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Liechtenstein, located between Austria and Switzerland, is one of the smallest countries in the world, which means it’s a perfect day trip. So here’s how to plan a day trip to Liechtenstein.
The Ultimate Liechtenstein Travel Guide
Fun Facts: Liechtenstein is famous for being the only country in the world with 100% of its territory in the Alpine region. Liechtenstein is also one of only two double landlocked countries in the world.
Here’s how to plan a day trip to Liechtenstein!
When To Go
Liechtenstein’s high season is June through August when tourists and prices are at their peak. December – March is the high season for ski resorts and snow sports.
Liechtenstein’s shoulder seasons are from April – June and September. There are fewer tourists, lower prices, and moderate temperatures during these months. Spring is the best time to see those iconic Alpine flower fields, and the Fall is when you can see the grape harvests.
The low season is October – March for everywhere in the country that isn’t a ski resort. It’s cold during these months, and most places are open fewer days a week and for shorter hours a day. But travel costs can be up to 50% less during these months.
Because some trails and sites close during the winter, if you’re thinking about going in the winter (especially if you don’t want to do snow sports), make sure your top destinations and attractions will be open.
What To Do
Start your day by visiting Gutenburg Castle in the town of Balzers. Walk around the castle for beautiful views and photos, and you can go inside the outer bailey for free.
Next, head to Vaduz for the rest of the day. Start by visiting Vaduz Castle. You can drive or walk up to this castle. If you drive, make sure you walk to the right of the castle to a beautiful viewpoint of the city.
Then head down to the city center and walk along the pedestrian street. You can shop, tour a museum, and visit the St. Florin Cathedral.
Have a nice long lunch, then end your day across town at The Prince of Liechtenstein Winery. Do a wine tasting, walk through the vineyards, and have another glass of wine in the garden. On your way out of town, stop at the Old Bridge.
Where To Eat in Vaduz
Restaurant Amarone (European, Vegan, $$-$$$)
Cafe Amann (Cafe, Diner, $$)
La Table du Residence (French, $$$$)
Brasserie Burg (Italian, $$-$$$)
Restaurant Engel (Asian, $$-$$$)
Hotel Gasthof Lowen (European, $$$$)
Where To Stay
If you decide to spend the night or a weekend in Liechtenstein, I’ve rounded up the best hotels in the country.
Accommodation is limited in Liechtenstein, so reserve your accommodation as early as possible, even if you’re visiting in the off-season.
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For Planning The Rest Of Your Trip
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Plan a Day Trip To Liechtenstein
Recommended Tours in Liechtenstein
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you spend a day in Liechtenstein?
Start your day by visiting Gutenburg Castle in the town of Balzers. Walk around the castle for beautiful views and photos, and you can go inside the outer bailey for free.
Next, head to Vaduz for the rest of the day. Start by visiting Vaduz Castle. You can drive or walk up to this castle. If you drive, make sure you walk to the right of the castle for a beautiful view of the city.
Then head down to the city center and walk along the pedestrian street. You can shop, tour a museum, and visit the St. Florin Cathedral.
Have a nice long lunch, then end your day across town at The Prince of Liechtenstein Winery. Do a wine tasting, walk through the vineyards, and have another glass of wine in the garden.
Is Liechtenstein worth visiting?
Yes!
Liechtenstein, located between Austria and Switzerland, is one of the smallest countries in the world. This tiny country is home to castles, alpine villages, sweeping valleys, vineyards, and gorgeous mountain landscapes. So this Liechtenstein travel guide has everything you need to know for planning a trip to this off-the-beaten-path destination!
Most people visit Liechtenstein on a day trip by car or train. But if you want to spend a long weekend in this tiny country, I recommend visiting in the Spring, Summer, or Fall and renting an e-bike. Bike paths connect the entire country, and there are deals and packages you can book specifically for bike journeys through Liechtenstein.
How many days should I spend in Liechtenstein?
Liechtenstein, located between Austria and Switzerland, is one of the smallest countries in the world, which means it’s a perfect day trip.
Start your day by visiting Gutenburg Castle in the town of Balzers. Walk around the castle for beautiful views and photos, and you can go inside the outer bailey for free.
Next, head to Vaduz for the rest of the day. Start by visiting Vaduz Castle. You can drive or walk up to this castle. If you drive, make sure you walk to the right of the castle for a beautiful view of the city.
Then head down to the city center and walk along the pedestrian street. You can shop, tour a museum, and visit the St. Florin Cathedral.
Have a nice long lunch, then end your day across town at The Prince of Liechtenstein Winery. Do a wine tasting, walk through the vineyards, and have another glass of wine in the garden.
If you want to spend a long weekend in this tiny country, I recommend visiting in the Spring, Summer, or Fall and renting an e-bike. Bike paths connect the entire country, and there are deals and packages you can book specifically for bike journeys through Liechtenstein.
How do most tourists get to Liechtenstein?
Most people visit Liechtenstein on a day trip by car or train. But if you want to spend a long weekend in this tiny country, I recommend visiting in the Spring, Summer, or Fall and renting an e-bike. Bike paths connect the entire country, and there are deals and packages you can book specifically for bike journeys through Liechtenstein.
Know Before You Go To Liechtenstein:
1. The currency in Liechtenstein is the Swiss franc (Sfr). Exchange rates are subject to fluctuations, so be sure to check this as your trip approaches. On average, 1 Sfr equals about £.83 British Pounds, $1.03 U.S., and €,92.
2. Many hotels, restaurants, bars, and taxis include a 15% service charge, so check before you tip more. Hotel and railway porters will expect a franc or two per bag.
3. Shake hands when meeting for the first time and when saying goodbye. When shopping, you should say Grüezi (hello) to the employees when entering and Adieu (goodbye) when leaving.
4. Being late is considered extremely rude.
5. Greet fellow hikers on trails with a hello: Grüezi (singular) or Grüezi mitenand (plural).
6. If you’re toasting, look your toasting partner in the eye when clinking glasses and say Prost (cheers). Locals think a lack of eye contact when toasting will bring you bad luck!
7. Electrical outlets in Liechtenstein are Types C and J. So if you’re from the EU, you won’t need an outlet adaptor. But British, U.S., and other travelers will need an adaptor.
5. A professional personal appearance is important to locals. So, to dress like the locals, pack practical dressy-casual clothes – long or capri pants, skirts, and dresses for women and long pants for men. You won’t see locals wearing shorts unless they’re about to jump in a lake.
Is it worth visiting Vaduz?
Yes! Vaduz is a perfect day trip!
Make sure you visit the Old Bridge, The Prince of Liechtenstein Winery, The Red House, and Vaduz Castle.
When To Go:
Liechtenstein’s high season is June through August, when tourists and prices are at their peak. December – March is the high season for ski resorts and snow sports.
Liechtenstein’s shoulder seasons are from April – June, and Septemer. There are fewer tourists, lower prices, and moderate temperatures during these months. Spring is the best time to see those iconic Alpine flower fields, and the Fall is when you can see the grape harvests.
The low season is October – March for everywhere in the country that isn’t a ski resort. It’s cold during these months, and most places are open fewer days a week and for shorter hours a day. But travel costs can be up to 50% less during these months.
Because some trails and sites close during the winter, if you’re thinking about going in the winter (especially if you don’t want to do snow sports), make sure your top destinations and attractions will be open.
Is there a train from Zurich to Liechtenstein?
Yes. You can take a train directly from Zurich to Vaduz, Liechtenstein.
Start by visiting Vaduz Castle. You can drive or walk up to this castle. If you drive, make sure you walk to the right of the castle for a beautiful view of the city.
Then head down to the city center and walk along the pedestrian street. You can shop, tour a museum, and visit the St. Florin Cathedral.
Have a nice long lunch, then end your day across town at The Prince of Liechtenstein Winery. Do a wine tasting, walk through the vineyards, and have another glass of wine in the garden.
If you want to spend a long weekend in this tiny country, I recommend visiting in the Spring, Summer, or Fall and renting an e-bike. Bike paths connect the entire country, and there are deals and packages you can book specifically for bike journeys through Liechtenstein.
Is Liechtenstein cheaper than Switzerland?
Yes, travel costs in Liechtenstein are, on average, cheaper than in Switzerland. Lower End: Sfr180 a day (£150, $185, €165). Midrange: Sfr270 a day (£223, $278, €248). Higher End: Sfr600 a day and up (£495, $617, €553).
But Liechtenstein is still a relatively expensive destination, so these budget tips can help you save some money:
1. Use Travel Points. Liechtenstein is a relatively expensive destination. So this is an excellent place to book a hotel using travel reward points.
2. Eat Out for Lunch Instead of Dinner. If you’re going to eat out, eat out for lunch because meal prices will be lower.
3. Go Veggie. Meat is expensive here, especially beef. So opting for veggie dishes will save you some money.
4. Buy Train Tickets in Advance. If you’re going to travel by train to Liechtenstein, buy your tickets as far in advance as you can to save some money.
Can you walk around Liechtenstein?
It’s very easy and convenient to walk around the town of Vaduz, Liechtenstein. To visit the rest of the country, you can drive, take train rides, or rent e-bikes.
Bike paths connect the entire country, and there are deals and packages you can book specifically for bike journeys through Liechtenstein.
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