Vaduz Castle

Vaduz Castle, perched dramatically on a wooded hillside above the tiny capital of Liechtenstein, is the emblem and crowning landmark of the principality. Dating in parts to the twelfth century, this handsome medieval fortress, with its keep, ramparts and turrets, is the official residence of the reigning Prince of Liechtenstein, one of the last truly ruling princely families in Europe, and is therefore not open to the public inside. Its exterior and its commanding position, however, gazing down over the capital and the Rhine valley to the Swiss Alps beyond, make it a wonderful sight, reached by a short walk up from town that rewards with fine views.

What you actually see

• The hilltop castle - the medieval princely fortress above Vaduz.
• The valley views - the vistas over the capital and Rhine valley.
• The walk up - the short scenic climb from the town.
• The exterior and setting - the keep, ramparts and wooded crag.

When to go

May to October, for the greenest, mildest weather and best views over the valley and Alps, ideal for the walk up to the castle; the surrounding hills are lovely for walking. The castle is floodlit and picturesque in the evening, and the national day on 15 August, celebrated with fireworks below the castle, is a special time to visit.

Honest expectations

The castle interior is the private home of the princely family and firmly closed to the public, so a visit means admiring the exterior and enjoying the views from the walk up rather than touring inside; it is a sight to see and photograph rather than explore. As the fairytale emblem of the principality, the residence of one of Europe's last ruling princes, in a commanding position above the capital and valley, though, Vaduz Castle is a lovely and iconic landmark.

Nearby

The capital Vaduz, its museums and the Rhine valley are just below.