The most beautiful sights in Vorarlberg
Vorarlberg uniquely combines nature and culture. Austria's westernmost state offers countless sights: scenic valleys, forests, and meadows, with many artistically designed hiking trails, creative festivals, and modern architecture.
Lake Constance blends urban and nature experiences, with the Bregenz Festival and its legendary lake stage, while Kunsthaus Bregenz showcases modern architecture and exhibitions. The Bregenzerwald features diverse culture and remarkable wooden architecture in compact spaces. Impressive gorges and the Große Walsertal, a designated UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, further enhance the region's appeal.
The capital Bregenz
In the four-country region where Austria, Germany, Switzerland, and the Principality of Liechtenstein meet, lies the cosmopolitan city of Bregenz. The beauty of Vorarlberg's capital is its location: right on Lake Constance, surrounded by a stunning mountain landscape. Bregenz also boasts a vibrant art scene.
A panoramic cable car in the city
A special feature in Bregenz is the panoramic cable car, which runs from the old town directly up to the Pfänder, the town’s local mountain. The 360-degree view over Lake Constance, the Alps, and three countries is truly spectacular.
More sights in the city of Bregenz
Experiencing nature in Vorarlberg
The land between Lake Constance and the mountains, which rise up to 3,000 m / 9,800 ft, is blessed with natural treasures. These landscapes can be explored by hiking, cycling, or boat trips. Meadows, forests, plains, and high mountains are at their most beautiful in the remote side valleys.
European protected areas
In order to preserve its precious natural treasures, Vorarlberg places great emphasis on landscape conservation. The "Naturvielfalt Vorarlberg" initiative focuses on natural diversity in the Natura 2000 areas within the province.
Further nature highlights in Vorarlberg
Unique timber architecture
Traditional wooden houses and farmhouses, built using time-tested timber construction methods, shape Vorarlberg's landscape and village environment. This centuries-old tradition has been carefully maintained. In recent decades, the region has revived its architectural heritage, blending modern and traditional elements. Vorarlberg's new architecture is simple, natural, and sustainable—combining the best of tradition with a cosmopolitan flair.
Further tips for visiting architecture
Culture in Vorarlberg
Schubertiade - world-famous song festival
Vorarlberg boasts a vibrant cultural scene. From music festivals to innovative museums like Kunsthaus Bregenz, the region fosters a dynamic cultural heritage.
The Schubertiade, one of Austria's most important music festivals, is a highlight, dedicated to the composer Franz Schubert. Held annually in Schwarzenberg and Hohenems, it features classical music in an intimate, authentic setting.
Further cultural tips in Vorarlberg
Sights for families
The Green Ring
The "White Ring" is a famous ski route in Lech Zürs, but in summer, the perspective shifts with a three-day stage hike, unveiling an imaginatively designed world of legends.
Hiking becomes a special experience for families with children along the "Green Ring," passing mysterious lakes amidst the mountain landscape. A special legend book shares stories of giants, nature, and local myths from the region, enhancing the adventure.
More excursion destinations for children
How do we protect the mountains?
Take back and dispose of everything you bring up the mountain - handkerchiefs, packaging, drinking bottles etc.
Always follow the signposted hiking trails! This way, animals and young forests remain undisturbed.
Be mindful of the wildlife! Only observe cows, sheep and wild animals from a distance.
The well well-developed network of regional trains and hiking buses.
Choose huts that are committed to sustainability and environmental protection.
Get your children excited about nature! What the little ones know, they will also appreciate.
Protect biodiversity: The Rangers of the National parks show how it's done.