On the eastern end of Lake Constance, you’ll find the city of Bregenz. It is the capital of Vorarlberg, the westernmost state of Austria.
The city has changed hands many times, initially being inhabited by the Celts and then the Romans. It was finally settled by the Alemanni, Germanic people around the 6th century.
The centerpiece of this 2000-year-old city is the tower of St. Martin, located in the medieval center of the town.
Bregenz is well known for combining its rich historical culture with its artistic modernity. It is hands-on one of the best places to discover in Austria.
So without further ado, let’s look at our list of the 11 best things to do in Bregenz!
11. Bregenzerwald Cheese Road
The Bregenzerwald Cheese Road is a network of farmers, restaurants, and cheesemongers joined together for the love of cheese. Aimed at preserving taste and regional culture, the Cheese Road is a mouth-watering delight.
Indulge in a dairying course or explore one of the many cheese factories. With outlets and shops selling the tastiest cheese, it simply is a bizarre and amusingly entertaining experience. Smell the variety of flavors, dabble in the unending tastes and treats and learn some dairy farming techniques.
If you’re a fan of cheese, then you should get ready, because this place truly is Cheese Heaven.
10. Klettersteig Känzele
The Känzele mountains are an ideal location for hikers and mountain climbing enthusiasts. Standing around 1,765 meters tall, the structure is decked with Klettersteig (protected climbing routes). These routes help climbers traverse the elevated region. It is the perfect place of activity for the sporty and adventurous. One can go through a range of climbing routes, each with its own level of difficulty.
Feel your heart pumping as you ascend upon the mountain, and be careful to watch your footing as you climb your way across the intense cliffs. Overall, it is an ideal place to experience an exhilarating rush of adrenaline.
9. Women’s Museum (Frauenmuseum)
The women’s Museum or Frauenmuseum is located in the Hittisua municipality of Bregenz. It was established in 2000 and is the only museum in the country that dedicates itself to highlighting women’s cultural accomplishments. It is a detailed modern museum filled with many exciting interactive pieces, photographic exhibitions, compelling stories, presentations, and workshops.
Visit website: www.frauenmuseum.at
8. Seepromenade
This scenic walkway across the beautiful lake Constance is a must-visit. Located just near the Seebühne amphitheater, it is ideal for a lovely stroll any time of the day. Watch the neighborhood come alive with tourists and locals and enjoy a refreshing view over the lake and Bregenz harbor.
Tourist Tip: Try out local cuisines in the restaurants and cafes, or hire a paddleboat and go for a calming ride on the lake.
7. Künstlerhaus Palais Thurn und Taxis
An international center for contemporary arts, the Künstlerhaus Palais Thurn und Taxis has existed since 1984. The featured botanical garden, created by Gustav Prinz von und zu Thurn und Taxis, is one of the most important monuments in Austria. It houses an extensive arboretum of exotic trees and plants of exquisite repute.
The center hosts several contemporary art galleries and is the center of innovation. In here, one can find captivating and unique splashes of color in the domestic and international cultural scene.
Visit website: kuenstlerhaus-bregenz.at
6. Pfarrkirche Herz Jesu Bregenz
You’ll find the majestic Roman Catholic Parish Church of Herz Jesu Bregenz inside the lively neighborhood of Bergmannstrasse.
The church stands on a plateau above the city center at Kolpingplatz at the height of 413 meters above sea level. The church, which has a lot of history to tell, was designed with a mixture Neo-Gothic and Norman architecture. It is a beautiful and worthwhile stop featuring rich historical architectonics, beautifully decorated colored glass, and fantastic choir performances.
Visit website: www.kath-kirche-vorarlberg.at
5. Martinsturm
Built in 1601, the medieval tower and chapel of St. Martin is easily one of the most significant landmarks in the city. It is located in the upper town of Bregenz and tucked away in a quiet space. This onion-domed tower is a delightful place to visit while having a stroll in the neighborhood.
The historical building gives you a magnificent view of the town. It also features an exhibition containing artworks of past eras, preserved through thousands of years. During Christmas, you will be greeted by a lively Christmas market, a wholesome experience for your vacation.
4. Seebühne Bregenz
The SeebühneBregenz is a 7000-seater Amphitheater that hosts a multitude of masterfully staged operas and musical performances. It is one of the venues for the famous Bregenz Festival, which takes place every year during July and August. The floating stage features some impressive life-like monuments built around it, which changes according to the hosted events.
Witness some magic as performers enchant you with alluring musicals. Take in the spectacular aura of the floating stage on the shores of Lake Constance as you get lost in the performances.
3. Kunsthaus Bregenz
Designed by the Swiss architect Peter Zumthor, the Kunsthaus Bregenz was built between 1990 and 1997. This renowned art gallery is located near Lake Constance. Kunsthaus Bregenz, depicted with a combination of crystal-like glass mixed with polished concrete, is a remarkable piece of architecture.
It is one of the leading galleries in Europe and presents the most captivating international and contemporary art pieces. Several prestigious artists, such as Damien Hirst, Roy Lichtenstein, and Gerhard Richter, have been hosted here. So immerse yourself in its thought-provoking and poetic exhibitions, engaging live performances, and vital imaginative art installations.
Visit website: www.kunsthaus-bregenz.at
2. Vorarlberg Museum
The Vorarlberg Museum was officially opened in 1860 with the intent of securing the state’s cultural heritage. The museum went through several reworks over the years until recently, in 2013. It houses more than 160,000 artifacts from art, history, and archaeology.
The exhibitions feature Vorarlberg’s complete history and folklores, a must-visit spot if you are an armchair historian.
Visit website: www.vorarlbergmuseum.at
1. Pfänderbahn + Alpenwildpark Pfände
The Pfände mountain rises high above Bregenz at the height of 1064 meters. One can catch a ride in the Pfänderbahn, or Cable car, and reach the summit in a matter of minutes. A magnificent view of the Bregenz Forest, the Rhine valley, and the foothills of the Black Forest await there.
Descend down to the Alpen wildlife park, an exciting attraction for nature and animal lovers. Walk around the hiking path encircling the park. The area is filled with enclosures of Ibexes, Mouflons, Marmots, and Wild Boars in their natural habitat. An excellent place for family and children.