Liechtenstein Day Trip: A Perfect Short Stop Between Destinations
Nestled between Switzerland and Austria, Liechtenstein is one of the smallest countries in the world, with Vaduz as its charming capital. While often overlooked, a Vaduz Liechtenstein day trip is a fantastic way to experience a unique destination without requiring much time. Whether you’re passing through on a European road trip or hopping between neighboring countries, Vaduz offers scenic views, rich history, and cultural experiences that make it well worth a stop.
How to Get to Vaduz
Vaduz is easily accessible, with the Schaan-Vaduz train station being the main railway hub for visitors. From here, you can take a short local bus ride into the heart of Vaduz, getting off at the Städtle stop. This stop is particularly convenient if you’re traveling with luggage, as there is a luggage storage facility nearby, along with public restrooms.
If you’re looking for a fun way to explore, consider hopping on the City Train tour, which departs from the luggage storage location. This small sightseeing train takes visitors around the city’s main highlights, providing historical context along the way.
Visiting Vaduz Castle
One of the top attractions in Vaduz is Vaduz Castle, perched on a hill overlooking the city. The walk to the castle is scenic and well-maintained, with informational signs along the way detailing the history of Liechtenstein and its ruling family. The path starts just up the street from Brasserie Burg and you’ll see signs pointing the way to the castle. With a decent incline, the short journey will take you roughly 20 minutes to reach the castle grounds.
Although the castle is not open to the public since it remains the residence of Liechtenstein’s royal family, you can still enjoy breathtaking views of Vaduz and the surrounding countryside from the hilltop. It’s an excellent spot for photos and a quiet moment to take in the beauty of this small European nation.
Walk to the Historic Old Bridge (Rheinbrücke)
A short walk from the city center takes you to the Historic Old Bridge (Rheinbrücke), which spans the Rhine River and connects Liechtenstein with Switzerland. This wooden-covered bridge has historical significance and offers visitors the unique opportunity to stand between two countries at once. The scenic walk to the bridge is just under a mile from city center.
Straddling the border between Liechtenstein and Switzerland makes for a fun and memorable photo opportunity. The bridge’s peaceful setting, surrounded by mountains and river views, adds to its charm.
Exploring the City Center
After visiting the castle and bridge, head back to the city center to explore Vaduz’s quaint streets. Stop by the tourist office for maps and information, browse local souvenir shops, or relax at one of the charming cafés.
One standout shop is Hoi Liechtenstein – Souvenir Boutique, a great spot to sample local beer, wine, and cheese. If you’re a fan of unique souvenirs, this is the perfect place to pick up regional specialties. As beer fans we were especially excited to try offerings from the local Liechtensteiner Brauhaus.
While in the city, you may come across vendors offering souvenir passport stamps as a fun way to commemorate your visit. However, be cautious about stamping your active passport, as this could cause issues when traveling internationally. Instead, bring an old passport or stamp a separate travel document to avoid complications.
A Vaduz Liechtenstein day trip is a perfect way to experience this tiny yet fascinating country. With its scenic castle views, historic bridge, and charming city center, Vaduz offers a memorable stop for travelers exploring Central Europe. Whether you’re passing through or making a dedicated visit, this hidden gem is well worth a few hours of your time. Check out our International Travel posts for more trip inspiration.