26 TOP things to do in Vorarlberg
Last updated on January 25th, 2026.
A few years had passed since our last visit to Austria.
We’d had a memorable 2 days in Vienna, exploring the city’s magnificent architecture and enjoying our stay at Hotel Sacher.
And with us just being over the border in northern Italy, another visit was long overdue.
This time, we visited Vorarlberg, the westernmost region in Austria. A region characterized by its dramatic mountains, hilly landscapes and unique architecture, I was ready to see it for myself.
In this post, I’ll be detailing the top things to do in Vorarlberg. It will cover:
- a stay in Mellau
- unmissable things to do around Lake Constance (Bodensee)
- top attractions to visit in Bregenz
- 1 day in Feldkirch; and
- what to do in Dornbirn
Sounds good? Then join me as we begin an Austrian adventure around Vorarlberg.
This post works well if you plan to spend 1 week in Vorarlberg. Alternatively, you can also create a 3-day itinerary and choose the places you most want to see.
Sounds good? Then join me as we begin an Austrian adventure around Vorarlberg.
26 top things to do in Vorarlberg
First stop: Mellau
When people think of Austria, they usually associate it with the famous movie, The Sound of Music.
And, although it was filmed in Salzburg, I couldn’t help but see some similarities when first setting eyes on Mellau. A village in the district of Bregenz, Mellau is exactly what you’d picture a traditional Austrian village to look like.
1. Jump on the Mellau cable car (Mellaubahn)
Most visitors that come to Mellau tend to visit for outdoor activities. And, the first point of call is usually the Mellau cable car.
Upon reaching the top, there are plenty of things to do in Mellau that’ll fill up an entire day. Choose from one of many hiking routes and explore the landscape from a spectacular height. Come winter, the ski resorts around Mellau attract visitors from near and far.
Before returning to ground level, stop for a meal or snack at one of the eateries. Restaurant Simma at the Rossstelle serves traditional meals using locally produced ingredients.
Mellau cable car, Hinterbündt 380
Restaurant Simma, Rossstelle 242
2. Check into a mountain village hotel
Our base for our visit to Mellau was the inviting Hotel Bären.
Rooms are spacious, modern and comes with a kitchenette and/or a balcony. My room had an unbeatable view of Mellau Village and the surrounding mountain range.
A relaxing way to unwind after a long day’s hike, the sauna at Hotel Bären will hit the right spot.
3. Eat kässpätzle at Nazes Hus
Kässpätzle is a classic dish that you’ll find across Vorarlberg, as well as in Swabia and Baden in Germany.
Spatzle is also a common dish in the Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol region of Italy. It’s one of our favorite Italian comfort foods, especially when we visit the Dolomites in the winter.
In Mellau, we’d a memorable dinner at Nazes Hus trying their classic kässpätzle, washed down with glasses of Austrian wine. Creamy, wholesome and loaded with cheese, there’s no chance of leaving hungry here.
Nazes Hus, Tempel 73
Top things to do around Lake Constance (Bodensee)
It’s no big secret that I’m a lover of the lakes.
Our 3 days in the Lake District, and our journey around Lake Como, are some of our fondest travel memories.
So, you can imagine my delight upon discovering another lake, this time, the beautiful Bodensee.
Where is Bodensee?
Bodensee is also known as Lake Constance. Though just one name, it refers to 3 bodies of water shared by 3 countries: Austria, Germany and Switzerland. The word ‘see’ means ‘lake’ as well as ‘sea’ in German.
Pronounced ‘Bo-din-zee’, the Austrian side shares the Upper Lake Constance (‘obersee’) with its neighbors. It’s the largest section of all 3 bodies of water. Lower Lake Constance (‘untersee’) is the smaller of the 2. It forms part of the boundary between Germany and Switzerland.
Accessible to the public
The Vorarlberg part of Bodensee is the only part that is an accessible, public area and not private as it's mainly located in Switzerland and Germany.
An interesting fact about Bodensee’s history is its name. In English, it’s named after the German city of Constance, while in German, it’s named after the village of Bodman. Bodman-Ludwigshafen is a municipality located in the north-western part of Upper Lake Constance.
Whatever name you call it, a visit to Bodensee is one of the best things to do in Vorarlberg.
Is Bodensee worth seeing?
We first set our eyes on Bodensee at a time when the morning sun was still rising over the lake. A familiar, fuzzy sensation came over me as I gazed upon the translucent blue water, swaying with gentle ripples.
In the near distance, different bird species flittered across the water, filling the air with their delightful birdsong. It was a reminder that Bodensee is more than just a lake, it’s also a place where nature thrives.
The third largest freshwater lake (in surface area) in Europe, Bodensee is home to around 45 species of fish. Over 400+ bird species have also been recorded in and around the Bodensee nature reserves.
In short, Bodensee is definitely worth seeing.
Best activities in Lake Constance
Upon first glance, it’s easy to see why Lake Constance is so popular with visitors. Walking, cycling, boating or relaxing, the lake has an activity for every type of traveler.
A quick side note: we didn’t do all of the activities listed below during our visit to Lake Constance. One week in Vorarlberg was simply not long enough. But, it’ll give you a good idea of the type of activities available, and will help you plan better.
4. Hike the splendor of Bodensee-Vorarlberg
In a region as green and mountainous as Vorarlberg, it’s no wonder why people come here to hike.
There are countless routes to try in Bodensee-Vorarlberg, ranging in length and distance. Choose one that best suits you, and see the region from a different perspective.
3 hikes for different levels — things to do in Lake Constance
Mehrerau trail along Lake Constance
A hike accessible for any age and level of fitness, the Mehrerau trail along Lake Constance is ideal for beginners. Starting at the corner of Strandweg, the trail takes you past sights like the marina and the Bregenz Festival Hall.
Fußach walk
One for nature lovers, the hike around the commune of Fußach takes you through the Rohrspitz nature reserve. See how many different bird varieties you can spot, while enjoying the tranquillity of the lake.
Pfänder to Langen
With a walking time of around 3.45 hours, this hike’s a little more challenging. Beginning at the Pfänder, the local mountain of Bregenz, you’ll cross the Hirschberg mountain until you reach Langen bei Bregenz.
Wait for your jaw to drop upon seeing panoramic views of Bodensee and the mountain peaks of Switzerland and Liechtenstein.
5. Get on your bike in Bodensee-Vorarlberg
Choose from one of several cycle paths to discover some places that are really off the beaten track. Ride along the banks of the River Rhine and the shores of Lake Constance to get up and close with nature.
The largest cycle path is the one that envelops Lake Constance at 162mi (260km). Complete the entire course, or break it up by seeing some of the route by boat.
An alternative to completing the full Lake Constance course is the Rhine Valley (Rheintal) cycle path at 29mi (47km). The route takes you from the city of Bregenz, past Lake Constance and the Rhine Dam, to Feldkirch.
If you haven’t brought your bike with you, worry not. Bike Rental Bregenz does exactly as its name suggests and is located right by Bodensee-Vorarlberg.
Bike Rental Bregenz (Radverleih Bregenz), Seepromenade
6. See Bodensee by boat
I’m a simple person. I see a large lake and I book a boat tour.
Seeing Bodensee by boat is arguably one of the best ways to visit the region. We did the same during a weekend in York, England, and enjoyed every second.
Vorarlberg Lines will take you to some of the best visitor spots around Lake Constance, like Mainau Island and Konstanz.
Get local
While in the latter, you may want to consider joining a Konstanz guided city tour. You’ll be able to learn more about the history behind the largest city in Bodensee, and with an expert guide. Visitors mistakenly think Konstanz is in Switzerland, given its close proximity to the Swiss border.
In fact, both Konstanz and Mainau Island are in Germany. That said, don’t forget to bring some official ID with you when visiting from Vorarlberg.
Staying local
If you prefer to see the lake — and stay close to Bodensee-Vorarlberg — renting a small boat’s a great option.
Choose between an electric, or a classic pedal boat, and enjoy the lake at your own pace.
Bootsvermietung Bregenz, Seepromenade 2 (seasonal)
7. Swim around Lake Constance
From May to September, locals flock to Bodensee to cool off in the lake or in the public swimming pools. With average water temperatures in mid-August reaching up to 77°F (25°C), you can swim in Lake Constance with great ease.
Strandbad Bregenz has two 50m swimming pools, one of which is heated. There’s also a kid’s pool and outdoor sporting activities like beach volleyball and beach football to choose from. Open from May to September, its usual opening hours are 10am to 8pm (weather pending).
Strandbad Bregenz, Strandweg 1, Bregenz
A public bathing beach right on the shores of Lake Constance, Strandbad Lochau makes an ideal swimming spot. Family friendly, and with chairs and umbrellas available for hire, all you’ve to do is turn up.
The beach opens from May to September, 10am to 7pm.** In July and August, the opening times are extended, opening from 9am to 8pm.** Like Strandbad Bregenz, the opening times depend on the weather conditions.
Strandbad Lochau, Lindauer Straße 1
8. Hit the ski slopes in Vorarlberg
When winter arrives in Vorarlberg, there’s only one activity that reigns supreme among the locals: skiing.
And, whether you’re a beginner or a more experienced skier, there’s a slope that’s right for you. Below are some skiing locations in Vorarlberg to suit different sporting levels:
- Dornbirn, Bödele: family-friendly ski area with a selection of beginner and more advanced pistes
- Übersaxen, Gröllerkopf: a skiing area that offers night skiing and is popular with families
- Möggers, Luggi-Leitner lifts: good for beginners and for children
- Laterns, Laterns-Gapfohl: 17mi (27km) ski area, ideal for all levels, and free childcare on the mountain at the largest ski area in Vorarlberg
How do get to Bodensee, Vorarlberg? There are many different ways to reach the region of Bodensee-Vorarlberg. Use the following information that best suits your individual travel needs. By air The closest international airports to reach Bodensee-Vorarlberg are Zurich (Switzerland), Bodensee-Airport Friedrichshafen, Memmingen, Munich and Stuttgart. The last 4 are all located in Germany. From Vienna, there’s also an option to fly to St. Gallen-Altenrhein in Switzerland with the People’s Viennaline. It’s a smaller fleet of planes and with fewer scheduled flights than bigger carriers. Upon arriving at Altenrhein, you can take a shuttle bus to either Bregenz or Dornbirn in Vorarlberg. Places are limited and you must book in advance. Prices at the time of publishing cost €19* ($22/£16) for a single fare (adult). Public transport in Bodensee-Vorarlberg - things to do in Vorarlberg I can personally confirm that the public transport in Vorarlberg is excellent. Clean, safe and always on time, it’s a reliable way of getting to Bodensee. A day ticket for the entire public transportation system (trains, buses, etc) costs €15* ($17/£12.80) for adults. If you’re planning on spending 1 week in Vorarlberg, you should consider purchasing a Bodensee-Vorarlberg Leisure Card. It allows free train and bus rides throughout the region. On top of this, you can also travel to border stations like Lindau in Germany and St. Margrethen in Switzerland.
Top attractions to visit in Bregenz
Adjacent to Lake Constance is the medieval city of Bregenz. From 1726, the city became the administrative capital of Vorarlberg. It’s a place of historical, as well as, of cultural importance.
Alongside its administrative title, Bregenz is probably most known for hosting the Bregenz Austria festival (Bregenzer Festspiele).
9. Stop by the Bregenz Opera House
Every summer, thousands of visitors come to the Bregenz festival to watch performances at the Bregenz Austria Opera House (Seebühne).
An open-air amphitheater with 7,000 seat capacity, the Bregenz Austria Opera House is the world’s largest floating stage. And, when you see the stage dressed up in its full, dramatic glory, you’ll understand why it’s so popular.
The Bregenz festival began in 1946, and today includes over 100 performances of operas and orchestral concerts.
During our visit, the season was sadly long over, leaving behind only the bare bones of the stage set. However, with Lake Constance in the background, you could still picture the magnitude of the scene.
Beyond Bregenz
Its famous stage has also reached the bright lights of Hollywood, having featured in James Bond’s, A Quantum of Solace.
The Bregenz Festival typically takes place in summer from late July to late August. In 2022, the festival begins on Wednesday 20 July and ends on Sunday 21 August. Check the festival’s website for the most up-to-date information and performance schedule.
Bregenz Opera House, Mehrerauerstraße
Map: best things to do in Vorarlberg
10. Ride the Pfänder cable car
Given Vorarlberg’s mountainous terrain, you’ll find that cable cars are the norm rather than the exception across the region.
In just 6 minutes, the Pfänder cable car takes you to the top of the 1.064m mountain. It can transport up to 80 people in each carriage, offering panoramic views of Lake Constance and the Alpine peaks.
The Pfänder cable car is open daily from 8am to 7pm. Check the website before visiting.
Pfänder cable car, Steinbruchgasse 4, 6900
11. Learn some history at Vorarlberg Museum
For a city the size of Bregenz, it has an impressive number of cultural attractions that’ll satisfy any inquiring mind.
Within the Bregenz city center are 3 museums all within close proximity of the other.
The Vorarlberg Museum is a good starting point for learning about the region’s art and cultural scene. Founded in 1857, the museum’s unique on the inside and out. A concrete façade is decorated with what appears to be a floral pattern. But, on closer inspection, it’s actually decorated with plastic bottle ends.
Vorarlberg Museum is also ideal for families. One of the most popular things to do with kids in Bregenz, it’s a great place for creative learning.
Vorarlberg Museum, Kornmarktplatz. 1
12. Take in some modern art at Kunsthaus Bregenz
Just on the other side of the Vorarlberger Landestheater is another cultural institution, this one dedicated to modern art.
Kunsthaus Bregenz was designed by Swiss architect, Peter Zumthor. He set out to create a work of art to present art, the results of which you see today.
The exhibition during our visit, was the work of Anri Sala. An Albanian contemporary artist, the wide, minimalist space was ideal for showcasing Sala’s conceptual work.
13. Get lost in Bregenz Old Town (Oberstadt)
Give me an old town, and I’ll happily spend some time getting lost in its cobbled streets and historic architecture. Walking around Bregenz Old Town, or the Oberstadt in German, reminded me of our time in Tallinn and Ljubljana.
Half-timber buildings with shutter windows and gable roofs stand alongside modern shop fronts.
As you pass by standout structures like Weinstube Kinz and Gasthaus Goldener Hirschen (eateries), you eventually enter the Obserstadt.
There’s no official sign that lets you know you’re in the old town.
At 29 Kirchstraße (Kirchstrasse), you’ll find the narrowest house in Bregenz. Open 24 hours, you can enter the house which, at 57cm, is said to be the smallest in Europe.
14. Visit St. Gallus church (Pfarrkirche St. Gallus)
As you continue walking down Kirchstraße, you’ll notice some stairs covered by a wooden canopy. It leads to the Kapuziner cloisters, a convent where the Sisters of St Clare still live today.
The upper pathway alongside the convent offers an elevated view of the area. I caught a clear view of the magnificent Deuringschlössle, the former manor that belonged to the aristocratic Deuring family.
More in the old town
Just when you think you’ve seen all of the old town, there’s another attraction waiting towards the end of Kirchstraße.
A small footbridge connects the street with the parish church of St. Gallus. Built between the 17th and 18th century, the Roman Catholic church reflects a baroque architectural style.
Within the church grounds is a memorial to soldiers that died in the war. As we stood there on a sunny autumn day, I couldn’t think of a more fitting location for the memorial.
St. Gallus Church, Kirchpl. 3
15. Browse the local markets in Bregenz
My foodie senses begin to tingle when I know there’s a food market in town. Just like Mahane Yehuda in Jerusalem, or St. Lawrence Market in Toronto, I’m interested to learn about the local produce.
In Bregenz, food markets selling fresh, regional products take place every Tuesday and Friday at the Kornmarktplatz. I spent time — probably a little too long — browsing each stall to see what seasonal produce was on offer.
On the same day, there were also some Italian producers selling products like fresh pasta and specialty Italian cheeses. Living in Italy, I don’t need to tell you that I politely declined when they asked me to buy something. I later found out that Italian producers only visit during spring and autumn.
16. Visit Vorarlberg’s Christmas markets (seasonal)
Christmas across the region is a special, and sparkly, affair.
And, while many of you know the Christmas markets in Vienna and Linz, the same can’t be said for Vorarlberg.
Bregenz, Dornbirn and Feldkirch host their own markets plus an array of other festive activities. In Bregenz, a nativity scene with real animals steals the show, while in Feldkirch, a gingerbread house draws in the crowds.
It’s a time of the year defined by mulled wine, seasonal treats and the aroma of roasted almonds.
- Christmas market Bregenz, Kornmarktplatz
- Christkindlemarkt, Dornbirn, Marktplatz
- Christmas market Feldkirch, Marktgasse, Feldkirch
17. Grab a snack at the Milk Mushroom (Milchpilz)
Near the shore of Bregenz Harbour is a unique kiosk, and one in the shape of a giant mushroom.
With its bright red ‘mushroom top’ it’s hard to miss the Milchpilz. When summer arrives, it’s the place where locals in Bregenz come to get a milk shake and a sandwich.
Once they’ve grabbed their snacks, it’s off to the ‘sunset steps’ (Molo) to enjoy their snacks and the view.
Milchpilz, Seestraße 2
18. Stop for lunch at Pier 69
After torturing myself with all of the delicious food at the market, we decided to stop for lunch.
Bregenz is blessed with an exciting and diverse food scene, and one that suits all palates — and budgets.
With plenty of late September sunshine, we chose to dine al fresco at Pier 69. Overlooking Lake Constance and Bregenz Harbour, the outdoors dining area was a clear winner.
The menu has a good mix of classic Austrian dishes like Käsespätzle, along with international cuisine.
Pier 69, Hafen Restaurant, Seestraße 4
19. Indulge in a traditional Kaiserschmarrn
Our lunch at Pier 69 didn’t end at the main course.
Our table had ordered a plate of kaiserschmarrn, and it would’ve been rude to turn it down.
An Austrian fluffy pancake dusted with powdered sugar and then cut into bite-size pieces, one bite wasn’t enough.
Named after former Austrian Emperor Franz Joseph I, I completely understand why he was so fond of kaiserschmarrn.
Austrians like to eat it for dessert or as a light lunch. The kaiserschmarrn was served with an apple compote and a large zeppelin flying overhead. Zeppelin Freidrichshafen offer zeppelin rides over the lake — for a price.
The zeppelin departs, and arrives, from the city of Freidrichshafen on the German side of Lake Constance.
20. Have a drink at the Fischersteg
On your walk around Bregenz Harbour, at some point you’ll see an old wooden pier.
It’s called the Fischersteg and was originally designed for fishing back in 1902. Today, it operates as a bar, but only during the summer season.
Fischersteg, Seeanlagen
Finding history in Feldkirch
Of all the places we visited in Vorarlberg, the city of Feldkirch is one I’d like to re-visit. Our itinerary didn’t allow for enough time to explore its full capacity.
From what I did see, Feldkirch is packed with travel potential and is one to add to your Vorarlberg itinerary.
21. Wander Feldkirch historic center
With a limited amount of time, I still managed to see several attractions in Feldkirch. A significant location in its history, Feldkirch city center is a great starting point.
To give you an idea of its past, the city celebrated its 800th anniversary in 2018. The most striking building — for me — is the Rathaus Feldkirch. Built in 1493, Rathaus Feldkirch has been the city’s town hall for over 500 years.
Its concrete façade is decorated with colorful frescoes that tell the story of the history of Feldkirch.
My walk also took me past Marktplatz (Market Square) and the Palais Liechtenstein. The former has been the city’s trading centre since the 13th century. Palais Liechtenstein was built by Prince Hans Adam von Liechtenstein in 1697, its former uses being an inn and brewery.
Today, Palais Liechtenstein is owned by the city of Feldkirch and is used as the central library.
Rathaus Feldkirch, Schmiedgasse 1-3
Palais Liechtenstein, Schlossergasse 8
22. Other things to do in Feldkirch
On my next visit to Feldkirch, these are the other attractions I’d like to see:
- Schattenburg Museum: a former castle and home for the Counts of Montfort
- City walls: the fortifications built to keep out intruders
- Katzenturm (Cat’s Tower): the tower where they kept the cannons
- Wildlife Park: a park with free entry and a chance to see around 160 wildlife species
One delightful day in Dornbirn
Dornbirn is the largest city in the Rhine Valley, and it was also our base for exploring Bodensee and Bregenz.
Hotel Katharinehof has an excellent central location in Dornbirn. It takes around 6 minutes’ walk to reach Marktplatz, the largest square in the city.
Modern, bright and ridiculously comfortable, Hotel Katharinehof was a good choice for our stay in Dornbirn. What’s more, Dornbirn train station is only 3 minutes’ walk, making it easy to travel around the region.
23. Explore the Marktplatz in Dornbirn
There’s one recognizable landmark that lets you know you’ve arrived in the Marktplatz: Pfarrkirche Dornbirn-St. Martin (St Martin’s Church).
The Roman Catholic church with the column portico and free-standing church tower is an impressive sight.
In and around Marktplatz are a number of great bars, eateries and places to shop. On Saturdays, there’s usually a market that sells fresh produce as well as flowers and plants.
Pfarrkirche Dornbirn-St. Martin, Marktplatz 1
24. See the sunset from Karren Mountain
Visiting the top of Karren Mountain is easily one of the best things to do in Dornbirn. For me, it’s probably my favorite viewpoint in the whole of Vorarlberg, especially if you go just before sunset.
Standing at a mighty 976m, the Karren Cable Car is the quickest way to get to the top. You may notice some locals dressed in hiking gear coming along for the ride. Karren mountain is a starting point for several hikes and is also a point of competition for some.
Before entering the ticket and cable car area, you may notice a standalone machine outside. This prints tickets with the current time so that hikers know how long it took them to reach the summit.
25. Walk the platform (‘Karren-Kante’)
The views from the top of Karren Mountain are nothing but spectacular. We stood speechless taking in panoramic views of the Swiss mountains, the Rhine Valley and Lake Constance.
A few feet away from the cable car is a more recent addition to Karren Mountain. ‘Karren-Kante’ is a platform that extends from the building, giving the impression that you’re almost ‘standing on air’.
Facing my fears – things to do in Dornbin Vorarlberg
In spite of my fear of heights, I wanted to try Karren-Kante for myself. With my heart beating faster and my palms becoming increasingly sweaty, I walked to the edge.
Rather than look down, I took another 180 of the scene in front of me. The sun was beginning to set over the region, bringing a spectrum of orange and yellows to the fore.
My moment on Karren-Kante was short lived. A large group of visitors had exited the cable car and were taking up every available space on the platform. Slightly panicked by the sudden crowd, and the vibrations they were causing, I walked back to safe, solid ground.
Seeing the sunset from Karren Mountain was easily one of my top highlights. Don’t forget to explore the other viewing point that’s a level down. It was less crowded and provided another unique perspective.
It’s also worth mentioning the Panoramarestaurant Karren at the top of the mountain. We didn’t get to eat here, but I’ve no doubt that your meal will come with an unbeatable view.
Karren Cable Car, Gütlestraße 6
Panoramarestaurant Karren, Bergstation Karrenseilbahn, Gütlestraße 6
26. Have dinner in a traditional gasthaus
After our sunset experience at Karren Mountain, I was sure that nothing could beat it. I was wrong.
Our final stop for the evening was at Gemsle Restaurant. Traditional from the outside and in, we felt instantly welcomed by the warm atmosphere and the friendly welcome.
The Austrian inn serves hungry patrons local dishes, as well as gastronomy with an international twist.
My pumpkin and coconut soup with chestnuts starter was one of the best I’ve ever had. This may sound like an exaggeration but I can assure you, it’s not. Its creamy texture married with the sweetness of the chestnuts still lingers in my memories to this day.
We clocked up more calories with a dessert (mine: crème brulee) and a glass of robust Austrian wine.
It was a delicious end to our Dornbirn trip and our time in Vorarlberg.
Final thoughts
I’ve always been someone who enjoys visiting lesser known regions, and I’m so thankful that I discovered Vorarlberg.
A region that exceeded every expectation with its landscape, nature, food and architecture, a return visit’s already in the pipeline.
What do you think of this list of things to do in Vorarlberg? Which of these towns and cities would you most like to see? Let me know your thoughts, I’d love to hear what you think.
Useful resources
Visit Vorarlberg tourism board
Visit Austria tourism board
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that I’ve recommended. Thank you for your support.
*prices correct at time of publishing
**times subject to change
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With many different activities to choose from, including hiking, biking, boating, swimming or relaxing, Bodensee is definitely worth visiting.
Visit the Bregenz Opera House (Bregenz Festival)
Ride the Pfander cable car
Explore Bregenz Old Town (Oberstadt)
Browse the markets in the Kornmarktplatz
Bodensee is a lake in central Europe that is shared by 3 countries: Austria, Germany and Switzerland.
Looks like another great place Lisa. Like you said I doubt a week there is enough. So much to do.
It's an incredible region John and really with one that deserves more attention!
I did not realize there is so much to see and do in Vorarlberg. I love the idea of staying in a mountain hotel and of course, hit the ski slopes. It's been a while since we went on a ski trip. The Käsespätzle looks delicious.
There's tons to do here, and enough to fill up a week! Plus you get a good taste of the mountains and cities too 😀
This is a beautiful place and you have done complete justice to it with the pictures. I am in awe of Lake Constance and I think I definitely would want to try one of those three hikes. Käsespätzle is something new and I must figure out a little more about this dish. It definitely sounds interesting. Thanks for bring a lot of new things to my notice.
Thank you Ami for your feedback! I had a wonderful time here and it's really a top region for hiking 😀 The Käsespätzle is veryyyy good and a classic Austrian dish!
With all these great things to do, Vorarlberg seems a small state but it packs a punch! From skiing to shopping and everything in-between, it has something for everyone. I'm particularly curious about the kaiserschmarrn. Looks delicious!
It's really a beautiful region and one that offers so much choice and tradition for visitors. I hope I've convinced you to visit!
Westernmost region of Austria wouldn't be too far away for us, so I hope I'll be able to visit Vorarlberg sometime soon in the future. The view from Mellau Cablecar is just spectacular. Käsespätzle looks filling and I'm gonna try to find its ingredients to see if I'll be able to eat it. Open air opera sounds super cool. I've witnessed one in England. Would love to experience it here too.
The Bregenz Festival is spectacular and is definitely worth getting tickets for. I hope you consider visiting Vorarlberg one day!
I would love to spend week in Vorarlberg (or more!). It's so beautiful with so many cool things to do and see!
It's really a wonderful region in Austria, and with plenty to see 🙂
Such a beautiful post on Vorarlberg, Austria. I would love to hop on the Mellau cable car to enjoy the magnificent views and boat across lake Bodensee. The pumpkin coconut soup and pancakes look yummy. And the Milchpilz architecture was so cool.
Thank you for sharing!
Thank you Puloma, I'm so glad you enjoyed it!
Looks like Vorarlberg is a wonderful place for a holiday! I would enjoy the area by riding a bicycle and ride in a cable car. Of course as someone who likes to hike, I would like to hike from Pfander to Langen. It will be a great and beautiful 3.45 hours hike.
It's definitely a perfect destination if you love to hike! I hope you consider visiting one day 🙂
I love Austria and have been lucky enough to visit twice but really want to go back again to explore even more and you have given me loads of ideas - thanks so much for sharing, looks like you had an amazing time
Laura x
Hi Laura, I had a wonderful time and I understand why you visited twice. I hope I've persuaded you to visit for a third time!
Oh wow you do so many things! What a beautiful place this is too. I'd love to travel there.
You definitely should, the region of Vorarlberg is one of the prettiest in Austria!
This looks like an amazing place to holiday in. I love the lakeside and the things you can do here. I think I would just walk around for hours, seeing the flowers and the blue skies. That Milk Mushroom is so iinviting. And it doesn't seem crowded also.
It's only open for summer and I'm sure the lines are long then 🙂 Vorarlberg is really a region to add to your Austria list!
Wow this seems like the perfect way to spend your week! There seems like there is so much to do and see and the architecture is so beautiful ! The milk mushroom is so cute, hoping I get the chance to visit!
It's a sweet touch that you can only find in Bregenz 😀
I've heard good things about the Bodensee's beauty and the flower island and I always wanted to visit. It's always the nearby places you keep skipping, right?! Bregenz looks so beautiful, too. The region seems to be totally dreamy. I also love the hearty food that keeps you warm in the snow 😉
I completely agree Renata. We're always looking for beauty and adventure so far away when in fact, there's plenty waiting to be discovered nearby 🙂
Vorarlberg looks like a lovely region to visit, Lisa. I especially like all the outdoor activities you mentioned and the views from those cable cars. I'm impressed that you rode them despite being afraid of heights!
Me too Becky! I always do that with cable cars, jump in and hope and pray for the best 😀
Vorarlberg looks stunning with so many things to do. The Mellau cable car looks like the perfect place to start and I'd love to watch the sunset at Karren Mountain (and see if I'm game enough for the platform!). Oberstadt looks so cute too, I love old towns as well with their cobbled streets and beautiful architecture.
Trust me Wendy, if I can do the platform, so can you! The views are incredible from the top, more so at sunset. Bregenz is so charming and the architecture is iconic too 🙂
We spent much of our time in Austria visiting the cities. So it would be great to head to Vorarlberg and experience dramatic landscapes on a return visit. A trip up on the Mellaubahn or the Pfänder cable car would be a great way to get panoramic views. We would definitely plan to hike through this green region. We may need quite a while in this area to see it all.
You will Linda. We spent a week and it wasn't nearly enough! The hiking opps are plenty and I promise you'll love this region of Austria.
One of my favorite places in the world is Bodensee 🙂 There's an anecdote about Kaiserschmarrn: the emperor Franz Josepf I wanted to make pancakes, but as an emperor, he had no idea how to cook. So he just stirred the pancake dough, and completely messed it up. Noone dared to tell him that ...ehm your majesty, it is a mess, better to throw it in the garbage.. And bamm. kaiserschmarrn was born
What a great story! And I like how he came up with the Kaiserschmarrn; sometimes you make the best inventions without realising it!
Wonderful post about Bregenz and the Bodensee. I have visited the German part of the Bodensee, e.g. the area around Konstanz several times., but never took the time to explore Bregenz. Seems they have nice food there.
Thank you Natascha! It's a wonderful part of the country and one I'm so happy I managed to visit. And yes, the food is delicious 😀
What a magical look place! My dad's family are actually from Austria - I have never been but my parents have!
I hope you get to visit one day, it's an incredible region plus you have ancestry here!
I've never been to that part of Austria. I really liked Austria after visits to Vienna and Salzburg region, and it looks like there are still many places I would love to explore in this beautiful country!
It's a region that usually gets overlooked for the places you mentioned. But, I guarantee, it's 100% worth seeing 🙂
What a beautiful area of Austria! The views from the top of both cable cars are phenomenal so I’d want to do those first. Eating plenty of Spatzle and a walk around Lake Constance sounds lovely! 30 years ago I took a Sound of Music tour in Salzburg and listened to those songs over and over! Love to go back one day!
I had an excellent time here Vanessa, and it's a region of Austria I'd never heard of before. Yes to the Sound of Music songs, they're still so fun to this day 😀
Everything on your list looks so neat, but my favorite is to explore new outdoor areas around the world so that's where I'd spend a lot of my time. Oh, and trying out all of the local cuisine, too.
Vorarlberg is the right region to do this! And the food and wine here is top 😀
THis post brought back my childhood memories of living in Germany. I know these towns are in Austria, but the architecture, mountains and lake views feel like home to me. And I'm sure I've had kaiserschmarrn before, but didn't remember what it was called. I'm off to find the recipe! Thank you for putting this all together- one week does not seem long enough to see and enjoy it all.
I'm so happy to read that Tiffany! There are plenty of similarities between the two countries so I understand. Kaiserschmarrn is delicious and one you must try!
I love the idea of hiking. That way you can get some exercise and enjoy the surroundings. It can be really relaxing. It sounds lovely there.
So true Melanie, and there are tons of hiking opportunities in and around Vorarlberg!
Those are such cute villages! This looks like an awesome trip with plenty of options when it comes to finding something to do.
Mellau is a classic Austrian village and very pretty!
What an incredible adventure. So many places and so many different things to do...on my bucket list for sure!
Happy to read that Catherine, you'll love this region of Austria!
How fab! When I read Vorarlberg, I didn’t realize that I had been there before. I spent a few days in Bregenz for the opera on the lake!! Such memories of this lovely area reading your post!
How lucky Lannie! The Bregenz Festival is definitely somewhere I'd like to do one day; it's an incredible production!
Fond memories skiing, hiking, swimming and gobbling down huge amounts of kaesspaetzle in Vorarlberg, Lisa. Still learned a lot of new things. That floating stage, the food markets and Kunsthaus Bregenz sound amazing. Reminds me to put Vorarlberg back on our list. It's been too long.
I'm so happy to read that Stefan! You're blessed to come from such a beautiful country. I definitely want to return again!
Last time I visited this area I was still a child. Thank you for bringing back nice memories and this super elaborate travel guide!
I'm glad I brought back some happy memories for you Carina, it's really a beautiful region!
Austria looks beautiful! I would love to visit there in person. The Spatzle looks yummy as well. Hope to stop by Vorarlberg soon
Austria is very beautiful, and Vorarlberg has so much to offer visitors! I hope you get to visit one day 😀
How beautiful! I'd never heard of Vorarlberg before, but now I want to go! Austria is high on my bucket list, I would love to do a mountain getaway!
It really is Paige, and is one region that has so much to offer!
I often save your blog posts because you always go to places and places that are exactly what I love to visit. So all the beauty that you emanate with your posts reaches the reader, certainly me!
Thank you Cristina, that means a lot to me! I really hope you visit Vorarlberg, you're only a few hours away 😉
This is a very complete overview! Thanks for sharing.
Glad you enjoyed it 🙂