I recently spent a wonderful time exploring a tiny corner of Europe that most people skip. I am talking about a trip that changed how I think about vacations with my furry best friend. Dog Friendly Travel in Vaduz, Liechtenstein is not just a dream. It is a reality that every dog owner should experience at least once. This microcountry is nestled right between Switzerland and travel with dog austria routes. It is small. It is clean. It is perfect.
You might wonder, is liechtenstein worth visiting? I can tell you that it is. The mountain views are stunning. The streets are quiet. The air feels fresh. Plus, it is a place where your dog is treated like a VIP.
Getting There and the Basics
First of all, let us talk about the journey. Does vaduz have an airport? No. It does not. You will likely fly into Zurich in Switzerland or maybe Innsbruck in Austria. From there, you can take a train to a border town like Buchs or Sargans. I took the bright green LIEmobil bus from the train station. It was easy. It was fast.
Can i visit liechtenstein without a lot of fuss? Yes. There are no real border controls between it and the countries next door. However, you must have your paperwork ready. Your dog must be microchipped. You need an up-to-date rabies shot that was given at least 21 days before you arrive. An EU Pet Passport is the gold standard here. If you come from outside the EU, you will need a health certificate from an official vet.
Is liechtenstein safe for tourists? It is one of the safest places I have ever walked. The crime rate is almost zero. I felt safe walking my dog even late at night in the capital. The town of Vaduz is actually a village in terms of law, but it feels like a cozy, royal city.
Where to Stay in Vaduz
Finding a place to sleep is the next big step for a dog friendly vacation europe. Vaduz has some great choices. I stayed at the Hotel Vaduzerhof by b-smart. They allow dogs of any size. I had to pay an extra fee of 20 CHF per night. It was worth every cent. The hotel is right in the center of town.
Additionally, the Residence Hotel is a top choice. It sits right in the pedestrian zone. On top of that, Park Hotel Sonnenhof offers a luxury stay. They have a private park with views of the Alps. They even have gourmet menus for pets if you want to splurge. Similarly, if you want something more like a home, there are apartments like the Castle View Big Appartment.
Gradually, I realized that many hotels here are ready for pets. They often provide bowls or beds if you ask. Therefore, you do not have to pack your whole house.
Dining Out with Your Dog
Eating out in Vaduz with a dog is a breeze. Most restaurants with outdoor seating are very welcoming. I found that even some indoor spots were happy to see my pup. First of all, I suggest Restaurant Engel. It has a large terrace that overlooks the main street, the Städtle. It is a great place to sit and watch people.
Later, I visited Mizu, which is a high-end Japanese restaurant. My dog was welcomed with a bowl of water right at the table. That is true kindness. Other spots like Altenbach Restaurant & Bar and Adler 1908 also allow pets. If you want something simple, the American Bagel & Coffee Co. is a good choice.
On the contrary, remember that the Kunstmuseum restaurant might have different rules for the inside. Always ask before you walk in. Most staff speak great English. They are patient. They are friendly.
Things to Do: Hikes and Culture
Liechtenstein with dog travel is all about the outdoors. The hiking is world-class. I took the short hike up to Vaduz Castle. This is where the Prince lives. You cannot go inside the castle. However, the walk up the Schlossweg trail gives you the best views of the valley.
Additionally, you should walk to the ruins of Burg Schalun. The path is about 4 km long. It takes you through beautiful woods. There are even spots to have a grill or a picnic. Just make sure your dog is fit for the climb. Some trails can be steep.
If you like wine, visit the Hofkellerei des Fürsten von Liechtenstein. This is the princely winery. You can walk through the vineyards with your dog on a leash. You can even do a wine tasting. My dog sat quietly while I learned about the local Pinot Noir.
For a flatter walk, head to the Rhine River. There are long paths along the water. It is a perfect spot for a morning run. Also, the Old Rhine Bridge is a cool wooden bridge that leads to Switzerland. Only foot traffic and bikes can use it.
Rules and Etiquette
Liechtenstein is a very clean country. You will notice this the moment you arrive. There is no dog poop on the sidewalks. Therefore, you must carry waste bags at all times. There are plenty of trash bins around. If you do not clean up, you could face a fine between 50 and 500 CHF.
Your dog should be on a leash in the city and in parks. In some nature areas, you must keep them leashed to protect the wildlife. This is very important from April to July during bird nesting season.
Similarly, if you use the bus, there are rules. Small dogs in carriers often travel for free. Larger dogs need a ticket, which is usually half the price of a human ticket. On top of that, large dogs must wear a muzzle on public transport. I recommend carrying one in your bag just in case.
Health and Emergencies
Sometimes things go wrong. It is best to be ready. Vaduz has great vet services. I found the Mrs. Cornelia Bärtschi Kleintierpraxis right in town. If you have a crisis at night, there are emergency vets in Vaduz and nearby towns like Schaan and Triesen.
Keep the number 112 in your phone for general emergencies. Vet costs can range from 50 to 200 CHF for a visit. Plus, you should watch out for mosquitoes in the woods. They can carry heartworm. Make sure your dog has their medicine before the trip.
Beyond Vaduz: Schaan and Malbun
Though Vaduz is the heart of the country, other towns are close. Schaan is only a few minutes away. It has a great Youth Hostel that is pet friendly. It is a budget-friendly way to see the area.
Finally, do not miss Malbun. It is a mountain village higher up in the Alps. It is a paradise for dogs. The trails are endless. In the summer, you can take your dog on the cable cars. They might need a muzzle or a carrier, and there is usually a small fee. The views from the top are pure magic.
Why You Should Go
I think Dog Friendly Travel in Vaduz, Liechtenstein is a hidden gem. It is a place where you can relax. You do not have to worry about crowds. You do not have to worry about safety. Your dog can join you for a hike, a wine tasting, and a nice dinner.
First of all, it is easy to plan. Second of all, the people are very kind to animals. Finally, it is a memory you will keep forever. Pack your bags. Grab the leash. Your Alpine adventure is waiting.
May’s Page mentioned that these small “L” countries can be confusing, but Liechtenstein stands out on its own. It is a land of castles and mountains. It is a land where Fido is king.
So, is it worth the trip? Absolutely. I am already planning my next visit. There are more trails to sniff. There are more views to see. I hope to see you and your pup on the Städtle soon!
Now, let us look at some common questions you might have about this area.
FAQ
Is Liechtenstein dog friendly?
Yes. It is exceptionally welcoming to four-legged friends. Your pup is part of daily life there. You can take them from alpine trails to city streets.
Where is the best place to holiday with a dog?
Liechtenstein is a top pick in Europe. The mountain trails and quiet capital make it perfect for a trip.
Are dogs allowed on trains in Switzerland?
Yes. Small pets in carriers often travel for free. Larger dogs usually need a ticket. This costs between 5 and 10 CHF. They must also wear a muzzle.
Can I use euro in Liechtenstein?
The official currency is the Swiss Franc (CHF). Some shops might take Euros. However, your change will be in francs and the rate is often bad.
What is the easiest country to travel with a dog?
Liechtenstein is one of the easiest destinations in Europe for pet owners. Most hotels and public transport allow well-behaved animals. Plus, the people are very friendly toward pets.
Which city is the most dog friendly?
Vaduz is a great city for pets. It is calm and quiet. Your dog will not be bothered by noise or crowds.
Does SWISS allow dogs in cabins?
Yes. Swiss Air allows pets in the cabin if they weigh less than 8 kg. This service costs between 50 and 100 CHF for each way.
Where to go in Switzerland with a dog?
You can visit Zurich or Cureglia for dog-friendly dining. Towns like Buchs or Sargans are also pet-friendly spots on the way to Vaduz.
Concluding words
Vaduz is a dream destination for you and your dog. You can walk through the Städtle and visit the Prince’s winery together. Most hotels allow pets for a small fee of about 20 CHF. Public buses are easy to use as long as your dog wears a muzzle. Therefore, you can travel between towns with ease. The city is safe, clean, and full of beautiful mountain views. Plan your trip now for a vacation you will never forget.
