In a landmark study published in eLife Sciences Publications in 2016, researchers examined the growth trends of almost 19 million people in 187 countries during the 100 years from 1896 to 1996. The results revealed the tallest and shortest people in each country, separated by sex. Many of the same countries fell on both lists. But some interesting outliers placed in the top ten countries with the tallest men, while women from the same countries were absent from the top ten. Similarly, women from Ukraine, Slovakia, and Belarus placed in the top ten countries with tallest women, but men from the same countries did not place. The following list combines the averages of both on the list to reveal the seven countries with the tallest people.
Czech Republic
The landlocked Czech Republic is sandwiched between Germany, Austria, Poland, and Slovakia, countries which don't fall on the tallest people of the world list. Slovakia's women do land at number six on the list, but the men are no place to be found. On average, people from the Czech republic are 1.80 meters tall.
In any case, visitors of all heights can't visit the Czech Republic without spending time in Prague. This cosmopolitan Eastern European city is a favorite for travelers who want all the hustle, bustle, culture, and history of Paris, London, and Rome. Visitors can tour historical sites like concentration camps, experience authentic Czech food and beer, and visit fairytale castles like the red-roofed Cesky Krumlov.
Latvia
Latvia, one of the Baltic States that lies on the eastern shore of the Baltic Sea, is home to the tallest women in the world. Throughout the centuries, Latvia has been invaded by many regional powers, creating a diverse culture which embraces art and creativity. If you travel to Latvia, your first stop may be the capital of Riga. The city's central market, art museum, and ample historical sites provide a great starting point to learn about the country before you head out of the city to enjoy the unspoiled wilderness.
Estonia
The other Baltic State with really tall people is Estonia. It's relatively small compared to other countries on this list, but don't underestimate Estonia. Its grandeur comes from its progressiveness and strides in technology which continue to foster entrepreneurship. Visitors will appreciate the preservation of medieval architecture in the Old Town of Estonia's capital city, Tallinn. While Tallinn offers all the conveniences of a world-class European city, those who want to get away from it all can head to one of the country's 2,000 islands in the Baltic Sea. You can camp, visit national parks and nature preserves, and visit the castles dotted throughout the countryside.
Belgium
Belgium didn't make the list of the top ten countries with the tallest women, but Belgian men are the second tallest in the world. This Western European country has a divided history with two distinct cultures that must be explored during your next visit. The French-speaking Walloons make up about one-third of the Belgian population. They live primarily in the south and east areas of the country. The Flemings, who speak a Dutch dialect, are the majority who live throughout the rest of the country. You'll notice language differences, especially in signs throughout the country. But no matter the language, don't forget Belgium is the country of waffles, beer, fries, and chocolate.
Serbia
At 1.82 meters (approximately 5 feet 10 inches) tall on average, people from Serbia are pretty close to the top of the list. Part of the former Republic of Yugoslavia, Serbia is a landlocked Balkan state with exceptionally tall men and women. Serbia and its capital, Belgrade, have always straddled the East/West divide. This created a multi-ethnic and multicultural society which draws visitors from throughout Europe and around the world. Belgrade is especially famous for its outstanding nightlife. Those who venture outside of the capital will also find storybook forests, ski resorts, and thermal spas for outdoor fun, rest, and relaxation.
Denmark
Denmark is the only Scandinavian country, and one of the only two Western European countries, to make the list of seven countries with the tallest people. The average height of a person born in Denmark is 1.826 meters. The country occupies many islands and a small peninsula, where you find its capital, Copenhagen. Copenhagen is one of the most well-organized cities in the world. Also, Denmark is a country of fairy tales. In addition to being the home of famous writer Hans Christian Andersen in Odense, Copenhagen is home to the famous Little Mermaid statue. Visitors can also visit the famous Tivoli Gardens amusement park, a staple of the city since the mid-1800s, or visit the ruins of Hammershus Slot, the largest castle in Europe.
Netherlands
When you think of the Netherlands, you may think of windmills, riding bicycles through tulip fields, and Van Gogh. You can now add tall people to your list. Dutch men are the tallest in the world, and Dutch women are the second tallest in the world. On average, people in Netherlands are 1.838 meters tall.