The name of Vaduz is Rhaeto-Romanic and means "sweet valley." Liechtenstein's capital and principal city, Vaduz (pronounced fa-DOOTDZ), is situated in a splendid valley at the base of the Alps. It won't take long to take it all in, and it's impossible to get lost—the commercial streets form a loop that includes souvenir shops, flower stalls, cafes, the tourism office, the bus station and the stamp museum. There is a city train that makes all the major stops, if you don't feel like walking.
Check out the Post und Briefmarkenmuseum (Postal Museum), which is free and open daily. It displays, in a remarkably compact space, an extensive selection of stamps issued in the principality (stamps are an important source of revenue, so new designs come out every four months). They're not displayed chronologically—try to find the ones issued closest to your birthday, and you'll take in a good cross-section of this diminutive art form as you hunt. The post office across the street has a philatelic shop for collectors.
Wander uphill from the town's center, through a residential area dotted with backyard vineyards, to a trail that ends at the prince's 12th-century castle—the property itself is closed to the public, but the views of the valley and mountains are worth the climb, day or night. When you return to town, ask anyone you meet for directions to the wine cellar adjacent to the prince's vineyard (Herawingert). It's a 10-acre/4-hectare prime area covered in vines. The southwestern location, soil and climate create ideal conditions for pinot noir and chardonnay grapes. When you get there (it's an easy walk), sample the product of his latest crop.
The biggest cultural attraction of Liechtenstein is undoubtedly the Kunstmuseum. The monolithic structure houses works by Peter Paul Rubens, Anthony van Dyck and other Flemish masters, and Italian paintings from the 14th to the 18th century. There are also collections of 20th-century graphics and sculptures, notably surrealism, Italian futurism (1930s) and Arte Povera (1960s). The revolving exhibitions are well worth checking out as well.
The Liechtensteinisches Landesmuseum (the National Museum) has exhibits on the country's history, natural treasures and culture. For more culture, Liechtenstein's best theater is the Theater am Kirchplatz, which offers classical theater, excellent concerts and shows for children. For local cabaret and comedy try the Schlosslekeller.
Because Liechtenstein has a bus system that runs with Swiss precision, Vaduz is a good base for visiting the surrounding villages or for trips into the nearby Alps for hiking or skiing.
To request access to the full version of this destination guide, please provide your email address below. Your email address will only be used for verification purposes and will not be used for marketing purposes.