Bregenz
Alpine tradition and modern architecture in perfect harmony

Located on the picturesque shores of Lake Constance, the city of Bregenz boasts exciting modern architecture.

Bregenz has always benefited from its location on the shores of Lake Constance. For 2000 years, Central Europe's third-largest lake has brought trade, ideas and cultural exchange to the city, making it a place where tradition and progress go hand in hand.

This is reflected in the latest strength of the Vorarlberg provincial capital: Modern architecture. International architects such as Hans Hollein, Jean Nouvel and Peter Zumthor have left their mark here, but it is the local Vorarlberg architects with their clear lines and incorporation of large amounts of wood whose works are the city's signature. Their buildings shape both the cityscape and the surrounding area and reflect the region's attitude to life: Down-to-earth yet cosmopolitan, traditional yet forward-thinking.

Quick facts about Bregenz
Population:approx. 29,600 (as of 2024)
Province:Vorarlberg
Area:approx. 29.5km²
Altitude:427m
Favourite viewpoint:Pfänder mountain (1,064m)

Don't miss the Bregenz Festival with its floating stage on Lake Constance.

Meet Bregenz

Top highlights

Tours

A stage built on top of the lake

Bregenz Festival

Every year in July and August, the Bregenz Festival ("Bregenzer Festspiele") takes over the city. A variety of musical performances in multiple locations are on offer, but the centrepiece is the lake stage, a huge stage built into and on top of Lake Constance, tailor-made to the year's opera performance.

In addition to its impressive backdrops, the Bregenz Festival features world-class opera singers and directors as well as the Vienna Philharmonic.

In 2025, visitors will be able to see Carl Maria von Weber's "Der Freischütz" performed on the lake stage.

Sights in Vorarlberg

Top events

Experience the culinary side of Vorarlberg

Food and drink in Bregenz

Recipes

Unique places to stay

Regional cuisine

Social & sustainable at Mangold Restaurant

Owned and managed by couple Michael and Andrea, Mangold Restaurant in Lochau on Lake Constance is a special little find. Their nifty modern dishes use fresh, local ingredients wherever possible, from eggs sourced from the farm next door to herbs from the on-site garden.

In addition to culinary quality, the restaurant makes a point of working in a socially conscious way, for instance when it comes to their staff's working hours. This makes for a sustainable business, responsible community building, and not least, a delicious and enjoyable experience for guests. When on holiday in Vorarlberg, don't miss out on the unique atmosphere and excellent service at Mangold!

Discover Bregenz on a budget

Bodensee-Vorarlberg Guest Card

The local "Bodensee-Vorarlberg Freizeitkarte" guest card includes admission to over 50 attractions, free public transport and discounts at a wide variety of partner institutions. Take a cable car trip, visit a museum, or take a dip at a lido - it's all included with your 1, 2 or 3-day guest card.

FAQs

Bregenz, capital of Austria's westernmost province Vorarlberg, offers visitors a combination of nature, culture and history. Must-see sights include:

  • Bregenz harbour and promenade

  • Kunsthaus Bregenz (KUB) museum of art

  • St. Martin's Tower

  • Pfänder mountain

  • Vorarlberg Museum

In summer, Bregenz turns into a paradise for outdoor fans. Local activities include:

  • Hiking

  • Mountain biking and cycling tours

  • Swimming in Lake Constance

  • Climbing

  • Stand-up paddling

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