You’d think a list of countries starting with "I" would be short, right? Just a handful of places. But honestly, the diversity here is kind of staggering. We are talking about the world's most populous nation, the most geologically active island on the planet, and the largest archipelago across the globe.
There are eight sovereign nations that officially start with the letter I. Some lists try to sneak in territories or colonies, but if we are sticking to the UN-recognized heavy hitters, the number is eight.
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The Powerhouses: India and Indonesia
Let’s start with the big ones.
India is basically its own universe. As of 2026, it has firmly solidified its spot as the world's most populous country, having overtaken China a few years back. If you haven't been, you've probably heard about the chaos of Delhi or the tech hubs in Bengaluru. But what most people get wrong is thinking India is one monolithic culture. It isn't. Crossing from Punjab in the north to Tamil Nadu in the south is like moving between different countries. Different languages, different scripts, and definitely different food.
Then you have Indonesia.
People say "I'm going to Bali" as if Bali is the country. Nope. Indonesia is made up of over 17,000 islands. It’s the fourth most populous country on Earth. While everyone is fighting for space on a beach in Canggu, there are massive stretches of Sumatra and Sulawesi that see hardly any tourists. It’s a place where you can see orangutans in the wild one day and stand on the edge of a smoking volcano like Mount Bromo the next.
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The European "I" Duo: Italy and Ireland
Italy is arguably the most famous "I" country.
It’s almost a cliché at this point. Pasta, the Colosseum, the Amalfi Coast. But in 2026, Italy is facing some real-world shifts. Overtourism has reached a breaking point in Venice and Florence, leading to new entry fees and "tourist taxes" that actually seem to be sticking. If you're planning a trip, honestly, look toward the south. Puglia and Sicily are still incredible and slightly—only slightly—less packed than the "Big Three."
Then there is Ireland.
The Emerald Isle. It’s small, but it punches way above its weight class. Beyond the Guinness Storehouse and the Temple Bar in Dublin (which is mostly for tourists anyway), the real magic is the Wild Atlantic Way. It's a rugged, windswept coastline that stretches for 1,500 miles.
The weather? Usually gray. The people? Probably the funniest you’ll ever meet.
The Rugged North: Iceland
Iceland is weird. I mean that in the best way possible.
It’s a country where they literally have a "Naming Committee" that has to approve what you call your child. They also have more books published per capita than almost anywhere else. It’s a land of fire and ice where you can hike a glacier in the morning and soak in a geothermal lagoon at night.
By the way, if you’re heading there in 2026, keep an eye on the volcanic activity. The Reykjanes Peninsula has been incredibly active lately, and while it's a spectacle, it’s also a reminder that the ground there is literally moving.
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The Middle Eastern Trio: Iran, Iraq, and Israel
These three are often lumped together in news cycles, but they couldn't be more distinct.
- Iran: Historically known as Persia. It has some of the most stunning architecture on the planet—think the blue-tiled mosques of Isfahan.
- Iraq: The "Cradle of Civilization." It’s home to ancient Mesopotamia. While it’s been through decades of conflict, there are parts of Iraqi Kurdistan that have been opening up more to intrepid travelers lately.
- Israel: A tiny sliver of land with massive historical significance. From the tech-heavy skyscrapers of Tel Aviv to the ancient stone walls of Jerusalem, it’s a place of intense contrasts.
Quick Snapshot of the "I" Countries
| Country | Capital | Major Vibe |
|---|---|---|
| Iceland | Reykjavik | Dramatic nature, expensive coffee, puffins. |
| India | New Delhi | Sensory overload, incredible history, fast growth. |
| Indonesia | Jakarta | Endless islands, tropical heat, spiritual roots. |
| Iran | Tehran | Persian hospitality, ancient ruins, mountains. |
| Iraq | Baghdad | Archaeological treasures, resilient culture. |
| Ireland | Dublin | Green hills, great pubs, tech headquarters. |
| Israel | Jerusalem | Holy sites, Mediterranean beaches, high-tech. |
| Italy | Rome | Renaissance art, world-class food, fashion. |
What You Should Actually Do Next
If you’re looking to explore these places, don't try to do them all. That’s a mistake.
Start with your "vibe." If you want isolation and raw nature, Iceland is your winner. If you want a cultural deep-dive that will change your perspective on life, go to India. For the foodies who want to live their best Dolce Vita life, it's obviously Italy.
Actionable Steps:
- Check Visa Requirements: Especially for India and Indonesia, which have been digitizing their systems heavily in the last year.
- Look Beyond Capitals: Don't just stay in Dublin or Rome. The soul of these countries is almost always in the rural villages or the smaller coastal towns.
- Budget for Iceland: It is notoriously pricey. A beer can cost you $12 USD without blinking. Plan accordingly.
Whatever you choose, the "I" countries offer a more diverse range of experiences than almost any other letter in the alphabet. Just pack a good pair of walking shoes and an open mind.