Approximate Border Location
Border Countries
- 🇱🇮Liechtenstein
- 🇦🇹Austria
Border Cities
- 🇱🇮Schellenberg
- 🇦🇹Feldkirch
Wait Times
Cars 0-5m; peaks 5-20m commute
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Operating Hours
Open 24 hrs (12:00 AM-11:59 PM)
Crossing Types
Ped,cars,bikes; Schengen open border
Border Type
Land crossing via local road
Peak Times
Weekdays 07:00-09:00 AM; 04:00-06:00 PM
Daily Crossings
3,000-12,000/day
Currency Exchange
CHF; EUR in Feldkirch; ATMs
Safety Information
Low risk; narrow roads in places
Languages Spoken
German
Accessibility Features
Sidewalks limited; step-free varies
About Schellenberg & Feldkirch
The Schellenberg-Feldkirch border crossing provides one of the most peaceful and scenic land connections between Liechtenstein and Austria, positioned in the northern Rhine Valley where Liechtenstein’s Schellenberg municipality meets Austria’s Vorarlberg state in the town of Feldkirch. You typically approach this point when traveling overland from Vaduz, Schaan, or Eschen in Liechtenstein toward Feldkirch, Bregenz, or the broader Vorarlberg region in Austria, often choosing it as a relaxed alternative to the nearby Mauren-Meiningen or Hinterschellenberg crossings a few kilometers away. Alternative names include the Schellenberg Border Post (Liechtenstein side), Feldkirch Border Post (Austria side), or simply the Schellenberg-Feldkirch crossing.
Location and Basic Connection
Schellenberg municipality lies in northern Liechtenstein along the Rhine Valley floor at the foot of the Liechtenstein Alps, with the crossing near the village of Hinterschellenberg. Feldkirch sits immediately across the border in Austria’s Feldkirch District. The crossing connects Liechtenstein’s Route 16 (from Schaan) to Austria’s L190 road toward Feldkirch town center. It handles passenger vehicles, motorcycles, bicycles, and local foot traffic in a gentle valley setting of lush meadows, apple orchards, vineyards, and the dramatic backdrop of the Drei Schwestern massif and surrounding peaks.
Historical Background
The border follows the 1719 creation of the Principality of Liechtenstein from the counties of Schellenberg and Vaduz, with the Rhine Valley line established through Habsburg and Liechtenstein-Austrian agreements. Schellenberg and Feldkirch were once part of the same cultural and economic fabric before the modern frontier solidified. During World War II, the nearby Schellenberg area gained fame when Liechtenstein granted asylum to Vlasov Army soldiers who crossed into the principality in May 1945, refusing Soviet repatriation. The Schellenberg-Feldkirch crossing itself remained a quiet rural frontier throughout the 20th century. Post-war economic integration between Liechtenstein and Austria (both EFTA members) kept the post open and lightly staffed, with minimal formalities reflecting the close ties between the two Alpine nations.
Current Operating Status
As of early 2026, the crossing operates daily from 05:00 to 01:00 local time (UTC+1 for both countries; both observe daylight saving). It remains open without major disruptions reported recently. Liechtenstein offers visa-free entry for many nationalities (90 days for most, aligned with Schengen); Austria provides visa-free entry for eligible travelers (90 days, Schengen). The post sees very modest traffic, primarily local residents, cross-border commuters, and occasional tourists drawn to the Rhine Valley scenery. No significant queues or delays are common. Confirm via embassies or official border service websites, as hours can adjust for holidays or rare weather-related closures.
Practical Crossing Procedures
You cross by vehicle or on foot. From Liechtenstein at Schellenberg, complete exit formalities at the small Liechtenstein border post for passport stamps and basic checks. Proceed across the short road segment (often a bridge over a stream or canal) to Feldkirch in Austria for entry. Austria requires document review, questions about purpose or accommodation, and possible luggage or vehicle inspections. Bring passport photos, cash for any minor fees, proof of funds, and onward travel details. The process typically takes 15 to 45 minutes for straightforward cases, with basic but clean facilities on both sides.
Wait Times and Peak Periods
Queues remain short or nonexistent due to very low traffic. Early mornings or late afternoons move fastest. Peaks occur only during local events, seasonal tourism, or holiday movements from Liechtenstein to Austria, but this post avoids any meaningful delays. No backups reported recently.
Transportation Options
Local roads from Vaduz or Schaan reach Schellenberg in Liechtenstein. In Austria, the L190 connects Feldkirch to Bregenz or the Arlberg region. Shared taxis, private vehicles, or bicycles work; no regular buses cross directly. Use official hires. Roads on both sides are paved and well-maintained, with gentle curves through the valley. Arrange transport ahead, especially in winter.
Scams and Safety Warnings
Scam reports stay minimal at this quiet post, but watch for informal offers of “help” with forms or currency exchange at poor rates; ignore and use official counters. Petty overcharges for transport happen occasionally. The rural valley area feels very low-risk during open hours, with no major crime noted. Both countries maintain standard security; expect routine checks. Standard border caution applies. Stick to marked zones and avoid unofficial deals.
Road Conditions and Scenery
Liechtenstein’s approach features smooth paved roads through green meadows, vineyards, and traditional Alpine villages. The border zone includes modernized posts amid open valley floor. Austria’s side starts with similar paved roads, surrounded by rolling hills, distant Alpine peaks, and the Ill River valley. Scenery includes the Rhine Valley views, forested slopes, and the dramatic Three Sisters massif. Dry season keeps roads clear; wet periods or winter snow add minor hazards.
Seasonal Variations and Weather Impacts
Dry season (May-September) offers best conditions and higher tourism. Wet autumn and spring can worsen minor potholes. Winter snow and ice affect roads, though the crossing rarely closes. Traffic remains low year-round.
Nearby Attractions
Schellenberg offers the historic Schellenberg Castle ruins and the Vlasov Army memorial plaque commemorating the 1945 asylum event. Nearby Vaduz provides the Prince’s Castle and modern art museum. In Austria, Feldkirch features the Schattenburg Castle, medieval old town, and Montforthaus cultural center. The area suits those interested in Alpine history, quiet rural exploration, or WWII memorial sites over major tourism.
Cultural and Economic Role
Local trade in agricultural goods, wine, and essentials sustains the crossing, supporting small communities on both sides. It enables family ties and small exchanges across the frontier. The post reinforces practical links in this historic valley region, though traffic remains modest.
Final Planning Tips
Arrive early with cash (USD or local currencies), printed documents, and offline maps. Prepare for Alpine weather (cold nights, possible snow) and basic facilities. Check road conditions and status ahead via embassies or forums. With preparation, you manage formalities and enjoy the scenic valley passage.
Wrapping Up the Crossing
Ruggell-Feldkirch keeps things simple and scenic between Liechtenstein and Austria. Time your visit thoughtfully, handle the essentials, and it offers a peaceful route through the Rhine Valley countryside. Safe travels.
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