Travel to Liechtenstein — everything you need to know
When to go to Liechtenstein?
- June – September — Hiking and nature : Summer reveals Liechtenstein's alpine trails with splendid views over the Rhine valley and the Swiss Alps. Temperatures are pleasant (18–25°C) and the lush green vineyards are beautiful to visit.
- December – March — Skiing and alpine winter : The Malbun resort (at 1,600 m) offers intimate family skiing in an authentic alpine setting, far from the crowds of the big Swiss resorts. Vaduz's winter atmosphere, with its snow-capped castle, is magical.
Weather in Liechtenstein
Check the weather city by city, starting with Vaduz.
- Vaduz: daytime highs from 7 to 26 °C depending on the season, 78 mm of rain per month on average.
What to do in Liechtenstein?
Liechtenstein is one of only six doubly landlocked states in the world, wedged between Switzerland and Austria, and the only country to share its name with its ruling family. This principality of 37,000 people is known for its medieval castle overlooking Vaduz, its surprising wine production on the slopes above the Rhine, and its status as a tax haven attracting numerous international holding companies. The grandiose nature of the Rhaetian Alps offers superb hiking and skiing.
Vaduz
Vaduz is one of the smallest capitals in the world, with just 5,500 inhabitants. It is dominated by the castle of Prince Hans-Adam II, the official residence of the ruling family, not open to the public but offering an iconic silhouette over the town. The main street is home to museums, the Kunstmuseum and stamp shops (Liechtenstein is renowned for its philately).
Highlights : Vaduz Castle — medieval princely residence overlooking the town, Kunstmuseum Liechtenstein — high-quality modern and contemporary art museum, Landesmuseum — national museum of Liechtenstein history and culture.
Malbun
Malbun is Liechtenstein's only ski resort, perched at 1,600 m in an unspoiled alpine valley. With 23 km of slopes suited to beginners and families, and its typically intimate alpine atmosphere, it offers an authentic alternative to the large neighbouring Swiss and Austrian resorts. In summer, hikes from Malbun to the border ridges are spectacular.
Highlights : Malbun ski area — 23 km of family-friendly slopes, local atmosphere, Augstenberg (2,359 m) — highest peak accessible from Malbun, exceptional panorama, Valorschtal — idyllic valley, starting point for hikes towards Austria, Fürstin-Gina-Weg — panoramic trail around the village of Malbun.
Triesenberg and alpine villages
Triesenberg is a Walser village perched at 884 m on the mountainside, populated by descendants of German-speaking Swiss settlers (Walser) who arrived in the 14th century. Its Walser museum and traditional wooden houses are a unique testament to this high-mountain culture. The village offers a panoramic view over the entire Rhine valley and the Swiss Alps.
Highlights : Walsermuseum in Triesenberg — history of 14th-century Walser settlement, St. Joseph's parish church — neo-Romanesque architecture overlooking the village, Triesenberg panoramic trail — view over the Rhine valley and the Alps, Steg — alpine hamlet at the end of the valley, ideal for hiking.
Travel budget for Liechtenstein
Liechtenstein uses the Swiss franc and shares Switzerland's high price levels. It is one of the most expensive countries in Europe, with accommodation and dining at rates comparable to Swiss cities. Proximity to Austria and Switzerland makes it possible to find more affordable options.
- Backpacker : 120–160 €/j — Hostel, simple meals, bus, museums and free hikes
- Comfort : 200–280 €/j — Alpine hotel, restaurants, skiing or guided hikes, tastings
Practical tips for travelling to Liechtenstein
- Flight from Paris : No airport — take the train to Zurich (4h30) or Feldkirch (5h)
- Visa : No visa required — Schengen area member, French national ID card is sufficient
- Currency : Swiss franc (CHF) — a very expensive country, plan a substantial budget
- Language : German (Alemannic dialect) — English is spoken in hotels and museums
- Electricity : Type J (Swiss 3-round-pin plug) — adapter required
- Health : European health insurance card not valid — travel insurance mandatory
- Finance : Tax and financial haven — home to numerous international holding companies
- Philately : Liechtenstein stamps are collected worldwide, on sale at the museum
Compare Liechtenstein with other destinations