Vaduz Castle: Liechtenstein's Royal Residence
Majestic medieval castle overlooking Vaduz, home to Liechtenstein's royal family since 1939. Closed to the public, offering stunning views.
Vaduz Castle, or Schloss Vaduz, dominates the skyline of Liechtenstein's capital city, sitting approximately 120 meters above Vaduz. Its origins trace back to the 12th century, with the keep and eastern portions representing the oldest sections. The castle's history is intertwined with the Counts of Werdenberg-Sargans, who likely built the original structure. Over the centuries, Vaduz Castle has served various purposes, including controlling Alpine trade routes. The Liechtenstein family acquired the castle in 1712. It fell into disrepair but was extensively renovated in the early 20th century. In 1939, Prince Franz Josef II made it his permanent residence, a tradition that continues today with the current Prince, Hans-Adam II. While the castle's interior is not accessible to the public, its exterior offers a glimpse into its medieval past and subsequent renovations. The structure features a mix of architectural styles, reflecting its long history. The surrounding area provides scenic hiking trails with viewpoints showcasing the castle against the backdrop of the Alps. Although visitors cannot enter, they can explore the castle grounds and enjoy the panoramic views of Vaduz and the Rhine Valley.
Local tips
- Hike up the marked path from Vaduz's main street for historical insights and panoramic views of the castle.
- Visit the Vaduz Castle Parking Area and walk down to the castle to see it up close.
- Explore the 3D and Augmented Reality experiences online for a virtual tour of the castle's interior.
A brief summary to Vaduz Castle
- Bergstrasse 2, Vaduz, 9490, LI
- +4232381200
- Visit website
Getting There
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Walking
From Vaduz's main street (Städtle), follow the clearly marked path uphill towards the castle. The walk takes about 20-30 minutes and offers historical information boards along the way. Begin at the corner of Beckagässli, near Brasserie Burg restaurant, and follow signs for 'Schloss'. The path is steep but manageable for those in reasonable physical condition.
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Driving
From the center of Vaduz, follow signs for 'Schloss Vaduz'. Turn onto Feldstrasse from the main road (28) and continue past the Prince of Liechtenstein's vineyard. Turn right onto Fürst-Franz-Josef-Strasse and continue until you see Vaduz Castle on your right. Parking is available at the Parkplatz Schloss Vaduz, located just past the castle. Parking rates are approximately CHF 0.5 per hour after the first free hour.
