Tour Städtle Tour

Explore Vaduz’s Charm on the Städtle Tour

The Städtle Tour in Vaduz, Liechtenstein offers a compact yet insightful 35-minute journey through the city’s most notable sights. Priced at just $15.21 per person, this mobile ticket tour is perfect for those who want a quick overview of Vaduz’s heritage, culture, and key attractions. With a rating of 4.0 out of 5 from 16 reviews, it shows good overall satisfaction, especially for visitors seeking an affordable introduction to the city.

This tour covers notable sites such as the Red House, historic vineyards, sports stadium, and important government buildings. While the duration is short, the itinerary offers a nice mix of history, politics, and local culture. The tour’s accessibility, with easy meeting points and a small group size capped at 54 travelers, helps keep it intimate and manageable for most visitors.

The Red House: Vaduz’s Oldest Building and Wine Heritage

The tour begins at the Red House, one of the oldest structures in Vaduz, first documented in 1338. Its long history includes ownership by the monastery of St. John and later by the Rheinberger family, who still own the estate today. Visitors learn about the house’s history, including its wine press from the winter of 1483/84, which remains functional.

The cellar vaults of the Red House were once used to store 20,000 liters of wine, emphasizing Vaduz’s vinicultural tradition. This stop provides insight into local history and viticulture, making it a meaningful introduction to Vaduz’s centuries-old relationship with wine. It highlights the importance of wine in the city’s heritage, particularly the princely vineyard “Herawingert”, which is considered Vaduz’s most traditional vineyard.

The Princely Vineyard “Herawingert” and Local Wine Culture

Next, the tour visits the 4-hectare “Herawingert” vineyard, which has been owned by the Princely House since 1712. This vineyard is regarded as the heart of Vaduz’s viticulture, producing Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The grapes thrive in the favorable conditions, producing princely wines that are highly regarded.

Visitors learn that this vineyard is not only a symbol of Vaduz’s wine history but also a current producer of excellent wines. The focus on princely wines underscores the connection between the royal family and local traditions. While tasting is not included, the emphasis on quality and tradition makes this stop worthwhile for wine enthusiasts and those curious about Vaduz’s agricultural heritage.

Vaduz Stadium: Home of the National Football Team

The Rheinparkstadion, opened in 1998, is notable as the home ground of the Liechtenstein national football team and FC Vaduz. It can seat 6,000 spectators, making it one of the larger sports venues in the city.

The stadium’s modern design contrasts with Vaduz’s historic architecture, and the tour offers a glimpse into the city’s sports culture. Visitors interested in football or sports infrastructure will appreciate this stop. Although it is primarily a sports venue, its presence highlights Vaduz’s community and national pride.

The Political Heart of Vaduz: State Square and Parliament

The tour continues to the Liechtenstein State Square, where the government building and the parliament house—constructed in 2007—are located. This area reflects the city’s political structure, rooted in the constitutional hereditary monarchy established in 1806 and formalized by the 1921 constitution.

The parliament, with 25 members, governs in collaboration with the Prince, illustrating the unique blend of monarchy and democracy. Visitors get a sense of Liechtenstein’s political stability and sovereignty through these prominent government buildings, making it an educational stop for those interested in politics.

Historic Houses and the National Museum

The bailiwick at Städtle 43 dates from around 1500 and once served as the ruler’s representative building. Today, it houses the National Museum, where exhibits showcase archaeology, folklore, natural history, and cultural history of Liechtenstein.

The museum also hosts internationally recognized exhibitions, offering a variety of topics that change regularly. This stop provides a deeper understanding of local traditions and history, especially for visitors who want a look into Liechtenstein’s cultural identity.

The Postal Museum: Stamps and Philatelic Treasures

The Postal Museum presents the famous Liechtenstein stamps and is notable for its free admission. It showcases the country’s postal history and philately, which is a significant part of Liechtenstein’s cultural heritage.

For stamp collectors or those with an interest in postal history, this museum offers a concise but engaging experience. Its central location makes it easy to include in a short city tour without extending the overall duration.

The Treasury of Liechtenstein: Royal Treasures

A highlight of the tour is the visit to the treasury, which boasts unique treasures from the Prince of Liechtenstein’s collections. These include the crown, Fabergé apple blossoms, and original moon rocks.

This collection offers an exceptional glimpse into the royal family’s holdings and the country’s rich collection of valuable artifacts. Visitors appreciate the opportunity to see these rare and remarkable items in a compact setting, making it a memorable part of the tour.

The Kunstmuseum and Hilti Art Foundation

The tour concludes at the Kunstmuseum Liechtenstein, home to the Hilti Art Foundation. The museum displays remarkable works of art from impressionism to contemporary pieces, along with temporary exhibitions. It serves as Vaduz’s primary venue for high-level visual art and cultural display.

Visitors can enjoy a diverse range of artworks, adding a cultural depth to the city experience. The museum’s modern architecture and curated collections reflect Vaduz’s vibrant art scene.

Practical Details: Meeting Points and Accessibility

The tour departs from Rathausgasse in Vaduz and ends at the same location. It operates Monday through Saturday during the months from April to October, with scheduled times at 1:00PM and 4:30PM. The duration of approximately 35 minutes makes it easy to fit into a busy sightseeing schedule.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, with service animals allowed, and is accessible via public transportation. The group sizes are limited to 54 participants, ensuring a comfortable experience. Confirmation is immediate, and the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Final Thoughts on the Städtle Tour in Vaduz

The Städtle Tour offers an engaging, affordable way to explore Vaduz’s highlights in a short amount of time. It covers a good balance of historical sites, cultural institutions, and local traditions, making it suitable for first-time visitors and those with limited time.

While the tour is concise, it provides meaningful insights into Vaduz’s royal wine heritage, political structures, and cultural treasures. The inclusion of stops like the treasury, museum, and stadium adds variety and depth to the experience. However, the 35-minute duration means it’s a quick overview rather than an exhaustive exploration.

The Städtle Tour is a practical choice for visitors wanting a guided introduction to Vaduz, especially considering its cost-effectiveness and accessible locations. It suits those interested in history, art, and local traditions, with the flexibility of a mobile ticket and easy scheduling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour’s short duration and wide range of sights make it appropriate for visitors of all ages, from families to seniors.

What is included in the tour?
The tour covers key sites like the Red House, vineyards, stadium, government buildings, museum, and treasury, providing a rundown of Vaduz.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 35 minutes, making it ideal for those with limited time or as part of a broader sightseeing plan.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, with a full refund.

Is the tour accessible via public transportation?
Yes, the meeting point is near public transportation, making it easy to reach from various parts of Vaduz.

Who operates the tour?
The activity is run by Citytrain Aktiengesellschaft, a reputable local provider.