Known as one of Europe’s smallest countries, Liechtenstein is actually a principality (or the far cuter term – microstate) sandwiched neatly between Switzerland and Austria. You’ll probably have heard of its capital Vaduz, Alpine charm and pretty castles. And you’ll come for a weekend and really fancy staying forever, if you’re like me. And when it comes to what to see in Liechtenstein, while most blogs focus only on Vaduz, there is bags more to see.
One of the world smallest and richest countries – it’s got to be worth a look!
What to see in Liechtenstein
From galleries to mountain villages and a famous postal museum, there’s plenty to get lost in. And it’s a reimagined fairytale where princesses wouldn’t stand out.
Ready?
Reaching Liechtenstein
With a car: remember to bring your passport if you pass through Switzerland. It’s not an EU country, so your documents will be checked. You can park for an hour near the centre of town and walk around, but if you’re staying longer, you’ll need to walk a little further.
Without a car – I came from Milano, Italy by bus and it took around 4 hours. Start with the Flixbus from Milan and roar all the way through to Chur in Switzerland. Here you’ll hop down, grab a Toblerone and join the train to Sargans and from there the 12E local bus from Sargans to Vaduz.
So what are some things to do in Liechtenstein?
If you only have a day, here are the ones I’d prioritise. They’re all in Vaduz as you won’t have time to go far:
- Vaduz Castle
- The Postal Museum
- The Prince of Liechtenstein Winery
- City train
- Bike the Alte Rheinbrücke
1. VADUZ CASTLE
You can’t go in this castle (unless the monarch invites you – so keep hoping!), but its setting against the mountains is genuinely magical.
Insider tip: this is a 20 minute walk up a bit of a hill and at the top a photo stop. It’s best enjoyed with a goal to reach, so bring that picnic and sit your arse down on that hill. Or, you can walk – they’ve recently added parking.
2. KUNSTMUSEUM
All the art and culture you can shake a stick at, with plenty of modern exhibits.
Insider tip: when I visited it was the height of summer and they have a few tiny ankle high fountains outside this museum. It was a lovely place to splash around a bit and be like a kid again.
[bctt tweet=”All the best things to see and do in #Liechtenstein, plus how to get that rare passport stamp – Ready for a fairytale? #TTOT #travelmassive #weekendaway” username=”live10countries”]
3. STADTLE
In every city, there’s one area that really sums it all up. It’s the place to be, the shops to browse and where real locals go about their business. From lost tourists to commuting businessmen, it’s full of authenticity, so soak up the vibe. You won’t need too much time, though, a half hour is good here,
Insider tip: Stadtle means ‘little town’ and it’s kind of the CBD of Vaduz, running past all the main museums.
4. VADUZ CATHEDRAL AKA CHURCH OF ST FLORIN
Is it a church? Is it a cathedral? You decide! It has a modern feel and is totally open to the public.
Insider tip: look out for the coat of arms inside, eagles and bugles are clearly the order of the day.
5. THE INEVITABLE FLAG SELFIE
Walk the touristy area and you’ll find a flag sandwiched between the rows of sweets, postcards and calendars full of cute kittens. I took a flag selfie in Antarctica and by gum I wasn’t going to miss out here. This is my couchsurfer friend giving us a great rendition.
Insider tip: firstly, stand to the right of the flag, otherwise you’ll be holding it reversed (yep, like we did!). Secondly, the flag is attached to a shop, so it’s good manners to pick up a souvenir while you’re there.
6. THE PRINCE OF LIECHTENSTEIN WINERY
Not only does it look bloomin’ majestic against the mountains, where you’re standing there the smell of fresh fruit is gorgeous. Of course, I’m a sad and lonely backpacker so I made do with pretty walks, but if you’re in a group of 10, you’ll be able to tantalise your taste buds with a private wine tasting session.
Insider tip: try the pinot noir grappa, it’s great!
7. THE ROTES HOUSE
The name means Red House and it’s been Dracula’s favourite colour since the mid 19th century. You can’t go inside, but it’s a true emblem of this capital. Think of this as Vaduz’s version of the Sydney Opera House.
Insider tip: the best shots of this placeare from far away, so learn from my mistake and start snapping when you see it over the rooftops.
8. VADUZ PARLIAMENT BUILDING
Though this spot might not strike you as the first stop on your adventures, I’ll level with you. If you’ve seen The Sounds of Music and you want to experience a real 1930s postcard scene, yodelers in the background, shepherds rambling on the hills and fine mountain houses (almost)…this is it. It’s pretty Instagramable.
Insider tip: you can’t go inside, so this is a quick stop.
9. LIECHTENSTEIN POSTAL MUSEUM
Feed your inner geek with stamps dating back to 1912. Like a timewarp, feast your eyes over elegantly written letters, ornate post boxes and kid friendly exhibits.
Insider tip: the staff are knowledgeable and if you bring some of your own stamps, they can tell you some bits and bobs about where they came from.
10. LADERACH
Switzerland may be better known for its chocolate, but here Liechtenstein gives its neighbour a run for its money. Definitely a place to stop and sample something tasty.
Insider tip: this is by far the yummiest place around town where you can get a stamp in your passport.
11. LIECHTENSTEIN’S NATIONAL MUSEUM
You’ve travelled all the way to this country, so why wouldn’t you try to get under its skin? Scraps between royals, epic castle building and a good old desire to steal each other’s land – Liectenstein’s history has plenty to keep you going.
Insider tip: give extra time to the section marked ‘celebrating’ which brings all that history into the modern day with traditions that local people still honour. That wall covered with wooden hearts? They were once worn by local cattle.
12 THE OLD BRIDGE OVER THE RHINE
Not too many bridges can make a name for themselves. This one is fairly death-defying and crosses the Rhine. It’s entirely wooden and entirely car free.
Insider tip: renting a bike and crossing over to Switzerland along the Alte Rheinbrücke is the kind of thing that’ll make you day.
13. TOAST IT ALL AT ZWEI BAR
In a country renowned for its stunning wine, it’d be a shame to not have a sip. Do it like the locals do and round off your day with a tipple at this central Vaduz bar.
Insider tip: tipping isn’t as mandatory as in the US. But if the service was good, 10 – 15% will be fine.
14. RHEINPARK STADION
I’m not even a football fan, but there’s no denying a match is a great way to soak up the local atmosphere, listen to the roar of the crowd and make instant friends if you’re travelling solo. This is where the home team plays, so if you want to be in touch with what everyone’s talking about, you’ll want a ticket.
Insider tip: the national team wear red and blue, so now you know who to cheer for!
15. RIDE THE CITYTRAIN
Definitely the cutest way to see the city, one chug at a time. The drivers are friendly, the views are enticing and there are photo stops whenever you need. The ride is just after a half hour and leaves at 1 pm and 4.30pm.
Inside tip: if you are short of time, the trains don’t run too often, so a private ride is another (pricier option).
16. TREASURE CHAMBER
The wealth of ancient rulers meets creative Faberge eggs in these exhibits. Also known as the Schatzkammer Liechtenstein, it’s small but well formed, with a crown inside and a quiet atmosphere. It is low on light inside, so bring those reading glasses.
Insider tip: look out for the country’s first ever postage stamp design inside
Things to do outside of Vaduz
17. RIDE THE MALBUN SLOPES
Powdery snow, steep slopes and an epic chairlift (Sareis)- this is the country’s one stop shop for skiing. Park at the edge of the village and you’ll be able to catch the chair up the mountain and find a slope that suits your level.
Insider tip: only about 10% of these slopes are for experts, you’re safe.
18. GUTENBERG CASTLE
This country has more than its fair share of castles, but this is one of the most impressive. Set in Balzers, a short way south of the capital, it truly belongs on Pinterest. And it’s arguably better than Vaduz Castle because the bailey, chapel and rose garden are all open to visitors.
Insider tip: stop in at the tourist centre and book a guided tour of the castle, available between May and Halloween – but do book ahead.
19. MUSEUM MURA
Set in the north east between Mauren and Nendeln is this quirk of a museum which feels a lot like stepping into a giant antiques stash – and you’ll have to resist the urge to rummage. Like many antiques shows, it only opens on the a Sunday – the first Sunday of the month. Give them a ring a few days before you come and you may be able to snag a guided tour.
Insider tip: budgeting? The museum is free!
20. THE KUEFER MARTIS HUUS
A museum dedicated to all things water, or, more specifically The Rhine. Find it in Heilgruz, on the Giessenstrasse.
21. ESCHEN AND ESCHEN MILL
It isn’t too often that you get to see a mill which can still actually, y’know, mill something. This one gets a glorious resurrection once a year and still works. Great chance to poke, prod and see how it works (even on days when it’s not actually being used). Admission is free.
Insider tip: visit outside of the school holidays to avoid any lengthy school tours.
22. SCHELLENBERG’S RUINS
OK, just one more castle and then we’ll stop. Actually, it’s more like a collection of castles, upper and lower ‘obere’ and ‘untere’ both best seen at sunset when the sun casts pretty glows over them. Both are free and totally without facilities, but it’s fun to ramble around something that has stood since the 13th and 14th century.
Insider tip: for the lazy (like me) the upper castle is the easiest to reach on foot.
23. TRIESENBERG
Feeling like a hamlet in the mountains, this is an antidote to the clean and well organised nature of Vaduz, for a little more of that authentic charm. Even its graveyard is both pretty and charming.
24. THE FURSTENSTEIG-DREISCHWESTERN HIKE
One word – challenge. From narrow scrambles to villages along the Rhine, this route known as the ‘Three Sisters’ is no walk in the park. It scores high for breathtaking views and the mountain wonderland you’ll travel through.
Insider tip: look out for the Kuhgrat ridge, which is as high as you’ll get. Stunner.
25. FALCONRY GALINA
Experiences here are fully in German, but you won’t even care if you don’t speak the language. The birds are the stand out stars, wild and alert and yet willing to fly straight to the glove. The centre in Malbun is a window into the animal kingdom.
Insider tip: this isn’t the cheapest option, as you’re expected to pay the entry and also buy refreshments – so bring your purse.
26. GRAB THE ALL IMPORTANT PASSPORT STAMP
Where can I get a Liechtenstein stamp in my passport?
It’s hard to resist the urge to cover your passport with mementos, despite the reality that you don’t need a stamp in many parts of Europe these days. It’s not about immigration, it’s about bragging rights! To make sure you get one, plan your trip around the rom the visitor centre (Städtle 39), Laderach (Städtle 27) and the postal museum (Städtle 37) and be prepared to pay around 3 euros for it.
So there you have the perfect run down of what to see in Liechtenstein with a few old favourites, a few quirky elements you probably haven’t heard of and a few hints to keep you going. If you’ve been, how did you rate these attractions? If you haven’t, what’s first on your list after you arrive?
- The best destination for your Working Holiday Visa - July 14, 2024
- The Enchanted Glade Glamping Review - April 23, 2024
- How to get a working holiday visa for the UK – a full guide - March 21, 2024
Thanks for the ideas, but Laderach is Swiss chocolate. This store is just in Liechtenstein.