Visiting Liechtenstein: The 6th Smallest Country in the World

Is visiting Liechtenstein worth it? Liechtenstein is a tiny country nestled between Austria and Switzerland in the European Alps. The total length of its borders is just under 50 miles. The population of Liechtenstein is 40,000. This country is perfect for anyone wanting to spend time in an adorable mountain town. There are a few towns to pick from – including Malbun, Mauren, and the capital – Vaduz.

The idea of being able to say that you’ve been in every major city in an entire country is very cool. At least, it is to me! Liechtenstein is so small, you could even hike across the entire country if you’d like.

Liechtenstein is about 16 miles (25 km) long and 8 miles (13 km) wide. With it being located in the Western Rhaetian Alps, you can find hiking trails in literally every direction. You can explore castles and other historical landmarks throughout the country, or visit the history museums to learn about Liechtenstein’s past. The Rhine river creates the border between Liechtenstein, and you can swim in it at certain times of the year. Read on to learn how to explore an entire country in just a few days.

Hike Across the Country

When visiting Liechtenstein, the size of the country will truly surprise you. Liechtenstein is so small, you can literally walk across the country in less than a day. If your goal is to simply get from the Austria-Liechtenstein border to the Liechtenstein-Switzerland border, your best bet might be walking or running the main road from Feldkirch, Austria to Buchs, Switzerland. There is also the Liechtenstein Trail, which crosses through all 11 municipalities of Liechtenstein in 75 km.

There are multiple options for hiking when visiting Liechtenstein. Some take only a few hours, and others could take you up to a week. You might see runners who choose to follow the main road 15 miles from the Austrian border to the Swiss border. Whatever you choose, it sure sounds cool to say that you’ve literally trekked across an entire country!

Walk Across the Alte Rheinbrücke

The Alte Rheinbrücke, meaning “Old Rhine Bridge” is the only remaining wooden bridge that crosses the Rhine. Not only that, but this bridge connects Lichtenstein to Switzerland – just walk across and you’ve entered a new country. Completed in 1901, and renovated multiple times since, this bridge is only open to cyclists and pedestrians. Cross into another country in just a few steps!

Visit Every Major City

Liechtenstein is so small that most of the major cities blend into one another. For example, you can cross through both Gamprin and Mauren with a 5-minute bus ride. It will only take you 20 minutes to get from Ruggell in the north all the way to Balzers in the south. But if you want to really appreciate Liechtenstein for all it has to offer, spend quality time in each of its major cities.

When visiting Liechtenstein, you’ll most likely be staying in Vaduz or Schaan. As the two biggest cities in Liechtenstein, they’re an ideal base for exploring the entire country. Take the local transit up to Triesenberg, stop for a snack, and then it’s a 20-minute bus ride to Malbun. Go hiking or skiing there and you’ve successfully done everything in Malbun!

Swim in the Rhine

The Rhine River cross through 6 countries, starting in the Swiss Alps and continuing through Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Austria, France, Germany, and the Netherlands. It has been used for centuries for the transport of goods and people in Europe. There are many locations along the river where people enjoy swimming through the crystal mountain water.

When swimming in the Rhine, stay close to the shore and away from any currents that could sweep you away. Most locations will remind swimmers that they enter at their own risk, and there won’t be lifeguards. The water will be cool and crisp, even in the summertime. Just remember to stay safe.

Go Skiing in Malbun

Although Malbun is absolutely tiny, the skiing facilities are new and convenient to access. The ski resort provides 23 km of ski slopes for snowboarders and skiers of every ability. This resort should be much less busy than other resorts, due to its location. Skiing here is incredibly peaceful and magical, and it’s family-friendly as well.

Befriend Goats and Birds Alike

The Birka Bird Paradise is located in Mauren, a city in northern Liechtenstein. It’s free to enter, and you can book a guided tour for only CHF 2.- per person (about 2 dollars). The Ornithological Association cares for the animals as well as the nature reserve next door. Not only will you find many exotic species of birds, but you will also be able to interact with goats, sheep, chickens, and a peacock on the property. The Ornithological Association claims to have acquired these creatures by rescuing them from dangerous situations or unsafe environments. I’m not entirely sure of their ethical practices, so keep that in mind if you decide to visit.

Visit Liechtenstein’s Castles

When visiting Liechtenstein, there are 5 castles that you can see all in one day. Three of them are ruins that you can explore, and two remain intact. Most of the castles can be visited as part of a hike as well, so you can enjoy the mountain landscape while you explore.

Vaduz Castle (Schloss Vaduz)

You can see Vaduz Castle 120 meters (400 feet) above the capital city of Vaduz. Built in the 12th century, this castle is still the official residence of the Prince of Liechtenstein and the royal family. Because it is still actively home to the royal family, you cannot tour this castle. However, you can still see the castle up close and learn about its history in local tours.

Schalun Castle Ruins (Wildschloss)

Schalun Castle is also known as Wildschloss, which means “Castle in the wild”. Also located in Vaduz, this castle was most likely constructed during the late 12th century. Lying a bit higher above Vaduz at 400 meters (1,300 feet), the ruins are accessible either on foot or mountain bike.

Gutenberg Castle (Burg Gutenberg)

Gutenberg Castle lies a bit further south than Vaduz Castle in the town of Balzers. It will take just a 20-minute bus ride from Vaduz to get there. Unlike Vaduz Castle, Gutenberg Castle is open to the public. Also built in the 12th century, this castle contains a museum, rose garden, and two chapels. There are multiple cultural events put on at the castle during the summertime, so check ahead online for their event schedule.

Upper Castle Ruins (Obere Burg)

The Obere Burg (meaning upper castle) ruins are the first set of remains in Schellenberg, Liechtenstein. Schellenberg lies about 45 minutes north of Vaduz via bus, and 20 minutes by car. The upper castle ruins are very popular and easy to reach on foot.

Lower Castle Ruins (Untere Burg)

Built in the 13th century, the Schellenberg lower castle section was built about 50 years after the upper section. After falling into disrepair, both ruins were donated to the Liechtenstein History Association for preservation. Yo are free to walk around and explore the ruins as you wish.

Eat Traditional Liechtenstein Cuisine

Liechtensteiner cuisine is heavily influenced by the surrounding countries. Like most Central European cuisine, there is a heavy focus on dairy products and hearty meals. You’ll find the most delicious meals during the wintertime, when stews are made to fill you up and keep you warm.

The national dish of Liechtenstein is Käsknöpfle – an egg pasta with cheese and roasted onion. Käsknöpfle is often served with an apple purée in Liechtenstein, adding some sweetness to the dish.

Like most surrounding countries, beer is extremally common in Liechtenstein. Although the country is small, you can find great beer made in local breweries. You can visit the Prinzen Bräu Brewery in Balzers and enjoy locally made beer at any time of year.

Hammock in the Misty Mountains

When visiting Liechtenstein, pack a raincoat. It rains for over one third of the year – more so in the mountains. The constant moisture combined with the mountain landscape means that clouds often hang low to create a fog. You will have multiple opportunities to hike up into the fog and have a magical “misty mountain” experience.

Hammocks pack well, and they sure do come in handy. Although it can be easy to pressure yourself to stay busy and make the most of your travel time, rest is just as important. If you’re in need of a break from traveling, grab your hammock and find a set of trees up in the mountains or near a trail. You can rest and listen to music or read a book while taking in fresh alpine air.