If you’re itching to book a holiday for springtime but want to avoid all of the usual tourist traps, then one place should be on your radar. Tucked away in between Austria and Switzerland lies Liechtenstein, a tiny but wealthy principality that’s perfect for nature and history lovers.
While places like Italy and Spain might be your go-to, overtourism can sometimes make it difficult for you to fully relax and enjoy your trip. So for those planning a holiday this year, cruise and tour operator Riviera Travel has analysed European tourism statistics to help travellers find peaceful destinations, away from the crowds. And it was Liechtenstein that came out on top, with the fewest visitors by a long way.
According to the experts, in 2024 tourists spent just over 200,000 nights in this principality. Nestled between two landlocked countries, this hidden gem offers stunning Alpine beauty and sophisticated culture too.
Lonely Planet described visiting Liechtenstein as ‘stepping into a bedtime story’ due to its towering castles and breathtaking views. It may be the smallest country in Europe but it’s still worth a visit, as it has such a unique charm that’s unlike anywhere else.
Lichtenstein is split down the middle by the River Rhine, and the capital city Vaduz is the ideal place to explore the water and its surrounding attractions.
If you love to hike, then there are so many gorgeous trails to explore near here, for people of all capabilities. One of the best is the Liechtenstein Trail, beginning in Balzers on the Swiss border in the south, and finishing up in Schaanwald in the north.
You’ll pass by mountains, forests and rivers, as well as medieval castle ruins and plenty of quaint villages. This route passes through the capital, so it’s a great way to see so much of what the country has to offer.
For history buffs, the Liechtenstein National Musuem is a must-visit. Setting foot into the impressive 15th century building, you can discover the rich heritage of the country through artefacts and paintings.
Food and wine is also a massive part of the Liechtenstein experience. The country’s climate is ideal for wine-making, and there are plenty of vineyards situated in the sloping hills and valleys.
Hofkellerei of the Prince of Liechtenstein in Vaduz is a massively popular one, and you can book tours and tasting for individuals or groups of up to nine people. Fans on TripAdvisor have been full of praise, awarding it a 4.2/5 rating on average.
One happy customer wrote: “Great tour of the winery and some very tasty wines to taste! Staff were amazing too. Very friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. Well worth a visit.”
For the very best food in Liechtenstein, the Michelin-starred Restaurant Marée needs to be on your list. It has won numerous awards, with chef Hubertus Real and his team serving up seasonal delicacies all year round.
One of the restaurant’s many five-star reviews reads: “Great service, delicious, beautifully presented cuisine, interesting and varied menu. Flawless execution highlighted by a sincere and charming greeting from the hotel’s owner. A very memorable experience – I’d recommend eating in the heated, outdoor space as it’s quite pleasant.”
There’s no airport in Liechtenstein itself, so it’s best accessed from Zurich since it’s only around an hour’s drive from this Swiss city.
European destinations with the fewest tourists
1. Liechtenstein – 228,579
2. North Macedonia – 2,180,510
3. Luxembourg – 3,684,469
4. Latvia – 4,692,213
5. Montenegro – 5,200,576
6. Estonia – 6,645,908
7. Albania – 7,445,714
8. Lithuania – 8,640,124
9. Malta – 11,320,179
10. Serbia – 12,662,151