Is Liechtenstein Worth Visiting? [2024]
/The dot-sized country of Liechtenstein is not really a destination that pops up on many traveller’s radars. Nestled in by its more famous and populated neighbours, Austria and Switzerland, Liechtenstein is a hidden gem that’s still waiting to be fully discovered.
This might all change soon. Featuring a culturally rich array of museums and art galleries, beautiful snow-capped peaks and a family ski resort, there’s more than meets the eye with this small country.
Is Liechtenstein worth visiting? Let’s find out.
I visited on a sunny winter’s day to answer the question - Is Liechtenstein worth visiting? Let’s find out!
Where to stay in Liechtenstein
Before you explore Liechtenstein, you might want a place to stay. Liechtenstein is a tiny country, but there are still some great accommodation options. Here are our top picks for places to stay in Liechtenstein.
Budget: Schaan-Vaduz Youth Hostel
It’s crazy how the budget option still looks amazing, right? Well, Liechtenstein is a pretty expensive country so it doesn’t really do ‘budget’ (especially compared to other countries). Still, the Schaan-Vaduz Youth Hostel is relatively affordable and perfectly suited for those who may be tight on money. It’s located close to the capital city of Vaduz, and boasts near-perfect reviews.
Take a closer look at the Schaan-Vaduz Youth Hostel by clicking here.
Mid-Range: Hotel TURNA Malbun
This cozy, comfortable hotel is conveniently located at the ski resort of Malbun, so is perfect for a stay with you’re planning on hitting the slopes. It’s extremely family friendly - featuring a pool and several activities suitable for children, this is a great option for mid-range budget travelers.
Take a closer look at the Hotel TURNA Malbun by clicking here.
Luxury: Park Hotel Sonnenhof - Relais & Châteaux
This is an absolutely gorgeous property set in a stunning backdrop. The rooms are fantastically and colourfully decorated, and everything about this hotel just emanates 5-star Luxury. A must stay in Vaduz for luxury travelers.
Take a closer look at the Park Hotel Sonnenhof - Relais & Châteaux by clicking here.
How do I get to Liechtenstein?
Liechtenstein doesn’t have an airport, but it’s still quite easy to get to, especially if you’re coming from Switzerland. The closest airport to fly into would be Zurich Airport. From Zurich Airport, you can utilise Switzerland’s public transport system to get as close to Liechtenstein as possible, before using a Liechtenstein bus to enter the country. You can get to Liechtenstein from Geneva Airport, but the journey time will take about 3 hours longer.
There are frequent buses leaving from the Swiss stations of Sargans and Buchs that head into Liechtenstein – this will be the easiest way to enter.
It is possible to enter from the Austrian side as well, in which case the bus leaving from Feldkirch Bahnof will probably be the easiest way to get into the country.
The best way to check flight prices and ensure the cheapest fare is to visit Skyscanner, which aggregates all the flight prices from an extensive network of travel operators and airlines - showcasing you all your different options.
What is there to see and do in Liechtenstein?
Liechtenstein is only 25km long, and it will only take about 50 minutes by bus to get from one end of the country to the other. However, there is surprisingly lots to see here.
Liechtenstein by Walking Tour
Although small, there’s still a lot to do in Liechtenstein.
Although most of Vaduz’s attractions can be seen on foot, it’ll take some time to get to know the history of each place. If you’re looking for a guided walking tour, look no further than this tour. On this guided walk lead by a local, you’ll get to see all of Vaduz’s highlights in a short amount of time, giving you context to the significance of each place. We highly recommend it.
For a tour of Liechtenstein’s most Insta-worthy spots, we would recommend this tour:
When visiting Liechtenstein, some visitors might only spend a few hours in the country’s small capital, Vaduz. In my opinion, this would be a big mistake.
Liechtenstein features many stunning attractions such as Burg Gutenberg in the town of Balzers, the picturesque mountainous village of Trisenberg, and the ski resort of Malbun. There are an endless amount of hiking trails and small villages worth checking out, as well.
Attractions in Liechtenstein
During my visit to Liechtenstein, here were my favourite things to do:
Vaduz Castle
Schloss Vaduz (or Vaduz Castle) sits proudly on top of a hill, overlooking the nation’s capital, the city of Vaduz. Vaduz Castle is the official and active residence of the Prince of Liechtenstein, and although you can’t visit inside (as the Prince still lives there!), it is 100% worth it to see the castle up close.
Vaduz Castle, Liechtenstein
The best part about visiting Vaduz Castle is actually the stunning view of Vaduz that you’ll be treated to. From Schloss Vaduz’s vantage point, you’ll enjoy scenic, panoramic views of the mountains and small villages of Vaduz. Truly a breathtaking view.
Vantage point from “Känzile” viewpoint during sunset.
Do not miss the “Känzile” viewpoint. This viewpoint can be found by walking closer to the edge of the hilltop, close to the winding roads that cars will drive on. If you’re walking from Vaduz and climbing up the stairs to get to Vaduz castle, you’ll automatically pass this viewpoint anyway. I visited a lot of viewpoints on my recent 5-week winter trip to Europe, and this was honestly one of my favourites.
Another shot at Känzile viewpoint near Vaduz Castle.
Vaduz Main Square
Exploring the capital of Liechtenstein, Vaduz.
Vaduz Town Hall (Rathaus) can be found near Vaduz’s main square
The country’s commercial and cultural capital is clean, cute and very compact. You’ll most likely be able to stroll through pretty quickly. However, if you have time up your sleeve, there’s quite a few quirky and fun museums worth visiting – including the Postal Museum and Kunstmuseum.
Liechtenstein National Museum
This is definitely a must-see when visiting Liechtenstein, even if you’re not someone who typically goes to museums, like myself.
Spare at least 2 hours to explore Liechtenstein National Museum.
One of the many rooms in Liechtenstein National Museum, Vaduz.
At the Liechtenstein National Museum, you’ll learn all about the country’s history, culture, nature and how Liechtenstein came to be what it is today. There’s a lot to see here, so I would set aside at least 2 hours.
Cathedral of St. Florin (Vaduz Cathedral)
I’m a big fan of churches, and this cathedral ticked off all the boxes for me. Stained glass windows? Check. Tall tower? Check. Picturesque setting? Check.
The exterior of Vaduz Cathedral, otherwise known as Cathedral of St. Florin.
The interior of Vaduz Cathedral.
Built in 1874, the Neo-Gothic Vaduz Cathedral is just a few minutes’ walk from the main square of Vaduz, so there’s no excuse not to visit. Make sure you take a peek inside the impressive interior of the church, as well.
Schatzkammer Liechtenstein (Treasure Chamber)
You’re prohibited from taking photos in the Treasure Chamber, but it’s still definitely worth visiting. At Schatzkammer Liechtenstein, you’ll be able to see exhibits belonging to the Princes of Liechtenstein and other private collectors. A lot of these are very intricate and beautiful.
Be prepared to see some serious bling in there.
Wineries and Vineyards of Vaduz
Liechtenstein is quite famous for its wineries and vineyards, and some of these can be reachable by foot from the main square of Vaduz.
View of Liechtenstein from one of the vineyards in Vaduz (the vineyards will be more abundant in the summer!)
Be sure to visit the Cellars of the Prince of Liechtenstein to try the great wine, or just take in the scenery of its surrounds.
Malbun Ski Resort
This was the highlight of my trip to Liechtenstein. As the country’s only ski resort, Malbun is the perfect setting for a family day out. Featuring 23km of slopes and 7 different ski lifts, you can easily spend the whole day skiing or snowboarding.
Malbun Ski Resort is the perfect setting for a snow-filled adventure.
Not one for snow sports? Not a problem, visitors who just want to take in the views and relax can still go up the Sareis Chairlift and take in 360-degree, panoramic views of the Liechtenstein alps. This is an open chairlift, which means you get unobstructed views of the snowy mountains.
After taking the Sareis Chairlift, you’ll be treated to this majestic view.
I was pleasantly surprised at how beautiful Malbun and the Liechtenstein mountains were, as I’ve really only ever heard people rave about the Swiss, Italian and Austrian alps in the area. My first thought as I got off the chairlift was “how come people don’t talk about this place more”? Malbun is definitely a must-see if you’re visiting the country.
What are the people of Liechtenstein like?
Liechtenstein’s citizens enjoy some of the highest living standards in the world, and it shows. Everyone I encountered here were nothing but pleasant, friendly and delightful.
How do I get around Liechtenstein?
Vaduz Castle, Liechtenstein
The country has a great bus system, with frequently departing busses that pretty much cover the whole of Liechtenstein.
How many days should I stay in Liechtenstein?
Liechtenstein is definitely worthy of your time, so I would set aside at least 1 full day to see Vaduz and Malbun.
However, it would be even better if you had 2-3 days in Liechtenstein. This gives you time to explore some of the more “off the beaten track” destinations, such as the quaint villages of Nendeln and Eschen, and possibly do a couple of hikes, such as the Eschnerberg Trail.
How do I visit Liechtenstein’s attractions?
To save money, I would highly recommend purchasing a Liechtenstein Adventure Pass. The Adventure Pass will give you free admission to more than 30 attractions and sights throughout the country, and even other freebies such as souvenir stamps, magnets, movie tickets and drinks.
Starting at only 25CHF for a 1-day pass, the Adventure Pass pays itself off very quickly, even if you only use it a few times.
Among others, the pass gives you free access to the Liechtenstein National Museum, Treasure Chamber, Postal Museum, Kunstmuseum and the Sareis Chairlift.
The pass also enables you to use Liechtenstein’s bus network, completely free of charge.
For more information on purchasing the Liechtenstein Adventure Pass, visit the Official Tourism Website of the Principality of Liechtenstein.
Final Verdict – Is Liechtenstein Worth Visiting?
Is Liechtenstein Worth Visiting? It’s a big yes.
Although I wasn’t sure what to expect before visiting the tiny country of Liechtenstein, I can say for certain that Liechtenstein is definitely worth visiting.
With its many interesting museums, castles, churches and alpine scenery, Liechtenstein will surprise and impress you.
I really loved my time in Liechtenstein. Can’t wait to go back.
But don’t just take my word for it – go out there and see it for yourself!
Are you thinking about visiting Liechtenstein? What are you most looking forward to?
Have any questions about my trip to Liechtenstein?
Let me know in the comments below!
My visit to Liechtenstein was partly supported by Liechtenstein Marketing, who kindly helped me with my planning and activities in the country. They provide a great, free resource for all things related to visiting Liechtenstein, so I would highly encourage visiting their website to learn more about this stunning country.
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