Winding alleyways, historic squares and cosy cafés – away from the lakeshore, the Bodenseee–Vorarlberg-Region is home to numerous charming old towns just waiting to be discovered. Whether medieval town centres, historic castles or small boutiques – every town tells its own story.
Bodensee-Vorarlberg Tourismus
Nick Wolfgang / Tourismus & Stadtmarketing Hohenems GmbH
Mira Zielbauer / Vorarlberg Tourismus
Towns and villages to explore
From Bregenz via Dornbirn, Hohenems and Rankweil to Feldkirch, you’ll find narrow streets, cosy cafés and historic sights – ideal for a relaxing day trip in the Vorarlberg Rhine Valley.
- Bregenz – Upper Town
- Dornbirn – Market Square & Red House
- Hohenems – Marktstraße & Schlossplatz
- Rankweil – Basilica & town centre
- Feldkirch – medieval old town
FAQ
Which old town is best for a day trip?
Feldkirch, Hohenems and Bregenz are particularly well suited for a day trip. As well as historic streets, you’ll find sights, cafés, restaurants and shopping – ideal for spending a whole day there.
Which places are particularly easy to reach by public transport?
All the places featured here are easily accessible by bus and train. The railway stations in Feldkirch, Bregenz, Dornbirn, Hohenems, Götzis and Hard are just a few minutes’ walk from their respective town centres. Rankweil is also well connected to the public transport network.
Where can I combine a stroll through historic streets with a visit to a café?
In Feldkirch, Hohenems, Bregenz and Dornbirn, you’ll find plenty of cafés right in the heart of the historic centre. After a stroll through the old town, cosy coffee houses, ice-cream parlours and restaurants invite you to linger.
Which sights should I make sure not to miss in the historic town centres?
Highlights include Schattenburg Castle in Feldkirch, the Upper Town in Bregenz, Schlossplatz in Hohenems, Rankweil Basilica, and the Rotes Haus in Dornbirn.
When is the best time to take a stroll through the old town?
The historic town centres can be explored all year round. They are particularly atmospheric in spring and autumn. In summer, street cafés invite you to linger, whilst during the Advent season many towns create a special atmosphere with Christmas lights and markets.