Vorarlberg travel guide

Bregenz sits on Lake Constance near the German and Swiss borders. Lech and Zürs lie high in the Arlberg area and require a separate bus or road journey from the main rail line.

A short trip should choose lake or mountain. Combining both works better with at least four nights and a clear transfer day.

Start by the lake

Bregenz combines a compact centre, Pfänder access and a waterfront shaped by the summer festival calendar.

Continue into the Arlberg

Lech Zürs has seasonal bus, lift and road conditions. Confirm the final connection before booking a late arrival.

Use cross-border rail

Bregenz is well placed for Germany and Switzerland, but ticket and timetable details vary by operator.

A practical itinerary

1. Days 1 to 2: explore Bregenz and Lake Constance.
2. Day 3: travel through the main valley.
3. Days 4 to 6: stay in Lech Zürs for a weather-flexible mountain visit.

Where to stay

Stay near Bregenz station for lake travel. In Lech Zürs, check how accommodation relates to bus stops and seasonal lifts.

Winter and summer roads

Mountain access routes may use seasonal closures, restrictions or winter equipment rules.

Places to add to your map

• Bregenz: Lake Constance capital and rail hub.
• Bludenz: Main rail gateway towards the Arlberg.
• Lech Zürs: High mountain destination reached by road and bus.

Open the route planner to place these stops in a wider Austria trip.

Continue planning

• Plan Bregenz
• Plan Lech Zürs
• Compare St Anton

Questions about Vorarlberg

How long should I spend in Vorarlberg?

Two days suit Bregenz. Add three or four days for Lech Zürs and a transfer day.

Can I explore Vorarlberg without a car?

Bregenz is easy by rail. Lech Zürs is reachable by bus, though a car adds flexibility when roads and parking allow.