Liechtenstein Adventure Pass – The Best Way to Explore this Alpine Arcadia

Liechtenstein is often overshadowed as a tourist destination by its immensely popular neighbors, Switzerland and Austria, but like all the underappreciated/under-visited places I have been to, that works in its favor as really enhancing the overall charm. Calm, clean, captivating – and with Alpine scenery straight from a postcard, this is somewhere I left wishing I had stayed longer.

Having already decided to make a stopover during my Interrail journey across Europe, I was got a 3-day Adventure Pass from the Liechtenstein Tourism Board to use for the attractions within this tiny nation.

Disclaimer: I was kindly hosted as a guest of the Liechtenstein Tourism Board. As always, all opinions and photographs are my own.

Basics

Liechtenstein is a small microstate situated on the banks of the Rhine River in Central Europe, nestled cozily between the Swiss cantons of St. Gallen and Graubünden and the Austrian province of Vorarlberg. As a ministate, it only has a total area of 160km² (62m²) – making it the 6ᵗʰ smallest country in the world!

The official language is German, and despite only having about 39,500 inhabitants in its territory, Liechtenstein has risen to become one of the world’s wealthiest countries since the mid 20ᵗʰ century.

Facts & History

Comprising a total of 11 municipalities, the country is considered a principality with a constitutional hereditary monarchy on a parliamentary and democratic basis. Prior to 1719 the land was under absolutist rule, after which the monarchy – known as The Princely Family – was established (whose origins are in Lower Austria).

The land we now know as Liechtenstein was, however, first occupied during the Neolithic Period, with many artifacts having since been discovered at several sites.

One fun fact I learned is that Liechtenstein is actually the only independent country in the world currently without any national debt!

How to Get There

If arriving from Switzerland, then you will find there are no direct trains into Liechtenstein. The information I read online said otherwise, but there were no direct train connections available when I looked. So, you will either need to head to Sargans or Buchs – depending on where you are coming from. From here, you will be able to take the local bus directly to Liechtenstein (you can also use your pass for this, so do not worry about paying). Take the number 11 or 12E if coming from Sargans or the number 12 if from Buchs. Both bus stops are located just outside their respective train stations, so you should not have any problems finding them either.

Arriving from Austria, you will be able to take a train directly to Schaan-Vaduz Railway Station. From here, you will also be able to use any of the local buses to get to where you need to go.

The Pass

There are 3 options when purchasing an Adventure Pass – 1 day, 2 days, or 3 days. This gives visitors more flexibility based on the length of their stay, though due to Liechtenstein’s small size, most travelers are likely to opt for the 1-day pass – staying just a mere night before moving on. However, while the pass includes free entry to most of the major attractions, it also includes free transportation for the entire bus network, various activities, and lots of other cool freebies at participating businesses around the country – as well as some discounts. It is comprehensive and gave me some cool ideas for things I did not even know about before I was aware of the pass. Even by the time I left on the 3rd day, there was still plenty left on the pass that I wasn’t able to manage to do. So, this pass can keep you busy!

So, what is included? There are over 30 different things listed on the Pass that you can take full advantage of!  You will find more information here.

I used the Pass to do the following things:

(All museums, as follows, offer free entrance with the Pass)

• The National Museum 

This is by far the biggest museum I visited in Liechtenstein. Like all the museums listed here (except for the Walser Museum), it can be found on the main pedestrian thruway in the center of Vaduz. The building itself dates to 1438, and has previously acted as the princely tavern, a customs house, and the seat of the government over the many centuries of its existence.

The museum contains varied exhibits all related to the land of Liechtenstein. These include ancient artifacts describing the history of Liechtenstein, as well as a natural history collection and various sections related to anthropology, industry, and technology within the country.

• The Kunstmuseum 

This is Liechtenstein’s dedicated museum for modern and contemporary art. I personally prefer classical art museums, but since this was in the vicinity of the other museums, I decided to visit it too.

This is another large museum, with numerous exhibition spaces over 2 floors. Some of the more abstract pieces I found a bit too difficult to engage with – perhaps related to my autism, since I struggle with abstract thinking?

However, I found two of the visual media shows deeply engrossing.

One focussed on the immigration control of East Germany when the country was still divided – running on an old 90s TV for effect. The other was a 30-minute documentary about indigenous communities in Colombia and their use of the local ayahuasca drug to connect with the jungle. Both topics were of particular interest to me, and I found myself watching both from start to finish.

Of course, the exhibits are constantly changing on a rolling basis. So, you might find that what was on display during my visit is no longer around when you visit.

• The Walser Museum 

This museum can be found in Triesenberg, conveniently located next door to the hotel where I spent my first night. Its exhibits tell the history of Triesenberg and the local church. With visual reproductions and artifacts on display to showcase many of the customs and traditions.

The annotations are almost exclusively in German, so you should have a camera translator app handy if you want to read the details connected to each exhibit.

In addition, there is a multimedia show in the basement which lasts approximately 25 minutes. Giving visitors an insight into how the village has changed over the centuries, as well as some more general information about Liechtenstein itself.

• Free Souvenir at the Postal Museum 

The Postal Museum is a compact little exhibition also located in the main tourist center of Vaduz. It consists of just a single exhibition space containing various historical items related to Liechtenstein’s postal service, including a wide range of stamps on display. It won’t take too long to explore this one, with most visitors spending 20-30 minutes maximum.

The museum also has a souvenir shop where you can purchase various stamps and other knick-knacks. While entrance to the museum is free to anyone, with the Adventure Pass you will receive a free coaster displaying the Liechtenstein flag.

• The Liechtenstein Treasure Chamber  

You can gain entrance to the Treasure Chamber by inquiring at the ticket desk at the Postal Museum. They will give you a small token when you present your Pass, which you will take downstairs, outside and to the other side of the building. There is a small entranceway where you will insert the token, which causes a door to open, giving you access to the dimly lit hallway inside.

The room contains numerous exquisite treasures and art pieces belonging to the Princely House. Again, the museum is a single room, and it won’t take long to explore – even if you read every description.

It’s important to know that photography is not allowed inside the chamber.

• Transportation on the Bus Network 

I mentioned this one briefly above, but this is a fantastic addition to the Pass. Despite its small size, many of the attractions in Liechtenstein are fairly spread out, with some separated by steep mountains. Therefore, you will find yourself using the buses frequently to get around if you want to explore.

LIEmobil Bus is the public transport, easily identifiable by its bright lime green color. They have an excellent network of routes and well-coordinated timetables, which can be checked online, by schedules on the bus shelters, or on the digital screens also located at each stop which give details of the upcoming arrivals in real time. This makes it extremely easy to get around Liechtenstein.

As a note, there is no need to do anything upon entering the bus. Simply get on the rear doors (rather than the front) and always keep your pass with you. You can present this to the ticket inspector when promoted.

• One-way ride on the Malbun ski lift 

With its well-prepared pistes and grand slopes, Malbun is a great skiing location that attracts visitors from all over the world when the ski season is in full swing. My visit took place in September, so the mountains were devoid of any snow, replaced with lush green pastures and herds of cattle (complete with cow bells).

There are 4 lifts in the area open all year round. The pass entitles you to a single free ride on any one of these. I personally went for the most popular choice, the ‘Bergbahnen Malbun AG’, which is located towards the end of the town. The ride is fairly quick but takes you on a breathtaking ride up the mountain, passing dense forests and numerous hikers along the way.

You will get dropped off at the start of the Fürstin-Gina-Weg (Princess Gina memorial trail). This magnificent hiking path has exceptional views over Malbun and further afield on clear days, giving you an insight into the immense natural beauty of this tiny nation. If you choose to go for sunset, then I am told this is the best spot around to see it!

The trail branches off at various points, so I simply chose to take the main path back down to Malbun. It’s an easy trek which has a gentle slope downwards. Before I did so, however, I decided to recharge my batteries at ‘Bergrestaurant Sareis’, located just in front of the ski lift station. It offers a choice selection of delicious food and drink – including some local delicacies. Make sure to try the ‘Alpagold’ beer, a local lager that was as crisp as it was refreshing!

The scenery surrounding this picturesque little town looked like it was lifted straight out of the movie ‘The Sound of Music’. It was worth visiting despite it being the off-season. So, be sure to make a point of coming here.

• CityTrain Tour 

If you’ve traveled to (or lived in) a tourist hotspot before, then maybe you will be familiar with the little train-shaped vehicles that give passengers a ride through various points of interest.

The standard city tour is included here and lasts about 40 minutes in total. It will take you around some of the major attractions and landmarks in the city, and to a few which are a bit further out of the tourist zone. This was a pleasant surprise, as it gave me a firsthand glimpse at some interesting photo spots to explore afterward.

You will be given a pair of headphones for the audio tour before starting, which can be plugged into the front of your seat – this is offered in a surprisingly wide range of languages.

• Passport Stamp at any Tourist Office 

This one might be confusing, but to be clear, most microstates in Europe do not have closed borders, which means you will not pass through immigration controls when entering. Therefore, several of these microstates now offer souvenir stamps for visitors at a nominal fee. This includes Liechtenstein, and with the Pass you get this cool little stamp on your passport for free.

• Pastry of your Choice at Bäckerei Amann 

Also located in the heart of Vaduz, this charming little bakery is extremely popular with locals and tourists alike. They serve a range of fresh baked goods – both savory and sweet. Upon presenting the Pass, you will be offered any pastry of your choice from the glass cabinet.

I chose a delicious looking croissant that was much bigger than I had expected. It contained a rich chocolate hazelnut ganache, topped off with crushed nuts on top. This is a must-do from the Pass when checking out Vaduz!

• A Cup of Coffee or Milk Drink at Demmel Kaffee 

If you’re a coffee lover like me, then you don’t want to miss the opportunity to get a free cup. The coffee is freshly brewed and tastes delicious. However, you are also welcome to a milk drink instead if you are not into coffee.

The store is in Schaan, a bit further north from Vaduz, an area often overlooked by visitors. However, it is the most populated municipality in the country, and is also by far the most modern. If you are looking to do some window shopping or get some great local food, then this is the place to go.

• Wine Tasting at The Prince of Liechtenstein Winery 

This is the coolest addition on the Pass – a visit to the beautiful Prince of Liechtenstein Winery will grant pass holders a chance to do a small wine tasting of 1 red and 1 white wine. I went when it was quiet, so I had the entire tasting room to myself to sit and enjoy myself. Though, you may have to wait a little depending on how busy it is during your visit.

Wine is Liechtenstein’s 2nd largest export! The winery is home to the gorgeous Herawingert vineyards. Spanning 4 hectares of southwest-facing slopes and a mild climate influenced by the warm ‘Föhn’ wind, Herawingert is among the best wine-growing regions in the Rhine Valley. Its excellent quality of soil offers ideal conditions for growing Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, which you get the opportunity to sample during your wine tasting.

• Souvenir and a Glass of Princely Wine at Hoi Boutique 

As if the wine tasting wasn’t enough, you can get another free glass of your choice (either red or white) from the Hoi Boutique on the main pedestrian street in Vaduz. Plus, you will also be gifted a nifty little wooden magnet that displays Vaduz Castle.

The shop itself is very cozy, and has a wide range of handicrafts, food, books, and other souvenirs on display that make for great gifts. So, be sure to go for the wine, but stay for the gift shopping to bring a little slice of Liechtenstein back for your friends and family.   Other things included on the Pass that I didn’t have the chance to experience include; a ride on the Mini-Car, a ceramic cup from Schaedler Pottery’s Studio, entrance to the Eschen indoor swimming pool & the Mühleholz swimming pool, admission to the Galina Falconry, a game of minigolf, a game of alpine minigolf, admission to 2 ice-rinks, and admission to a film viewing of the promotional feature ‘Princely Moments’ at the Altes Kino Vaduz Movie Theater.

Various discounts are also included with the Pass (none of which I had the time to experience), including: llama and alpaca trekking, a ticket for a concert show at the TAK theater, bike & e-bike rentals, a children’s theater show, admission to the Forest Rope Park, a guided hike, ski/snowboarding lessons, and massage beds at the Tamina Therme.

 Where to Stay

Liechtenstein is quite mountainous, with several of the towns lying at high altitude. Thankfully, the bus service within the country is superb, and extremely well-connected. So, it shouldn’t matter too much where you stay, especially if you opt to get the Pass as it includes free public transport.

My first night was spent at Hotel Kulm in Triesenberg. Compared to the cost of most hotels in Liechtenstein, this is about as budget-friendly as you are going to get for a private room anywhere. This sleepy little town is located centrally, with both Vaduz and Malbun easily accessible via the bus stop that is just in front of the square. Having done most of the rest of this European trip via hostels, it was great to get some much-needed rest in a room of my own. Also, the restaurant downstairs offers an amazing breakfast that is bound to fill you up for the day ahead. Lunch and dinner are also available upon request at the reception.

For my second night, I chose to move a little closer to Vaduz and the train station in Schaan for my early morning start the following day. Jugendherberge Schaan-Vaduz is a modern hostel that belongs to the HI Hostel collective. This laidback hostel is as clean as it is minimal in design. The dorm was quiet for the duration of my stay – and that’s not a complaint on my part. Indeed, if you are looking for a typical youth hostel, then you may be disappointed as there were large groups of schoolkids who I assume were on a trip, plus numerous older guests – the two I spoke to were a seasoned cyclist and hiker, respectively. As much as I dislike being around large groups of loud children (this can really put my senses into overdrive, putting me on edge), I rarely spend much time in hostels except for breakfast and bedtime. So, if you are just looking for a place to rest your head, then this should not be much of a problem.

Is it Worth it?

As you can see from what is included in the Pass, there is a lot on offer, and most purchasers are unlikely to do everything included during their stay – especially if going for the 1-day or 2-day pass.

As with any kind of tourist pass, there is no straight yes or no answer to this question. First you must look at where you were thinking of visiting while in Liechtenstein, then look at the Pass and see if there are any crossovers. Then you will hopefully discover some new stuff on the Pass that you were not previously aware of that you might like to do. Plus, unlike the majority of tourist passes, you also have access to the bus network (which you will most probably use) and the freebies and discounts which I outlined – which encouraged me to explore a little more outside the usual tourist center in Vaduz.

You will want to take all the above into consideration and work out whether you will be saving money based on what you will be doing from the Pass as opposed to just doing things individually without the Pass.

Unless you’re planning on taking it easy for your visit, then in all probability you will be saving overall – especially if you are like me and want to get the most out of your time at a destination. Liechtenstein is an expensive country, and I felt using this pass helped me enjoy this wonderful country on a budget – only having to worry about taking care of my own meals during my time there, as everything else was already on the Pass.

Other Things to Keep in Mind

The Adventure Pass can be ordered online via the following page.

A 1-day pass costs 25 CHF (Children aged 6–15 years 17CHF), a 2-day pass costs 29 CHF (Children aged 6–15 years 19CHF), and a 3-day pass costs 35 CHF (Children aged 6–15 years 29CHF).

This post highlights some of what is available on the Adventure Pass, but don’t think that this is all Liechtenstein has to offer! There are plenty of other spots worth visiting if you have the time. Two points of interest I would recommend are; the Alte Rheinbrücke (an old wooden bridge over the Rhine River which connects Switzerland) and Burg Gutenberg (a stunning 1200’s castle, which unfortunately cannot be entered but offers amazing scenery and photo opportunities from its grounds).

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