Things To Do
in Schaan
Schaan is Liechtenstein’s largest municipality by population, presenting a refined yet approachable Alpine town experience. It sits just north of Vaduz and offers easy access to the Rhine Valley, scenic hills, and modern amenities. The town blends residential charm with convenient services, parks, and shopping, making it a comfortable base for exploring the principality.
With close proximity to the Alps and neighboring countries, Schaan is a quiet gateway to outdoor adventures and cultural highlights.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey by settling into your accommodation in Schaan, where you can relax and enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. Take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets, soaking in the quaint atmosphere and local architecture. Grab a coffee at a nearby café to fuel your adventures ahead.
Visit the Liechtenstein National Museum to learn about the country's rich history and cultural heritage. Take your time exploring the various exhibits, from archaeology to art. Afterward, enjoy a delicious lunch at a traditional restaurant nearby, sampling local specialties.
As the sun sets, make your way to a scenic viewpoint to take in the breathtaking panorama of the Rhine Valley. Opt for a casual dinner at a nearby bistro, where you can try more of the local cuisine. Wrap up your first day by enjoying a peaceful walk through the serene park, absorbing the tranquility of the evening.
Hop on a bus to the capital, Vaduz, and start your day by visiting the iconic Vaduz Castle, which offers striking views of the city and surrounding landscape. Explore the beautifully manicured gardens and learn about the castle's fascinating history. Enjoy breakfast at a local bakery with fresh pastries and coffee.
Spend your afternoon visiting the Kunstmuseum Liechtenstein, known for its contemporary art collections. After soaking in the culture, indulge in lunch at one of the charming outdoor eateries in the plaza. If time permits, take a stroll along the Rhine River promenade for some fresh air and picturesque scenery.
Return to Schaan and dine at a restaurant that specializes in regional wines, enhancing your culinary experience. After dinner, unwind at your accommodation or explore the local nightlife options if you're in the mood for a lively atmosphere. Alternatively, enjoy a quiet evening under the stars, stargazing from a quiet spot near your lodging.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $3-5 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $120-180 |
| 🧀Local cheese or snack | $5-9 |
| 🚆Public transport single ticket | $3-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Safe and clean environment
- Compact and easy to explore
- Proximity to the Alps and Liechtenstein’s highlights
- High quality of life and efficient services
- Limited nightlife within Schaan
- Small country with fewer big-city amenities
- Some services concentrated in Vaduz, requiring short trips
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Guten Morgen" - Good morning
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me
Places to Visit in Schaan
Visit one of these nice places.
Long riverside path with reflections of the Alps on calm days—perfect for sunrise or golden-hour shots.
Iconic fortress perched above the valley; dramatic silhouettes at sunset and early evening.
Colorful, orderly streets and traditional façades offering classic Alpine town photography.
Elevated vantage points along the national trail with sweeping views of the Rhine Valley and surrounding peaks.
Food in Schaan
Schaan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Cheesy noodle dumplings topped with onions, a staple in Alpine-inspired menus; often served with applesauce or a crisp salad.
Must-Try!
Golden, crispy fried potato cakes typically served with bacon, cheese, or smoked salmon—adaptable for varying tastes.
Classic German-style sausage with tangy sauerkraut and mustard, commonly available in traditional eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small but vibrant market offering regional cheeses, bread, produce, and prepared snacks; easy to reach by bus from Schaan.
Seasonal street-food stands and pop-ups in the town center featuring local bites and quick snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
German is the official language; use polite Sie form in formal settings and eye contact when greeting.
Punctuality is valued; maintain personal space, especially in queues and public transport.
Keep hands visible while dining; tipping is appreciated but not obligatory if a service charge is included.
Safety
Tipping in Schaan
Ensure a smooth experience
If service is not included, tipping around 5-10% is customary; rounding up is common in casual spots.
Credit cards are widely accepted; Swiss Franc (CHF) is the official currency; cash is handy; Euros are sometimes accepted in tourist areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blossoming trees; showers are possible; great for outdoor walking and early hiking.
Warm days with long daylight; ideal for outdoor activities, lake access nearby, and outdoor dining.
Crisp air and harvest atmospheres; good lighting for photography and wine-tasting experiences in nearby areas.
Cold with snowfall possible; nearby Malbun offers skiing and winter sports; cozy indoor venues for warming up.
Schaan at Night
Hiking in Schaan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular moderate hike near Balzers with rewarding valley views and Alpine scenery.
A scenic segment of the national trail, connecting villages with vineyards and castle viewpoints.
Airports
How to reach Schaan by plane.
Major international hub; approximately 1.5–2 hours by train from Schaan; frequent connections across Europe.
Smaller regional airport with limited but useful connections; quick access to Liechtenstein by road.
German regional airport; easy connections to European destinations; drive or train transfer to Schaan.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Schaan’s population includes Liechtensteiners, plus a significant number of cross-border workers from Switzerland and Austria; German is the primary language, with English spoken in many tourist and service sectors.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and followed; local clubs compete in regional leagues.
Popular in winter, with Malbun offering family-friendly slopes and scenic alpine terrain.
Road cycling along the Rhine Valley is common, with routes suitable for all levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Schaan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many menus offer Käsknöpfle with vegetable sides, hearty salads, and seasonal veggie dishes; ask for cheese-free or egg-free options.
Most restaurants can accommodate with gluten-free bread or pasta; communication is key to avoid cross-contamination.