We visited Liechtenstein in 2016 on a trip from Germany and were completely blown away. One of Europe's smallest and most overlooked countries — but one that absolutely punches above its weight. Stunning Alpine scenery, the iconic Vaduz Castle perched above the capital, a genuinely fascinating Postal Museum, great hiking trails and the kind of magical atmosphere that comes from a country quietly getting on with being extraordinary. Most people drive straight through — don't make that mistake.
What Liechtenstein gave us:
The principality that surprised us completely
We came to Liechtenstein in 2016 on a day trip from Germany, not entirely sure what to expect. What we found completely exceeded anything we had anticipated. This tiny Alpine principality — just 160 square kilometres, sandwiched between Switzerland and Austria — is one of the most quietly special places in Europe.
The drive in alone set the tone. The Rhine Valley opens up into a landscape of green hills, forested slopes and mountain peaks that makes you feel like you've stepped into a fairy tale. And then above the capital Vaduz, perched on its rocky hill like something from a storybook, sits Vaduz Castle — the home of the Princely Family of Liechtenstein, still in private use today. You cannot go inside, but the walk up through the vineyards to the castle grounds gives you breathtaking views over the Rhine Valley and into Switzerland.
Vaduz itself is a delightful little capital to wander — small enough to cover on foot but full of interesting shops, cafés, galleries and the National Museum. The Postal Museum was a genuine highlight and far more fascinating than the name might suggest — Liechtenstein's stamp collection is world-famous and the museum does a wonderful job of bringing the country's unique history and identity to life.
The hiking trails that fan out from the valley into the Alpine terrain above are world class — and if you have more time than a day trip allows, Liechtenstein more than rewards a longer stay. It is a place that gets under your skin quietly and leaves you thinking about it long after you have gone.
The iconic hilltop castle overlooking the Rhine Valley — you can't enter as it's still the Prince's residence, but the walk up through the vineyards and the views from the top are absolutely worth it.
Liechtenstein's famous stamp collection is world-renowned — and the museum is a genuinely fascinating window into the country's history and identity. Far more engaging than it sounds.
The capital is small, walkable and full of charm — good cafés, galleries, the National Museum and a relaxed atmosphere that makes it a pleasure to explore at an easy pace.
The setting alone is worth the visit — the Rhine Valley, the forested slopes and the mountain peaks create a backdrop that is genuinely stunning in every direction.
Liechtenstein has exceptional hiking — from easy valley walks to serious Alpine routes. The trail network is well maintained and the views at every level are extraordinary.
Most travellers speed through without stopping. Which means Liechtenstein is still relatively uncrowded, unhurried and wonderfully authentic. That won't last forever — go now.
The castle, the Alpine scenery, Vaduz and the magic of one of Europe's smallest countries — our Liechtenstein visit in full.
Want to explore Liechtenstein and the wider Alpine region with everything taken care of? TourRadar has brilliant tours covering the very best of this stunning part of Europe.
Liechtenstein sits at the heart of one of the most breathtaking travel regions in the world — within easy reach of Switzerland, Austria and southern Germany. A guided tour is a brilliant way to see more of it without the hassle of piecing together routes and logistics through mountainous terrain. Let someone else handle the driving while you focus on the views.
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From guided Vaduz walks and Alpine hiking tours to day trips and cultural experiences — browse Liechtenstein activities here:
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Common questions
What to pack for Liechtenstein
Liechtenstein in summer is warm and sunny in the valley but can be cooler on the higher trails — layers are useful. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for the uphill walk to Vaduz Castle and any hiking you plan to do.
Handy for navigation across Liechtenstein, Switzerland and Germany — especially useful when crossing borders without worrying about roaming charges.
View on Amazon →Liechtenstein uses Swiss Type J plugs — a universal travel adaptor is a must. Don't get caught out, especially if you're crossing into Germany or Austria during your trip.
View on Amazon →The Alpine scenery and Vaduz Castle views demand photos — keep a power bank in your bag so your phone is always ready for the next stunning panorama.
View on Amazon →Essential for the castle walk and any hiking — carry water, layers, snacks and your camera comfortably without weighing yourself down on the trails.
View on Amazon →Stay hydrated on the uphill walk to Vaduz Castle and on any hiking trails — the Alpine air and summer warmth means you'll get through water quickly on active days.
View on Amazon →Always worth having on hiking days — for blisters on the castle walk, minor scrapes on mountain trails and anything else that comes up on a busy outdoor day.
View on Amazon →Alpine sun is deceptively strong — UV levels are higher at altitude. A high SPF is essential for outdoor days in Liechtenstein, especially on exposed trails and hillside walks.
View on Amazon →Great sun protection for exposed Alpine walks and open hilltop views — keeps you comfortable on the climb to Vaduz Castle and on longer hiking days.
View on Amazon →Lightweight and breathable for warm valley days — smart enough for Vaduz's cafés and galleries, practical enough for a relaxed walk through the capital's streets.
View on Amazon →Disclosure: These are Amazon affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. These are all things we'd genuinely pack for a trip to Liechtenstein and the Alpine region.
Most people skip it — which is exactly why you should go. Liechtenstein is one of those rare places that genuinely surprises you, and you'll leave wondering why it took you so long to get there.
Affiliate disclosure: if you book through our links we may earn a small commission at no cost to you. We only recommend trips and experiences we'd be happy to stand over.