It’s one of the smallest countries in the world and probably better known for being one of the richest countries in the world than a tourist destination. Less than 62 square miles, it could almost get missed when passing through Switzerland and Austria. This year it celebrated it’s 300th anniversary so it’s a good time to visit.
Getting there
As Liechtenstein doesn’t have its own airport, it’s necessary to fly or arrive by train, into one of its neighbours. Zurich Airport in Switzerland then Sargans or Buchs by train then a connecting bus. Alternatively Feldkirch in Austria by train, then a connecting bus.
Old Rhine Bridge
Liechtenstein is one of only two double land locked countries in the world, so visiting overland could mean quite an adventure. However, we were limited on time so choose to fly into Zurich in Switzerland and drove into Liechtenstein. A hire car gave us the flexibility to explore the area fully. Public transport is pretty good, but again we were short on time.
How long
In all honesty, there is very little to do and see in Liechtenstein. Given the expense of a visit, I would recommend only a short stop. In fact, the key sights are doable in just a day, but a couple would allow time to experience a little more and at a slower pace.
If you’re considering a visit, some of the following might help you decide.
Few tourists
Other than in Vaduz we didn’t see any other tourists, which made it very unique. The tourist information office was celebrating 20 years of the City Train Vaduz with the testing of an electric train, which we of course enjoyed a complimentary trip on, along with local wine and appetizers.
The normal city train tour takes 35 minutes, passing through the key areas in Vaduz and it’s surroundings. There are various other tours available.
City train
The rest of Vaduz is worth a look albeit mostly consisting of one street.
Don’t miss: the hike to the castle, a definite highlight.
Skip it: the Kunstmuseum, unless you are a fan of very modern art.
Mountain scenery
Much like it’s neighbour, the mountain views, particular on the cusp of winter, with snow capped peaks, are really quite something. It can look like something out of a fairy tale.
Great for hikes
There are some well trodden hiking trails in the area. This Liechtenstein site has more details of these. Consider a unique type of trek which is offered by Llama and Alphakahof in Treisenberg. Here you can trek with Llamas. Great for kids and adults too.
Skiing
Liechtenstein and specifically Malbun apparently has one of the longest ski seasons in the Alps. I’m not a skier but was told that the slopes were less crowded than other places during peak ski season.
Malbun slopes
Food
Given the size of the country, it’s not surprising that Liechtenstein doesn’t really have much that is unique in terms of food. There are a couple of dishes to try here, but you can also get these in Switzerland and most likely Austria, but of course you do need to give the local dishes a try whilst there.
My favourite was Kasknopfl, a sort of pasta dish, a bit like macaroni cheese, but much tastier and served with apple sauce.
Kasknopfl dish with apple sauce
Have you been to Liechtenstein, if not why not pass through during a visit to one of its neighbours.
