Things To Do
in Schaan

Schaan is the largest municipality in Liechtenstein and serves as its administrative center. It is located in the northern part of the country near the Rhine River, offering picturesque views of the surrounding mountains. Schaan has a mix of residential areas, industrial zones, and commercial districts, making it a hub of economic activity in Liechtenstein.

The town is known for its charming architecture, including traditional Alpine-style buildings and modern structures.

  • "Grüezi" - Hello
  • "Danke" - Thank you
  • "Bitte" - Please/You're welcome
  • "Adieu" - Goodbye
  • "Wie geht's?" - How are you?

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $250
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $20 - $50
  • Coffee: $3 - $5
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $60 - $120
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $50 - $100

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore Schaan's Nature
morning
:

Start your day with a hike through the scenic trails around Schaan. Enjoy the fresh air and beautiful views of the Liechtenstein landscape.

afternoon
:

Visit the local cafes for a traditional lunch while taking in the charming atmosphere of the town. Afterward, stroll through the park and admire the local flora.

evening
:

Wrap up your day by enjoying a peaceful evening in one of the town squares. Have dinner at a cozy restaurant, savoring local cuisine.

day 2
History and Culture
morning
:

Visit the historical sites in Schaan, including the site of the Roman ruins. Take time to learn about the history of Liechtenstein through informative displays.

afternoon
:

Head to the Liechtenstein National Museum to delve deeper into the country’s culture and heritage. Engage with exhibitions featuring art and artifacts.

evening
:

Enjoy a cultural performance or concert if available, celebrating local music and art. Finish the night with drinks at a local bar.

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • High standard of living with good quality of life.
  • Strong economic stability and prosperous businesses.
  • Beautiful natural surroundings with access to outdoor activities.
  • Excellent education system and healthcare services.
  • Low crime rate, contributing to a safe environment.
  • High cost of living compared to many other regions.
  • Limited cultural activities and entertainment options.
  • Language barrier for non-German speakers.
  • Small size may lead to a lack of diversity in job opportunities.
  • Isolation from larger cities due to its geographical location.

Best Activities in Schaan

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Hiking in the Alpines

Explore the picturesque hiking trails in the nearby Alpines surrounding Schaan, offering breathtaking views of the natural surroundings.

Cycling along the Rhine River

Enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the scenic Rhine River, taking in the picturesque landscapes and charming villages.

Visit to Gutenberg Castle

Take a trip to Gutenberg Castle to immerse in the history and heritage of Schaan while enjoying panoramic views of the region.

Tours

Uncover the best of Schaan with these unforgettable tours.

Places to Visit in Schaan

Visit one of these nice places.

Lova Vista

A viewpoint overlooking Schaan and the Rhine Valley, offering stunning panoramic views and photo opportunities.

Gutenberg Castle

A historic castle with a picturesque setting and beautiful views over the surrounding area, perfect for photography and sightseeing.

Schwefelberg

A scenic mountain area with hiking trails and breathtaking vistas of Schaan and the alpine landscape, providing excellent photography opportunities.

Food in Schaan

The cuisine of Schaan, Liechtenstein is influenced by both Swiss and Austrian culinary traditions. Local dishes often feature hearty alpine ingredients such as cheese, potatoes, and meat. Visitors to Schaan can explore a variety of dining options ranging from traditional restaurants to street food vendors and food markets.

Schaan Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Käsknöpfle

A popular dish made of small dumplings mixed with melted cheese and topped with crispy onions. Can be found at Gasthof zum Deutschen Rhein.

Must-Try!

Ribel

A type of cornmeal mush served as a side dish or main course, often accompanied by stewed fruit. Found at many local restaurants and cafes.

Unique Experiences

Get to know Schaan better with these unique experiences.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Schaan Food Market

Located in the town center, this market offers a variety of local produce, dairy products, and freshly prepared street food such as käsehörnli (cheese horns) and bratwurst.

Weather

The climate in this region is classified as temperate and features an oceanic influence. It experiences four distinct seasons, characterized by warm summers and cold winters. During the summer months, temperatures can range from around 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), with July typically being the warmest month. Rainfall is fairly consistent throughout the year, with summer storms sometimes occurring. Winter temperatures usually fall between -2°C and 5°C (28°F to 41°F), with January being the coldest month. Snowfall can occur, particularly in higher elevations, which contributes to the region's picturesque winter landscape. Spring tends to be mild and pleasant, while autumn can be cool and crisp, with vibrant foliage. Overall, the area enjoys moderate precipitation, with a slight increase in rain during the summer months. The combination of proximity to the Alps and the Rhine River contributes to its varied weather patterns.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting etiquette

In Schaan, it is customary to greet people with a handshake, especially in formal settings. Men may wait for women to extend their hand for a handshake, while women may offer their hand first in a greeting.

Punctuality

Punctuality is highly valued in Liechtenstein, so it is important to arrive on time for social and business meetings. Being late without a valid reason may be considered disrespectful.

Respect for privacy

Respecting personal space and privacy is important in Liechtenstein. It is polite to avoid asking personal questions unless the other person initiates the conversation on such topics.

Safety

Safety in the small town of Schaan is generally considered to be high, as is typical for many places in Liechtenstein. The crime rate is low, and residents and visitors often report feeling secure in their surroundings. The local police force is approachable and efficient, contributing to the overall sense of safety. Emergency services are readily available and well-coordinated, ensuring quick responses to any incidents. The community is tight-knit, which fosters a supportive environment and promotes vigilance against crime. Public spaces, parks, and recreational areas are well-maintained and monitored, making them safe for families and individuals. Overall, the environment in Schaan is characterized by a peaceful atmosphere, with a focus on community and safety. Visitors can expect a serene experience with minimal concerns regarding personal safety or security.

Tipping in Schaan

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Schaan, Liechtenstein, it is customary to round up the bill or leave a small tip of 5-10% at restaurants and cafes. Tipping is not expected in many other service establishments.

Payment

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Schaan, Liechtenstein. Cash is also commonly used, especially for small transactions and at local markets. ATMs are readily available for cash withdrawals.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring is a beautiful time to visit Schaan, Liechtenstein. The weather is pleasant, with blossoming flowers and lush greenery. The countryside comes to life, making it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling.

Summer

Summer is a popular time to visit Schaan, Liechtenstein. The sunny weather offers great opportunities for outdoor exploration, from exploring the mountains and valleys to enjoying cultural festivals and events.

Autumn

Autumn brings stunning fall foliage to Schaan, Liechtenstein. The landscapes are painted with vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow, creating picturesque backdrops for hiking and photography.

Winter

Winter turns Schaan, Liechtenstein into a winter wonderland. Visitors can enjoy snow sports like skiing and snowboarding in the nearby mountains, as well as festive holiday markets and traditional winter activities.

Schaan at Night

Nightlife in this part of Liechtenstein offers a more subdued and intimate experience compared to larger cities, emphasizing quality over quantity. Visitors and locals alike can enjoy a selection of cozy bars and cafes where they can relax with a drink and engage in quiet conversation. Some venues occasionally host live music or small cultural events, providing entertainment without overwhelming crowds. For those seeking a more robust nightlife experience, nearby Vaduz offers additional options, including more lively bars and nightclubs. However, even in Schaan, the focus is on a charming, laid-back atmosphere where you can unwind in a friendly and safe environment. This makes it an ideal destination for travelers looking to experience nightlife in a relaxed and scenic setting, away from the hustle and bustle of larger urban centers.

Hiking in Schaan

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Säntis Trail

A scenic hiking trail that offers stunning views of the Säntis mountain and the surrounding landscapes, perfect for an adventurous day out.

Malbun

A beautiful mountain area near Schaan, featuring various hiking trails ranging from easy to challenging, with picturesque alpine scenery.

Rheinpromenade

A relaxing riverside hike along the banks of the Rhine River, ideal for leisurely walks and enjoying nature.

Liechtenstein Trail

An extensive trail that spans the entire country, providing hikers with the opportunity to explore the diverse flora and fauna of Liechtenstein.

Pizol

Located a bit further away, the Pizol offers breathtaking views and various trails, including paths that lead to stunning alpine lakes.

Aiports

How to reach Schaan by plane.

Zurich Airport (ZRH)

Located approximately 120 km from Schaan, Zurich Airport is the largest international airport in Switzerland and a major hub for international flights.

Friedrichshafen Airport (FDH)

Located around 60 km from Schaan, Friedrichshafen Airport offers flights to various destinations in Europe.

Memmingen Airport (FMM)

Approximately 90 km away, Memmingen Airport serves as a base for several low-cost airlines.

Stuttgart Airport (STR)

Situated about 200 km from Schaan, Stuttgart Airport is one of Germany's key airports, providing extensive international connections.

Innsbruck Airport (INN)

Located approximately 130 km from Schaan, Innsbruck Airport primarily serves international holiday destinations along with some business routes.

Walkability

Walkability in the area is characterized by a compact layout that promotes pedestrian accessibility. The town features well-maintained sidewalks, and many residential and commercial locations are situated within a short distance of each other. This allows residents and visitors to easily navigate on foot. Public spaces such as parks and plazas contribute to a pleasant walking experience, offering opportunities for leisure and social interaction. The urban planning of the area encourages a pedestrian-friendly environment, with traffic calming measures in place to prioritize walkers over vehicles. Moreover, public transportation options further enhance walkability, allowing individuals to easily connect to nearby towns and cities without needing a car. Overall, the environment supports an active lifestyle, making it a favorable location for those who prefer walking as their primary mode of transportation.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

German-speaking population

The majority of the population in Schaan speaks German, which is the official language of Liechtenstein.

Swiss expatriates

A significant number of residents in Schaan are from Switzerland, reflecting historical ties and economic connections.

Italian immigrants

There is a notable Italian community in Schaan, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.

Austrian residents

Austrian citizens also form a demographic group, as Schaan is located near the border with Austria.

Other foreign nationals

Various other nationalities are represented in Schaan, adding to the multicultural environment of the town.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is one of the most popular sports in Schaan, with local clubs and a strong community involvement in both playing and supporting the sport.

Athletics

Athletics has a significant following in Schaan, with many local events, track and field programs promoting physical fitness and competition.

Tennis

Tennis is enjoyed by many in Schaan, with courts available for both recreational play and competitive matches.

Skiing

With proximity to the Alps, skiing is a favored winter sport, attracting both local enthusiasts and tourists to the region.

Cycling

Cycling is popular in Schaan, supported by scenic routes and a community that values outdoor activities.

Traffic

Traffic in this small town is generally manageable, characterized by its compact streets and a mix of local and through traffic. The road network is efficient, with connections to neighboring areas and the main highways leading to other parts of Liechtenstein and Switzerland. During peak hours, especially in the mornings and late afternoons, there can be some congestion, but it is often minimal compared to larger urban centers. Pedestrian pathways and cycling routes are well-integrated into the town, promoting alternative modes of transportation. Parking is usually available, though it can be competitive during busy times. Public transportation options, including buses, provide good connectivity, reducing reliance on private vehicles for some residents and visitors. Overall, traffic in the area reflects the town's small size and community atmosphere, with a balance between facilitating mobility and maintaining calmness in daily life.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Schaan.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Many restaurants in Schaan offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, with options like vegetable quiche, lentil stew, and fresh salads available.

Gluten-Free Choices

Visitors with gluten intolerance can find gluten-free pastries, bread, and pasta at select cafes and restaurants, such as Café Heideblüte.

Healthcare

In this small, landlocked country, healthcare is highly regarded and accessible to residents. The healthcare system operates under a mandatory health insurance model, ensuring that all citizens and residents have coverage. The government provides a regulatory framework, while private insurance companies offer various plans. Schaan is home to several medical facilities, including general practitioners and specialized clinics providing a range of services. The town benefits from a strong emphasis on preventative care and regular health check-ups, which are integrated into the healthcare culture. For more complex medical needs, residents often access services at larger hospitals, such as the Liechtenstein National Hospital located in nearby Vaduz. This facility has modern equipment and capabilities, providing a broad spectrum of healthcare services, from emergency care to specialized treatments. Overall, healthcare in Schaan and Liechtenstein is characterized by a systematic approach that prioritizes patient care, quality service, and accessible medical support for the entire population.

Discover Liechtenstein

Read more in our Liechtenstein 2024 Travel Guide.

Liechtenstein Travel Guide