About Liechtenstein:
You’ve probably heard of it, but not many people can point it out on a map. Liechtenstein (officially the Principality of Liechtenstein, German: Fürstentum Liechtenstein) was established in 1719 when the Liechtenstein family purchased the territories of Vaduz and Schellenberg to gain a seat in the Holy Roman Empire. It became fully independent in 1866 after the dissolution of the German Confederation and is one of the world’s smallest and most fascinating countries.
Liechtenstein is a doubly-landlocked country in the Central European Alps, between Switzerland (to the west) and Austria (to the east). In size, it is the 4th-smallest country in Europe, about 62 square miles (160.5 square kilometers), roughly the size of Washington, D.C., with a population of approximately 42,000.
The Capital city is Vaduz (about 5,000–6,000 residents). German is the official language and the Swiss franc (CHF) is the official currency. Liechtenstein is a constitutional hereditary monarchy with democratic and parliamentary elements, plus direct democracy (referendums).
During World War I, Liechtenstein’s ties to Austria-Hungary were severed, forcing it to rely on Switzerland for food and diplomatic representation. In World War II, it maintained steady relations with Nazi Germany while also engaging with the Allies, avoiding open conflict. This balancing act allowed it to trade with both sides without violating neutrality. The German National Movement in Liechtenstein (VDBL) sought annexation into Germany, but the government resisted such pressures, prioritizing stability and neutrality. Liechtenstein’s neutrality was sustained by its small size, strategic location, economic dependence on Switzerland, and a long-standing policy of non-alignment. These factors made it unattractive to either side militarily, while its diplomatic and economic ties with Switzerland provided a strong foundation for maintaining neutrality without being drawn into the war.
Liechtenstein is a wealthy country, often ranking among the highest in the world for GDP per capita (PPP estimates around $200,000+). It features a highly industrialized, free-enterprise economy with low taxes, strong financial services, manufacturing (e.g., precision tools like Hilti), and pharmaceuticals. Many workers commute from neighboring countries, boosting GDP figures. Unemployment is very low, and it maintains high living standards and political stability.
It is a member of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) and the European Economic Area (EEA), but not the EU. Lichtenstein remained neutral in both World Wars. Since 1868, Liechtenstein had maintained a policy of permanent neutrality, which it sought to preserve in both conflicts. This tradition was reinforced by its small size, lack of natural resources, and dependence on trade with neighboring powers.
The principality was strategically located between Switzerland and Nazi Germany, making it a potential flashpoint. Its unarmed status and lack of military capability meant that any invasion would have been costly and unlikely to yield strategic gains for either side. This deterred direct military action. To protect its neutrality, Liechtenstein closely aligned itself with Switzerland, which had a strong neutrality record and could act as a buffer against German pressure. In 1920, Liechtenstein adopted the Swiss franc, and in 1924 entered a customs union with Switzerland. This economic and diplomatic integration reduced its dependence on Germany and strengthened ties with the Allies.
About two-thirds of the country is mountainous Alps, ideal for hiking, skiing (e.g., Malbun resort), and scenic views. The Rhine River forms part of the border. Highlights include:Vaduz Castle (residence of the Prince, overlooks the capital). One of only two doubly landlocked countries (the other is Uzbekistan). Very low tourism numbers compared to neighbors (~80,000–600,000 visitors annually, depending on the source), so it feels exclusive. Strong emphasis on privacy, banking, and high-tech industry. The Prince has notable political powers (e.g., can veto laws), which is rare in modern Europe.
Catholic places of interest in Liechtenstein:
Vaduz: Saint Florin Cathedral.
Traveling to Liechtenstein:
Liechtenstein is part of the Schengen Area, so travelers from visa-exempt countries, including the U.S., U.K., Canada, Australia, and Japan, can enter for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa. Your passport must have been issued within the last 10 years and remain valid for at least three months beyond your departure from the Schengen area. There are no border controls with Switzerland or Austria, but carrying a passport is recommended for random checks.
By air: There is no airport in Lichtenstein, the nearest airport is St. Gallen–Altenrhein Airport (Switzerland), approximately 15 miles (25 km) from Vaduz, mainly serving regional flights. There is also Friedrichshafen Airport (Germany) – about 80 km away, offering regional connections, and Zurich Airport (ZRH) in Switzerland – roughly 100–120 km from Liechtenstein, the largest international airport nearby, providing extensive global flight options.
By train: Rail travel to Liechtenstein is via the Swiss and Austrian railway networks. The closest train stations to Liechtenstein are Feldkirch in Austria or Buchs SG and Sargans in Switzerland.