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Visit the Vaduz Castle in Lichtenstein

Vaduz, Liechtenstein

4.0/5
based on 2 reviews

Details

Distance

1 miles

Elevation Gain

450 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Alex E

Hike or drive to this 700 year old castle which houses the Prince of Liechtenstein. 

While traveling through Germany and the Alps, we noticed a country barley visible on the map. The country of Lichtenstein is landlocked in the middle of the Alps. Although you may have never heard of this tiny country, they are famous for their winter sports, being the 6th smallest countries in the world and having a very strong economy despite its size. After reading some fun facts, we decided to take a 6 hour detour to visit this small European country.

It allowed us to get out of the car and stretch our legs on an easy hike. We headed straight for the largest and pretty much only city in Lichtenstein, Vaduz. Vaduz is a beautiful European city situated along the Rhine river and surrounded by snow covered mountains. The Vaduz Castle is one of the premier tourist attractions due to its accessibility, beautiful architecture and amazing views. The castle sits a top a small ridge overlooking Vaduz and the Rhine river valley.

From the town center of Vaduz, follow the signs for the castle. They are easily visible, but if you miss them just ask a local, they will be glad to help. Lichtenstein's first language is German, but we came across French, English and Chinese speakers while we were there. The signs will guide you to a small paved trail leading to the beautiful Vaduz Castle. The trail switch backs for about a mile and gains around 4-500 feet with fun facts/Lichtenstein history to read at every turn.

It follows the Furst Franz Josef Strasse (street), which you can drive from the town center to the castle. The Castle is over 700 years old and is home to the Prince of Lichtenstein. From the castle you can see beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and the Rhine river that flows in the valley below. Although you can't enter the castle itself, because it is occupied, you can take plenty of pictures. After your trek its not hard to find plenty of restaurants and bars downtown. 

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Features

Chillin
Photography
Mountain Biking
Hiking
Adult Beverages
Bathrooms
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Food Nearby
Forest
Groups
Picnic Area
Romantic
Scenic
ADA Accessible

Visit the Vaduz Castle in Lichtenstein Reviews

If you passing through Liechtenstein, you should definitely stop off at Vaduz castle. The walk up to the castle is easy and you can see all the way to the end of the border from the top (which isn't that surprising since the country is so tiny haha).

From the current castle, you can take an easy one hour hike up to the ruins of an older castle. Just follow the gravel road across the street from the castle and head upwards as the signs indicate. It’s a lovely walk and the ruins are a wonderful place to go for a picnic, as there are benches, fire pits, and beautiful views everywhere! Great option for families and the lovely local we ran in to on our way back down informed us that it’s never crowded or busy there so super relaxing all year round!

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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