Liechtenstein Museum

Lonely Planet review

Until 1938, the Royal family of Liechtenstein resided in Vienna, but after the Anschluss they made a hasty retreat to their small country squeezed between Austria and Switzerland. They didn't, however, manage to take everything with them, and it was only near the end of WWII that they transferred their collection of baroque masterpieces to Vaduz.

After many years collecting dust in depot vaults, this private collection of Prince Hans-Adam II of Liechtenstein is once again on display in Palais Liechtenstein. It's one of the largest private collections in the world, consisting of around 200 paintings and 50 sculptures, dating from 1500 to 1700.

The magnificent Palais Liechtenstein almost outshines the collection itself. Built between 1690 and 1712, it is a supreme example of audacious and extravagant baroque architecture that completely dazzles the eyes. Frescoes and ceiling paintings by the likes of Johann Michael Rottmayer and Marcantonio Franceschini decorate the halls and corridors.

The art collection, known as the Princely Collection, is displayed over two of the palace's three floors and includes the likes of Rubens, Raphael, van Dyck and Rembrandt.

Audio guides are available for around €1 , and guided tours in German (around €4 ) leave at 15:00 Saturday and 23:00 Sunday.