Liechtenstein, the 4th smallest country in Europe, is a German-speaking principality located between Austria and Switzerland. It is positioned in the European Alps on the Rhine River and is 130 kilometres/80 miles from Zurich airport. Those on Liechtenstein vacations, however, will find only 50% of its territory is mountainous. The highest mountain in Liechtenstein is the Grauspitz at 2600 metres/8450 feet above sea level.

Liechtenstein Travel Information

Liechtenstein is known for its medieval castles, alpine chalets and villages linked by a network of trails. The country has been ruled by the Princely House of Liechtenstein for centuries, which is among the world's oldest noble families. The first recorded mention of the name "Liechtenstein" dates back to 1136. The Principality of Liechtenstein was established within the Holy Roman Empire in 1719 and became a sovereign state in 1806.

Vaduz

The capital of Liechtenstein is Vaduz, a cultural and economic centre. A prominent local landmark is Vaduz Castle (one of 5 in the country) located on a hillside overlooking the capital. It is the symbol of Vaduz and the residence of the Princely family, though it is not open to visitors on Liechtenstein vacations. The Kunstmuseum (Liechtenstein Museum of Fine Arts) in Vaduz exhibits modern and contemporary art plus includes some of the private art collection of the Prince of Liechtenstein. However, most of the collection can be found at the Liechtenstein Museum in Vienna. The Liechtenstein National Museum showcases the history of the Principality and its flora, fauna and culture. Other museums include a Postage Stamp Museum and a Ski Museum. There are a number of vineyards in the Principality where guests can taste and purchase a selection of wines. The most famous of these is the Prince of Liechtenstein Winery and its "Herawingert" vineyard in Vaduz.

Liechtenstein Trip Highlights

Malbun

Skiing and snowboarding are offered at a reasonable price at the country's small resort, Malbun in comparison to the expensive lift prices in neighbouring Switzerland or Austria. The resort specializes in family-friendly activities, both in summer and winter. These include attractive walks and great skiing slopes. One of the highlights of any visit to Malbun on Liechtenstein vacations is the Eagle Hike, an adventure unlike any other in the world. Guests have the chance to go on a walk to explore the Golden Eagle's natural habitat in the heart of the Alps.  

Hiking 

Liechtenstein offers great hiking, road biking, and mountain biking terrain. For hikers, the Princes' Way Hike is the classic high-altitude walking adventure in Liechtenstein. It starts at Alp Gaflei at 1400 metres/4550 feet above sea level and offers breathtaking views as it crosses a number of sections secured with steel ropes and handholds on the way up over the Three Sisters Mountains. The Ruggeller Riet Nature Reserve is a nature reserve in the north of Liechtenstein. Visitors can enjoy a magnificent selection of fauna and particularly flora, while the nearby Rhine and its banks are great for walking and cycling. 

Gutenberg Castle 

Dating back to the 12th century, Gutenberg Castle in the town of Balzers can be seen from many miles away. The grounds of this medieval fortress are open to visitors free of charge throughout the year. The castle itself can easily be reached on Liechtenstein vacations by a short walk through a beautiful vineyard. It stands on a hill that has been inhabited at least as far back as the Neolithic period.

"Globetrotting with Goway" blog articles

For some additional reading, the following articles are from our blog “Globetrotting with Goway”….. a great source of information for those people who are, or who want to be, world travellers!

Four Unusual Additions to Your European Vacation

Extend your Stay

Consider an additional stopover to your Liechtenstein vacation at one of Goway's other European destinations. You can choose from a Paris vacation, a London vacation or an Amsterdam vacation. This can be done stopping over en route to or from Liechtenstein.