Liechtenstein
Region
🌍 Europe
Population
👥 41
Currency
💱 Swiss franc
Languages
🗣️ German
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Nestled in the heart of the Alps between Switzerland and Austria, Liechtenstein offers a charming and picturesque escape for travelers seeking alpine beauty and rich history. This tiny principality is best known for its stunning mountain landscapes, including the dramatic peaks of the Rätikon range, and its well-preserved medieval architecture, most notably Vaduz Castle overlooking the capital. Visitors will find a country of pristine nature, with opportunities for hiking, skiing, and enjoying the fresh mountain air. Despite its small size, Liechtenstein boasts a surprisingly sophisticated cultural scene, with museums and art galleries to explore. First-time visitors can expect a peaceful and orderly experience, characterized by efficient infrastructure and friendly locals. The nation's commitment to preserving its heritage is evident in its charming villages and the serene atmosphere that permeates the country. Prepare for breathtaking scenery and a truly unique European alpine adventure.
Official NameSource: REST Countries
Principality of Liechtenstein
Continent
Europe
DemonymSource: REST Countries
Liechtensteiner
Independence
Liechtenstein has no formal date of independence, but the Principality has existed since 1719.
Top-Level Domain
.li
Calling CodeSource: REST Countries
+423
Time ZoneSource: REST Countries
UTC+01:00
Capital CitySource: REST Countries
Vaduz
ISO Alpha-2
LI
ISO Alpha-3
LIE
UN Code
438
Geographic Coordinates
47.26666666,9.53333333
Area (km²)Source: REST Countries
160#224 of 249
PopulationSource: REST Countries
41,237#216 of 247
Population Density (per km²)
249.06
Highest Point (m)
2,599 meters (Grauspitz)
Lowest Point (m)
430 meters
Land Use
Primarily agricultural land and forests.
Irrigated Land
Small amount of irrigated land.
Coastline Length
This landlocked country has no coastline.
Climate
Temperate climate with warm summers and cold winters.
Natural Resources
Hydropower potential.
Bordering CountriesSource: REST Countries
Austria, Switzerland
Major Rivers
The Rhine River forms the border with Switzerland.
Major Lakes
This country has no major lakes.
Government Type
Constitutional monarchy.
Administrative Divisions
11 municipalities.
Legal System
Civil law system.
Chief of State
Prince Hans-Adam II.
Head of Government
Prime Minister Daniel Risch.
Cabinet
The Cabinet is appointed by the Prince, on the recommendation of the Landtag.
Elections
Elections for the Landtag (parliament) are held every four years.
Judicial Branch
The judicial branch includes the Supreme Court.
Legislative Branch
Unicameral Landtag (25 seats).
Major Political Parties
Progressive Citizens' Party (FBP), Patriotic Union (VU).
CurrencySource: REST Countries
Swiss franc
GDP, Nominal (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: GDP (current US$) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
8.91#157 of 211
GDP, PPP (US$ billion)
The GDP based on purchasing power parity is unavailable.
GDP per Capita (US$)Source: World Bank: GDP per capita (current US$) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
220,167.23#2 of 211
GDP - Agriculture (%)Source: World Bank: Agriculture, forestry, and fishing, value added (% of GDP) (2023)Checked September 29, 2026
0.16
GDP - Industry (%)Source: World Bank: Industry (including construction), value added (% of GDP) (2023)Checked September 29, 2026
39.11
GDP - Services (%)Source: World Bank: Services, value added (% of GDP) (2023)Checked September 29, 2026
57.43
Inflation Rate (%)
The inflation rate in Liechtenstein is typically similar to that of Switzerland.
Labor Force (people)
The labor force is approximately 40,000.
Unemployment Rate (%)
The unemployment rate is typically very low, around 1-2%.
Public Debt (% of GDP)
Information on public debt is unavailable.
Budget
Information on the national budget is available from government sources.
Exports (US$ billion)
Exports are approximately $4 billion USD annually.
Imports (US$ billion)
Imports are approximately $2.5 billion USD annually.
Foreign Reserves
Information on foreign reserves is unavailable.
Currency Exchange
Liechtenstein uses the Swiss Franc (CHF). Exchange rates can be found online.
GDP by Sector
The economy is primarily driven by the financial services, manufacturing, and tourism sectors.
Major Industries
Major industries include financial services, precision manufacturing, and tourism.
Major Export Partners
Major export partners are primarily European Union countries.
Major Import Partners
Major import partners are primarily European Union countries.
Society
Literacy Rate (%)
The literacy rate is nearly 100%.
Birth Rate (per 1,000 people)Source: World Bank: Birth rate, crude (per 1,000 people) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
8.4
Death Rate (per 1,000 people)Source: World Bank: Death rate, crude (per 1,000 people) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
7.5
Net Migration Rate
The net migration rate is positive.
Median Age
The median age is approximately 43 years.
Urban Population (%)Source: World Bank: Urban population (% of total population) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
14.63#214 of 214
Urbanization Rate
The urbanization rate is stable.
Life Expectancy (years)Source: World Bank: Life expectancy at birth, total (years) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
84.2#6 of 214
HIV/AIDS Prevalence
HIV/AIDS prevalence is very low.
Health Expenditures (% of GDP)Source: World Bank: Current health expenditure (% of GDP) (2023)Checked September 29, 2026
5.71
Ethnic Groups
The population is primarily Liechtensteiners, with significant populations of Swiss, Austrian, and German citizens.
Religions
The majority of the population is Roman Catholic.
LanguagesSource: REST Countries
German
Education
Education System
Education system is based on the Swiss model, with primary, secondary, and vocational training.
School Life Expectancy (years)Source: World Bank: School life expectancy, primary to tertiary, both sexes (years) (2018)Checked September 29, 2026
14.6
Government Education Spending
Government spending on education is relatively high.
Primary Education Access
—
Secondary Education Access
—
Higher Education Access
—
Major Universities
University of Liechtenstein (focus on economics, architecture, and engineering).
Culture
Cultural Overview
Culture influenced by neighboring Switzerland and Austria, with a strong emphasis on tradition and arts.
National HolidaysSource: Nager.Date
- Neujahr (2026-01-01)
- Berchtoldstag (2026-01-02)
- Heilige Drei Könige (2026-01-06)
- Mariä Lichtmess (2026-02-02)
- Fasnachtsdienstag (2026-02-17)
- Josefstag (2026-03-19)
- Karfreitag (2026-04-03)
- Ostermontag (2026-04-06)
- Tag der Arbeit (2026-05-01)
- Auffahrt (2026-05-14)
- Pfingstsonntag (2026-05-24)
- Pfingstmontag (2026-05-25)
Popular Music
Influenced by European pop and folk music.
Traditional Food
Includes dishes influenced by Swiss and Austrian cuisine, such as Käsknöpfle.
Sports
Popular sports include skiing, ice hockey, and football.
Major Festivals
Liechtenstein National Day (August 15th), various cultural events.
Famous People
Includes people involved in business, arts, and sports.
Cultural Heritage Sites
Limited number of sites, with historical importance.
UNESCO Sites
None.
Annual Tourist Visits
Relatively high per capita tourist visits.
Tourism Overview
Tourism is a significant part of the economy, particularly focusing on winter sports, cultural attractions, and banking.
Top Tourist Attractions
Vaduz Castle, Kunstmuseum Liechtenstein, Gutenberg Castle, Red House.
Famous Cities
Vaduz (capital), Schaan.
National Parks
No national parks.
Protected Areas
Presence of protected areas.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Liechtenstein truly depends on your preferred activities. For winter sports enthusiasts, the months of December through March offer excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities in areas like Malbun, known for its family-friendly slopes. Spring, from April to May, brings blooming wildflowers and milder temperatures, making it ideal for hiking and exploring the lower trails and charming villages as the snow melts. Summer, from June to August, is perfect for extensive hiking through the Alps, with longer daylight hours and access to higher mountain paths. The lush green valleys are particularly beautiful during this time. Autumn, from September to October, offers crisp air and stunning fall foliage, creating a picturesque backdrop for scenic drives and leisurely walks. Festivals and cultural events are scattered throughout the year, so checking local listings for specific interests is recommended.
Tourist Visa Info
Schengen visa rules apply. Visa requirements depend on nationality.
Visa Requirements Overview
Liechtenstein is part of the Schengen Area, which simplifies entry for many nationalities. Tourists from countries that have a visa-free agreement with the Schengen Area can typically enter Liechtenstein for short stays (up to 90 days within a 180-day period) without a visa. This includes citizens of the United States, Canada, Australia, and many European countries. However, specific requirements can vary significantly based on your nationality. It is crucial to check the latest visa regulations applicable to your specific country of origin well in advance of your travel plans. If a visa is required, you will generally need to apply through the Swiss embassy or consulate in your home country, as Switzerland represents Liechtenstein's interests in visa matters.
Travel Advisory
Generally safe; consult your country's travel advisory for specifics.
Healthcare
Healthcare Quality
Liechtenstein has a high healthcare quality index.
Medical Cost
Medical costs are relatively high.
Number of Hospitals
Liechtenstein has a limited number of hospitals, often relying on services in neighboring Switzerland.
Universal Healthcare
Liechtenstein has a healthcare system based on mandatory health insurance.
Medical Services Overview
Medical services are generally of high quality and include access to specialists and hospitals.
Emergency Medical Access
Emergency medical services are readily available.
Emergency & Safety
Emergency Number (Police)
117
Emergency Number (Ambulance)
144
Emergency Number (Fire)
118
Crime Rate
Very low crime rate.
Safety Index
Very high safety index.
Military Expenditure
No military expenditure.
Emergency Services Overview
Well-developed emergency services, including police, ambulance, and fire departments. Strong collaboration with Swiss services.
Safety Overview
Liechtenstein is widely considered one of the safest countries in the world for tourists, with very low crime rates. Petty theft, such as pickpocketing, is rare but can occur in busier tourist areas or during events, so it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings. Scams targeting tourists are uncommon. Standard travel precautions, such as keeping valuables secure and being mindful of personal belongings, are sufficient. Road safety is excellent, but as with any mountainous region, be cautious when driving, especially in winter conditions. Emergency services are highly efficient and readily available. You can generally feel very secure exploring both the urban areas and the natural landscapes of Liechtenstein.
Military Branches
No standing army.
Infrastructure
Electricity Access
100% access.
Water Access
100% access to improved water sources.
Sanitation Access
100% access to improved sanitation facilities.
Railways
Main railway line connects to the Swiss and Austrian rail networks.
Roadways
Well-maintained road network; primarily paved. Total length ~250 km.
Transportation System
Well-developed road network, reliance on neighboring countries' airports and railways.
Airports
No commercial airports; relies on nearby Swiss and German airports.
Ports
No ports, landlocked country.
Public Transit
Bus services within and to neighboring countries.
Technology & Communication
Internet Penetration (%)Source: World Bank: Individuals using the Internet (% of population) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
98.26#10 of 211
Mobile Subscriptions (per 100)
Very high mobile subscriptions.
Tech Startups
Growing tech startup scene.
Innovation Index
High innovation index.
ICT Development Index
High ICT Development Index.
TV Broadcast Stations
Limited local TV stations; primarily receives broadcasts from neighboring countries.
Radio Broadcast Stations
Local and regional radio stations.
Plug Type & Voltage
Type J, 230V, 50Hz
CO2 Emissions (t per capita)
High CO2 emissions per capita.
Air Quality Index
Generally good air quality; monitored regularly.
Water Pollution Level
Low levels of water pollution, well-managed water resources.
Renewable Energy Usage
Increasing use of renewable energy sources.
Environmental Issues
Limited due to small size and strong environmental regulations.
Natural Hazards
Avalanches, landslides.
Waste Management
Efficient waste management systems, high recycling rates.
Environmental Agreements
Party to international environmental agreements.
UN MembershipSource: REST Countries
Yes
Diplomatic Missions
Has diplomatic missions abroad.
International OrganizationsSource: REST Countries
Schengen Area
Major Treaties
Part of the European Economic Area (EEA), Schengen area.
Visa-Free Countries
Visa-free access to many countries due to Schengen membership.