Liechtenstein

Liechtenstein Overview

Chinese Name: English IPA: Location: Population (city): Language: Zip code: Tel code: Time zone:

Traveling from Liechtenstein to the main cities in China will involve a few steps, as Liechtenstein does not have an international airport. Here’s how to plan your trip:

1. Visa Requirements for China

Before traveling to China, you will need to apply for a Chinese visa. Here’s what you need to know:

How to Apply for a Chinese Visa:

  • Visa Application Form: Complete the application form available on the Chinese Embassy or Visa Application Service Center (CVASC) website.
  • Required Documents:
    • Passport: Must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry into China.
    • Photographs: Passport-sized photos as per the embassy’s requirements.
    • Flight Itinerary: A return flight booking to show your travel plans.
    • Accommodation: Proof of hotel bookings or an invitation letter from your host in China.
    • Financial Proof: Bank statements showing sufficient funds to cover your stay.
    • Travel Insurance: May be required in some cases.

Where to Apply:

  • Liechtenstein does not have a Chinese consulate, so you will need to apply at the Chinese Embassy in Bern, Switzerland, as it serves Liechtenstein residents.

Processing Time: Typically 4-7 business days.

2. Flights from Liechtenstein to China

Liechtenstein does not have an airport with international flights, so you will need to travel to nearby cities to catch a flight to China. The most convenient airports are in Zurich (Switzerland) and Munich (Germany), both of which are relatively close to Liechtenstein.

1. From Liechtenstein to Zurich Airport (ZRH):

  • Distance: Zurich is approximately 120 kilometers (about 1.5 hours by car or train) from Liechtenstein.
  • Transport Options: You can take a train or bus from Liechtenstein to Zurich Airport, or rent a car for the trip.

2. From Liechtenstein to Munich Airport (MUC):

  • Distance: Munich is around 280 kilometers (about 3.5 to 4 hours by car from Liechtenstein).
  • Transport Options: You can take a train or rent a car to reach Munich Airport.

3. Flights from Zurich or Munich to China

From either Zurich Airport (ZRH) or Munich Airport (MUC), you can take direct flights to major cities in China, such as Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong, or Guangzhou. Several airlines operate these routes.

Zurich to China:

  • Airlines: Swiss International Air Lines, Lufthansa, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines.
  • Popular Routes:
    • Zurich to Beijing (PEK): Around 10-12 hours.
    • Zurich to Shanghai (PVG): Around 11-13 hours.
    • Zurich to Hong Kong (HKG): Around 12-13 hours.

Munich to China:

  • Airlines: Lufthansa, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, Emirates.
  • Popular Routes:
    • Munich to Beijing (PEK): Around 9-11 hours.
    • Munich to Shanghai (PVG): Around 11-13 hours.
    • Munich to Hong Kong (HKG): Around 12 hours.

4. Flight Booking Tips

  • Booking Flights: Use flight search engines such as Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Expedia to compare prices and book your flight.
  • Direct Airlines: You can also book directly through airlines like Swiss International Air Lines, Lufthansa, or Qatar Airways for convenience.

5. Transportation Within China

Once you arrive in China, you can travel between cities using the following modes of transport:

Domestic Flights:

China is vast, and internal flights are common. For example, flying from Beijing to Shanghai will take around 2-3 hours.

High-Speed Rail:

China has an extensive high-speed train network, which is a convenient and fast option for traveling between major cities, such as Beijing to Shanghai (about 4-5 hours).

Public Transport:

Public transport in major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou includes metro systems, buses, and taxis. In cities like Shanghai, the metro system is efficient and widely used by locals and tourists.

Ride-Hailing Services:

You can use Didi Chuxing (China’s Uber equivalent) to book taxis or private cars in most cities.

6. Currency and Payments in China

  • Currency: China’s currency is the Renminbi (RMB) or Chinese Yuan (CNY).
  • Payment Methods: Mobile payment apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay are commonly used, especially in major cities. Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are also accepted in many places.
  • ATMs: You can use international cards to withdraw cash at ATMs in major cities.

7. Health and Safety

  • Travel Insurance: It is advisable to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers health, accidents, and travel disruptions.
  • Vaccinations: Make sure to check with your doctor about necessary vaccinations before traveling.
  • Emergency Numbers:
    • Police: 110
    • Ambulance: 120
    • Fire: 119

8. Cultural Tips for China

  • Language: The official language in China is Mandarin Chinese. English is not widely spoken outside major tourist areas, so it’s helpful to learn a few basic phrases or use a translation app.
  • Tipping: Tipping is not common in China, although it may be appreciated in high-end restaurants or hotels.
  • Politeness: Respect and politeness are important in Chinese culture, especially in formal settings.

9. Weather and Packing

  • Weather: China has diverse climates. For example, Beijing can be very cold in the winter and hot in the summer, while Shanghai has a milder, more temperate climate. Hong Kong and Guangzhou are humid year-round.
  • Packing: Pack according to the climate of the cities you will visit. For Beijing in winter, bring warm clothes, while lighter clothing is more suitable for places like Shanghai and Guangzhou.

10. Recommended Cities to Visit in China

  • Beijing: Famous for the Great Wall, Forbidden City, and Tiananmen Square.
  • Shanghai: A modern city known for the Bund, Shanghai Tower, and Yu Garden.
  • Guangzhou: Known for Cantonese food and attractions like the Canton Tower.
  • Hong Kong: A cosmopolitan city with Victoria Peak, Hong Kong Disneyland, and vibrant markets.
  • Xi’an: Home to the Terracotta Army and ancient landmarks.
  • Chengdu: Famous for its pandas and Sichuan cuisine.

To travel from Liechtenstein to China, you will need to apply for a Chinese visa through the Chinese Embassy in Bern, Switzerland. Then, travel from Liechtenstein to a nearby airport such as Zurich or Munich, and take a direct flight to a major Chinese city like Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong, or Guangzhou. Once in China, you can use domestic flights, high-speed trains, and public transportation to explore the cities. Be sure to check the visa requirements, prepare for the flight, and enjoy your travels to China!