Day Trip From Zurich to Liechtenstein (2024) - A Fab Day Trip to Vaduz

Visiting a whole other country can be thrilling and overwhelming at the same time.

But if you are in or visiting Switzerland already, a day trip Zurich to Liechtenstein is the perfect way to explore a gorgeous country without any Hassle.

Liechtenstein, nestled in the heart of the Alps, is a small but enchanting country with stunning mountain views, mediaeval castles, rich history, and culture.

It is one of the wealthiest countries in Europe, despite its size.

Located between Switzerland and Austria and is in proximity to Zurich, which makes a day trip to Liechtenstein from Zurich, very convenient.

Continue reading to find out everything about Liechtenstein and what to do on your day trip Zurich to Liechtenstein

What makes a day trip to Liechtenstein worth it, is its proximity to Zurich. You can easily reach the beautiful country from Zurich via bus or car in under 2 hours.

Despite its small size, Liechtenstein has a lot to offer, from strolling through the charming streets of Vaduz to skiing and snowboarding in the majestic mountains.

Throughout the region, visitors can immerse themselves in the country’s art, history, and culture at museums, galleries, and famous landmarks.

A day trip Zurich to Liechtenstein is perfect to discover this hidden gem and its natural beauty, friendly locals, and unique blend of traditions and modernity.

If you already are in Switzerland, a tour of Liechtenstein is a must as it is easy for Switzerland/Schengen zone visa holders to enter the country without any additional paperwork.

You can also opt for a guided tour to Liechtenstein and Heidiland.

Liechtenstein itinerary

What to do on a day trip from Zurich to Liechtenstein &

How to spend one day in Liechtenstein

8:00 AM – Depart Zurich: Here’s how to get from Zurich to Liechtenstein

 

Have an early start to your day and take a train from Zurich Hauptbahnhof to Sargans (the closest station to Liechtenstein), which will take you about 1 hour.

You can enjoy stunning views of Lake Walen (Walensee) and Lake Zurich (Zurichsee) during the train ride. Next, you take a bus to Vaduz (The capital of Liechtenstein)  from Sargans, which will take about 20 minutes.

You can purchase tickets for both the train and the bus at the Zurich Hauptbahnhof or book in advance online.

It’s also a good idea to double-check train and bus schedules ahead of time, as they can change depending on the day of the week and time of day.

9:45 AM – Arrive in Vaduz

 

Once you arrive at Vaduz, you can either get off at the Vaduz bus terminal or the Vaduz Post Bus stop, both located in the City Centre.

The first stop on your day trip Zurich to Liechtenstein is Vaduz Castle.

You can either hike up to the castle for about 20 minutes from the city centre.

The earlier you reach the castle, the quieter it will be. This is the best way to reach the Castle as the path is lined up with historical information about Liechtenstein, the Castle, and the Royal Family.

Driving up to the Castle is also an option.

10:00 AM – Visit Vaduz Castle

 

Vaduz Castle ( Schloss Vaduz in German) is the country’s most popular tourist destination.

It sits on top of a hill overlooking the city. The castle was home to various noble families since the 12th century and since 1938, it is the official residence of the country’s Monarch, the Prince of Liechtenstein.

For this reason, the castle isn’t open to tourists, but you can admire the castle from the outside and enjoy stunning views of the city and the Rhine Valley, a perfect spot for a photograph.

If you want to know more about the castle and take a tour of its interiors, a virtual tour is offered at the Princely Theatre.

You can spend about 15- 20 minutes at the Castle and then hike back down to the city to make the most of your day trip Zurich to Liechtenstein.

Next, visit the Kunstmuseum Liechtenstein and the Liechtenstein National Museum

DETAILS

Kunstmuseum

Address: Städtle 37, Vaduz

Timings: Monday: Closed. Tuesday to Friday: 10:00 am to 05:00 pm. Thursday closes at 08:00 pm.

Price: Adults:15 CHF, Students and seniors: 8 CHF, children under 16: Free

1:00 PM – Lunch

 

After learning about the history of this country, it’s time to try out some of the traditional Liechtenstein dishes and fill up before you move on to your next spot, the Red House.

Here are some places you can grab a bite:

 

Restaurant Torkel

Restaurant Torkel, located in the heart of Vaduz, is a cosy and inviting spot that serves a variety of traditional Liechtenstein dishes.

The menu includes hearty and flavorful dishes like venison stew, beef tartare, and homemade sausages, as well as an international wine selection.

Address: Städtle 22, 9490 Vaduz

 

Café am Schlossplatz

Café am Schlossplatz is the ideal place to stop for a light meal or a sweet treat.

The café, located in the heart of Vaduz, serves sandwiches, soups, and salads, as well as a tempting selection of cakes and pastries.

The outdoor seating area is a great place to unwind and people-watch while you eat.

 

Restaurant Adler

Restaurant Adler is an excellent choice for a more upscale dining experience.

The restaurant serves a variety of gourmet dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, such as seafood, steak, and vegetarian options.

The menu is updated regularly to reflect the seasons and the freshest ingredients available.

Address: Herrengasse 17, 9490 Vaduz

2:00 PM – Visit the Red House

 

After a wholesome lunch, you can head on to the Red House to explore an architectural and art haven.

The Red House was built originally in the early 20th century as a private residence. It was transformed into a cultural centre dedicated to contemporary art and culture, in 2012.

The centre features a gallery space that showcases contemporary art by local and international artists, as well as a music venue that hosts concerts and other performances.

The Red House is a must-visit on your day trip Zurich to Liechtenstein. It is a short walk from the city centre.

DETAILS

The Red House

Address: Äulestrasse 51, 9490 Vaduz

Timings: Tuesday to Friday: 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm, Saturdays: 11:00 am to 3:00 pm, closed on Sundays and Mondays.

Price: Admission to the Red House is free of charge.

3:00 PM – Cathedral of St. Florin

 

Built in 1873 in a neo-Gothic style, the Cathedral of St. Florin is a magnificent landmark in Vaduz.

With impressive high vaulted ceilings, a beautiful altar, and ornate pillars, this cathedral is an important cultural landmark in Vaduz.

The cathedral’s impressive pipe organ, built in 1961 by the famous organ builder Rieger-Kloss, is one of its highlights.

The organ, which has four manuals and over 2,500 pipes, is regarded as one of the best in the region.

6:00 PM – Dinner

 

Before you end your day trip Zurich to Liechtenstein, don’t forget to have dinner at one of Vaduz’s spectacular restaurants. Here are some recommendations:

Restaurant Marée

This fine-dining establishment is located just outside of Vaduz in the Parkhotel Sonnenhof.

The menu includes dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients and options for both vegetarians and meat eaters. The sophisticated atmosphere of the restaurant makes it ideal for a special occasion or romantic dinner.

Address: Mareestrasse 29, 9490 Vaduz

Timings: Wednesday to Sunday, 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM

 

Burg Brasserie

Located in the heart of Vaduz Castle, this restaurant offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

The menu includes dishes such as steak, fish, and pasta, as well as a mix of local and international cuisine. The restaurant has a warm, intimate atmosphere that is ideal for a romantic dinner or a special occasion.

Address: Schlossstrasse 15, 9490 Vaduz

Timings: Daily, 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM

7:00 PM – Depart Liechtenstein

 

You can hop on the same bus to Sargans and then a train to go back to Zurich.

How to get from Zurich to Liechtenstein

 

Transportation: The distance from Zurich to Liechtenstein is 109 kilometres. There are multiple ways you can travel from Zurich to Liechtenstein, by train, bus, or car.

The country doesn’t have an airport and the capital city of Vaduz has no railways, so there isn’t any mode to travel directly to Liechtenstein from Zurich. Here are some of your options:

 

How to get from Zurich to Liechtenstein by train

There is no direct Zurich to Liechtenstein train however you can:

Zurich > via train to Schans Vaduz Station > via bus/cab to Vaduz centre

Although this isn’t the recommended route as it includes making at least 2 transfers and then taking a bus, you may prefer it.

You can buy a ticket from Zurich to Schaan- Vaduz station, located in Schaan ( Liechtenstein’s biggest city). The train journey will take you about 2 hours. From Schaan- Vaduz station you can take a bus or cab to Vaduz ( 15 – 20 minutes).

Another option is to take a train to Buchs in St. Gallen, Switzerland from Zurich. Then you can take a cab to Vaduz.

 

How to get from Zurich to Liechtenstein via train and bus

Zurich > via train to Sargans > via bus to Vaduz ( 1.5 – 2 hours)

A direct train from Zurich to Liechtenstein isn’t available and Vaduz does not have a railway station. The best way to reach Liechtenstein is to go to Vaduz.

You can take a train from Zurich Hauptbahnhof to Sargans, Switzerland (the closest station to Liechtenstein), which will take you about 1 hour.

And then from “Sargans, Bahnhof” station hop on to a bright yellow coloured bus to Vaduz. This will take about 20-30 minutes.

You can purchase tickets for both the train and the bus at the Zurich Hauptbahnhof or book in advance online.

Your total travel time will be 1.5 hours to 2 hours, and the bus from Sargans will drop you at the centre of Vaduz. So if you’re wondering how to get to Liechtenstein from Zurich, this is the best way to reach Liechtenstein.

 

How to get from Zurich to Liechtenstein by car

Going on your Zurich to Liechtenstein day trip via your car or renting one is also a good option as you would have more flexibility.

The journey from Zurich to Liechtenstein typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the traffic.

It is a straightforward drive, and by entering “Vaduz, Liechtenstein” into a GPS tool such as Google Maps, visitors should be able to navigate the route without any difficulty.

Finding parking in Vaduz is also relatively easy, with several “parkplatz” located just off the main pedestrian street, Städtle, and a large parking garage available for use.

 

Which option to choose?

The best way to get from Zurich to Liechtenstein is by train to Sargans then by bus to Vaduz or by driving a car from Zurich to Vaduz.

Other spots to visit in Liechtenstein

 

If you want to explore the stunning country of Liechtenstein more or want alternatives to the before mentioned spots, here are some that you visit on your day trip Zurich to Liechtenstein.

You can also refer to the list of things to do in Liechtenstein that I enjoyed immensely during my trip.

Gutenberg Castle

 

If you are driving to Vaduz, you can stop at the city of Balzers, Liechtenstein to visit the Gutenberg Castle.

Named after the inventor of the printing press, Johannes Gutenberg, the castle was built in the 13th century and later in the 15th century after the Swabian War.

In addition to stunning rooms and halls, the castle offers gorgeous views of the Rhine Valley and the Swiss Alps.

DETAILS

Gutenberg Castle

Address: Gutenberg Castle, Burgweg 5, 9496 Balzers, Liechtenstein

Timings: From April to October, from Tuesday to Sunday – 10:00 am to 5:00 pm

Price: Adults 8 CHF (Swiss francs) and for children (6-16 years) is 3 CHF. Free for children under 6.

Malbun Ski Resort

 

If you are taking a day trip Zurich to Liechtenstein during winter, the Malbun ski resort is a must-visit.

Malbun Ski Resort, in addition to skiing and snowboarding, provides other winter activities such as snowshoeing, ice skating, and sledging.

The resort has a wellness centre with a sauna, steam bath, and massage services for those looking to unwind after a day on the slopes.

There are also several restaurants and bars on-site, serving a wide range of local and international cuisine.

The resort can be reached by car or public transportation. There is a large parking lot at the base of the ski resort, and there are regular bus services from nearby towns.

DETAILS

Malbun Ski Resort

Address: Malbun Ski Resort, Stegstrasse 17, 9497 Malbun, Liechtenstein

Timings: From December to April from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm

Price: A full-day adult ticket is 49 CHF and a half-day ticket costs 41 CHF. A two-day ticket costs 94 CHF. Free for children under the age of six. Youth and senior discounts available.

Hilti Art Foundation

 

The Hilti Art Foundation is a modern art museum in the Liechtenstein town of Vaduz.

The museum is well-known for its collection of contemporary art, with an emphasis on post-war Europe and America. Works by Andy Warhol, Gerhard Richter, and Roy Lichtenstein, as well as Swiss and Austrian artists, are included in the collection.

Temporary exhibitions and educational programs are also available at the museum.

DETAILS

Hilti Art Foundation

Address: Hilti Art Foundation, Städtle 43, Postfach 366, 9490 Vaduz, Liechtenstein

Timings: From Tuesday to Sunday – 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. Closed on Mondays.

Tickets: Admission to the museum is free of charge.

Ruggell Waterfall

 

The Ruggell Waterfall is located in the picturesque town of Ruggell in Liechtenstein.

The waterfall is accessible via a scenic walking trail that winds through the natural surroundings of the Ruggeller Riet Nature Reserve. The trail is well-kept and simple to follow, making it suitable for visitors of all ages and fitness levels.

You can also explore the surrounding nature reserve, which is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, in addition to the waterfall itself.

Eschnerberg Trail

 

The Eschnerberg Trail is a popular hiking trail in Liechtenstein that provides spectacular views of the surrounding countryside.

The 12-kilometre trail winds through the scenic Eschnerberg region, passing through charming villages and historic landmarks along the way.

The trail begins in Nendeln and winds its way up to the Eschnerberg ridge, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Rhine Valley and the Swiss Alps.

You can explore historic buildings and landmarks along the way, such as Gamprin’s St. Peter and Paul Church and the ruins of Schellenberg Castle.

 

How to reach the Eschnerberg Trail

You can drive or take a bus to the town of Gamprin or the village of Nendeln which are near the trailhead. It is recommended to obtain a hiking map or use a GPS device to navigate the area and find the trailhead.

Timings

There isn’t a specific opening or closing time. However,  it is recommended to start the hike in the morning to avoid the heat of the day and to allow ample time to complete the trail.

Tickets

It is a public hiking trail and no tickets or reservation is required.

Where to stay in Liechtenstein (If you are planning to stay the night)

 

You can spend a night in Liechtenstein if you want to go skiing at Malbun or visit Balzers.

Residence Hotel at Vaduz is a very good option, located in the heat of the city and very close to the major spots in Vaduz. They also offer bike and car rentals.

Offering panoramic views of the Rhine Valley, Park Hotel Sonnenhof is located less than a kilometre away from Vaduz castle. They also have an award-winning restaurant in addition to luxurious rooms

For a Budget stay, the Schaan-Vaduz Youth Hostel has cosy dormitories and offers stunning views of the mountains. They serve barbecue and also provide packed lunches for your day trips.

How to get around Liechtenstein

 

Liechtenstein is a small country, covering only 160 square kilometres, so getting around is simple. Here are a few suggestions for getting around Liechtenstein:

 

• By Car: Driving is the most common way to get around Liechtenstein. The country has a well-maintained road network, and renting a car is a convenient and cost-effective option. Cars can be rented at the airport or in major cities.

• By Bus: Liechtenstein has an excellent public transportation system that includes buses that connect the major towns and villages.

• By Bike: Liechtenstein is a cyclist’s dream, with a network of well-marked cycle routes that span the entire country. Cycling is a great way to explore the country’s stunning natural beauty, and you can rent a bike in most towns.

• Walking: Liechtenstein is a small country with many compact towns and villages that are easy to navigate on foot. Walking is an excellent way to learn about local culture, architecture, and cuisine, and many of the best attractions are within walking distance of one another.

Tips for travelling to Liechtenstein

 

Before you head on to your day trip Zurich to Liechtenstein, here are some things you should keep in mind:

• Bring your passport: Because Liechtenstein is a separate sovereign state and a member of the Schengen Agreement, visitors must have a valid passport or ID card to enter the country.

• Currency: Liechtenstein uses the Swiss franc as its currency, so bring some cash with you when visiting the country.

• Language: Because German is the official language of Liechtenstein, knowing some basic German phrases is beneficial. English, on the other hand, is widely spoken and understood, particularly in tourist areas.

• Dress appropriately: Because the weather in Liechtenstein can be unpredictable, bring warm clothing and waterproof gear, especially if you plan on doing outdoor activities like hiking or skiing.

Best time to visit Liechtenstein

 

The summer months of June to September are ideal for a Liechtenstein day trip because the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities.

During this time, the temperature usually ranges between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius.

From December to February, Liechtenstein is transformed into a winter wonderland.

In the alpine landscapes, visitors can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. During this time, the temperature usually ranges between -5 and 5 degrees Celsius.

It is important to note that the summer months are the peak tourist season in Liechtenstein, so accommodations and activities may be more expensive and crowded.

If you’re looking for a quieter, more affordable trip you should consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) (October to November).