Liechtenstein | 1-Day Guide to Europe's Hidden Gem Pocket Country

Highly recommended by many Swiss locals, this hidden "backyard garden" is a must-visit treasure often mispronounced yet incredibly wealthy: Liechtenstein! Finally made it happen! Explore this niche pocket-sized destination with minimal cost and effort. We started from St. Gallen, Switzerland (St. Gallen Canton). Transportation details (train + bus combo, about 1 hour): 1. St. Gallen Station → Buchs SG Station: 30-minute train ride (hourly), enjoy Lake Constance views along the way. 2. Buchs SG → Vaduz Post Station (Vaduz, Liechtenstein): Transfer to light green bus lines 11/12E (15 minutes), with the final stop at the tourist center. --- For the lazy yet efficient route: **Morning: Cultural Highlights** 1. **Tourist Center Vaduz** (Vaduz, Liechtenstein) - Must-do: Get a passport stamp (CHF 3) with the royal crest! This is extra special since Liechtenstein isn’t part of the Schengen Zone, making this stamp a unique souvenir. - Must-buy: Viral fridge magnets—especially the one poking fun at how often the country’s name is mispronounced (see image 5)! 2. **Liechtenstein National Museum** A combo ticket grants access to both the National Museum and the Art Museum. The National Museum is worth exploring, showcasing the history and modern development of this tiny powerhouse. 3. **Postmuseum (Stamp Museum)** Right next to the tourist center, free entry. Features rare stamps from 1912 to today, including limited editions and royal-themed sets—great as affordable gifts or collectibles. 4. **Liechtenstein Art Museum** Just a 2-minute walk away, with a trendy café downstairs. The exhibits are minimal but worth a quick visit. **Lunch** Budget-friendly option: *American Bagel* (made-to-order, decent taste). The floor-to-ceiling window views make for a relaxing meal! **Afternoon** 5. **Schloss Vaduz Viewpoint** (Vaduz Castle) A 20-minute uphill walk with postcard-perfect scenery. The castle (royal residence, closed to the public) offers a panoramic view of the red-roofed old town framed by the Alps. 6. **Mitteldorf District** A tiny street you’ll breeze through. 7. **Kathedrale St. Florin (St. Florin Cathedral)** At the end of the old street, its Gothic stained glass casts kaleidoscopic light. The narrow western staircase leads to a stunning vantage point. 8. **Alte Rheinbrücke (Old Rhine Bridge)** (Rhine Valley, Vorarlberg) A 15–20 minute walk from the cathedral. Stand at the bridge’s center to "straddle two countries" (Switzerland vs. Liechtenstein)! --- Since the country is tiny, everything wraps up by 5 PM. Return to Switzerland the same way.