Money, cards and ATMs in Liechtenstein

The Swiss franc

• Liechtenstein uses the Swiss franc (CHF), under a customs union signed with Switzerland in 1923 and in force since 1 January 1924; the franc became the currency in 1924 too.
• It is not in the eurozone and not in the EU.
• Euros are accepted in many shops at a rate that favours the seller. Pay in francs.
• Cards work everywhere and contactless is standard.

Prices

• Swiss prices apply. Liechtenstein is expensive, and eating out in Vaduz costs what it would in Zurich.
• There is no cheap option in a country this small - crossing into Austria at Feldkirch is the local move for a cheaper shop.

ATMs

• Always refuse the machine's offer to charge you in your own currency. Dynamic currency conversion at an ATM or a card terminal costs several per cent, every time, and the offer is worded to sound helpful. Choose the local currency and let your own bank convert.
• Use bank ATMs rather than the independent machines in tourist areas, which add their own fee on top.