Liechtenstein is a small yet beautiful independent state between Switzerland and Austria. The 25-km long principality is known for its ancient castles, scenic villages and picturesque mountains. It is one of the smallest countries in the world with a population of just 38,000. Many people might think that large scale industrialisation has not entered the country as it is majorly known for natural sites and scenic landscapes.
However, this might come as a strange fact that Liechtenstein is the world’s most industrialised nation. Despite being a small state, Liechtenstein has a very rich royal history. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe for adventure lovers.
Beautiful villages, scenic landscapes, historic castles, museums and galleries, there’s a lot to see in Liechtenstein. The beautiful Alps add to the charm of Liechtenstein. The total landmass of Liechtenstein is merely 160 km sq. that makes it the sixth smallest country in the world. Majority of the population of the country speaks German.
The country’s impressive economic growth has been fuelled by the lauded low tax regime in the country. It still is a constitutional monarchy with an effective democracy. It is one of the few countries where you find quality over quantity. After hours of brainstorming, we’ve compiled a list of 7 best places to visit in Liechtenstein.
Vaduz
Vaduz is the capital city and the most popular city of Liechtenstein. Explorers regard it as one of the most picturesque European cities. Vaduz is an ideal place to start your journey in the country as you can get all the information you require from the tourist information centre. You can make friends with the locals, click hundreds of pictures, enjoy local cuisines and explore the city on foot. The city’s historic staddle or “small town” is one of the places that you can visit in Vaduz. Another place that you might like visiting is the country’s parliament building or “Landtag”. The iconic churches or cathedral in the cities are also worth watching.
Gutenberg Castle
Gutenberg Castle is one of the most famous castles sitting atop a 70-meter-high hill. The castle is located in the village of Balzers in the southern part of the country. It is a preserved fortress whose origin can be traced back to the middle ages. It is one of the most popular archaeological sites in the country. You will find a beautiful rose garden and the chapel during your visit to the castle. The great thing about the castle is that it is open round the year and no entry fee is charged.
Towns of Nendeln and Eschen
Lying in the lowlands of Liechtenstein, Nendeln and Eschen are small yet beautiful principal communities. Two things that make Nendeln popular include a glorious Roman Villa dating back to the Roman ages and Schadler Pottery. On the other hand, Eschen is popular for the Pfrundhaus, a 14th-century building used to showcase local art, and Holy Cross Chapel. Eschen also serves as the starting point for several hiking trails.
Schaan
If you want to witness untouched natural beauty, you should head straight to the beautiful town named Schaan. Schaan is located just 3 km north of Vaduz. This is the place where industrialisation flourishes without destroying the ecological balance. The town is famous for its historic Roman fort. You can get detailed information about local art and culture of Liechtenstein as it is one of the oldest towns in the country. If you visit the town during the summers, you can get to attend the popular Liechtenstein Festival (LIFE).
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Triesenberg
Triesenberg is the largest municipality in Liechtenstein. Located at a distance of just six kilometres from Vaduz, the municipality lies comfortably between the Alpine valley. You can find a German influence in the region. The picturesque village is famous for its scenic landscapes and valleys. Apart from this, the village is also known for its food festival named Triesenberger Wochen. The festival is organised mid-October every year where you can enjoy some really delicious dishes.
Malbun
Malbun is a small town and the only winter resort in Liechtenstein. There was a time when people used to desert the place during the winters due to bone-chilling cold. However, it is now a popular winter sports destination. If you have a thing for snowfall and extreme winter conditions, this place will certainly excite you. This is the place where first ski lifts and slopes were set up in the 1960s. This is one of the best places in the alpine to enjoy ski activity.
Schellenberg
Schellenberg is known for the ruins of the historic castles. Only two of the five castles in Liechtenstein are intact but the ruins are equally beautiful and Schellenberg is the place where you will find them. This is one of the most picturesque locations in the country where you can click really attractive pictures. The Upper Castle that was built in 1200 and the Lower Castle that was built in 1250 are the prime attractions of Schellenberg.
