Weekends are for refreshment, and what better way to unwind than a short trip to a charming spot? Liechtenstein, a little nation between Switzerland and Austria, can be your perfect weekend getaway. Pleasant lush valleys, stunning mountain ranges, and a rich history – name something, and Liechtenstein has it. Below is a detailed guide on some things to do in Liechtenstein that you shouldn’t miss during your stay on the home turf of The Blue-Reds.
Crème de la Crème of Things to Do in Liechtenstein
While there is no lack of things you can do during your Liechtenstein stay, some are a must and not doing them can hinder your overall trip experience. Let’s see those things right away:
1. Pay the Liechtenstein State Art Gallery a Visit
Love arts? Then, your Liechtenstein visit isn’t going to disappoint you. Vaduz’s (the country’s capital) State Art Gallery of Liechtenstein is known as the Kunstmuseum Liechtenstein and could be a haven for art lovers. From contemporary art to static/rotating exhibits, the museum is ideal for understanding about Liechtenstein’s art scene. Apart from that, one can see various 19th-century paintings and many items in the royal collection.
Location: Städtle 32, FL-9490 Vaduz
2. Go to the Gutenburg Castle
The town of Balzers still has an undamaged castle atop a hill. Called the Gutenburg Castle or Burg Gutenburg, the fort oozes tradition and heritage. Probably built during the Middle Ages, the Gutenburg Castle resides 70 meters above ground level. The castle is home to valuable treasures and has a cathedral and a rosarium to welcome visitors. You can also experience plays and concerts during the summer.
Location: Burgweg 5, 9496 Balzers, Liechtenstein
3. Visit the Liechtenstein National Museum
Another museum; another story to tell. One should stop by the Liechtenstein National Museum to know more about the country and its development. The museum is situated in Vaduz in a 15th-century tavern that prominent individuals like Johann Wolfgang used to visit. Here you will find a wonderful Liechtenstein model and various religious artworks. Besides, there is a large collection of weapons from the bygone days.
Location: Städtle 43, 9490 Vaduz, Liechtenstein
4. Experience Some Skiing Action in Malbun
Are you a skiing aficionado? If so, don’t forget to visit Malbun while you are in Liechtenstein. A top-notch ski resort, Malbun can give you a pleasant experience in winter. The Alpine ridge where the resort is situated and the nearby Saminatal Valley become covered in snow. Thus, Malbun is perfect for skiing and snowboarding. Different trails catering to varying expertise levels are what make Malbun this popular.
Location: Malbun, Liechtenstein
5. Hike Along the Eschnerberg Trail
Hikers unite! We’ve got something special. Hiking enthusiasts from around the world will find Liechtenstein a great place for their hiking routines. The stunning landscape, the Alpine beauty, the scenic villages, and the old taverns – everything screams a memorable hike. Plus, there are forests and valleys nearby that one must never miss. Among the many hike worthy trails in the country, the Eschnerberg Trail is a must-visit. Running between Schellenberg and Bendern, this historic trail will take you through old settlements like Lutzengutle and Malanser and also offer a fantastic view of the Rhine River.
Location: Eschnerberg, Liechtenstein
6. Explore the Calculator and Typewriter Museum
Are you tired of seeing the same common stuff over and over again? Then Schaan’s Calculator and Typewriter Museum could be your ideal choice. Boasting an extensive collection of 250+ exhibits, this museum cherishes the rich history of calculators and typewriters. As if that wasn’t sufficient, many exhibits here are interactive in nature, making them perfect for kids as well. One of the museum’s must-see attractions is the world’s tiniest calculator, fully country made.
Location: Altes Riet 121, 9494 Schaan, Liechtenstein
7. Have Fun Riding the Citytrain
The capital of Liechtenstein, Vaduz, has many attractions, yet not mentioning the Citytrain would be a crime. The country is small, making it easier for tourists to see the major sights without hassle. And one fantastic way to do so is by riding the Citytrain. This half-hour ride takes you through the downtown Vaduz of the olden (yes, golden, too!) times and the popular vineyards. The Citytrain will stop at the Red House before taking you past Vaduz Castle and seeing the stunning Alpine countryside.
Location: Rathausgasse 1, 9490 Vaduz, Liechtenstein
8. Discover the Red House in Vaduz
The Red House is a striking architecture in the Mitteldorf area and the entire Vaduz, for that matter. The colorful house and the tower attract visitors of all ages. This Red House, strikingly reddish in color, was probably built in the 14th century and restored in the 18th century. There have been several different owners of the house throughout the years. Most notably, it was once the location of the Saint Johann Monastery. Today, visitors can come to the Red House and take a deep dive into the history of the houses and the community.
Location: Fürst-Franz-Josef-Strasse 102
9. Obtain Some Schadler Pottery
If you’re in the Nendeln region, check out the Schadler Pottery and bag some. This pottery workshop is the oldest one in the country. It has been known for manufacturing pottery since 1836. You can find many stunning plates, tiles, artwork, and whatnot here. Watching the pottery produced live in front of you is truly an experience of a lifetime.
Location: Churer Strasse 60, 9485 Nendeln, Liechtenstein
10. Opt for a Bicycle Ride on the Old Bridge
The Old Bridge over the Rhine River is a famed bridge connecting Sevelen and Vaduz. It is 135 meters in length and was built in 1901. The wooden bridge has a wooden roof that is perfect for cycling. Motor vehicles are prohibited, so you can rent a bicycle and ride across the bridge while absorbing all the natural beauty of the surroundings.
Location: Rheinstrasse, 9490 Sevelen, Switzerland
11. Stop by the Postage Stamp Museum
Located in Vaduz, the Postage Stamp Museum is free of charge and displays how postage stamps have gone through changes over the years. Besides postage stamps, you will find many needle plates and get familiar with the printing procedures here as well.
Location: Städtle 37, Postfach 1216, 9490 Vaduz
12. Get Awestruck at Kathedrale St. Florin
Vaduz’s Kathedrale St. Florin aka Vaduz Cathedral is a beautiful architecture that still bewilders onlookers. While it once was a nobleman’s private chapel, St. Florin gradually became a cathedral. Also, you will find a parish graveyard – the resting place of many aristocrats in its vicinity.
Location: Gemeinde Vaduz Rathaus Städtle 6 9490 Vaduz Liechtenstein
13. Listen to Birds Chirping at the Galina Falconry Centre
Adore birds? The Galina Falconry Center is waiting for you in Malbun. Snuggled between the Alpine mountains, this place is a nature lover’s Arcadia. The birds come out each day, making it possible for visitors to be immersed in a memorable experience. You can also learn about the history of falconry and what it’s all about.
Location: Zentrum Hotel Falknerei Galina, Malbun 9497 Liechtenstein
14. Try Out Local Food
Foodies would surely love this one. The neighboring nations of Switzerland and Austria both have influenced Liechtenstein’s traditional food. Places like Vaduz, Triesenberger, etc., have an amazing food scene. While you are here, don’t forget to check out yummy traditional delicacies, such as Käsknöpfle (its national dish), Hafalaab, Ribel, etc.
Location: All over Liechtenstein
15. Get Closer to Nature at the Ruggeller Riet Nature Reserve
Nature lovers would love the Ruggeller Riet Nature Reserve comprising 88-hectare moorlands and wetlands. More than 1,000 years old, this area is now a nature reserve where you can spot many rare birds. During the month of May, the entire area gets filled with Siberian Iris, turning the entire area blue.
Location: Nofflerstrasse, Ruggell 9491 Liechtenstein
Liechtenstein is a tiny, western European nation with eye-catching hilly terrain, exuberant vales, and a great dose of history and culture. No matter what season, the country boasts something special in store for you.
FAQs
1. What is Liechtenstein famous for?
Liechtenstein is situated in a hilly region, making it a popular winter destination. Also, it was famous as a tax haven.
2. What is the most visited place in Liechtenstein?
Kunstmuseum Liechtenstein, Burg Gutenburg, and the Red House are some of the country’s most visited places.
3. Is there much to do in Liechtenstein?
From museum hopping to hiking along beautiful trails to skiing your heart out, Liechtenstein has many things to do.
4. Are there Indians in Liechtenstein?
Only about five Indians live in Liechtenstein, as the country grants residential permits to people with a Liechtensteiner or Swiss husband/wife only.
5. What are Liechtenstein’s top foods?
Hafalaab, Käsknöpfle, Ribel, etc., are among the famous Liechtenstein foods.
6. Is summer a suitable season for travel to Liechtenstein?
Yes, it was great to visit Liechtenstein in the summer, and I must recommend it to others. The climate is dry, and the air temperature varies from +20 to +30 degrees Celsius, so it is perfect for trail riding and hiking. Besides scenic beauty reflected throughout the alpine roads, one is able to engage in wine-making festivities or other cultural-related activities pertaining to the area.
7. Which adaptations will be the most difficult to make when visiting Liechtenstein?
One concern among Swiss-Alpine residents is that Liechtenstein is very expensive. So, some budget adjustments may be needed. Other expenses, like lodging, meals, and recreation, may vary and be costly, especially at peak times. However, the comfortable system of public transportation in the given country allows visiting the main attractions for a reasonable price.
8. What are the Top 15 Activities I can do in Liechtenstein for a Weekend?
Liechtenstein is a country with many fun things to do and learn. Here are the top 15.
- Hike all the routes. Complete the 75 km Liechtenstein Trail as well. It goes through all 11 municipalities.
- In the winter, visitors can go skiing or take part in any other winter activities at the Malbun Ski Resort.
- Read about Switzerland’s beautiful places, like Steg and the Triesenberg Valley.
- To learn more about the principality, read about Vaduz’s history, the modern state, and the future.
- For more interest, one has to take a hawk tour to understand the life and lifestyle of a predatory bird.
You must check the Liechtenstein Visa Requirements before your visit to the country.