Liechtenstein – The 6th Smallest Country in the World

Liechtenstein is approximately 25km long and 6km wide (about 15 miles by 4 miles), making it the 6th smallest country in the world.

To put that into perspective, Rhode Island is the smallest state in the US and the country of Liechtenstein could fit inside of it 20 times. Smaller than Washington D.C., the country’s population is less than 40,000. With a crime rate that’s essentially non-existent, it’s a real life Pleasantville where your average citizen doesn’t even feel the need to lock their door at night.

So here are some tidbit travel tips for a tidbit country!

1. First thing’s first, the easiest way to get to Liechtenstein is by train, either from Zurich, Switzerland or from Innsbruck, Austria. If you’re coming from Austria then you’ll want to get off at Feldkirch. However, If you’re coming from Switzerland, you’ll need to get off at either Buchs or Sargans. Once you’ve made it to your destination, make sure you stop in at the tourist office to receive a passport stamp. It’s a fun little souvenir.

2. Don’t let it’s size fool you. For reasons unbeknownst to me, Liechtenstein has a bit of a bad rep, with the general consensus being that it’s not worth your time. Stop in at one of the many wineries and enjoy a few wine tastings, see a play at the live theatre, stroll through the super clean cities and admire their lovely architecture. Go skiing in Malbun or spend a few hours at the Kunstmuseum. It’s also worth noting that the shopping in Liechtenstein is a fraction of the price than in it’s neighboring countries. There is plenty here to fill a day or two.

3. Bed and breakfasts, cabins, and hotels speckle the mountainsides offering breathtaking views. Stay a night or two and wake up overlooking the central Alps. Walking trails and footpaths spider across the entire country, connecting villages and towns through hillsides of alpine forests (click here to learn about the many fabulous hikes available for you to enjoy). Five medieval castles scatter the grounds, and the Rhine river creates a beautiful natural border between Liechtenstein and Switzerland. Spend some time in solace or with the ones you love out in the crisp clean mountain and forest air, reconnect and surround yourself with nature. This is a gorgeous part of the world and definitely worth a weekend visit.

Have you been here? Headed here? I would love to hear from you! Comment in the section below!