So, you’ve decided to take a day trip from Zurich to Liechtenstein, and now you’re looking for things to do to fill your day!
Well, you’ve come to the right place. This guide will not only cover how to get to Liechtenstein from the city of Zurich, but also gives a step-by-step itinerary to get the most out of your day.
Not coming from Zurich? Skip by the “how to” directions and start with the section labeled: “How to Navigate your way around Liechtenstein.”
Coming from Zurich? Read on …
Before we can get into the many things to do in this princely principality, we should first go over how to get there!
*Note: At the bottom of this post you can find a Liechtenstein map with the locations of all the mentioned activities and restaurants!
How to get from Zurich to Liechtenstein: Transportation Methods
I’d suggest leaving Zurich as early in the morning as possible, so you can fit as much as possible into your day in Liechtenstein!
Get from Zurich to Liechtenstein by Train
Total Travel time: Approximately 2 hours
Although some do prefer this route, it would not be my go-to. You can take trains from Zurich into Liechtenstein but you’ll have to make at least 2 transfers. Then to get started with your day, you’ll still have to take a bus to get to the capital city of Vaduz. That means you’ll be taking 3 trains and a bus, which can get complicated with so many connections. I’d suggest the following below train and bus combo, which consists of one train and one bus.
Still if you’d like to go with this option, buy a train ticket from Zurich to Schaan-Vaduz station, which is located in Schaan, Liechtenstein’s biggest city. This trip should take you 1:20 to 1:44 depending on the connections you choose.
Once at Schaan-Vaduz station, you’ll want to walk over to the strange looking circular building with yellow windows- the Schaan Bahnhof bus terminal. From here you can hop on the 11 (direction Trübbach) or the 13 (direction Balzers) LIEmobil Bus (bright yellow buses) to get to “Vaduz Post” station. This should take around 10 minutes.
Get from Zurich to Liechtenstein by Train & Bus
Total Travel time: Approximately 2 hours
If you’d like to go this route you’ll first, want to get to Sargans, Switzerland by train. There are both direct trains and routes with a transfer from Zurich. You can find schedules, pricing and buy your train ticket ahead of time for the trip from Zurich to Sargans here. Depending on whether you take a direct train or one with connection, the trip will take anywhere from 55 minutes to an hour and 15 minutes.
From Sargans you can easily hop on a bus that will bring you right to Vaduz, Liechtenstein’s capital and where your day of activities begins. Take either the 11 (direction Feldkirch) or 12E (direction Vaduz) LIEmobil Bus (bright yellow buses) from the “Sargans, Bahnhof” station to the “Vaduz Post” station. This bus trip should take around 30 minutes.
*Note: make sure you have at least $10 CHF per person in cash to pay for this bus ride. It shouldn’t be that much, but prices vary.
Get from Zurich to Liechtenstein by Car
Total Travel time: From 1:30 – 2 hours depending on traffic
The drive from Zurich to Liechtenstein should take you anywhere from 1 and a half hours to 2 hours depending on traffic. It’s a fairly simple drive and if you type in “Vaduz, Liechtenstein” to GoogleMaps or another GPS, you should be able to find the area fine.
Parking in Vaduz is also fairly simple as there are several “parkplatz” just off the main pedestrian street, Städtle, as well as a large parking garage. For more information on parking and parking prices in Liechtenstein check here.
* Note: If you’re traveling with two or more people, but don’t have a car, I’d suggest renting one for the day! Not only will it be a lot easier to move around, but it probably won’t be much more expensive than the combined price of train tickets from Zurich. Depending on how many people you’re traveling with, you may actually save money by renting a car.
How to Navigate your way around Liechtenstein
If you have a car, you’re set! It’s fairly easy to navigate your way around Liechtenstein. I mean it’s not like there’s many routes or roads to choose from!
If you don’t have a car, no need to worry! The Liechtenstein bus system is very organized, they run pretty frequently. In my time there, I also found them extremely reliable.
Actually, during my time in Liechtenstein, I got to know the public bus system and routes pretty well, as that’s how I mostly got around. Even if you only have a short time in Liechtenstein, you should be able to see everything you’d like to by bus.
The activities I mention below will include bus directions.
And that brings me to my next point ..
Your First Stop in Liechtenstein
Liechtenstein’s Tourism office: Städtle 39
The first thing you should do once you arrive to Liechtenstein, is head over to the tourism office and pick up an Adventure Pass! I suggest trying to get to the office as close to 9AM (when they open) as possible, to take full advantage of your day.
Liechtenstein’s adventure pass is good for either one or two days and was designed to give first-time visitors a taste of all the awesome activities the principality has to offer. With this pass you get free or reduced admission to many of the country’s main attractions, as well as unlimited public bus access for the day (or two days depending on the pass you choose).
When you purchase the pass you’ll also be given a little booklet detailing the different attractions and activities that come along with it.
The best part- the Adventure Pass has a value of over $300 CHF, but only costs $25 CHF for one day or $29 CHF for two. And if you know how to use it, which I’ll go over in this post, you’ll more than get your money’s worth!
While in Liechtenstein, their tourism office hooked me up with one of these bad boys to get a feel for Liechtenstein and its sights and I had an absolute blast!
How to Spend one Day in Liechtenstein with an Adventure Pass
First activity of the day: stamps galore
Location: Tourism office, Städtle 39
Savings with Adventure Pass: $3 CHF
After purchasing your Adventure pass in the Tourism Office, why not stick around for a few more minutes and knock a few other things off your list. Your Adventure Pass includes a Free Souvenir stamp in your passport!
For those of you who have experience traveling around Europe, you know that it’s not common to receive stamps, or even to go through customs, for each country that you visit. So, for those of you, like me, who like to collect passport stamps as a memory keepsake, be sure to get one here.
Also, while in the tourism office, you can send out a postcard and even make a custom set of stamps with your photo on them. For those of you that don’t know, Liechtenstein’s postage stamps are pretty famous, and known to collectors the world, so this is definitely a fun activity to take part in, and while it’s not included in the Adventure Pass, I always like to send postcards to my family, so I did it anyway!
Next, a quick bite to fuel your day
Location: Balu Bäckerei Konditorei, Städtle 17
If you haven’t already eaten on your trip from Zurich to Liechtenstein, you may want to grab a quick bite before continuing along your way! When coming out of the tourist office, take a right and continue along the pedestrian path to Balu.
At this little French-inspired bakery you can grab a coffee and a pastry (or something heartier!), and gear up to tackle your next activity!
A Walk up to visit Vaduz Castle
After enjoying a late morning cup-o-joe at Balu, you’ll be just steps away from the start of the hike up to Vaduz Castle, that regal looking princely estate up on the hill overlooking Liechtenstein. “Schloss Vaduz” is the private residence to the reigning Prince, and although you can’t visit the inside of the castle, it’s still worth a trip up the hill to see.
Not only will you get in a bit of a morning workout, but along the way you’ll learn all about the history of Liechtenstein and get to see some incredible views of the Rhine Valley in the process.
To get started, head to the corner of Beckagässli where you’ll see “Brasserie Burg.” From here, take a right, and simply head up. ⬆️ The walk up the hill takes around 30 minutes and is clearly marked with arrowed- signs labeled “Schloss.”
A Trip to Liechtenstein’s Museum Row
After descending from the castle, you’ll be right back in the center of Vaduz. All of Liechtenstein’s museums happened to be located in the pedestrian zone of Vaduz.
Pick and choose which you’d like to see, or, if you’re a fairly “quick-museum-visitor,” like me, you can fit them all in!
Total savings with adventure pass: $36.50 CHF
With your Adventure Pass you receive free entrance to:
Liechtenstein National Museum or the Landesmuseum
Location: Städtle 43, Vaduz.
Liechtenstein’s National Museum is by far my favorite of the bunch. Throughout the museum there are various exhibits that focus on the history, culture, people, activities and landscape of the country. It was super fun to walk through the different exhibits, while listening to my free audio guide. I learned all about Liechtenstein’s traditions and customs, and how they’ve changed over time. After visiting the museum everything else seemed to have context.
Liechtenstein Postal Museum
Location: Städtle 37, Vaduz
As I mentioned briefly above, Liechtenstein happens to be a pretty big deal in the “Postal” scene. So if you’re a stamp collector, or this is something you’re into, don’t miss this museum. Here you’ll learn about the history of Liechtenstein’s postal service and get to view an extensive collection of postage stamps, designs and test prints that date back to 1912!
*Note: With your adventure pass, you’ll also receive a free little gift at the Postal Museum. So, be sure to ask!
Treasure Chamber of the Principality of Liechtenstein
Location: Städtle 37
Visiting Liechtenstein’s Treasure Chamber is a pretty unique experience, mostly for the peculiar entrance. There’s no reception, and instead a completely automated system in place. To me, it seemed very mysterious and almost exclusive. To access the Treasure Chamber you place a token in a small machine and enter one by one. Once inside, the collection is displayed in one long dark and cool room.
The exhibition showcases a selection of items from the “Princely Collection” as well as one of the world’s finest Easter egg collections. Yeah I know .. who knew that was even a thing? ?♀️
*Note: for entrance to the Treasure Chamber, you’ll have to ask for a token at the reception desk in the post museum
Liechtenstein’s Art Museums: the Kunstmuseum & Hilti Art Foundation
Location: Städtle 32
These two museums are connected by a small souvenir shop and quality sushi restaurant. Their collections primarily focus on international modern and contemporary art from the nineteenth century to the present. The Kunstmuseum is the national art collection of the Principality of Liechtenstein and has become an integral part of the public image of the principality.
The Hilti Art Foundation is a private collection from the Hilti family and reflects their individual artistic interests. The collection showcases a mix of paintings, sculptures, objects and photographs.
Vaduz Cathedral or Cathedral of St. Florin
Location: St. Florinsgasse 15
Although (obviously) not a museum, you will also find the Cathedral of St. Florin at the end of Vaduz’s Städtle, where the pedestrian street ends and intersects with the main road. This Neo-Gothic style church from the 19th century was built by Austrian architect Friedrich von Schmidt and boasts a soaring, vaulted ceiling.
Three Options for Lunch in Vaduz
Whenever you’re ready to take a quick break from museum-hopping, head over to one of the following three locations for lunch. Each of these eateries are within close walking distance to Liechtenstein’s museum row and, depending on your taste, each is a great place to take a breather, refuel and recharge. Grab lunch and then get back to it!
Option 1: Café Amann
Location: Aeulestrasse 56
Price Range: $-$$
My go-to suggestion is Café Amann. This little no-frills diner-style café is a true local spot in an area chock-full of touristy restaurants and souvenir shops. Although their menu may not be exactly what you’re used to, that’s the fun of eating at a place like Amann.
It’s a budget-friendly café (at least by Liechtenstein standards) featuring an array of local and regional dishes, daily lunch specials and even has a connected bakery with small bites to go. Although it is known to get pretty crowded here, and lunch specials sometimes sell out, if you plan accordingly and go with flexibility in mind, you’ll love it!
Option 2: New Castle
Location: Aeulestrasse 22
Price Range: $$-$$$
Just down the street from Café Amann you’ll find New Castle, another great option for lunch. New Castle’s menu also features daily lunch specials and although a bit pricier, you’ll get your money’s worth with their generous portions.
New Castle’s menu is more well-rounded than the former with something for every palette. On their menu you’ll find a mix of local dishes, as well as soups, pastas, salads and a kid’s menu, and there are various vegetarian and gluten-free options available. So, if you’re a picky eater or have eating restrictions (or traveling with someone who does), I’d go with New Castle. They also have a nice outdoor seating area, and some tasty beers on tap.
Option 3: Café at the Kunstmuseum
Location: Städtle 32
Price Range: $$$
Another great lunch option right within the Kunstmuseum is their very own sushi café. I know what you’re thinking, “museum sushi?!,” but this place is actually really good. Actually, it’s the classiest and priciest of the three, but if you’re craving sushi, there’s no better place in all of Liechtenstein.
Their menu features a variety of traditional Japanese specialties including sushi à la carte, sashimi, soups and salads freshly prepared upon your order.
A Quick Stop for a Unique Keepsake
Location: Hoi Liechtenstein: Städtle 35
Savings with adventure pass: $6 CHF
On your trip from Zurich to Liechtenstein, if you like to collect souvenirs during your travels, be sure to stop by Hoi, also found along Vaduz’s pedestrian street, Städtle. Here you can pick up a Vaduz Castle magnet made from local wood that is free of charge with your Adventure Pass.
Hoi carries an array of local products and unique keepsakes so that you can take along a piece of Liechtenstein with you after you leave. If you didn’t send a postcard earlier in the Tourism Office, you can also do so here.
An After Lunch Wine Tasting at The Prince of Liechtenstein Winery
Location: Feldstrasse 4
How to get there by bus: Go to the “Vaduz, Post” bus stop and take the 11 (towards Feldkirch) or 13 (towards Schaanwald), until “Vaduz, Hofkellerei.” The Vineyard will be a 2 minute walk from the bus stop. (This bus trip is free with your Adventure Pass)
Savings with adventure pass: $15 CHF
After exploring Liechtenstein’s museums and refueling with a hearty lunch, head on over to the Prince of Liechtenstein’s Vineyard and Cellars for a free wine-tasting! This activity is also included in your Liechtenstein Adventure Pass and will give you the chance to sample two of the Rhine Valley’s top-rated wines. After your tasting, if you’d like, you can explore more of the vineyard grounds, which offer stunning views of Vaduz Castle.
If you’d like to know more about the winery and its history, you can book a guided tour to see the cellar facilities and taste more of the wines on offer. To do so, get in contact directly with the winery by phone or email.
An Afternoon Pick-me-up at Demmel Kaffee
Location: Landstrasse 85
How to get there by bus: head back to the “Vaduz, Hofkellerei” bus stop and hop back on the 11 or 13 in the same direction. Get off at “Schaan, Laurentiusbad.” Continue along the road for less than 2 minutes and Demmel will be on your right.
Savings with adventure pass: approx. $6 CHF
By late afternoon you very well may be in need of a coffee. And luckily for you Demmel Kaffee is near! The Schaan-based coffee producer has won various international awards and roastes all beans by hand right within the principality of Liechtenstein. This place became my go-to and as a self-proclaimed coffee-snob, I can firmly say that they serve some damn good coffee.
With your Liechtenstein Adventure pass you’ll receive a complimentary drink and can choose any coffee or milk drink from the menu. If you buy a kilo of coffee, they’ll even throw in a second drink free.
Three Options for Sunset and Dinner in Liechtenstein
Option 1: Marée
Location: Mareestrasse 2, Vaduz
Price Range: $$$$
If you’d rather stay around the area of Vaduz, and are one for the fine dining scene, there’s no better choice than Marée. This Michelin star rated restaurant is located at the Park Sonnenhof Hotel and features an exquisite menu of seasonal delicacies. Chef Hubertus Real and his team pride themselves on their unique plates inspired by traditional Liechtenstein cuisine with a modern twist.
I’d suggest getting to Marée a bit before you’d like to eat and visiting the hotel gardens, exploring their private vineyard and taking in the incredible views of the Rhine Valley from the outdoor Eagle’s Nest.
*Note: Be sure to reserve with anticipation or it’s unlikely you’ll be able to get a table.
Option 2: Restaurant Kainer in Triesenberg
Location: Landstrasse 10, Triesenberg
Price Range: $$$
Bus stop: Triesenberg Post (Bus #21)
Another option for dinner is to make your way up to the town of Triesenberg. Triesenberg is the largest municipality in Liechtenstein, and includes several smaller villages like Malbun and Steg. I suggest sticking to the center of the municipality, which is perched high above the Rhine Valley, and exploring the area around the small town. Here you’ll find Saint Joseph Parish Church and also the Walser Museum.
If you’re up for a bit of a hike, you can follow the road up to an old watch tower that rests at the top of town. (See map below for how to find it.) From here, you can see almost all of Liechtenstein! Just take a look at this view:
Afterwards, make your way to Restaurant Kainer. I’d suggest reserving ahead of time to get a table on the terrace. It’s an incredibly scenic spot for a romantic meal during sunset. It’s also still family owned with a menu highlighting traditional Liechtenstein flavors and featuring locally sourced meat and produce.
Option 3: Wirthschaft zum Löwen
Location: Im Winkel 5, 9488 Schellenberg
Price Range: $$-$$$
Bus stop: Hinterschellenberg (Bus #33 or #35)
*Note: This place is a bit in the middle of nowhere, but that’s why I love it! You can take a bus to get here, and then walk a few minutes. Keep an eye on the bus schedule though, as they only run every hour.
If you’re down for a location that’s a bit off the beaten path, check out Wirthschaft zum Löwen. This little “gasthaus” is located in the remote village of Schellenberg, surrounded by mostly residential properties.
Eating at Wirthschaft zum Löwen is a true local’s Liechtenstein dining experience. The eatery is famous in the area for their Käsknöpfle, or cheese dumplings topped with fried onions, a traditional dish from the principality. The Biedermann family Käsknöpfle recipe has been passed down for generations and is said by many to be the best of the best!
There are incredible views from the restaurant terrace itself, or if you’d like, there’s a little area below the restaurant where you can go to watch the sunset as well.
Things to keep in mind on a trip from Zurich to Liechtenstein:
- f you’re traveling from Zurich to Liechtenstein during the weekend, you may have to adjust your schedule a bit. Be sure to check the hours of all museums and restaurants beforehand. On Saturdays both Demmel and the Princely Wine Cellars are only open in the morning and on Sundays, both are unfortunately closed. If you happen to visit on a Saturday, try switching the schedule and visiting the museums in the afternoon.
- If you’re traveling from Zurich to Liechtenstein during the winter season, your Adventure pass comes along with a unique set of activities. You’ll get free admission to two different ice rinks and also a free toboggan rental in Steg. Check the booklet you’re given along with your Adventure Pass for details.
- If you’re into soccer (or football ?) you could also try to catch a game at the Rheinpark Stadion, Liechtenstein’s national stadium. Check for game schedules and tickets here.
Interested in staying for in Liechtenstein for longer than one day? Check out my guide to Liechtenstein’s best hotels. More Liechtenstein posts coming soon!
Have you ever heard of Liechtenstein? If so would you like to visit?
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This is an overlooked destination, so I’m interested to learn about Liechtenstein and enjoy your photos. The castle would be worth the trip, I think! And the food looks delicious!
I didn’t it’s two hours away only. Should have visited when I stayed in Zurich for a week. Well, next time 🙂 That asparagus toast looks a bit “weird” to me 🙂 #wanderfulwednesday
I love this post and how you’ve organized it. I also love that you included wine tasting!!
This is an overlooked destination, so I’m interested to learn about Liechtenstein and enjoy your photos. The castle would be worth the trip, I think! And the food looks delicious!
I love this post and how you’ve organized it. I also love that you included wine tasting!!
I didn’t it’s two hours away only. Should have visited when I stayed in Zurich for a week. Well, next time 🙂 That asparagus toast looks a bit “weird” to me 🙂 #wanderfulwednesday