The pre-Christmas period covers the region in a sprinkling of seasonal magic. At this time of year, with the hours drawing in and the first drops of snow settling, the Christmas markets get ready and spread warmth and joy to visitors young and old. A varied range of handmade souvenirs and children's programmes can be found at each market, so it’s worth checking them all out to make the most of this most wonderful time of the year!
Nadine Jochum / Stadtkultur und Kommunikation Feldkirch GmbHMost Christmas markets and Advent events in the region take place in beautifully decorated town and village centres – from Bregenz and Dornbirn to Feldkirch, Hohenems and Lustenau. All are easily accessible by public transport, with train stations and bus stops just a short walk away. So nothing stands in the way of a relaxed Christmas market tour by bus and train: stroll through several towns in one day, sample regional specialities and enjoy the festive atmosphere – all without the hassle of searching for a parking space.
Traditionally, the Vorarlberg Lines Christmas Ship operates between the Christmas markets of Bregenz in Austria and Lindau in Germany:
Most Christmas markets in Vorarlberg start in mid- to late November and run until just before Christmas. There are also many smaller Christmas markets that are only open for one weekend during Advent.
Visitors can look forward to an atmospheric setting with festively decorated stalls, regional arts and crafts, culinary delights, music and stage performances, as well as family-friendly activities such as children’s events.
Yes. One highlight, for example, is the market in Bregenz, which features an artificial ice rink, a light show (‘Rathausleuchten’) and a Christmas boat service to neighbouring Germany. In Hohenems, there is the Wichtelwald, which is open daily. At the Blosengelmarkt in Feldkirch, visitors can make their own Advent wreaths. The Christmas workshop in Dornbirn offers a colourful programme of activities for children, and the curling rink is open daily.
We recommend using buses and trains in the Bodensee–Vorarlberg region. This way, you’ll avoid the hassle of finding a parking space and can enjoy the Christmas markets at your leisure. Many markets take place in town centres and are very easily accessible by public transport. Travel by bus and train is included with the ‘Gästekarte für Entdecker:innen’ (Visitors’ Card for Explorers).
