One of Europe's smallest states, Liechtenstein squeezes Alpine valley and high mountain into a sliver between Switzerland and Austria along the upper Rhine. The capital Vaduz is a walkable cluster of museums, vineyards and a castle on the hill, while the south rises to the ski-and-hike resort of Malbun. It is a German-speaking, prosperous and famously orderly principality where you can stroll past parliament, taste local Pinot Noir and reach an Alpine ridge within the same…
In 2011, Liechtenstein pulled off a global publicity coup: the entire principality could be rented for about $70,000 a night.
Vaduz Castle, perched above the capital, is still inhabited by the princely family — you don't visit it, you gaze at it.
You arrive by bus from Sargans or Feldkirch, as there is no main station. An eSIM helps: Alpine weather for the panoramic trail, bus times and the souvenir passport stamp located online.