Vaduz is the capital city of the tiny European country of Liechtenstein, making it the perfect place for a quaint and relaxing holiday. Nestled amongst the Alps, this small city packs quite a punch when it comes to sightseeing, outdoor adventures, culture and cuisine. If you’re planning a holiday in Vaduz, here are seven must-do activities to make the most of your time:
1. Visit Vaduz Castle
No trip to Vaduz would be complete without visiting the city’s most iconic landmark – Vaduz Castle. Perched atop a hill overlooking the city, the castle provides stunning panoramic views. Dating back to the 12th century, it has been the residence of Liechtenstein’s royal family since 1938. Take a guided tour of the castle and learn about its rich history and architecture. Don’t forget to stroll through the castle gardens and take plenty of photos of the spectacular views over Vaduz.
2. Hike in the Alps
With the Alps on its doorstep, Vaduz is a fantastic base for hiking. There are endless hiking trails through mountain pastures, pine forests and along ridges with views stretching all the way to Switzerland. For stunning scenery, head to the Triesenberg region and tackle the hike up Gaflei – Liechtenstein’s highest peak. Or take the chair lift up Sareiserjoch and follow the trail back down into Vaduz. With so many options, a holiday in Vaduz is perfect for active tourists who want to explore the mountains.
3. Visit the National Art Museum
Art lovers shouldn’t miss the National Art Museum while on a holiday in Vaduz. Housed in a contemporary building designed by Swiss architects Meinrad Morger and Heinrich Degelo, this world-class museum contains artworks spanning seven centuries. It has an impressive permanent collection focusing on Liechtenstein art from the Middle Ages to today. Temporary exhibitions also showcase international artists. Be sure to admire the exterior of the building itself with its unique roofline reflecting the mountains.
4. Stroll through the Old Town
With its cobblestone lanes, colourful buildings covered in murals and flowers, the pedestrianized Old Town is ideal for a relaxed stroll. Key sights include the Cathedral of St. Florin, Government Building, Red House and the 2000-year-old Schalz wine cellar. Pop into the shops selling local handicrafts and products. And sample authentic Liechtenstein cuisine at one of the traditional restaurants and cafés in this charming neighbourhood. Exploring the Old Town is a quintessential experience on a holiday in Vaduz.
5. Visit the Postal Museum
Liechtenstein has long been known for its postage stamps, making the Postal Museum a must-visit. Learn about the history of the Liechtenstein postal service dating back to 1912. See valuable stamp collections and exhibits explaining printing techniques. Visitors can also produce their own stamps to take home as souvenirs! Philatelists around the world know that a holiday in Vaduz provides a unique opportunity to visit this renowned museum.
6. Enjoy the Outdoors
In addition to hiking, visitors to Vaduz have an array of outdoor activities to take advantage of during a holiday. Cycling is popular, whether mountain biking or leisurely rides along the Rhine. The river is also perfect for swimming and stand-up paddleboarding in summer. In winter, cross-country skiing is possible directly from the city centre. And there’s even a luge track for racing downhill at high speeds! With the Alps right there, exploring the great outdoors is a highlight of a holiday in Vaduz.
7. Day Trip to Switzerland
One of the benefits of holidaying in Vaduz is the proximity to Switzerland. The Swiss city of Chur is just a short 25-minute drive away. Take a day trip to ride the famous Bernina Express train through the Alps. Or visit the well-preserved medieval old town of Chur itself. The nearby Swiss National Park is another option for those wanting to see more of the incredible landscape this region is known for. Having Switzerland so close makes a holiday in Vaduz even more appealing.
With its small-town charm, surrounding Alps and proximity to Switzerland, Vaduz offers a delightful holiday destination for tourists. Sightseeing, hiking, art galleries, alpine activities and more await. Use this list of seven top things to do to help plan an unforgettable holiday in Vaduz.
