One of the smallest countries in the world, Liechtenstein is a quaint country sandwiched between the alps of Austria and Switzerland in central Europe.
A microstate with a population of just over 41,000, it ranks as the fourth smallest country in Europe, only Vatican City, Monaco and San Marino being smaller. As with its pint sized counterparts, this can make getting there slightly more challenging. Whilst its public transport and road links to Austria, Switzerland and Germany are well established, the country itself doesn’t have an airport, so a trip through at least one of its neighbours is unavoidable.
Despite its size, Liechtenstein is a largely hidden treasure trove of things to see and do, both architecturally and in the breath taking and vast scenery of the mountains that engulfs the nation. Whilst probably not the first country on most people’s European bucket list, with a quick Google suggesting it’s the fourth least visited country in Europe (only behind Kosovo, Moldova and the Faroe Islands), it’s well worth the journey for those who want to avoid the hustle and bustle that come with the busier parts of the world.
To see our full gallery of images from Liechtenstein – click here.
The capital, Vaduz
One the world’s smallest capitals, Vaduz is a city of less than 5,000 residents, but a number of landmarks and must-sees.
Vaduz Castle is likely the country’s most famous landmark, sat overlooking the city, still the residence of the Prince of Liechtenstein. Accessible by a convenient, all-be-it steep road and footpath, it is not possible to see inside the building due to it being very much occupied as a palace (although exceptions are made for Liechtenstein nationals at certain times of the year and milestones in life). Despite this, a walk or drive up to see its architecture is a must on any visitor’s to-do list.
Elsewhere in the heart of the city is the Liechtensteinisches Landesmuseum (National Museum) which provides a walk-through of the history of this small, fascinating country, as well as the history of its monarchy up to the present day. Next door, and can be a part of the same ticket, is the Treasure Chamber, which boasts a small collection of priceless treasures ranging from Faberge eggs to paintings. For those with more time to spare whilst in the city, the Postal Museum and Kunstmuseum are also found on the main street through the city.
Other sights across the capital include the Red House, a beautiful 14th century building with a tower and barn that, again, is privately owned and therefore cannot be entered, but is well worth a diversion to see.
For those drawn towards the region’s wine, the Hofkellerei vineyard and winery is a short walk from the centre, offering tours and tastings of the wines grown across both the vineyards in Vaduz itself, as well as those across the country and intro Austria.
To see more images of Vaduz, click here.
Towns, villages and walking with llamas in the mountains
Being such a small country, getting around Liechtenstein is simple. The roads are quiet, especially compared to its neighbours, and the public transport network is well established and reliable. In the right weather and with the right inclination and commitment, walking is certainly an option most of the time.
Just east of Vaduz, a short but steep journey leads into the town of Triesenberg. Here, the Lama & Alpakahof farm can be found. This is a small farmstead, home to a dozen or so llamas and alpacas, as well as other animals, which offers a variety of walking and dining tours, taking the beautiful animals up into the surrounding countryside. We hugely recommend checking them out!
To see more images of the Lama & Alpakahof farm, click here.
As well as Triesenberg, other beautiful towns that dot across the country include Eschen in the north, a small collection of churches, white buildings, and yet more vineyards, overlooked by the steep alpine scenery.
Also, for those in search of the snow and skiing, Malbun in the east is a beautiful snow covered town at the end of the road heading towards the Austrian border, well stocked with slopes and chalets.
On the way, out of Vaduz to these towns are more than a few viewpoints and observation decks that offer a view over miles and miles of beautiful towns, villages and countryside. One such example is the small three-storey tower of Aussichtsturm Gaflei, a short walk from a small restaurant just a few (steep) kilometres drive up from Triesenberg.
Click here to see more images from each of Eschen, Triesenberg and Malbun.
Gutenberg castle
On the southern tip of the country, overlooking the municipality of Balzers, is the impressively in-tact Gutenberg Castle.
The 12th century castle is not only a fantastic piece of architecture, but also offers incredible views of towns and nature of Liechtenstein from its 70-meter pedestal. Almost overshowed is the beautiful church and grounds which sit immediately beneath.
If Vaduz and Gutenberg haven’t satisfied your want to see castles, Schellenberg in the north is home to castle ruins which date back to the 1200. Whilst not nearly as well preserved as its southern neighbours, its well worth a stop off for a wander, a picnic, or just to take in the surrounding views of the incredible scenery.
Click here to see more images from each of Gutenberg Castle and Schellenberg Castle.
To see our full gallery of images from Liechtenstein – click here.
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