Liechtenstein and Luxembourg: traveling through the smallest countries in Europe

When popular European destinations have already been explored inside and out, you need to look for alternative routes. And there are plenty of them! You just need to look at the map carefully. There, among the countries we know, are small kingdoms and republics. Every tourist should visit them, because you won't find such attractions in France, Germany, or Poland.

So if you want to go abroad, but don't know where to plan your trip, read on!

Liechtenstein

This dwarf principality is located in the middle of the Alps. It is so tiny that it is mistakenly considered a Swiss region. But it is not. Of course, Switzerland has considerable influence and exercises some important powers, but the formal sovereignty and independence of Liechtenstein is preserved.

The state is very small. A third of its land is covered by mountains. In some places, the width of the territory does not exceed 10 kilometers. That's why most travelers get here for the first time simply by missing the right turn. They were on their way to Austria and found themselves in an unknown kingdom. But the locals don't pay attention to this and jokingly say that size doesn't matter. And they are right. Despite its tiny size, Liechtenstein is considered an important financial center in Europe, as it has a highly developed banking system.

In addition, the principality has many tourist attractions, from ancient to modern. And you should see them not through a computer monitor or smartphone, but with your own eyes.

The most important attraction of the country is the Vaduz Castle, a vivid example of early medieval defense architecture. Today it belongs to the royal dynasty that rules the country. It used to serve as a shield against enemy attacks. And during World War II, it became a refuge for European nobility.

The stone fort is built on top of a rocky hill. That's why it can be seen from anywhere in the city. By the way, the palace is not empty. The monarch's family lives there on a permanent basis. So, unfortunately, you won't be able to go inside. But don't be upset and don't cross this location off your travel bucket list. We recommend conquering the peaks of the Three Sisters Mountain. It offers beautiful views of the unbreakable fortress.

If you really want to visit the castle complex, try to get to Gutenberg. The gates of the bastion are opened during festivals and performances of theater companies. Such events take place here very often. So you have more chances to be on its territory.

When you have seen enough of the medieval fortifications, go explore the capital. Take a walk along Stedle Street, where the main attractions of the city are concentrated. The Postal Museum, the Admiral's House, the Government House, and the City Hall are located here. The Vaduz Cathedral is a little further away. Don't miss it by any means.

Luxembourg

This country is slightly larger than Liechtenstein in terms of area. But compared to other countries, it is quite tiny. But you shouldn't go here without a detailed tourist route. Although the Duchy is small, it has many places to visit. We share with you the main locations.

First of all, you should go to the old neighborhoods and walls. During the Middle Ages, these fortifications were constantly attacked and fought back with dignity. The fact is that in those days the main trade routes passed through here. And every nation wanted to control them. Therefore, the local residents lived in the realities of constant war. They were attacked by Austrians, French, Spaniards, and Prussians. But they didn't give up, because they wanted only one thing: to rule their land.

Here you can walk among the walls of defensive architecture, plunge into the atmosphere of that era and admire the beautiful scenery.

Then head to the heart of the city - Place Guillaume II. Here you will find outstanding historical masterpieces: the Luxembourg Cathedral, the City Hall, the residence of the head of state, and the monument to Duke William II.

Go to the Adolf Bridge. It is named after the tycoon who started the construction. The crossing was built in just three years. This is a very short time for the scale of such a structure.

Don't miss the Merweiye amusement park. Here you can ride unusual rides, see models of the local railroad and visit the zoo. And, of course, don't forget about the natural attractions. Visit at least one of them - Luxembourg Switzerland.

We have listed only a small part of the sights and places worth visiting. As you can see, these two countries are small, but there are plenty of tourist locations. So plan your route and go on a new journey.