Without a doubt, Liechtenstein was the highlight of my summer Euro-trip. A tiny country tucked between Austria and Switzerland, it’s a hidden gem that most travellers completely overlook. With breathtaking Alpine landscapes, medieval castles, fascinating culture, and even local wine, Liechtenstein makes a perfect stop—even if it’s just for a day.
Ever since meeting someone from Liechtenstein in Australia, I had dreamed of visiting. Driving across its 160 km² stretch of land, I was struck by just how untouched and beautiful the scenery is. Whether you’re a solo traveller seeking adventure or just want to explore a lesser-known European country, here’s your ultimate guide to things to do in Liechtenstein and the best Liechtenstein hotels to stay in.
Planning a trip to Liechtenstein? Here's where you'll find:
- Why Visit Liechtenstein?
- A One-Day Itinerary in Liechtenstein
- Best Things to Do in Liechtenstein
- Where and What to Eat in Liechtenstein
- Practical Travel Tips
- Day Trip Options
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Why Visit Liechtenstein?
Liechtenstein is often overlooked, making it Europe’s best-kept secret. Its small size and lack of crowds make it perfect for off-the-beaten-track travellers. Whether you want Alpine adventures, cultural experiences, or just a day in a peaceful, scenic country, Liechtenstein delivers.
If you’re a solo traveller or looking for a short detour while road-tripping through Europe, Liechtenstein should be on your list—even if only for a day. Trust me, you’ll leave with unforgettable memories, breathtaking photos, and maybe a bottle of local wine to toast your adventure.
A One-Day Itinerary in Liechtenstein
If you only have one day, don’t worry—you can still see a lot. Liechtenstein is small and incredibly walkable, making it perfect for a day trip from Switzerland, Austria, or even southern Germany. Here’s how I’d spend one day exploring:
Morning:
- Start in Vaduz, the capital. Wander the quaint streets, admire the sculptures and public art, and take in the views of the Rhine River.
- Walk up to Vaduz Castle, the home of the Prince of Liechtenstein. While the castle is generally closed to the public, you can admire it from the outside and snap epic photos of the city and surrounding Alps.
Midday:
- Stop at a café for lunch and try some local specialties like Ribel (cornmeal dish) or fresh trout from Alpine streams.
- Take a short drive to Gänglesee or another alpine lake to enjoy the serene scenery. Perfect for a picnic or a refreshing dip in crystal-clear waters.
Afternoon:
- Visit a vineyard like Hofkellerei of the Prince of Liechtenstein for wine tasting with incredible castle views.
- Explore Schaan, the country’s largest town, for quirky shops and museums. Don’t miss the Postage Stamp Museum or Kunstmuseum if you love culture.
Evening:
- Drive to the Switzerland-Liechtenstein border for a photo opportunity—you can literally stand in two countries at once!
- End the day with a hearty meal at a local restaurant and enjoy the Alpine sunset before heading back.
Best Things to Do in Liechtenstein
If you have more than a day, here are the best activities and sights to add to your itinerary:
Vaduz Castle & Scenic Walks – Even if you can’t enter the castle, the views over Vaduz and the Alps are unmatched.
Alpine Lakes & Hiking – Swim, picnic, or hike in untouched lakes like Gänglesee. Summer is perfect for exploring the trails.
Malbun Ski Resort – Visit in winter for skiing and snowboarding, ideal for both beginners and intermediates.
Wine Tasting – Sip local wines at Hofkellerei while overlooking the castle. A relaxing and scenic experience.
Museums & Art – From the FIS Ski Museum to the quirky Calculator Museum, there’s something for every interest.
Gutenberg Castle & Medieval Sites – Step back in time and explore Liechtenstein’s rich history.
Cross Into Switzerland on Foot – A bridge over the Rhine lets you walk into Switzerland in under 10 meters—a must for Instagram photos!
Festivals & Culture – Time your visit for the Liechtenstein Festival in Schaan for music, art, and local traditions.
Best Liechtenstein Hotels
Whether you want luxury or a cozy stay in the Alps, here are my top picks:
Vaduz:
Park Hotel Sonnenhof – Relais & Châteaux ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Luxury with panoramic views, top-rated for comfort and service.
Hotel Vaduzerhof by b-smart ⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Perfect mid-range option in the heart of Vaduz.
Giessen Hotel & Coffeehouse ⭐⭐⭐ – Quaint and budget-friendly with local charm.
Malbun (for skiing or Alpine hikes):
Sporthotel Malbun – Great for ski-in/ski-out access and mountain views.
Berghotel Malbun – Cosy Alpine vibes with hearty local food.
Where and What to Eat in Liechtenstein
Liechtenstein offers a mix of Swiss, Austrian, and its own Alpine cuisine. Must-tries:
- Ribel – Local cornmeal dish, often served with cheese or apple compote.
- Alpine trout – Fresh and locally sourced.
- Liechtensteiner wine – Perfect with lunch or as a souvenir.
- Sausages & Käsknöpfle – Alpine comfort food.
If you're looking for the best restaurants in Liechtenstein – try these delicious eats:
- Torkel (Vaduz)
Torkel is the most famous fine dining restaurant in Liechtenstein (Michelin-starred), located inside an old wine press house surrounded by vineyards with spectacular views of Vaduz and the mountains. Food highlights include seasonal menus with a modern twist on Alpine cuisine, plus an extensive wine list featuring bottles from the Prince of Liechtenstein’s Hofkellerei.
2. Restaurant Marée at Park Hotel Sonnenhof (Vaduz)
A Michelin-starred restaurant inside the luxurious Park Hotel Sonnenhof, it’s one of the top culinary destinations in the country with panoramic views over the Rhine Valley and even as far as Switzerland. Food highlights include creative international cuisine with local ingredients, beautifully plated dishes, and a sommelier who pairs each course with incredible wines.
3. Restaurant Edelweiss (Malbun)
If you head into the mountains, Edelweiss in Malbun is a cozy Alpine escape with a traditional chalet-style restaurant, warm and rustic—perfect after a day of hiking or skiing. Food highlights include classic Liechtensteiner and Swiss Alpine dishes like cheese fondue, rösti, and hearty mountain stews.
Practical Travel Tips
- Currency: Swiss Franc (CHF) is used, though Euros are often accepted. You may want cash for small purchases.
- Language: German is the official language; a simple “Hallo” works for greetings.
- Walkability: Liechtenstein is very walkable, especially Vaduz.
- Transport: Public transport is efficient but not free; consider renting a car for the Alps and day trips.
- Best Time to Visit: Summer for hiking and lakes, winter for skiing. Spring and autumn are quieter but equally scenic.
- Safety: Liechtenstein is extremely safe for tourists and solo travellers.
Day Trip Options
Because of its location, Liechtenstein is perfect for day trips:
From Switzerland: 1–2 hours from Zurich or St. Gallen.
From Austria: Accessible from Feldkirch or Bregenz in under an hour.
From Germany: Southern Germany, including Lake Constance, is just over an hour away.
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