Principality of Lichtenstein Government: Constitutional Monarchy Population (2003): 33,145 Capital: Vaduz Area: 160 km2 Monetary Unit: Swiss France

Nestled in the central Alps between Switzerland and Austria, tiny and picturesque Lichtenstein with its fertile valleys and mountain peaks plays a significant role today as an international banking center, a fact contributing to its having the highest per-capita income in Europe. Although small in area, Lichtenstein is a virtual wonderland for hiking, skiing, excellent food and wine, camping, and the enjoyment of natural beauty.

Attractions in Lichtenstein

During the summer months, Lichtenstein is a delight for hikers with its 400 km of hiking trails in both mountain and valley terrain. Bicyclists will enjoy the 90 km of bike paths here. Other summer sports include swimming, golf, tennis, horseback riding, and Nordic Walking. In the winter months, there is superb skiing and snowboarding. For those unaccustomed to winter sports, there is a Snow Sports School with individual and group instruction. In Vaduz, the Prince’s Art Collection, the Kunsthaus Lichtenstein, and the Museum of Lichtenstein exhibit fine art. Stamp collectors will especially enjoy a visit to the Post Museum. In 2007 Lichtenstein will host a Stamp Exhibition. The Calculator / Typewriter Museum has working models depicting the development of these instruments. The Peasant Home Museum is one of the oldest buildings in Lichtenstein. Visitors are invited to go “ With Goethe through Vaduz “ and be informed on the architecture, history, culture, wine and food of the area. Ornithologists will enjoy a visit to Falconry Galina with its display of falcons, eagles, and hawks and to the Bird Park Birka.  Also in Vaduz, you are invited onto the City Train that will give you a tour of the town. Children will enjoy the nearby Petting Zoo.  For evening entertainment, there are numerous bars and gourmet dining. 

Dining in Lichtenstein

The cuisine of Lichtenstein reflects the heritage of the neighboring Germanic states. Superb food can be found in restaurants and guesthouses throughout the country. Favorites here are Pepper Steak and Paprika Schnitzel. Lichtenstein is renown for its excellent selection of wines.  International cuisine – Chinese and Italian -- is available.

Getting Around in Lichtenstein

Lichtenstein is conveniently located an hour drive from Zurich and 3 hours from Munich. There is excellent taxi, bus, and train service throughout the country with connections to Switzerland and Austria. Rental cars are available. In the summertime, bicycling is a popular mode of transportation.

Accommodations in Lichtenstein

Lichtenstein offers excellent accommodations with a number of 4-star hotels as well as more modest lodgings. There are a number of Pensions and for groups there is the Vaduzer Jugendheim. In the countryside, there are Camping Areas, Farm Guesthouses, and Mountain Cabins for hikers. Some hotels offer special family rates.

Lichtenstein – small in size but with gigantic rewards for the visitor!