Liechtenstein is a tiny, doubly landlocked alpine country in Western Europe, bordered by Switzerland to its west and by Austria to its east. It is the last remnant of the Holy Roman Empire. Mountainous, it is a winter sports destination, although it is perhaps best known as a tax haven. Despite this, it is not heavily urbanized. Many cultivated fields and small farms characterize its landscape both in the north (Unterland) and in the south (Oberland). It is the smallest German-speaking country in the world.

The Principality of Liechtenstein covers both lowlands – including part of the fertile Rhine Valley and the steep western slope of the Three Sisters massif – and mountains. The latter are in the eastern part of the country and are accessible through three high valleys, the best known being that of Malbun, Liechtenstein’s premier ski resort. Like neighboring Austria and Switzerland, Liechtenstein has excellent winter sports facilities (though on a comparatively small scale).

In summer, hikers and ramblers may wish to explore Liechtenstein’s vineyards, forests and nature reserves. The principality’s mountains attract climbers of all abilities. For the less energetic, there are several tourist sites of interest.

Geography

Liechtenstein shares borders with Austria and Switzerland and lies between the upper reaches of the Rhine Valley and the Austrian Alps. The principality is noted for its fine vineyards.

Official Language: German

Demonym: Liechtensteinian

Currency: Swiss franc (CHF)

Time Zone: CET (UTC+1)

Summer (DST): CEST (UTC+2)

Internet TLD: .li

Calling Code: +423

Warning

Most visits to Liechtenstein are trouble-free but you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate international terrorist attacks, which could be against civilian targets, including places frequented by foreigners. This advice is based on information provided by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in the UK. It is correct at time of publishing.

Attractions in Liechtenstein:

The Prince of Liechtenstein’s wine cellars

Award-winning wines and unbelievable hospitality make this a wine tasting experience you’ll never forget. Signs around the vineyard describe how the grapes go from vine to wine. Wines from Liechtenstein make princely perfect gifts. The wine cellars are located in Vaduz, Liechtenstein’s capital and are open Mondays through Saturdays.

Vaduz with Goethe

For lovers of literature, the opportunity to walk in a beloved author’s footsteps is the next best thing to paradise. “Visiting Vaduz with Goethe” is an experience trail taking participants on a voyage through art, culture, architecture, gastronomy and history. Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, the German poet, novelist, dramatist, scientist, humanist, painter, and theorist, spent two June nights in 1788 in Vaduz. The walk is open daily; lasts about 2 ½ hours and participants should wear comfortable shoes. Find information at the bus terminal or tourist office in Vaduz.

Birka Bird Paradise

Rare birds from around the globe, including macaws, parakeets, amazons, parrots, peacocks and baby birds, are the highlight of the Birka Bird Paradise. Rare plants and amphibians are also on display. The Paradise, located in Mauren, is a popular year-round destination which includes a playground for children. Visitors are encouraged to explore the nature reserve through an exploratory hike or they can combine a bike tour with a visit to the Bird Paradise. There is no admission charge and the facility is open every day.

Falknerei or the Galina falconry

Liechtenstein seem like it’s all about the birds, the Galina falconry gives visitors the chance to get up close and personal with falcons, hawks, eagles and eagle-owls. Daily from May 13 to Oct. 21, with the exception of Mondays, a professional falconer puts on a unique flight show with his birds of prey. At speeds of up to 95 mph, raptors and swift falcons spiral upward and then plunge down toward the audience and then into the falconer’s hands. The Galina falconry is located in Triesenberg-Malbun.

Malbun ski resort

With a ski and snowboard school, terrain for everyone from beginners to advanced skiers and a cross-country course nearby, Malbun is the premier ski resort of Liechtenstein. Buses travel throughout the day from Vaduz. The resort also features mountain climbing and hiking opportunities. And one more thing: Get your passport stamped! For 1.50 euros, you can get your passport stamped at the tourist offices throughout Liechtenstein. Yes, most of the time, getting your passport stamped is part of the country-hopping deal, but in Liechtenstein you kind of have to go out of your way. Since Liechtenstein is only about 62 square miles, hopping from town to town isn’t a big deal with their amazingly cheap bus system.

Winter Sports

Like neighboring Austria and Switzerland, Liechtenstein has excellent winters ports facilities (though on a comparatively small scale). The main ski resorts include Malbun and Steg (see Where to Go section). Malbun is popular on the international skiing circuit for its varied facilities, and is a particularly good resort for beginners. Steg is renowned for excellent cross-country skiing.

Other
In the summer, all the resorts are good starting points for walking tours. Gaflei at 1500m (4920ft) is the starting point for the Fürstensteig, a path along the high ridge dividing the Rhine and Samina valleys. Cycling is possible in the valleys and lower-lying areas, and there are 96km (56 miles) of cycling trails on both sides of the River Rhine. Mountain bikers may also use the hiking trails. Bicycles can be hired at cycling shops. Paragliding is gaining in popularity. Excursions can be arranged with specialist operators; contact the tourist board for further information. Bowling is a popular sport, catered for in several hotels.

Climate of Liechtenstein:

Liechtenstein has a temperate, alpine climate, with warm, wet summers and mild winters.

Required Clothing

Medium weights with some lightweight clothing are advised for summer. Warmer heavyweights are worn in winter. Waterproofs are needed throughout the year.