Liechtenstein is the World's sixth smallest and Europe's fourth-smallest country. It borders Switzerland on west and Austria on the east (making it the only country to be situated in the Alps) and is one of the only two doubly landlocked countries in the world. It is also one of the richest countries as per GDP per person statistics that make it a renowned country in financial sector.
Before my trip, I had my apprehensions about the beauty of this tiny country, but all my doubts were gone when I stepped foot in the city of Vaduz. It is a beautiful city that offers a day’s worth of things to do (unless you plan to hike). Here we provide the highlights of the Vaduz city based on our half-day trip which we made at the end of February 2020. Europeans will have no problem acclimatizing to the cold weather here at this time of the year but outsiders are advised to come prepared.
1. Vaduz Castle
This castle gave the city its name, Vaduz. It is the current primary residence of the Prince of Liechtenstein and therefore, this castle is not open for public viewing. You can reach this castle after a hike of around 15 minutes and the perks of the hike are equally rewarding as you get a view like no other. With the castle in the foreground, the Alps in hinter and green scenery in between makes it a treat for photographers.
2. Get Your Passport Stamped
It is always a pretty sight for travelers to see their passport getting “bruised” (ahem! phrase not inspired from anywhere) at airports but alas this does not happen if travel within Schengen countries and because Liechtenstein does not have any airport of its own. In Liechtenstein, travelers can get their passport stamped at designated tourist information outlets or at souvenir shops for a price of 3€. We got ours stamped, would you?
3. Vaduz Cathedral: St. Florian Church
Built-in 1874 as a parish church, this cathedral got its status only in 1997 after a solemn ceremony. The church is a 5-10 min walking distance from the Vaduz city center. The experience of visiting this cathedral is unique in a sense that it is not crowded like other famous Roman-Italian churches. The entry is free (yay!).
4. Vaduz City Central
Vaduz is one of the cleanest cities in Europe and that is exhibited by streets in the city center. This area offers restaurants, cafes, souvenir shops, tourist information center and a beautiful Swiss chocolate shop.
5. Switzerland-Liechtenstein Border Bridge
Imagine crossing the border on foot! The Swiss border is just 1 km away from the city center and you can actually see the border separation between Switzerland and Liechtenstein. Both countries are separated by a river with an old bridge with a roof connecting the two countries together.
6. Panoramic View of the City and Alps
Enjoy the panoramic view of the city and the Alps on your hike to Vaduz castle. You will find many sightseeing points to click mesmerizing Instagram worthy photos.
Also, don't forget to visit The Red House and Gutenberg Castle if you have some extra time on your hands.
Happy Travel & Happy Clicking!!!
