Verified Facts
To get around in Liechtenstein, you can use a combination of buses, trains, and walking, as the country has a well-developed public transportation system, with the added option of driving or using ride-hailing services.
Quick Facts
Getting There
Liechtenstein does not have its own international airport, but the closest major airport is Zurich Airport (ZRH) in Switzerland, which is about 115 kilometers from Vaduz, the capital of Liechtenstein. From Zurich Airport, you can take a train or bus to Liechtenstein. Another option is to fly into Friedrichshafen Airport (FDH) in Germany, which is about 140 kilometers from Vaduz. Direct flights to Zurich Airport are available from major European cities, and from there, you can take a train or bus to Liechtenstein. Overland entry points to Liechtenstein include borders with Austria and Switzerland, where you can drive or take a bus.
The main entry points by bus are the border crossings with Austria and Switzerland, where you can take a bus from cities like Vienna, Zurich, or St. Gallen. The bus journey from Zurich Airport to Vaduz takes around 1-2 hours, depending on traffic. You can also take a train from Zurich Airport to Sargans or Buchs in Switzerland, and then transfer to a bus to Vaduz. The train journey from Zurich Airport to Sargans takes around 1 hour, and from there, you can take a bus to Vaduz, which takes around 30-40 minutes.
Domestic Flights
Since Liechtenstein is a small country with a limited domestic air network, there are no domestic flights available. However, you can take a helicopter tour over the country, which offers a unique perspective on the landscape. These tours are usually booked in advance and can be quite expensive, with prices starting from around $200 per person for a short tour.
Trains & Rail
Liechtenstein has a moderate rail network, with connections to Austria and Switzerland. The main train station is in Schaan, which is the largest town in Liechtenstein, and from there, you can take trains to Vienna, Zurich, or other destinations in the region. The train network is operated by the Österreichische Bundesbahnen (ÖBB) and the Schweizerische Bundesbahnen (SBB), and you can book tickets online or at the train station. The train journey from Schaan to Vienna takes around 4-5 hours, and to Zurich takes around 1-2 hours. High-speed trains are available from Zurich to other destinations in Europe.
Buses & Coaches
The bus network in Liechtenstein is well-developed, with connections to Austria and Switzerland. The main bus company is LIEmobil, which operates buses within Liechtenstein and to neighboring countries. You can book tickets online or at the bus station, and the prices are generally affordable, with a single ticket costing around $2-5. The bus journey from Vaduz to Zurich takes around 1-2 hours, and to Vienna takes around 4-5 hours.
City Transport
| Mode | Available In | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| City Bus | Vaduz, Schaan | $2-5 | LIEmobil operates buses within Liechtenstein |
| Taxi | everywhere | $10-20/km | Taxis are available, but can be expensive |
| Ride-Hailing | Vaduz, Schaan | $10-20 | Uber and local alternatives are available |
| Bike Rental | Vaduz, Schaan | $10-20/day | Bike rental is available, and a great way to explore the city |
Driving
- To drive in Liechtenstein, you need a valid driver's license from your home country, and if you plan to stay for more than 6 months, you need to obtain a Liechtenstein driver's license.
- The road quality in Liechtenstein is generally good, with well-maintained highways and roads.
- Fuel costs are similar to those in Switzerland, with gasoline prices around $1.50-2.00 per liter.
- Car rental is available in Vaduz and other major towns, with prices starting from around $40-60 per day.
- Hazards to watch out for include narrow mountain roads and limited parking in cities.
- It's a good idea to have a GPS or map, as road signs can be in German, and not all residents speak English.
Transport Tips
- Be aware of traffic rules, such as speed limits and parking restrictions, which are strictly enforced in Liechtenstein.
- Download the LIEmobil app to book bus tickets and plan your journey.
- Use cash or credit cards to pay for tickets and other transportation costs, as not all places accept foreign currency.
- Be mindful of limited English spoken by some residents, especially outside of major towns.
- Consider purchasing a Swiss Travel Pass, which includes access to public transportation in Liechtenstein.
- Be aware of scams targeting tourists, such as overpriced taxi fares or fake ticket sellers.
- Download Google Translate to help with language barriers, especially when communicating with locals.
- Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting rural areas or attending cultural events.