If you’re planning a trip to the stunning Principality of Liechtenstein, you might be wondering: Does Liechtenstein have its own airport? The short answer is no, but don’t worry—getting to this charming, landlocked country is still a breeze thanks to its proximity to major airports in neighboring Switzerland and Austria.
Here’s everything you need to know about traveling to Liechtenstein by air:
Why Doesn’t Liechtenstein Have an Airport?
Liechtenstein is a tiny country nestled between Switzerland and Austria, covering just 160 square kilometers (62 square miles). With its small size and mountainous terrain, there’s simply no room for an airport. However, its central location in Europe and excellent infrastructure make accessing the country easy and efficient.
Closest Airports to Liechtenstein
1. Zurich Airport (ZRH), Switzerland
- Distance from Liechtenstein: Approximately 115 km (71 miles)
- Travel Time: About 1.5 hours by car or 2 hours by train
- Why Choose Zurich?
Zurich Airport is the largest international airport in Switzerland, with flights from all over the world. It’s a modern, well-connected hub that offers seamless travel options to Liechtenstein via train, bus, or car.
2. St. Gallen-Altenrhein Airport (ACH), Switzerland
- Distance from Liechtenstein: Approximately 50 km (31 miles)
- Travel Time: About 45 minutes by car
- Why Choose St. Gallen-Altenrhein?
This smaller airport is great for regional flights and those traveling within Europe. While it’s less busy than Zurich, it’s closer to Liechtenstein and perfect for those coming from neighboring countries.
3. Friedrichshafen Airport (FDH), Germany
- Distance from Liechtenstein: Approximately 90 km (56 miles)
- Travel Time: Around 1.5 hours by car
- Why Choose Friedrichshafen?
Located across the border in Germany, Friedrichshafen is another regional option for European travelers.
4. Innsbruck Airport (INN), Austria
- Distance from Liechtenstein: Approximately 160 km (99 miles)
- Travel Time: About 2 hours by car
- Why Choose Innsbruck?
For travelers exploring Austria or looking for a scenic drive through the Alps, Innsbruck Airport is a great option.
Getting to Liechtenstein from the Airport
By Train
- Liechtenstein is well-connected to European train networks. Most travelers arrive via the Swiss town of Sargans, which has direct train connections from Zurich Airport. From Sargans, you can take a short bus ride or taxi into Liechtenstein.
By Car
- Renting a car is a popular option for travelers who want flexibility. The roads leading to Liechtenstein offer stunning alpine views, making the drive part of the adventure.
By Bus
- Regional buses from nearby Swiss and Austrian towns provide an affordable and reliable way to reach Liechtenstein.
Tips for Travelers Heading to Liechtenstein
- Plan Your Route: While Zurich Airport is the most popular choice, smaller airports like St. Gallen-Altenrhein may be more convenient for regional travelers.
- Public Transport: Switzerland’s public transport system is efficient and easy to navigate, making it simple to connect to Liechtenstein.
- Border-Free Travel: Thanks to Liechtenstein’s location in the Schengen Area, crossing borders from Switzerland, Austria, or Germany is seamless for most travelers.
Final Thoughts
While Liechtenstein doesn’t have its own airport, its central location and excellent transport links make it easily accessible from multiple nearby airports. Whether you’re arriving via Zurich, St. Gallen, or Innsbruck, your journey to this alpine gem is sure to be smooth and scenic.