Small but Regal: Everything Liechtenstein Has to Offer

Considering the number of locals, a vacation in the Principality of Liechtenstein might be likened to a city trip to places like Rochester, New York or Peoria, Illinois. However, unlike these densely populated mid-sized cities in the United States, this microstate, with a population of 38,000, spans a significant 160 square kilometers and offers a vastly larger and more diverse landscape.

Yet, until now, the principality nestled between Austria and Switzerland has been better known as a tax haven than a travel destination. Dubious investors could long park their money without concern in Liechtensteinian private foundations - until a whistleblower in 2008 sold the contact details of hundreds of tax evaders to their home countries.

The government then struck deals with foreign authorities and reformed its tax system. However, the damage to the country's image lingered - as did a comparatively low tax burden, which remains central to its economic policy.

But even those who don't bring millions can still feel welcome in Liechtenstein. Although the country is not an EU member, its partnership agreements mean there are no border controls. Travelers should bring a bit more spending money than elsewhere, as Swiss francs are used in Liechtenstein.

Most tourists visit Liechtenstein for a short trip. In spring and summer, many are drawn to the hiking and cycling trails. These lead through the idyllic landscapes along the Rhine on the west and through the mountainous regions in the east and south. In winter, skiers and snowboarders join the fun.

Not many countries in Europe can be fully explored within a few days. For travelers in Liechtenstein, however, that's not a problem, as the country measures just 25 kilometers at its longest and a maximum of 12 kilometers in width.

The best way to get an overview is by bicycle on the Liechtenstein Trail, which connects the picturesque mountainous landscapes with the idyllic river regions. This 83-kilometer route starts in the southernmost community of Balzers and leads through Triesenberg and the capital Vaduz to Schönwald. Along the way, there are plenty of beautiful spots to relax and explore, including the 700-year-old mountain villages, the magnificent Vaduz Castle, the rustic princely vineyard, and the fragrant flower meadows in the Ruggeller Riet nature reserve.

For a focus on princely delights, the RheinWelten cycling tour is ideal. Along the 33-kilometer route through the vineyards, visitors can stop by places like the roastery of coffee sommelier Peter Demmel or the Liechtensteiner brewery in Schaan.

On another route, cyclists can explore the stunning castles and fortresses. The cross-border Five Castles Tour begins at Liechtenstein's landmark: the castle overlooking the main town of Vaduz. The tour then crosses the roaring Rhine to Werdenberg Castle, Wartau Castle ruins, and Sargans Castle in Switzerland, before returning to Liechtenstein and the 700-year-old Gutenberg Castle, perched on a rocky spur over Balzers.

The Principality of Liechtenstein is home to Europe's densest network of hiking trails. Whether one prefers high alpine terrain and via ferratas, relaxed scenic views, or a fun family tour with children, the 400 kilometers of routes offer a vast selection.

Highlights of the day hikes include the picturesque beginner tour from Malbun to Schönberg, where lush green mountain meadows make for an idyllic picnic paradise. The family-friendly Sass Trail with exploration stations is also suitable for children, while the Three Sisters Trail with the Fürstensteig is more for advanced hikers.

The most beautiful and profound insights into Liechtenstein are offered on multi-day routes: The Liechtenstein Trail (75 kilometers) leads through all the municipalities of the principality, while the Liechtenstein Panorama Trail (44 kilometers) from Malbun to Ruggell showcases the breathtaking natural beauty.

Additionally, there is a wide array of themed hikes. On specially designed routes, travelers are accompanied by lightning-fast golden eagles, soft alpacas, and roaring stags. Other tours feature traditional alphorn players and intriguing detective trails for entertainment.

In Europe, some royal families frequently make headlines. However, the family of Hans-Adam II, the Prince of Liechtenstein, manages to maintain a low profile - despite reportedly being ten times wealthier than the British Royal Family, according to Bloomberg. Prince Alois, the son, conducts governmental affairs alongside the democratically elected parliament in Vaduz.

In Liechtenstein's main locality, internationally recognized as a financial center, the country's cultural highlights are located, primarily the landmark: Vaduz Castle. The visible 13th-century walls serve as the main residence for the princely family and also as a place for state visits. Therefore, visiting and tours are not possible - only the Princely Cinema, where cinematic charm meets modern technology, is open to the public.

Visitors have the best chance to catch a glimpse of the princely family during Liechtenstein's National Day on August 15, when the Prince invites the public to a state ceremony followed by a reception in the castle gardens.

Also worth seeing, though long uninhabited, is the ruin of Schalun Castle - a wild castle reachable by foot from Vaduz in about an hour on a forest trail. From a viewing platform, the beautiful Rhine Valley can be seen.

While walking through the city, Vaduz presents its traditional yet modern side. St. Florin Cathedral with its princely crypt, the town hall with its distinctively decorated windows, the fully enclosed Rhine Bridge from 1901, and the quaint Fachwerk Schädler House recall Liechtenstein's history. Meanwhile, futuristic facades like the unusual Centrum for Art and its tinsel-like aluminum ornaments, or the dynamic Hollein building, stand out.

The cultural pinnacle of the Alpine state is the Art Museum, which also hosts the Hilti Art Foundation. The Black Box made of black-tinted concrete and basalt showcases contemporary art from the 19th century to the present.

Anyone wanting to learn more about the princely family's history will find the Land Museum's treasury a rich experience. It houses treasures like the Fabergé 'Apple Blossom Egg,' moon rock from the Apollo 11 mission, and a princely hat from 1626 on display.

For winter sports enthusiasts, the mountains of Liechtenstein are a hidden gem. The ski area meets all the requirements for ski and snowboard fans but isn't overcrowded like neighboring winter sports meccas in Austria and Switzerland.

Around Malbun, the highest-altitude place in Liechtenstein, lies a ski resort with 23 kilometers of slopes, a fun park, children's area, and four modern lifts up to 2,100 meters high. Moreover, Malbun is car-free, making it ideal for a family vacation with children. The hotels are directly on the slopes.

Looking for more inspiration? Find tips for all the top destinations at bettercities.net.