Travel from UAE to Liechtenstein: A small country with big draws

Fancy visiting a whole country in a day? Sounds a bit far-fetched or even impossible, right? Well, it is not really if the country in question is Liechtenstein. Perched between Austria and Switzerland, Liechtenstein is a land-locked country with a population of 40,000 and an area of just 160 square kilometres. While there is evidence that the present-day territory of Liechtenstein has been inhabited since the Neolithic Age (from about 3000BC), the Principality of Liechtenstein was formally established within the Holy Roman Empire as recently as 1719. It was initially occupied by the French and Russian troops before becoming a sovereign state in 1806.

A semi-constitutional monarchy headed by the Prince of Liechtenstein, this erstwhile tax haven is known today as a strong financial centre. A globally integrated economy with a high level of industrialisation, Liechtenstein is known for its robust start-up culture. 

Given its scenic beauty complemented by Alpine mountains and quaint villages, Liechtenstein is also a popular winter destination known for its sporting activities. Despite its size, this tiny country packs a punch when it comes to sightseeing and travel. From magnificent landscapes and historic castles to insightful museums and a charming culture and gastronomic scene, Liechtenstein makes for an engaging visit. It is a revelation to note that about two-thirds of the country is occupied by hills and mountains, and the eastern and western Alps meet here.

Vaduz:  A historical perspective

An ideal way to start your exploration of Liechtenstein is by visiting its capital city, Vaduz. Situated against the ravishing Alpine backdrop, it is almost synonymous with its eponymous castle that can be seen from quite a distance. Perched on a hillside 120 metres above Vaduz, the castle dates back to the 12th century when it was constructed as a fortress before living quarters were added in 1287. Records show that Vaduz Castle was first documented in 1322. While the imposing 12th century towers of the castle stand tall, it has undergone a series of renovations and additions, and has only been adopted by the Prince and his family as their official residence in recent decades. 

Although the castle is closed to the  public, the climb to the top offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, which makes it worth your time and effort.

While in Vaduz you can also visit the stately building that is the administrative centre of Liechtenstein and houses state archives. 

Make a stop at Cathedral of St. Florin, which is a neo-Gothic church in Vaduz that has been designated a cathedral since 1997. The nave, portals and pipe organ of the church are a picture of elegance and simplicity while its stained-glass windows are truly attractive. In close proximity is also the town hall or Rathaus Vaduz which was built in the early 1930s. Do not miss the image of Pope St. Urban, the patron saint of wine growers on the south façade of the building.

Art and culture calling

Walk around the main city centre in Vaduz and you will find it peppered with magnificent pieces of art. There are as many as 28 different installations and sculptures by world famous artists including the sculpture of an African King by Gunther Stilling, Reclining Woman by Fernando Botero, and Hochsitz (Hunter’s Stand) by Robert Indermaur. In addition, there is an awe-inspiring sculpture of Phoenix by Doris Bühler and various works of art crafted in steel, glass and bronze. 

You can also visit the Kunstmuseum Liechtenstein which is the Liechtenstein Museum of Fine Arts. Housed in a stately building designed by Swiss architects Meinrad Morger, Heinrich Degelo, and Christian Kerez, it houses an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art.

If museum hopping is your beat, head over to the Postal Museum that traces the history and evolution of the postal services in Liechtenstein. It houses a treasure trove of information in the form of stamps of Liechtenstein, artefacts like uniforms used by postmen, horse carriage models used to deliver mail, hand lamps, seals, etc. Stamps released for various occasions and events like the flooding of Liechtenstein in 1927 when river Rhine overflowed are well documented.

Activities galore

Apart from history, art and culture, Liechtenstein is a great place to visit if you love the outdoors. There are several hiking trails that you can choose if you are a fitness freak or adventure junkie. One of the most famous paths is the Fürstensteig trail in the Rätikon mountains, which involves hiking through some serene pastures and tranquil hills all of which offer stunning views all along the four-mile trail. 

Nature and bird lovers can visit Falknerei which is a centre for birds of prey. The eagles, hawks, owls and other raptors here are sure to enthral adults and children alike. 

It is key to note that Liechtenstein is a grape-growing nation and this practice is more than 2,000 years old. Visit Hofkelleri where you can witness the art of beverage making as well as taste some speciality Liechtenstein ones.