The lovely Principality of Liechtenstein is a tiny country overflowing with natural astonishments, interesting heritage, small thigh-knit communities and charming villages. The Principality boasts a very high quality of life and living standard. It offers an excellent education system, high-paid job opportunities and plenty of outdoor activities for sports and adventure enthusiasts.
The remarkable part, however, is that because of Liechtenstein’s rapidly growing economy, most of the employees commute every day to their workplaces and actually live outside the borders of the Principality.
The capital city is Vaduz, where the Principality’s royal family resides. As a tiny country with small towns, the local communities are very tight-knit, and for better or worse, everyone knows everyone. However, if you are thinking of relocating to Liechtenstein, keep in mind that although the official language is German, each community has its own distinctive dialect.
If you are considering the appealing idea of moving from the UK to Liechtenstein, keep on reading to find out which are the best places to live in Liechtenstein.
Table of Contents
Best cities to live in Liechtenstein
The Principality of Liechtenstein is divided into 11 municipalities. Here are the best places to live in:
Vaduz
Vaduz is Liechtenstein’s capital, though not its largest city. It is the residence of the royal family and the seat of the Parliament. Set along the Rhine River, the charming city is shrouded by the high mountain peaks of the Swiss Glarus Alps and the medieval fairytale-like Vaduz Castle. The municipality receives a great amount of tourist attention due to being the home of the majority of attractions. This contributes to the lively tourism sector and the economic stability of Vaduz.
The municipality is the main job hub of Liechtenstein. The University of Liechtenstein is located in Vaduz, along with the only hospital the Principality has. Every August, the Prince of Liechtenstein and his son organise a celebration for the national holiday and invite the Principality’s residents to the royal gardens of Vaduz Castle.
Schaan
Neighbouring the capital and situated in the centre of the Principality, Schaan is the largest municipality in the state by population. It is considered the economic and industrial powerhouse of Liechtenstein. The town is modernised, with beautiful stone facade buildings built in Baroque style architecture. Most of the manufacturing enterprises, some of which are global, are located on the outskirts.
The Austrian-owned railway passes through the city, and its station Schaan-Vaduz is the busiest arrival point in Liechtenstein. The municipality has several kindergartens and schools, but the most prominent one is the private Waldorf school which receives local students, along with foreign ones from Austria and Switzerland.
Triesenberg
Triesenberg is the largest municipality by area and the highest settlement in Liechtenstein. It sprawls down the Alpine slopes, and its centre rests at an elevation of approximately 900 metres above sea level. This makes it the perfect starting point for hiking along the numerous trails nearby. In proximity to the centre is also the tiny village of Malbun, the only ski resort in the country and snow heaven for skiing adventures.
The high altitude of the municipality secures exquisite views of Liechtenstein and even of the neighbouring counties: Switzerland, Austria, and Germany. Triesenberg is known for its distinctive dialect, influenced by Walser settlers from the Middle Ages. The municipality is embellished by cosy-looking farmhouses and timber barns, but the highlight of Triesenberg is St Joseph’s Parish Church, which, when enlightened at night, makes for an enchanting view.
Planken
Are you looking for a quiet place where you can feel closer to nature? If the answer is yes, then Planken is your place. The remote municipality is nestled in the western slopes of Drei Schwestern, on the border with Austria. Planken is one of the oldest Liechtenstein communities with strong, long-standing traditions. Currently, it is home to about 473 people.
The municipality’s landscape consists of breathtaking nature, homely wooden houses with flower baskets hanging from their windows, simple yet historic timber church and comfy inns. There are no shops, but such can easily be found within a short distance in the neighbouring municipalities. This mountain paradise might look tiny and sleepy, but frankly, the peacefulness and proximity to astonishing natural sceneries make up for the convenience of the city life.
Eschen
In northern Liechtenstein, at the bottom of a valley, Eschen spreads out. Looming over the municipality is the three-peaked massif famously known as the Three Sisters. Lined with half-timber houses resembling the Saxonian style, Eschen is a small but hearty spot. From pleasant wine tasting to medieval music shows ringing between historic walls, the 14th-century Pfrundhaus houses many interesting activities.
The white-washed, sharp-spiked church on the main town square is Eschen’s trademark. The main road connecting the northern and southern parts of the country runs near the municipality. Eschen also has a train station situated in the village of Nendeln. Several companies have their headquarters in Eschen.
Other honourable mentions
Other noteworthy municipalities are Balzers, Schellenberg and Mauren. Check out what makes them remarkable and why you should consider them when relocating to Liechtenstein:
Balzers
Down the meandering Rhine River, along the east riverbank, you will find Balzers. It is located in the lowlands of Liechtenstein, and it is home to one of the only two surviving medieval fortifications in the Principality, the Gutenberg Castle.
Nowadays, the old bulwark serves as a museum, which attracts many visitors and boasts the tourism sector of the municipality. Balzers is also a significant economic centre. The headquarters of the major thin-film coating and technology innovation company Oerlikon Balzers is situated in the town. The municipality also has a heliport.
Schellenberg
The last Rhine municipality on our list is Schellenberg. It is the smallest municipality in Liechtenstein by area but still has what to offer. As one of the northernmost spots in Liechtenstein, it borders Austria. The location is impregnated with ancient heritage from historic settlers such as the Celts and the Romans.
Within the borders of Schellenberg lie the Upper and the Lower Castles which are fairytale fortresses showcasing tall and ancient ruins. Nearby the Upper castle, a camping ground is set for younger groups. The municipality has one of the most beautiful village squares in Liechtenstein. There are also multiple sports and recreation modern facilities.
Mauren
With a history dating back to the Bronze age, nowadays Mauren is a municipality located in the northern part of Liechtenstein. It is huddled under the slopes of the Three Sisters massif. It boasts a Romanesque architecture style and fine Gothic glassworks, but also vast forests, stunning sceneries and multiple parks.
The locals maintain their old traditions, however, the municipality is also very progressive and equipped with modern public infrastructure. There is a range of recreation opportunities for all ages alike. Mauren offers a fine density of clubs and a very active social and cultural life. In proximity, there is also the natural reserve and bird paradise known under the name “Birka”.
Cities and places you should avoid in Liechtenstein
Liechtenstein has low crime levels, however, petty crimes such as pickpocketing, mugging and bag snatching can still occur. Take sensible precautions and keep your valuables hidden. Avoid poorly lit areas and crowded places.
As Liechtenstein is an Alpine region, be careful when participating in adventurous activities and extreme sports in the mountains. Avalanches can occur. That is why off-piste skiing is considered highly dangerous and is advised against. Some hiking trails in the Liechtenstein Alps can be rugged and dangerous. Moreover, road conditions can be poor during the winter and become even more dangerous. Make sure you have the right vehicle equipment at all times.
Takeaways
If you have already decided on which of Liechtenstein’s natural oases to move to, be ready for a warm welcome, picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Despite having many things in common, all of the Principality’s municipalities have their own character and charm.
From northwestern valley-bottom towns to the southeastern Alpine villages, there is enough diversity to suit every taste. In case you have already picked up your new location, Fantastic Removals is here to help. Providing top-quality removals in London, we will take care of everything and ensure your stress-free move from the UK to Liechtenstein.
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