Schaan, Liechtenstein Travel Guide

Discover Schaan, Liechtenstein's largest and most vibrant town, where history, culture, and nature converge to create an extraordinary travel experience.

Nestled in the picturesque Rhine Valley, Schaan is Liechtenstein's largest municipality and a captivating destination for tourists. With its stunning alpine backdrop and rich cultural heritage, Schaan offers an inviting blend of natural beauty and modern amenities. This charming town is not only a gateway to the rest of Liechtenstein but also a thriving center for arts and industry, providing visitors with a unique and multifaceted experience. A walk through Schaan reveals a town steeped in history, with landmarks such as the Church of St. Laurentius, a beautiful structure dating back to the 19th century. The town also boasts the DoMuS cultural center, which hosts various exhibitions and events, showcasing the vibrant local arts scene. Nature lovers will be delighted by the numerous hiking and biking trails that wind through the scenic landscapes surrounding Schaan, offering breathtaking views of the Alps and the Rhine River. In addition to its natural and cultural attractions, Schaan is a hub of culinary delights. Visitors can enjoy traditional Liechtenstein cuisine at local eateries, savoring dishes made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The town's friendly atmosphere and welcoming residents make it a perfect destination for those looking to experience the best of Liechtenstein. Whether you're exploring its historical sites, enjoying outdoor adventures, or indulging in delicious food, Schaan promises an unforgettable visit.

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Visit the Church of St. Laurentius early in the morning to avoid crowds and capture the best photos.
Take advantage of the well-marked hiking and biking trails for a scenic exploration of the surrounding alpine region.
Check the schedule at DoMuS cultural center for events and exhibitions during your stay.
Try traditional Liechtenstein dishes at local restaurants to get a true taste of the region's culinary heritage.
Use the efficient public transport system to easily explore nearby attractions in both Liechtenstein and Switzerland.

Explore Schaan: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

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

Best attractions in Schaan

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Burg Gutenberg

Explore Burg Gutenberg in Balzers, a stunning medieval castle offering breathtaking views, rich history, and cultural events in the heart of Liechtenstein.

4.5

Kunsthaus Bregenz

Explore the contemporary art scene at Kunsthaus Bregenz, a stunning museum that merges innovative architecture with captivating exhibitions by renowned artists.

4.4

St. Gallen museum of art

Experience the art of Switzerland at the St. Gallen Museum, a cultural hub showcasing stunning collections and exhibitions.

4.4

Bregenzer Festspiele

Experience world-class opera on a floating stage at the Bregenzer Festspiele, a unique cultural event on the shores of Lake Constance.

4.8

Best landmarks in Schaan

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Vaduz Castle

Discover the enchanting Vaduz Castle, a historic gem in Liechtenstein offering stunning views and rich cultural heritage.

4.2

Burg Gutenberg

Experience the enchanting blend of music and history at Burg Gutenberg, a must-visit cultural landmark in Balzers, Liechtenstein.

4.5

Kathedrale St. Florin

Explore the architectural beauty and spiritual significance of Kathedrale St. Florin, a must-see landmark in Vaduz, Liechtenstein.

4.5

Liechtenstein Center

Explore the best of Liechtenstein at the Liechtenstein Center, your essential tourist information hub in the heart of Vaduz.

4.5

Best restaurants in Schaan

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New Castle

Discover New Castle: A culinary gem in Vaduz offering local flavors and international cuisine in a cozy setting.

4.2

Park Hotel Sonnenhof

Experience luxury and culinary delights at Park Hotel Sonnenhof in Vaduz, Liechtenstein's premier destination for travelers seeking elegance.

4.8

Pizzeria Toscana

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Pizzeria Toscana in Schaan—where every pizza tells a delicious story.

4.5

Brasserie Burg

Discover Brasserie Burg in Vaduz for exceptional burgers and Italian cuisine amid modern vibes—perfect for tourists craving delicious meals.

4.0

Best bars in Schaan

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Restaurant Lio

Experience the finest culinary delights at Restaurant Lio in Schaan, where exquisite flavors and exceptional service await every visitor.

4.4

Restaurant Forum

Experience the authentic flavors of Switzerland at Restaurant Forum in Schaan, where every dish tells a story of tradition and taste.

4.6

PUR - Restaurant & Bar

Experience the ultimate barbecue and bar culture at PUR - Restaurant & Bar in Schaan, where exceptional flavors meet vibrant atmosphere.

4.5

Restaurant Rössle

Discover authentic Liechtenstein cuisine at Restaurant Rössle in Schaan, where fresh ingredients meet warm hospitality.

4.5

Best nightclubs in Schaan

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Black Pearl Bar

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Black Pearl Bar in Schaan, featuring expertly crafted cocktails and a lively atmosphere perfect for any occasion.

4.6

Zwei Bar

Experience Vaduz's nightlife at Zwei Bar, where cocktails, music, and a vibrant atmosphere come together for an unforgettable evening.

4.2

Havanna Latin Club

Discover the lively essence of Latin culture at Havanna Latin Club in Buchs, Switzerland, where music, dance, and vibrant nights come alive.

4.0

Take 5 Vaduz

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Triesen at Take 5 Vaduz - a modern bar offering an array of drinks in a lively atmosphere.

4.5

Best shops in Schaan

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Coop Supermarket Chur Quader

Experience local flavors and quality products at Coop Supermarket in the scenic city of Chur, Switzerland. Perfect for tourists seeking to indulge in Swiss culture.

4.4

Migros-Supermarkt - Schaan

Experience local flavors and convenience at Migros-Supermarkt in Schaan, your go-to grocery store for fresh produce and local specialties.

4.3

Denner Satellit

Explore Denner Satellit in Schaan for a budget-friendly shopping experience featuring fresh produce and local Swiss specialties.

4.3

FL1 Shop

Explore Schaan with confidence; FL1 Shop ensures you're connected with top-notch mobile and internet services tailored for tourists.

3.9

Explore Schaan on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Schaan, mapped for you.

Schaan Essentials

Schaan is located in the northern part of Liechtenstein, near the Swiss border. The nearest major airport is Zurich Airport (ZRH) in Switzerland, approximately 115 kilometers away. From Zurich, you can take a train to Sargans or Buchs, and then a short bus or taxi ride to Schaan. Alternatively, you can drive from Zurich to Schaan, which takes around 1.5 hours by car.
Schaan has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses and trains that connect to other parts of Liechtenstein and neighboring countries. Local buses are operated by the Liechtenstein Bus Company (LBA) and are a convenient way to get around. Taxis are also available, and renting a car can be a good option if you plan to explore the region more extensively. Biking is popular, and there are well-maintained bike paths throughout the town.
The official currency in Liechtenstein is the Swiss Franc (CHF). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful, so you can easily withdraw cash if needed. It is advisable to carry some cash for small purchases, especially in more rural areas.
Schaan is generally very safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it is always wise to take standard precautions such as not leaving your belongings unattended and being aware of your surroundings. There are no specific areas in Schaan with high crime rates targeting tourists.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This is the emergency number for police, fire, and medical services. There is a local police station and a medical center in Schaan. It is also recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are readily available for minor health issues.
Fashion: Do dress smart-casual, especially when dining out or visiting cultural sites. Avoid overly casual or revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches, dress modestly and keep noise to a minimum. Public Transport: Do be courteous and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake or a nod of the head. It is polite to say 'Grüezi' (hello) or 'Hoi' (hi). Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and be open to new foods. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Schaan like a local, visit the weekly farmers' market where you can buy fresh local produce and handmade goods. Spend time in the local cafes and engage in conversations with residents, who are generally friendly and welcoming. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the beautiful hiking trails around Schaan, such as the Eschnerberg Trail, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

When is the best time to visit Schaan?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Schaan

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 Schaan. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHallo
  [HAH-loh]
- GoodbyeAdieu
  [ah-DYOO]
- YesJa
  [yah]
- NoNein
  [nine]
- Please/You're welcomeBitte
  [BIT-tuh]
- Thank youDanke
  [DAHN-kuh]
- Excuse me/SorryEntschuldigung
  [ENT-shool-dee-goong]
- How are you?Wie geht es dir?
  [vee gayt es deer]
- Fine. And you?Gut. Und du?
  [goot oont doo]
- Do you speak English?Sprichst du Englisch?
  [shprikhst doo ENG-lish]
- I don't understandIch verstehe nicht
  [ikh fer-SHTAY-uh nikht]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseIch möchte die Speisekarte sehen, bitte
  [ikh merkhte dee SHPYE-zuh-kahr-tuh zay-en, BIT-tuh]
- I don't eat meatIch esse kein Fleisch
  [ikh EHS-suh kine flysh]
- Cheers!Prost!
  [prohst]
- I would like to pay, pleaseIch möchte bitte bezahlen
  [ikh merkhte BIT-tuh bezah-len]
- Help!Hilfe!
  [HILL-fuh]
- Go away!Geh weg!
  [gay veg]
- Call the Police!Rufen Sie die Polizei!
  [ROOF-en zee dee poh-LEE-tsy]
- Call a doctor!Rufen Sie einen Arzt!
  [ROOF-en zee EYE-nen ahrts]
- I'm lostIch habe mich verirrt
  [ikh HAH-buh meesh fer-EERT]
- I'm illIch bin krank
  [ikh bin krahngk]
- I'd like to buy...Ich möchte kaufen...
  [ikh merkhte KOW-fen]
- I'm just lookingIch schaue nur
  [ikh SHOW-uh noor]
- How much is it?Wie viel kostet es?
  [vee feel KO-stet es]
- That's too expensiveDas ist zu teuer
  [dahs ist tsoh TOY-er]
- Can you lower the price?Können Sie den Preis senken?
  [KERN-en zee den prees ZEN-ken]
- What time is it?Wie spät ist es?
  [vee shpayt ist es]
- It's one o'clockEs ist ein Uhr
  [es ist eyen oor]
- Half past (10)Halb zehn
  [halb tsayn]
- MorningMorgen
  [MOHR-gen]
- AfternoonNachmittag
  [NAHCH-mit-tahg]
- EveningAbend
  [AH-bent]
- YesterdayGestern
  [GEHS-tern]
- TodayHeute
  [HOY-teh]
- TomorrowMorgen
  [MOHR-gen]
- 1Eins
  [eyns]
- 2Zwei
  [tsvay]
- 3Drei
  [dry]
- 4Vier
  [feer]
- 5Fünf
  [foonf]
- 6Sechs
  [zeks]
- 7Sieben
  [zee-ben]
- 8Acht
  [ahkt]
- 9Neun
  [noyn]
- 10Zehn
  [tsayn]
- Where's a/the...?Wo ist ein/der...?
  [voh ist eyen/dehr]
- What's the address?Was ist die Adresse?
  [vahs ist dee ah-DREHS-uh]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Können Sie mir zeigen (auf der Karte)?
  [KERN-en zee meer ZY-gen (owf dehr KAR-teh)]
- When's the next (bus)?Wann kommt der nächste (Bus)?
  [vahn kohmt dehr NIKH-stuh (boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Eine Fahrkarte (nach ....)
  [ey-nuh FAHR-kahr-teh (nahkh)]

History of Schaan

Schaan’s history dates back to ancient times, with archaeological findings indicating settlement as early as the Bronze Age. The area was later influenced by Roman civilization, as evidenced by the remains of Roman villas and artifacts discovered in the region.
During the medieval period, Schaan was part of the Holy Roman Empire. The region was dominated by various noble families, and the establishment of vineyards and agriculture became prominent. The influence of the Church also grew, evidenced by the construction of the Church of St. Laurentius, which remains a key historical landmark.
In the early 18th century, the Principality of Liechtenstein was established when the Liechtenstein family purchased the Lordship of Schellenberg and the County of Vaduz. Schaan, as part of these territories, became integral to the formation of the new state. This period marked the beginning of Schaan's development as a central hub in the principality.
The 19th century brought industrialization to Schaan, transforming it from an agrarian society into an emerging industrial center. Factories and businesses began to sprout, leading to significant population growth and economic development. The introduction of the railway in 1872 further boosted Schaan's connectivity and industrial capacity.
Despite Liechtenstein's neutrality during both World Wars, Schaan was not immune to the economic impacts of the global conflicts. However, post-World War II, Schaan experienced a remarkable economic resurgence, driven by an influx of businesses and manufacturing industries. The establishment of companies like Hilti and Ivoclar Vivadent played a pivotal role in this economic boom.
Schaan has developed a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous cultural institutions and events. The TAK Theater Liechtenstein and the SAL (Säntis Arena Liechtenstein) host a variety of performances, from classical concerts to contemporary theater. The town’s annual Fasnacht (Carnival) is a colorful and lively tradition that attracts visitors from across the region.
Today, Schaan stands as the largest municipality in Liechtenstein, blending historical heritage with modern amenities. It serves as a key economic and cultural center, preserving its historical landmarks while embracing contemporary development. The town continues to grow, maintaining a balance between its rich past and progressive future.