Liechtenstein

Liechtenstein measures around 160 square kilometers and could be considered more or less an extension of Switzerland, its western neighbour (Austria straddles the eastern border). But it does pack some variety into its borders. The Tirolean Alps in the south-east make for excellent skiing and hiking opportunities, with the area's most popular resort being at Malbun. Head towards the Swiss border and you will be able to enjoy the gorgeous Rhine Valley. At Vaduz, the country's capital, you'll find the best of Liechtenstein's culture sweeped into one place: a collection of museums (covering such diverse areas of intrigue as art, stamps and skiing), a medieval castle, and a fair range of restaurants (all offering bottles of Liechtenstein's home-grown wine). Consider Liechtenstein an option for your next skiing trip.

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Brief History

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Geography

One of only two doubly-landlocked countries in the world, Liechtenstein is a very mountainous country. The highest point, at 2599 metres, is the Grauspitz. Liechtenstein is the sixth smallest nation in Europe. Measured from north to south, the country is only about 24 km long. Liechtenstein shares international borders with Switzerland and Austria.

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Regions

Liechtenstein is made up of 11 municipalities, known as gemeinden, which usually consist of a single town. These municipalities are grouped into two counties, the Unterland (lower county) and Oberland (upper county).

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Cities

Vaduz, the capital
Schaan

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Sights and Activities

Schloss Vaduz

Schloss Vaduz, also known as Vaduz Castle, is a stunning castle overlooking the capital of Vaduz. The oldest parts of the castle were built in the 12th century, although most of the castle burned down in 1499 and then rebuilt. An extension was added to the west side in the 17th century. In 1712 the castle became property of the royals and has been there residence since then. With stunning mountains behind it, the Schloss Vaduz is a breath taking sight.

Liechtenstein Art Museum

Opened in 2000 the Liechtenstein Art Museum (Kunstmuseum Liechtenstein) is a great art museum. It has an excellent collection of international modern and contemporary art. It also has the national collection, which is the royal families private collection. Designed by the Swiss architects of Meinrad Morger this building is pretty from the outside also.

Skiing

In Liechtenstein go enjoy the mountains with some world class skiing at the only ski area of Malbun. Enjoy sliding down these slopes in the Alps while looking at the amazing scenery. Remember many famous world class skiers have learned on these slops.

Other Sights and Activities

Rent the Country - Got some money to blow? Rent the entire country for a day for $375 per person for a minimum of 450 people a day. Your group can enjoy team building activities, wine tasting, tobogganing and full access to one of the royal castles.
Tax Haven - Take advantage of some open tax laws.
Shopping - Do some world class shopping.

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Events and Festivals

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Weather

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Getting There

By Plane

There is no airport in Liechtenstein. The nearest large airport is in Zürich, Switzerland.

By Train

Austria and Switzerland are not connected to Liechtenstein by rail, but you can get buses to Sargans in
Switzerland which has frequent rail connections towards Zurich or Chur.

By Car

Liechtenstein shares borders with Austria and Switzerland and good tarred roads lead into those countries from a number of places.

By Bus

LBA has buses to Feldkirch in Austria and to Sargans and Buchs in Switzerland.

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Getting Around

By Car

Roads in Liechtenstein are in excellent condition. Many international as well as local firms have offices, mainly in and near the capital Vaduz. Traffic drives on the right and you need your national driver's licence to rent a car.

By Bus

LBA is the only company offering comfortable bus travel around the country. It is well organised, but services are less during the evening and on Sundays. A 7-day pass costs only about 10 Swiss francs, about 8 US dollars or €6.

By Bike

Liechtenstein is a great way to explore by bike as distances are small and several parts even have bike lanes. Some roads can be steep though, especially in the southeast. Bikes can be rented in most towns.

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