Vaduz – Travel Guide
Vaduz, the capital of Liechtenstein, is a captivating blend of history, culture, and stunning alpine scenery. Nestled in a picturesque valley, this charming city is dominated by the iconic Vaduz Castle, which overlooks the town and offers breathtaking views. Visitors can explore the rich heritage at the Liechtenstein National Museum and admire contemporary art at the Kunstmuseum. The vibrant city center features quaint shops, cafes, and local eateries serving delicious regional cuisine. With its scenic landscapes and cultural attractions, Vaduz is an enchanting destination for travelers seeking a unique European experience.
All about Vaduz
Getting around Vaduz
By Bus
No matter where you want to go in the country, there’ll be a Liemobil (https://www.liemobil.li/) bus to take you there. Bus tickets start from 2 CHF for a short single ride to 15 CHF for unlimited rides for a full day.
By Taxi
Registered taxis are available throughout Liechtenstein, and all are metered. However, fares are very high, with a premium on journeys that cross borders.
By Bicycle
Bicycles are a great option, roads are in excellent condition and bike lanes are common. There are free rental bikes with 15 stands located across the country with orange rental bikes from FreeVeloPoint. There are explanations in English at each station; you’ll need a mobile phone to receive the lock code. In Vaduz, the FreeVeloPoint is located at the post office.
Keep in mind that the western side of the country is flat, but things get steep once off the Rhine River plain. There are 62 miles of cycle paths in the Liechtenstein to explore. The warmer months are excellent for mountain biking.
By Car
Driving in Liechtenstein is easy, roads are well maintained and you can enjoy traveling at your own pace. Drive on the right-hand side. Be careful not to speed as there are cameras set up on the roadways.
Major international car rental companies are represented in Liechtenstein, along with a number of local rental companies.
Note: The speed limit is slow, 30 mph, throughout Liechtenstein, up to 50 mph for some very short stretches. Speeding is enforced with heavy fines and even imprisonment. During the winter, all cars require winter tires, and if you plan to leave the main road, you need snow chains.
Vaduz FAQ
How do I get to Liechtenstein?
There is no airport in Liechtenstein, so getting in is only possible by road or train. The closest major airport is in Zurich, which is just a one-hour drive from Liechtenstein. Another airport that is nearby is in Munich, which is just a 2.5 hour drive away.
From Switzerland, you’ll need to get to the town of Buchs to catch bus 12 to the biggest city in Liechtenstein, Schaan (only takes 10 minutes). At the terminal, change to bus 11 (towards Sargans) to get to the capital city Vaduz; the journey only takes 8 minutes. Buses run every 15 minutes from the train station at Buchs to Schaan and Vaduz. Tickets can be purchased on the bus for around 3.40 CHF. The Rhine River creates a natural border with Switzerland, so if you’re getting in from Switzerland, expect to cross the river and take in some stunning alpine landscapes.
From Austria, go to the border town of Feldkirch to catch bus 11 (towards Sargans) to Schaan and it’ll eventually get to Vaduz. This will be a longer bus journey as Feldkrich is further away; it takes around 30 minutes to get to Schaan and 40 minutes to Vaduz.
Buses are by far the easiest way to get to Liechtenstein. You can easily identify the lime green buses as the Liechtenstein bus. There are trains to Vaduz, but they only run every Sunday, so unless you are planning your trip for Sunday, your best bet is to catch the bus from Switzerland or Austria.
What is the language spoken in Liechtenstein?
The official language in Liechtenstein is German, but most people speak an ancient dialect of German that is highly divergent from standard German but closely related to those dialects spoken in neighbouring regions such as Switzerland and Vorarlberg, Austria. In Triesenberg, a dialect promoted by the municipality is spoken. However, Swiss Standard German is understood and spoken by most people within the country. We suggest you get a good English-German guidebook, or app on your phone, and familiarize yourself with common phrases such as hello, goodbye, excuse me and numbers 1-10.
How do I apply for a Tourist Visa to Liechtenstein?
The same visa requirements in Switzerland applies for travel to Liechtenstein. The latter does not impose any border controls with Switzerland. Liechtenstein also does not issue its own visas.
Read More
Discover further essential tips for navigating the vibrant city. Learn about must-see attractions, dining hotspots, transportation options, and cultural insights.
Is Liechtenstein a safe place to visit?
The crime rate in Liechtenstein is considered very low. While crime is virtually non-existent, you must be wary of certain regulations that could get you penalized. For example, dropping litter can set you back with a hefty fine!
When is the best time to visit Liechtenstein?
Low-Season (April-May and September-October) – During this time, the weather remains cold and wet. This is considered off-season.
Mid-Season (June to August) – During this period, the country experiences good weather. Although the temperature can get hot, it is often interrupted by rain showers or thunderstorms. Some of the biggest festivals are observed during this time.
High-Season (End of November to March) – This is the time when people prefer to visit Liechtenstein. You can expect frequent snowfalls. So, if you love skiing, this is the time to go. The winter temperatures can go down to 30°F.
However, the visit time to the country can vary based on your preference. If you are not a snow lover, then you may prefer to visit during the end of autumn/fall or end of the springs.
How many days should I spend in Liechtenstein?
Liechtenstein has a reputation for being a destination for day trips, to maybe spend a night, but not much more. However, if you want to really delve into this country, hike the mountain trails and discover the incredible walks, we recommend giving it at least a week.
What is the best way to get around Liechtenstein?
There’s just one major road in Liechtenstein, so in an effort to reduce traffic, use of public transport is encouraged, and made inexpensive and efficient. No matter where you want to go in the country, there’ll be a Liemobil (https://www.liemobil.li/) bus to take you there. Bus tickets start from 2 CHF for a short single ride to 15 CHF for unlimited rides for a full day.
Another option is to grab one of the free rental bikes that are located across the country. There are 62 miles of cycle paths in Liechtenstein to explore.
What is the currency of Liechtenstein?
Swiss franc – CHF (but € are widely accepted as well)
Is it expensive to travel to Liechtenstein?
Liechtenstein can be a very expensive country to travel to. Even the most affordable accommodations can cost you at least $100 a night, and that’s not even at the center of Vaduz. Food, on the other hand, can cost you an average of $20-$25 per meal in a day.
Transportation can be affordable, but another hack that you can take advantage of is renting a bike for free to get around towns! These bike rentals are all over the country so you’ll be able to cut down on some expenses.
What is the food like in Liechtenstein?
The cuisine in Liechtenstein has been influenced by its neighboring countries, particularly Austria and Switzerland. The use of cheese and soup are very prominent in the country’s cuisine. Meanwhile, its expansive dairy industry means that they also use a lot of milk products in cooking. Other common ingredients used in Liechtensteiner cuisine are beef, chicken, pork, potatoes, greens and cabbage.
One of their most notable dishes is called Muesli. This is a breakfast dish that is prepared with uncooked rolled oats served in water or juice with various types of fruits and nuts.
Rosti is also popular in Liechtenstein. It is a coarsely grated potato that is fried. There are several variations to this dish depending on which region it is made from.
Here is a list of the most notable local dishes in Liechtenstein:
-Hafalaab: A type of soup served with ham or bacon and dumplings.
-Saukerkas: A local cheese produced in Liechtenstein.
-Schnitzel: A breaded cutlet dish prepared using boneless meat.
-Wurst: A type of smoked sausage.
-Kasknopfl: A tiny dumpling that is topped with cheese.
-Torkarebl: A porridge dish that is similar to a dumpling.
What should I do if I need medical assistance or in an emergency?
Liechtenstein has one hospital, the National Hospital, situated in the capital, Vaduz, which is run in conjunction with private doctors specializing in internal medicine, surgery, gynecology, obstetrics, and psychiatry. Emergency care at the hospital is free and available even to people who are not insured.
There are excellent medical facilities in Liechtenstein, but it is more likely that you would be transferred to a hospital in Switzerland should you require medical attention.There are numerous health centers throughout the country which only provide outpatient care, but offer a wide variety of specialist services, such as general practice. They can also provide emergency medical aid. Outside Vaduz, every town has an emergency service, and doctors trained in emergency medicine travel with the ambulance service. Pharmacies are located throughout the country, and a pharmacist is on call at all times.
Top Attractions
Vaduz Castle
Explore this historic castle perched on a hill, offering panoramic views of the city and the surrounding alpine landscape.
Gutenberg Castle
Explore this historic fortress, featuring stunning architecture, panoramic views, and fascinating exhibits that showcase the region’s history.
National Museum
Delve into the history and culture of Liechtenstein through engaging exhibits and artifacts in this informative museum.
St. Florin
Visit this stunning neo-Gothic cathedral, known for its beautiful stained glass windows and impressive architecture, located in the heart of Vaduz.
Unique Experiences
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Experience a guided walking adventure through Vaduz, where you’ll explore the city’s historical landmarks, including Vaduz Castle, while learning about its rich heritage and enjoying stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
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Discover the culinary delights of Vaduz with a local food experience, where you’ll savor traditional dishes and regional specialties in a cozy atmosphere, enhancing your understanding of Liechtenstein’s gastronomy.
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Join a wine-tasting experience at the vineyard, where you’ll sample exquisite local wines and learn about the winemaking process in a picturesque setting surrounded by lush vineyards.
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Take a day trip to the nearby Malbun ski resort, where you can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and other exciting activities on pristine slopes, making it a perfect winter adventure for outdoor enthusiasts.
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Embark on a scenic bike tour through the beautiful landscapes of Vaduz, cycling along picturesque paths while taking in breathtaking views of the Alps and charming villages.
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What to expect while traveling
