
The Principality of Liechtenstein (German: Fürstentum Liechtenstein), abbreviated as "Liechtenstein", is a small landlocked country in central Europe, located between Switzerland and Austria. It is one of only two doubly landlocked countries in the world. Only about one-third of the country's area on the western side is located in flat river valleys, and the rest of the country is mostly mountainous.
Liechtenstein is located on the main north-south transportation route in Europe. The unique characteristics of this "pocket country", as well as the royal art collection and alpine ski resorts are all worth visiting.
mountain climate;
Suitable for all seasons;
Vaduz
Located on a high ground along the Rhine Valley, Vaduz is the capital of the Principality of Liechtenstein and an important financial center of Liechtenstein. Vaduz is world-famous for printing stamps. The Vaduz Stamp Museum, built in 1930, is a must-see for philatelists. There are also the National Art Gallery and the National Museum, which are both worth visiting. The cultural and artistic treasures in the museums will make visitors linger.
Balzers
Balzers is located in eastern Liechtenstein, bordered by the Alps to the east. In winter, the eastern and southern mountainous areas become ski resorts, attracting visitors from all over to enjoy winter sports. Of course, summers are also beautiful, with vast meadows and herds of cattle and sheep.
Malbun
Malbun's ski slopes are mostly designed for beginners, with some intermediate and cross-country runs. Despite this, skiing here is very cost-effective, offering some of the best value in the surrounding countries. Prince Charles learned to ski here. Accommodation is in simple mountain huts, and dining outdoors is a delight, allowing you to relax while savoring delicious food and taking in the stunning mountain views.
Liechtenstein is a small, landlocked principality nestled between Switzerland and Austria. Its history dates back to the 12th century, with the principality being founded in 1719. Known for its wealth and being one of the world's smallest countries, Liechtenstein offers a unique blend of Alpine landscapes and modern attractions. Its neutrality in global conflicts and strong banking sector also contribute to its significance.
Liechtenstein is located in Central Europe, bordered by Switzerland to the west and Austria to the east. The capital city, Vaduz, can be reached by bus or taxi from nearby cities such as Zurich, Switzerland (about 1.5 hours away). There is no metro, but walking around Vaduz and nearby towns is pleasant and easy.
The best times to visit are during the spring and summer months (May to September) for pleasant weather and outdoor activities. Winter (December to February) is ideal for skiing. Most attractions in Liechtenstein are open from 10 AM to 6 PM, but hours may vary, especially in winter.
Ticket prices vary depending on the attraction. For example, the Liechtenstein National Museum charges around €10 for adults, while Vaduz Castle is free to visit from the outside. Tickets for museums and galleries can typically be bought on-site, though some attractions may offer online booking options.
It is recommended to book tickets in advance for popular attractions like the Kunstmuseum Liechtenstein, especially during peak seasons. Booking a few days in advance should suffice, but it's always good to check specific attraction websites for any special events or restrictions.
A visit to Vaduz and surrounding areas can typically be done in 1-2 days. For a more extensive exploration of the country’s natural landscapes and additional attractions like hiking and museums, 3-4 days are recommended.
Yes, guided tours and audio guides are available in multiple languages, including English, German, and French. They are offered at major attractions such as the Liechtenstein National Museum and Kunstmuseum Liechtenstein.
A good itinerary would be to start in Vaduz, visiting the Liechtenstein National Museum, Vaduz Castle (from the outside), and the Kunstmuseum. From there, take a short drive to Balzers for a peaceful exploration of the town. If you're visiting in winter, include Malbun for skiing or snowboarding.
While Liechtenstein doesn’t have many light shows, the illuminated Vaduz Castle is a stunning sight at night. Special tours are available occasionally, particularly during cultural events or festivals. It's worth checking with the tourist office for any evening events during your visit.
Liechtenstein is generally not crowded compared to larger European destinations. However, it can get busy during the summer (June to August) and the ski season in winter (December to February). For fewer crowds, visit during the spring (April-May) or fall (September-October).
Most major attractions have toilet facilities and small shops. In Vaduz, there are several cafes and restaurants offering both local and international cuisine. Water fountains are available in public areas, and many outdoor spots offer rest areas to enjoy the views.
Liechtenstein’s main attractions like museums and the town center are generally accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, though some areas, like Vaduz Castle, may have uneven surfaces or steep paths. Public transportation and taxis are accessible, and some hiking routes may be challenging for those with mobility difficulties.
While cash is accepted, cards and mobile payments (such as Apple Pay or Google Pay) are widely accepted in most places, including hotels, restaurants, and shops.
In Vaduz, notable dining options include Restaurant Torkel (offering local cuisine) and Café Schädler (perfect for coffee and dessert). There are also several other restaurants and cafes serving international food in and around the town center.
Yes, there are vegetarian and vegan food options available in Vaduz, especially in restaurants like Restaurant Torkel, which offers vegetarian dishes. Halal food is not widely available, but some international restaurants may offer options upon request.
In Vaduz, options include Hotel Vaduzerhof (a cozy hotel near the center) and Park Hotel Sonnenhof (an upscale option with a great view of the surrounding landscape). There are also guesthouses and smaller accommodations throughout the town.
Yes, there are souvenir shops in Vaduz and other towns offering items like traditional Swiss watches, handmade crafts, local wine, and Liechtenstein flags or coins.
Public transportation, including buses and trains, connects Liechtenstein to neighboring Switzerland and Austria. Renting a car is also a great way to explore the surrounding areas. Zurich and St. Gallen are easily accessible for further travel.