Largest Country in Europe, Facts and Travel Info

The largest country in Europe is Russia, a vast and fascinating land that captivates travelers with its huge size and rich cultural heritage. Spanning over 17 million square kilometers globally, the European part of Russia alone covers approximately 2.88 million square kilometers, making it the continent’s giant. For tourists eager to explore grand landscapes, diverse cities, and historic sites, understanding Russia’s place in Europe’s geography offers an exciting start to an unforgettable journey.

Top Choice eSIM Unlimited Data with coverage Europe countries: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, United Kingdom, Vatican City

What is the largest country in Europe by land area?

Russia is famously the largest country in Europe by area, with the European portion spanning 1,112,457 square miles (2,881,250 square kilometers). Although most of Russia’s territory lies in Asia, its western part firmly sits on the European continent, making it almost five times larger than Ukraine — the second largest country in Europe. This immense size offers travelers an unparalleled variety of landscapes from historic cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg to vast wilderness and cultural diversity.

Travelers often marvel at Russia’s blend of European architecture and vast natural parks, offering a timeless experience for adventurers and culture seekers alike. Imagine crossing continents within a single country!

Highlights of Russia’s European Size

• Covers approximately 2.88 million square kilometers in Europe
• Nearly five times the size of Ukraine, Europe’s second largest country
• Diverse geographic features from plains to mountains and rivers
• Home to the largest cities in Europe such as Moscow and St. Petersburg
• Offers rich historical and cultural landmarks reflecting Europe’s heritage

How does Russia’s size compare to other European countries?

When compared to other large European nations, Russia stands out significantly. It is about 28 times bigger than Ukraine, Europe’s second largest country, which covers about 603,000 square kilometers. France ranks third in size at around 551,695 square kilometers, highlighting Russia’s colossal scale compared to its European neighbors. This size difference shows the unique geographical influence Russia has across the continent.

Visitors often recount their amazement when experiencing the sheer scale of Russia’s natural and urban environments. From sprawling forests to iconic landmarks, its size offers travelers endless exploration possibilities.

Comparative Geography of Europe’s Largest Countries

• Russia: 17 million km² (total), 2.88 million km² in Europe
• Ukraine: 603,549 km²
• France: Approximately 551,695 km²
• Russia’s European side is seven times larger than Ukraine’s total area
• Other countries have distinct but smaller geographical footprints

What are the top three largest countries in Europe?

The top three largest countries in Europe by land area are:

1. Russia – 17 million km² (total, including Asia; 2.88 million km² in Europe)
2. Ukraine – 603,549 km²
3. France – approximately 551,695 km²

This ranking reflects Russia’s dominant position, with Ukraine and France representing the next largest nations. Travelers interested in Europe’s vastness often include these countries in their itinerary to witness a wide variety of landscapes, climates, and cultures.

Many adventurers use this knowledge to plan trips that showcase Europe’s geographical diversity, balancing Russia’s grand scale with Ukraine’s natural beauty and France’s cultural richness.

Key Large European Countries to Explore

• Russia’s extensive European territory with iconic cities and wilderness
• Ukraine’s scenic landscapes and historic towns
• France’s cultural landmarks and diverse regions
• Places offering exceptional hiking, historical tours, and culinary delights
• Exploring the contrasts between Europe’s largest nations

What is the smallest country in Europe?

While Russia takes the crown as the largest, the smallest country in Europe is the Vatican City, a tiny sovereign state within Rome, with an area of just about 1 square kilometer. Despite its size, Vatican City is globally renowned as the spiritual and administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church, housing treasures like St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel.

Travelers visiting Europe often find the contrast fascinating — from the vast expanses of Russia to the tiny, historic Vatican, showcasing Europe’s remarkable breadth of diversity. Walking through Vatican City offers an intimate glimpse into the heart of European religious and artistic heritage.

Notable Small European Country: Vatican City

• Area of approximately 1 km², the smallest in Europe
• Seat of the Roman Catholic Church and the Pope
• World-famous religious, historical, and artistic landmarks
• Represents Europe’s rich cultural and spiritual diversity
• Integral to European history despite its tiny size

Is Russia the most populous country in Europe?

Yes, Russia is also the most populous country in Europe, with around 144 million inhabitants. This population is concentrated mainly in the European part of the country, including major cities like Moscow, the capital, and St. Petersburg, a cultural jewel. The combination of vast land area and high population density in key regions makes Russia a powerhouse of European demographics.

Visitors often find the bustling urban life in Moscow and St. Petersburg starkly contrasts with Russia’s expansive rural landscapes, offering a unique blend of modernity and tradition. This diversity enriches the travel experience, revealing Russia’s full spectrum of identities.

Population Highlights of Russia in Europe

• Most populous European country with approximately 144 million people
• Major urban centers include Moscow and St. Petersburg
• Mix of dense cities and vast rural areas
• Cultural diversity across regions
• Important economic and political hub in Europe