ever raise a toast.