Which Is the Wealthiest Country in Europe? It's not UK or Denmark; The Name May Surprise You

Liechtenstein, one of the richest and safest countries in the world, has no airport, no currency of its own, and no official language. Tucked between Austria and Switzerland, this tiny European nation boasts a high GDP per capita, stunning landscapes, and low crime rates. Discover why Liechtenstein is an unexpected success story in Europe.

Vidhee Tripathi
Jul 27, 2025, 19:51 IST

The nation that has no language, no currency, and no airport, but is still one of the richest, is like a secret treasure. With its stunning natural surroundings, imposing castles, and a crime rate so low that there are just seven people incarcerated, "it is one of the richest and safest countries on Earth." Doesn't that sound unbelievable? There is such a place, tucked away between Austria and Switzerland, and it's known as Liechtenstein. On Instagram, a video about this unusual European utopia has gone viral.

Country with no Currency

Liechtenstein utilizes the Swiss franc instead of its own currency. They don't have an official language; they use German as their acquired language. Despite this, it is among the safest and wealthiest nations on the planet. Liechtenstein serves as proof that one can succeed without having to be big, showy, or follow your own set of rules.

Which is the Wealthiest Country in Europe?

Are you aware that Liechtenstein is one of the richest nations, "even richer than the king of Britain"? Even though Liechtenstein is a tiny nation, just 160 square kilometers, or roughly the size of Washington, D.C., it is the second-wealthiest in Europe in terms of per capita GDP, behind Monaco. According to economic figures, the per capita income is far higher than that of practically every other country in the world, at around USD 197,000 per year. However, the fact that it has almost little crime is maybe even more unexpected. Just seven people are arrested nationwide, according to the most recent government statistics.

The residents in this area have enough money to live well without working. It gives them adequate time to engage in a passion project. "The residents “benefit from minimal taxes and have no foreign debt." Their relationship is built on respect for one another, and showing off your wealth is frowned upon. People in Liechtenstein don't even bother to lock their doors at night, and there are only about 100 police officers due to the low crime rates.

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How to Reach this Country?

Liechtenstein, a hidden gem, does not have an international airport. Tourists wanting to visit this country will have to travel to its neighboring country and then reach this nation via road. Tourists take flights to Innsbruck or Zurich, Switzerland, and then drive within the nation.

Basic Facts About Liechtenstein

Detail

Information

Capital

Vaduz

Area

160 sq km

Population

38,300

Language

German

Life Expectancy

80 years (men), 85 years (women)

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Liechtenstein Political System

Liechtenstein is a parliamentary constitutional monarchy that combines democracy and royal authority. Its constitution from 1921 states that an elected parliament and the ruling prince share executive authority. The parliament nominates its five-member government cabinet, which the prince appoints to four-year terms.

Despite its small size, Liechtenstein serves as an example of how a country can prosper without having a vast amount of land, a powerful army, or worldwide dominance.

Vidhee Tripathi
Vidhee Tripathi

Content Writer

Vidhee Tripathi completed her PG Diploma degree in Digital Media from Indian Institute of Mass Communication, New Delhi. She is a graduate in Science with chemistry honors from Banaras Hindu University. She has 2 years of experience in various aspects of journalism. She was previously associated with the social media wing of Akashvani. At jagranjosh.com, currently she covers current affairs, national news and international news. She is also associated with the education news section of Jagran Josh.

Certificate: Creative Writing, Problem Solving, Web Content Writing
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