Bregenzerwald, Austria Travel Guide

Discover the serene landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Bregenzerwald in Austria, where traditional charm meets modern innovation amidst the breathtaking Alps.

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Bregenzerwald

Nestled in the western part of Austria, Bregenzerwald is a picturesque region known for its serene landscapes and charming villages. This destination is perfect for travelers seeking a blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. The lush green meadows, dense forests, and the backdrop of the majestic Alps create an ideal setting for relaxation and adventure. Bregenzerwald is not just about scenic views; it also boasts a rich cultural heritage. The local architecture is a unique mix of traditional wooden houses and modern designs, reflecting the region's dedication to preserving its history while embracing innovation. Visitors can explore quaint villages like Schwarzenberg and Bezau, where they can enjoy local delicacies and experience the warm hospitality of the residents. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of activities to indulge in, regardless of the season. In the summer, hiking and biking trails offer breathtaking views, while in the winter, the region transforms into a snowy wonderland perfect for skiing and snowboarding. The Bregenzerwald Cheese Road is a must-visit for food lovers, offering a chance to taste some of the finest cheeses produced in Austria.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Bregenzerwald.

Visit the Bregenzerwald Cheese Road to sample local cheeses and learn about traditional cheese-making processes.
Take a ride on the Bregenzerwaldbahn, a historic train that offers scenic views of the region.
Explore the Werkraumhaus in Andelsbuch to see contemporary crafts and design exhibitions.
Stay in one of the traditional wooden houses for an authentic local experience.
Don't miss the local farmer's markets held weekly in various villages to taste fresh, regional produce.

Top City Travel Guides in Bregenzerwald

The cities of Bregenzerwald, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Dornbirn

Destinations in Bregenzerwald

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Lünersee

Lech

Lech-Zürs am Arlberg

Explore Bregenzerwald: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Bregenzerwald

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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inatura - Erlebnis Naturschau Dornbirn

Explore the beauty of nature at inatura - Erlebnis Naturschau Dornbirn, an interactive museum offering engaging exhibits and breathtaking biodiversity.

4.7

inatura natural spectacle Gmbh

Explore the enchanting inatura natural spectacle in Dornbirn, Austria, a museum dedicated to the wonders of nature and interactive learning.

4.7

Buchenegger Wasserfälle

Explore the breathtaking Buchenegger Wasserfälle in Oberstaufen, Germany. Experience stunning waterfalls, lush trails, and a peaceful retreat into nature.

4.7

Damüls - Mellau - Faschina ski

Experience the stunning alpine beauty and diverse winter sports at Damüls - Mellau - Faschina Ski Resort, a top destination in the Austrian Alps.

4.7

Best landmarks in Bregenzerwald

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Pfänderbahn

Discover the breathtaking views of Austria, Germany, and Switzerland from the Pfänderbahn cable car in Bregenz, a must-visit for every traveler.

4.7

Bergbahnen Diedamskopf Au-Schoppernau

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Diedamskopf in Vorarlberg, Austria - a perfect destination for skiing, hiking, and indulging in nature's wonders.

4.6

Damüls - Mellau - Faschina ski

Explore the stunning Damüls - Mellau - Faschina ski resort, a paradise for skiing and winter sports enthusiasts in the heart of the Austrian Alps.

4.7

Schattenburg

Explore Schattenburg Castle in Feldkirch, Austria – a historical gem offering stunning views and captivating exhibits.

4.4

Best restaurants in Bregenzerwald

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Panoramarestaurant Karren

Experience exquisite cuisine and stunning views at Panoramarestaurant Karren in Dornbirn—where every meal is a feast for your senses.

4.4

Gasthof Ur-Alp Erleben

Discover traditional alpine cuisine at Gasthof Ur-Alp Erleben - where every meal is a celebration of local flavors amidst stunning mountain scenery.

4.7

Alpengasthof Muttersberg

Discover the culinary delights and breathtaking views at Alpengasthof Muttersberg, where nature meets authentic Austrian cuisine.

4.5

Burgrestaurant Gebhardsberg

Experience fine dining with breathtaking views at Burgrestaurant Gebhardsberg in Bregenz - where culinary excellence meets stunning scenery.

4.5

Best bars in Bregenzerwald

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Beachbar Bregenz

Discover the vibrant Beachbar Bregenz, where the stunning Lake Constance views meet exciting nightlife in a lively bar atmosphere.

4.4

Bunt Bar

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Bunt Bar in Feldkirch - a lively social hub with a diverse drink menu and friendly ambiance.

4.6

Alpenstern Panoramahotel

Experience breathtaking alpine views and authentic Austrian hospitality at Alpenstern Panoramahotel in Damüls.

4.5

Edelweiß am Öberle

Experience authentic Austrian cuisine and warm hospitality at Edelweiß am Öberle, a charming restaurant and inn in the heart of the Alps.

4.6

Best nightclubs in Bregenzerwald

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El Capitán Gastro GmbH

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Rankweil at El Capitán Gastro GmbH, a premier night club offering great music and a lively atmosphere.

3.5

SENDER club

Discover the electrifying nightlife at SENDER Club in Lustenau, a top destination for music, dancing, and unforgettable memories.

3.2

rauch club

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Rauch Club in Feldkirch, where great music meets an electrifying atmosphere for unforgettable nights.

3.4

SHAKE CLUBBING

Dive into Röthis' nightlife at SHAKE CLUBBING, where electrifying beats and vibrant dance floors create unforgettable party experiences.

4.5

Best shops in Bregenzerwald

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Einkaufszentrum Messepark

Discover Einkaufszentrum Messepark, the ultimate shopping destination in Dornbirn, Austria, where shopping meets dining and entertainment for all.

4.3

ZIMBAPARK Shopping Center

Explore ZIMBAPARK Shopping Center: Your Ultimate Shopping and Dining Destination in Bürs, Austria.

4.4

Stadtmarkt Dornbirn Einkaufszentrum

Explore the diverse shopping and dining experiences at Stadtmarkt Dornbirn, the heart of local culture in Dornbirn, Austria.

4.3

Milka Lädele

Discover the magic of chocolate at Milka Lädele in Bludenz, where every bite is a taste of Alpine delight!

4.3

Explore Bregenzerwald on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Bregenzerwald, mapped for you.

Bregenzerwald Essentials

Bregenzerwald is located in the Vorarlberg region of Austria. The nearest major airport is Zurich Airport in Switzerland, about 150 kilometers away. Alternatively, you can fly into Munich Airport, approximately 220 kilometers away. From either airport, you can rent a car or take a train to Bregenz, the capital of Vorarlberg, and then a bus to Bregenzerwald. The train ride from Zurich or Munich to Bregenz takes around 2 to 3 hours. Buses from Bregenz to various towns in Bregenzerwald are frequent and well-connected.
Public transport in Bregenzerwald is efficient and reliable. Buses run regularly between the towns and villages, and schedules are well-coordinated with train arrivals. Renting a car is also a good option if you prefer to explore at your own pace. Cycling is popular during the summer months, with well-marked bike paths. During winter, ski buses provide easy access to the slopes. Taxis are available but can be expensive compared to public transport.
The official currency in Austria is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it's advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller villages or local markets. ATMs are available in most towns, but it’s a good idea to withdraw sufficient cash before heading to remote areas.
Bregenzerwald is generally very safe for tourists. Violent crime is rare, and the area is well-patrolled by local police. However, it's always wise to take standard precautions such as keeping your belongings secure and being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places like markets or public transport. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number connects you to police, medical services, and the fire department. Hospitals and medical facilities are available in larger towns like Bregenz and Dornbirn. Pharmacies are also accessible for minor health issues. Ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do dress in layers, as the weather can change rapidly. Avoid overly casual attire in fine dining restaurants. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially in churches. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Public Transport: Do be punctual, as buses and trains run on strict schedules. Don't speak loudly or play music without headphones. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Grüß Gott' (God bless you). Handshakes are common when meeting someone for the first time. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like Käseknöpfle (cheese noodles) and drink local beer or wine. Don't tip excessively; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is sufficient.
To experience Bregenzerwald like a local, visit the weekly farmers' markets where you can buy fresh produce and regional specialties. Engage in local festivals and events, which are great opportunities to experience traditional music and dance. Hiking is a must-do activity; the area boasts well-marked trails with stunning views. In winter, try out the local ski resorts which are less crowded than the more famous Austrian ski areas. Don't miss the Bregenzerwald Cheese Road, a culinary journey through the region's cheese-making traditions.

When is the best time to visit Bregenzerwald?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Bregenzerwald

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Bregenzerwald. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloGrüß Gott
  [Groos Got]
- GoodbyeAuf Wiedersehen
  [Owf Veederzayn]
- YesJa
  [Yah]
- NoNein
  [Nyn]
- Please/You're welcomeBitte
  [Bitt-eh]
- Thank youDanke
  [Dahn-keh]
- Excuse me/SorryEntschuldigung
  [Ent-shool-dee-goong]
- How are you?Wie geht's?
  [Vee gates?]
- Fine. And you?Gut. Und dir?
  [Goot. Oond deer?]
- Do you speak English?Sprichst du Englisch?
  [Spreekst doo Ing-lish?]
- I don't understandIch verstehe nicht
  [Ick fer-shtay-eh nikht]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseIch hätte gerne die Speisekarte, bitte
  [Ick het-teh gair-neh dee Shpyze-kahr-teh, bitt-eh]
- I don't eat meatIch esse kein Fleisch
  [Ick ess-eh kine Flysh]
- Cheers!Prost!
  [Prohst!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseIch möchte bezahlen, bitte
  [Ick mer-kt-eh beh-tsah-len, bitt-eh]
- Help!Hilfe!
  [Hil-feh!]
- Go away!Geh weg!
  [Gay vek!]
- Call the Police!Rufen Sie die Polizei!
  [Roof-en Zee dee Poh-li-tsai!]
- Call a doctor!Rufen Sie einen Arzt!
  [Roof-en Zee eye-nen Artst!]
- I'm lostIch habe mich verirrt
  [Ick hah-beh mikh fer-eert]
- I'm illIch bin krank
  [Ick bin krank]
- I'd like to buy...Ich möchte kaufen...
  [Ick mer-kt-eh kow-fen...]
- I'm just lookingIch schaue nur
  [Ick shau-eh noor]
- How much is it?Wie viel kostet es?
  [Vee feel kost-et es?]
- That's too expensiveDas ist zu teuer
  [Das ist tsoo toy-er]
- Can you lower the price?Könnten Sie den Preis senken?
  [Kern-ten Zee den Pryce sen-ken?]
- What time is it?Wie spät ist es?
  [Vee shpayt ist es?]
- It's one o'clockEs ist ein Uhr
  [Es ist ine Oor]
- Half past (10)Halb (10)
  [Halb (10)]
- MorningMorgen
  [Morg-en]
- AfternoonNachmittag
  [Nahk-mit-tag]
- EveningAbend
  [Ah-bent]
- YesterdayGestern
  [Gest-ern]
- TodayHeute
  [Hoy-teh]
- TomorrowMorgen
  [Morg-en]
- 1Eins
  [Eyns]
- 2Zwei
  [Tsvy]
- 3Drei
  [Dry]
- 4Vier
  [Veer]
- 5Fünf
  [Foonf]
- 6Sechs
  [Zex]
- 7Sieben
  [Zee-ben]
- 8Acht
  [Akh-t]
- 9Neun
  [Noyn]
- 10Zehn
  [Tzehn]
- Where's a/the...?Wo ist ein/das...?
  [Vo ist ine/das...?]
- What's the address?Wie lautet die Adresse?
  [Vee low-tet dee Ah-dress-eh?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Könnten Sie mir zeigen (auf der Karte)?
  [Kern-ten Zee meer tsay-gen (owf der Kar-tah)?]
- When's the next (bus)?Wann fährt der nächste (Bus)?
  [Vahn fehrt der nay-sh-teh (Boos)?]
- A ticket (to ....)Ein Ticket (nach....)
  [Ine Tih-ket (nahkh....)]

History of Bregenzerwald

The history of Bregenzerwald begins with the early settlers who moved into the region around 1000 AD. These pioneering farmers and herders were attracted by the fertile valleys and dense forests. They established small, self-sufficient communities that laid the foundation for the region's unique culture and customs.
During the late antiquity and early medieval periods, the Alemanni, a Germanic tribe, migrated to the area. Their influence is significant as they brought with them new agricultural techniques and social structures that helped shape the cultural landscape of Bregenzerwald. The Alemannic dialect spoken today in the region is a direct descendant of this period.
In the Middle Ages, Bregenzerwald was part of the Holy Roman Empire. The region was governed by various local lords and bishops whose castles and fortresses still dot the landscape. The economy was primarily based on agriculture, forestry, and livestock, with the harsh mountainous terrain shaping the resilient character of the inhabitants.
One of the most distinctive cultural features of Bregenzerwald is its unique architectural style known as the 'Bregenzerwald House.' These timber-framed buildings, with their steep gabled roofs and intricate woodwork, began to appear in the 15th century. They are a symbol of the region's craftsmanship and an enduring legacy of its historical development.
In 1525, Bregenzerwald was swept up in the broader Peasants' War that affected much of Central Europe. The local population, largely composed of farmers and artisans, rose up against feudal oppression and economic hardship. Although the rebellion was ultimately crushed, it left a lasting impact on the social and political landscape of the region.
The Thirty Years' War (1618-1648) had a devastating impact on Bregenzerwald. The region suffered from invasions, plundering, and the spread of disease. Many villages were burned down, and the population significantly decreased. However, the resilience of the locals saw the area gradually recover and rebuild in the following decades.
During the Napoleonic Wars, Bregenzerwald was occupied by French forces. The region was incorporated into the Kingdom of Bavaria in 1805, only to be returned to Austria in 1814 after the fall of Napoleon. These turbulent years brought significant administrative and social changes, influencing the region's development in the 19th century.
The 19th century saw the rise of the textile industry in Bregenzerwald. The region became known for its high-quality linen and later cotton products. This industrial boom brought economic prosperity and led to the growth of towns like Bezau and Andelsbuch. Many of the historic mills and factories have been preserved and are now part of the region's cultural heritage.
Bregenzerwald, like much of Europe, was deeply affected by both World Wars. The interwar period and post-World War II era saw significant changes as modernization swept through the region. Traditional industries gave way to tourism and services, and efforts were made to preserve the unique cultural and natural heritage of Bregenzerwald.
In recent decades, there has been a strong cultural revival in Bregenzerwald. Efforts to preserve the local dialect, traditional crafts, and architectural heritage have been coupled with a push towards sustainable tourism. The region is celebrated for its blend of old and new, where modern design harmonizes with historical traditions, making it a unique destination for travelers.