Princes' Way, Liechtenstein Travel Guide

Experience the stunning beauty and rich history of Liechtenstein on Princes' Way, a hiking trail that offers panoramic views, diverse wildlife, and a journey through time.

Princes' Way, or Fürstensteig, is one of the most breathtaking hiking trails in the tiny yet stunning principality of Liechtenstein. Nestled in the Alps, this trail offers panoramic views that are nothing short of spectacular. As you traverse the narrow paths and rocky terrains, you’ll be greeted with vistas of lush valleys, towering peaks, and picturesque villages below. The trail is renowned for its well-maintained paths and safety measures, making it accessible for both seasoned hikers and adventurous beginners. Along the way, you’ll encounter various lookout points, each providing a unique perspective of the surrounding landscape. The flora and fauna are diverse, adding an extra layer of beauty to your hike. Keep an eye out for the majestic golden eagles soaring above or the shy alpine marmots peeking from behind rocks. Princes' Way is not just about natural beauty; it also offers a glimpse into Liechtenstein's rich history. The trail was named in honor of the country's princes who were known to frequent these paths. As you walk, you may come across ancient ruins and historical markers that tell the story of this enchanting region. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or simply looking for a memorable adventure, Princes' Way promises an experience that will stay with you long after you leave.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Princes' Way.

Wear sturdy hiking boots as the terrain can be rocky and uneven.
Check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.
Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited facilities along the trail.
Start your hike early in the day to avoid crowds and experience the best views.
Consider hiring a local guide if you’re unfamiliar with mountain hiking.

Explore Princes' Way: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Princes' Way

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Augstenberg

Hike to the summit of Augstenberg in Liechtenstein for breathtaking panoramic views of the Alps and an unforgettable alpine experience.

4.9

Fürstensteig

Hike the Fürstensteig: Liechtenstein's iconic mountain trail with breathtaking views of the Alps and thrilling, secured passages.

4.6

Heididorf

Step into the world of Heidi in Maienfeld, Switzerland, and experience the charm of this timeless Alpine village.

4.5

Gänglesee

Escape to the serene Gänglesee in Liechtenstein's Alps for swimming, hiking, and breathtaking mountain views year-round.

4.6

Best landmarks in Princes' Way

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Vaduz Castle

Discover Vaduz Castle, a stunning medieval fortress in Liechtenstein offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into royal history.

4.2

Burg Gutenberg

Explore Burg Gutenberg in Balzers, a stunning castle offering rich history, live music events, and breathtaking views in Liechtenstein.

4.5

Liechtenstein Center

Explore the captivating beauty and rich culture of Liechtenstein from the Liechtenstein Center, your essential hub for travel information.

4.5

Paxmal

Explore Paxmal in Walenstadt, Switzerland—an artistic landmark featuring stunning mosaics and breathtaking views that captivate every visitor.

4.6

Best restaurants in Princes' Way

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New Castle

Experience exquisite local and international cuisine at New Castle in Vaduz - where every meal is a celebration of flavor.

4.2

Park Hotel Sonnenhof

Experience luxury and tranquility at Park Hotel Sonnenhof in Vaduz - your gateway to unforgettable moments amidst stunning landscapes.

4.8

Brasserie Burg

Discover the vibrant flavors of Brasserie Burg in Vaduz – where gourmet meets tradition in an inviting atmosphere.

4.0

Berggasthaus Masescha

Experience authentic Liechtenstein cuisine with breathtaking views at Berggasthaus Masescha, your perfect alpine retreat.

4.8

Best bars in Princes' Way

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Brasserie Burg

Savor the finest gourmet hamburgers and delectable Italian cuisine in the heart of Vaduz at Brasserie Burg.

4.0

Adler

Experience the essence of Swiss cuisine at Adler in Vaduz, where tradition meets exquisite flavors in a warm and inviting setting.

4.4

Restaurant Amarone

Experience the rich flavors of Italy at Restaurant Amarone in Vaduz, where culinary excellence meets a warm and inviting atmosphere.

4.2

Torkel

Experience the authentic taste of Switzerland at Torkel in Vaduz, where tradition meets modern culinary art.

4.8

Best nightclubs in Princes' Way

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Esquire Bar.Bistro

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite flavors of Esquire Bar.Bistro, Vaduz's premier destination for culinary delights and memorable moments.

4.4

Black Pearl Bar

Discover the lively Black Pearl Bar in Schaan, where creative cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere await every visitor seeking to unwind.

4.6

Zwei Bar

Discover the lively atmosphere of Zwei Bar in Vaduz, offering a delightful mix of cocktails, local beers, and a chic ambiance for unforgettable nights.

4.2

Ethno Cafe Bar

Discover the Ethno Cafe Bar in Schaanwald for a unique blend of culture, drinks, and vibrant social experiences in a cozy atmosphere.

4.7

Best shops in Princes' Way

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Vaduz Castle

Explore Vaduz Castle, an iconic symbol of Liechtenstein's heritage, offering stunning views and rich history in a breathtaking alpine setting.

4.2

Liechtenstein Center

Explore the wonders of Vaduz with the Liechtenstein Center, your gateway to the best experiences in this charming microstate.

4.5

Vaduz Citytrain AG

Discover the beauty of Vaduz on a scenic train tour with Vaduz Citytrain AG, showcasing the best of Liechtenstein's capital in comfort.

4.4

Liechtensteinisches LandesMuseum

Explore the cultural heart of Liechtenstein at the Liechtensteinisches LandesMuseum, where history and art converge in an unforgettable experience.

4.6

Explore Princes' Way on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Princes' Way, mapped for you.

Princes' Way Essentials

Princes' Way in Liechtenstein can be accessed via several major European cities. The nearest international airport is Zurich Airport in Switzerland, approximately 130 kilometers away. From Zurich, you can take a train to Sargans or Buchs, and then a local bus or taxi to Vaduz, the capital of Liechtenstein. Public transportation in the region is efficient and well-connected, making it easy for travelers to reach Princes' Way.
Liechtenstein has a reliable public transportation system, including buses that connect Vaduz with other parts of the country and neighboring regions. For those who prefer to travel by car, rental services are available in Vaduz and nearby Swiss cities. Biking is another popular option, with well-maintained bike paths along Princes' Way. Walking is encouraged for shorter distances, especially within the scenic areas of the trail.
The official currency in Liechtenstein is the Swiss Franc (CHF). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops along Princes' Way. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are readily available in Vaduz and other major towns. Ensure you have enough cash before setting out on longer hikes or remote sections of Princes' Way.
Liechtenstein is considered one of the safest countries in Europe, with very low crime rates. Tourists can feel secure walking along Princes' Way, even at night. Nonetheless, it is always wise to take standard precautions such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in Liechtenstein.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Liechtenstein has efficient emergency services, including local police and medical facilities. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in Vaduz and other towns, where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress in layers, as weather can change quickly in the mountains. Avoid overly casual clothing when dining in upscale restaurants. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches or religious sites, dress modestly and keep noise to a minimum. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Grüß Gott' or 'Hallo'. A firm handshake is customary. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies like Käsknöpfle and Ribel. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Princes' Way like a local, consider visiting during the off-peak seasons when the trail is less crowded. Engage with locals, who are often eager to share insights about the region's history and culture. Don't miss the small, family-run eateries along the way, offering authentic Liechtenstein cuisine. Take your time to explore side trails and less-known landmarks for a richer experience.

When is the best time to visit Princes' Way?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Princes' Way

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Princes' Way. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHallo
  [hah-loh]
- GoodbyeAuf Wiedersehen
  [owf vee-duhr-zay-en]
- YesJa
  [yah]
- NoNein
  [nine]
- Please/You're welcomeBitte
  [bih-tuh]
- Thank youDanke
  [dahn-kuh]
- Excuse me/SorryEntschuldigung
  [ent-shool-dee-goong]
- How are you?Wie geht es Ihnen?
  [vee gayt es een-en]
- Fine. And you?Gut. Und Ihnen?
  [goot oont een-en]
- Do you speak English?Sprechen Sie Englisch?
  [shprekh-en zee eng-leesh]
- I don't understandIch verstehe nicht
  [eekh fair-shtay-uh nikht]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseIch möchte bitte die Speisekarte sehen
  [eekh muhr-sh-tuh bih-tuh dee shpigh-zuh-kahr-teh zay-en]
- I don't eat meatIch esse kein Fleisch
  [eekh ess-uh kine fly-sh]
- Cheers!Prost!
  [prohst]
- I would like to pay, pleaseIch möchte bitte bezahlen
  [eekh muhr-sh-tuh bih-tuh beh-tsah-len]
- Help!Hilfe!
  [hil-fuh]
- Go away!Gehen Sie weg!
  [gay-en zee vehk]
- Call the Police!Rufen Sie die Polizei!
  [roo-fen zee dee poh-lee-tsai]
- Call a doctor!Rufen Sie einen Arzt!
  [roo-fen zee iyn-en ahrtst]
- I'm lostIch bin verloren
  [eekh been fair-loh-ren]
- I'm illIch bin krank
  [eekh been krahngk]
- I'd like to buy...Ich möchte kaufen...
  [eekh muhr-sh-tuh kow-fen]
- I'm just lookingIch schaue nur
  [eekh shou-eh noor]
- How much is it?Wie viel kostet es?
  [vee feel kohs-tet es]
- That's too expensiveDas ist zu teuer
  [dahs ist tsoo toy-er]
- Can you lower the price?Können Sie den Preis senken?
  [keu-nen zee den prys zeng-ken]
- What time is it?Wie spät ist es?
  [vee shpayt ist es]
- It's one o'clockEs ist ein Uhr
  [es ist iyn oor]
- Half past (10)Halb zehn
  [halb tsayn]
- MorningMorgen
  [mohr-ghen]
- AfternoonNachmittag
  [nahkh-mit-tahk]
- EveningAbend
  [ah-bent]
- YesterdayGestern
  [geh-shtern]
- TodayHeute
  [hoy-teh]
- TomorrowMorgen
  [mohr-ghen]
- 1Eins
  [ines]
- 2Zwei
  [tsvai]
- 3Drei
  [dry]
- 4Vier
  [feer]
- 5Fünf
  [foonf]
- 6Sechs
  [zeks]
- 7Sieben
  [zee-ben]
- 8Acht
  [ahkht]
- 9Neun
  [noyn]
- 10Zehn
  [tsayn]
- Where's a/the...?Wo ist ein/der...?
  [voh ist iyn/dehr]
- What's the address?Was ist die Adresse?
  [vahs ist dee ah-drehs-seh]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Können Sie mir zeigen (auf der Karte)?
  [keu-nen zee meer tsay-gen (owf dehr kahr-teh)]
- When's the next (bus)?Wann kommt der nächste (Bus)?
  [vahn kohmt dehr nai-khs-teh (boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Eine Fahrkarte (nach ....)
  [iyn-eh fahr-kahr-teh (nahkh)]

History of Princes' Way

Princes' Way, known locally as 'Fürstensteig,' is one of the oldest hiking trails in Liechtenstein. The trail was originally used by local farmers and shepherds in the early medieval period, providing a crucial route through the rugged terrain of the Alps. Archaeological evidence suggests that the path was established as early as the 9th century, making it a significant historical route for the Principality.
In the 19th century, Princes' Way gained its name from the princely family of Liechtenstein, who were known to favor the trail for its breathtaking views and challenging terrain. The trail became a symbol of the connection between the ruling family and the natural beauty of the land they governed. It was during this time that the trail was officially marked and maintained, ensuring its preservation for future generations.
During World War II, Liechtenstein maintained its neutrality, but Princes' Way played a role in the country's defense strategy. The trail's high vantage points provided key observation posts for monitoring movement in the region. Although Liechtenstein was not directly involved in the conflict, the strategic importance of the trail was recognized and it was patrolled regularly to ensure the country’s borders remained secure.
In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, Princes' Way underwent significant renovations to cater to the growing interest in hiking and eco-tourism. The trail was refurbished with new signage, safety measures, and informational plaques detailing its rich history. These efforts have made Princes' Way a premier destination for both local and international hikers, showcasing the natural and historical heritage of Liechtenstein.
Princes' Way is not just a hiking trail but a cultural landmark. It hosts various events throughout the year, including guided history tours, environmental awareness programs, and cultural festivals. These events celebrate the trail's importance in Liechtenstein's history and promote the preservation of its natural beauty. The trail is also a favored spot for local artists and photographers, who draw inspiration from its stunning landscapes.