Things To Do
in Bregenz

Bregenz is a picturesque Austrian city located on the shores of Lake Constance, characterized by stunning views of both the water and the surrounding mountains. It is known for its vibrant cultural scene, including the famous Bregenz Festival that features operas staged on a floating platform. The city boasts a historic old town with charming architecture and a lively waterfront promenade.

With its blend of nature, culture, and history, Bregenz offers a unique experience for visitors year-round.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Bregenz
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Kunsthaus Bregenz, a contemporary art museum that showcases innovative exhibitions.

afternoon
:

Stroll through the charming old town, visiting landmarks such as the Martinsturm and the Vorarlberg Museum.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a lakeside restaurant, followed by a stroll along the promenade to take in the sunset over Lake Constance.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a cable car ride up to the Pfänder mountain, where you can enjoy panoramic views and hiking trails.

afternoon
:

Visit the Bregenz Festival if it's summer, or explore the local shops and cafes in the town center.

evening
:

Experience the vibrant nightlife by visiting a local bar or attending a performance at the Bregenz Festival or another concert venue.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$15-30
Coffee$3-5
🍺Beer$4-6
🚍Public Transport Ticket$2-3
🏨Hotel Room per Night$80-150

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural scenery and views of Lake Constance.
  • Rich cultural experiences, including festivals and local cuisine.
  • Easy access to outdoor activities and hiking trails.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Can be crowded during summer tourist season.
  • Higher costs for accommodation and dining during peak times.
  • "Guten Morgen" - Good Morning
  • "Danke schön" - Thank you very much
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Wo ist die Toilette?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Ich hätte gerne..." - I would like...

Places to Visit in Bregenz

Visit one of these nice places.

Pfänder Mountain

Capture breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Constance and the surrounding Alps.

Bregenz Harbor

The harbor offers stunning waterfront views, especially during sunset.

Martinsturm

The historic tower in the old town is an iconic landmark, perfect for architectural photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Bregenz

Bregenz offers a delightful culinary experience that highlights the flavors of the Lake Constance region, with a mix of Austrian and international cuisine.

Bregenz Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kässpätzle

A traditional Austrian dish made of egg noodles, cheese, and topped with crispy onions.

Must-Try!

Bodensee Felchen

A local fish delicacy from Lake Constance, often grilled or fried.

Apfelstrudel

A popular dessert made of thin pastry filled with spiced apples and served with vanilla sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Bregenz Farmers' Market

Held weekly, this market features local produce, cheeses, and artisanal products.

Street Food at Lake Promenade

Enjoy various food stalls offering local snacks and international street food along the lakeside.

Climate Guide

Weather

Bregenz experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold, with average temperatures around 0°C (32°F) and snowfall common. Summers are warm, with temperatures averaging 25°C (77°F) and plenty of sunshine, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Spring and autumn are transitional seasons, offering mild temperatures and beautiful landscapes.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal before you begin eating.

Quiet Public Spaces

Maintain a respectful volume in public areas, especially on public transport.

Safety Guide

Safety

Bregenz is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. It is advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and it’s recommended to keep emergency numbers handy. Avoid isolated areas at night, and always secure your belongings.

Tipping in Bregenz

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Custom

It is customary to round up the bill or leave a tip of around 5-10% in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash (Euros) is advisable for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and a vibrant atmosphere as festivals begin.

Summer

Warm weather draws crowds to the lake, with numerous outdoor events and the famous Bregenz Festival.

Autumn

Enjoy cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage, perfect for hiking and photography.

Winter

Cold weather brings snow, transforming the landscape; it's a great time for winter sports in nearby mountains.

Nightlife Guide

Bregenz at Night

Bregenz offers a diverse nightlife scene, ranging from cozy wine bars to lively clubs. The waterfront area features various venues with outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying drinks by the lake. The Bregenz Festival in summer provides unique nighttime entertainment with operas and concerts, attracting many visitors. In winter, local pubs and bars become popular spots for socializing and warming up after outdoor activities.

Hiking in Bregenz

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Pfänder Hiking Trail

A well-marked trail leading to the summit of Pfänder mountain, offering breathtaking views of the lake.

Lindauer Trail

A scenic route that runs along the lake towards Lindau, featuring beautiful landscapes and quaint villages.

Airports

How to reach Bregenz by plane.

Friedrichshafen Airport (FDH)

Located about 30 km from Bregenz, this airport offers flights to several European destinations and is the closest major airport.

Getting Around

Walkability

Bregenz is highly walkable, with many attractions located within a short distance of each other. The city features well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian areas, making it easy to explore on foot. The waterfront promenade is particularly pleasant for strolls, offering beautiful views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Public transport options are also available for those wanting to reach destinations further out.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The population consists primarily of ethnic Austrians, with a mix of other European nationalities.

Tourists

Bregenz attracts a diverse group of tourists from around the world, especially during the summer festival season.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Skiing

During winter, skiing is a popular activity in the nearby mountains, with several resorts offering slopes for all levels.

Cycling

Lake Constance is a favored destination for cycling, with scenic routes available for cyclists of all abilities.

Transportation

Traffic

Bregenz has moderate traffic conditions, and most of the city's roads are well-maintained. Public transportation includes buses and trains, connecting Bregenz to surrounding areas and cities. The city center is pedestrian-friendly, and many visitors prefer walking or cycling to navigate through the town. Parking can be limited in the downtown area, so using public transportation is often recommended.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Bregenz.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants offer vegetarian dishes; however, it's advisable to check the menu in advance.

Gluten-Free Options

Some eateries provide gluten-free dishes, but it's best to inform the staff of any dietary restrictions.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Austria has a high standard of healthcare, and Bregenz is no exception. Visitors can access medical services at hospitals and clinics throughout the city. It is advisable for travelers to have valid travel insurance that covers health care. Pharmacies are readily available and can provide over-the-counter medications and advice.

Discover Austria

Read more in our Austria 2025 Travel Guide.

Austria Travel Guide