Bregenz Beyond the Lake: 13 Things to Do Year-Round

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Bregenz might be best known in Austria for the Seefestspiele, its famous lake stage festival held every August. And while I do hope to experience it one day, the prices during that time, for both tickets and accommodation, are quite expensive.

That’s why I visited in late September instead, and honestly? Bregenz is absolutely worth visiting outside of festival season too.

From peaceful lakefront sunsets to mountaintop views, and quiet old-town charm, this underrated town really surprised me. Here are the best things to do in Bregenz, including what I loved, what felt underwhelming, and what you shouldn’t miss.

Table of Contents

1. Stroll the Lakefront Promenade

A serene lakeside promenade at sunset, with golden-orange light reflecting on the water and silhouetted trees lining the paved walkway. — The sunset in Bregenz in September was incredible

I visited Bregenz in late September, and one of my favorite things to do was simply walking along the lakefront. Even without swimming weather, the promenade was peaceful and full of golden leaves.

There’s a little pavilion bar right on the water that looks like the perfect summer evening spot, but it was a bit too chilly for me this time.

MOLO is especially beautiful at sunset, the light over Lake Constance made me feel like I was at the ocean.

2. Ride the Pfänder Funicular for Panoramic Views

Aerial view of a lakeside city with rooftops, trees, and cable car lines stretching toward a calm, expansive lake under a blue sky. — View from the cable car

The Pfänderbahn funicular takes you up the mountain in just a few minutes, and the ride itself is worth it for the views alone. From the top station you can really grasp how massive Lake Constance is.

When I visited in the late afternoon, there were barely any other people in the gondola. At the top, there’s a viewpoint right next to the station, and it’s honestly the best view in town.

That said, if you’re expecting a peaceful mountain peak, be prepared: there are quite a few buildings and restaurants up there, and the actual summit view is mostly blocked by trees. For more info, read my full Pfänder travel guide.

3. Visit the Oberstadt via the Meissnerstiege

Half-timbered house with red and white patterning and stone courtyard wall, with a narrow arched passageway leading beneath the building. — I love the design of the buildings

A moss-lined stone staircase leads upward beneath leafy green trees, framed by a wrought-iron lamp arch and rustic stone walls. — I love the design of the buildings

My favorite way to reach Bregenz’s Oberstadt (old town) was by climbing the Meissnerstiege, a quiet, mossy stone staircase that felt like a hidden entrance.

I didn’t see a single other person on the way up, and it gave the whole experience a magical, tucked-away feel.

At the top, you’re rewarded with cobblestone streets, centuries-old buildings, and a sense of calm. The Unteres Tor (old city gate) is a highlight, and the entire area feels full of history without trying too hard to impress.

4. Explore Martinsturm & Its Unique Exhibits

Aerial view of a lakeside city with a large brick church and twin spires, surrounded by rooftops, greenery, and distant hills. — View from the top

Museum exhibit space featuring wooden floors, information panels, historical artworks, and a small dining setup under a slanted ceiling. — View from the top

The Martinsturm is one of Bregenz’s most iconic landmarks, and it’s located right next to the Unteres Tor, the old town gate, one of the best photo spots in the city.

Entry to the tower is €5, and it’s more than just a viewpoint. Inside, you’ll find a small exhibit on Bregenz’s history (ask for an English brochure), a rotating modern art display, and at the top, a lookout with views through glass windows.

The view felt a bit underwhelming through the glass, but I really enjoyed the unexpected mix of old stone walls and contemporary art.

Don’t miss the church at the base of the tower, you can enter for free (without a tower ticket) to see some beautiful, centuries-old frescoes.

5. Find the Narrowest House in Europe (Maybe)

A narrow alley showing two pastel-colored houses tightly built together, with a tiny wooden door wedged between them marked with the number 29.

On Kirchstraße 29, you’ll find a building that claims to be the narrowest house in Europe. And yes, it’s definitely narrow, but I’ve come across a few places across Europe making the same claim, so I’m not entirely convinced it’s the one.

That said, you don’t need to go out of your way to see it. If you’re heading toward the old town, you’ll likely pass by it anyway. Just keep your eyes open, blink and you might miss it!

6. Climb the Kapuzinerstiege for Deuringschlössle Views

Covered wooden staircase with a tiled roof and lanterns hanging overhead, flanked by white walls and wooden beams.

A large white historic building with a domed tower sits amid lush greenery and autumn-colored trees, partially veiled by mist and low-hanging clouds.

The Kapuzinerstiege is a wooden staircase tucked into a quiet part of town, and finding it felt like discovering a hidden gem. The steps themselves look great, especially with the trees around them, but the real reward is at the top.

From here, you get a beautiful view of the Deuringschlössle, a small castle that’s not open to visitors but still worth seeing from this vantage point.

Right next to the top of the stairs is the Lourdes Kapelle, a tiny chapel that’s quirky and a little unexpected. Not something to plan your day around, but definitely worth a quick look if you’re nearby.

7. Visit St Gallus Church (Baroque Interior & Bridge)

Ornate baroque church interior with elaborately painted ceilings, gilded altars, and tall arched windows filling the white and gold sanctuary with natural light.

St Gallus Church has a beautiful baroque interior, and I really liked how wide and open it feels, with a peaceful atmosphere. The church’s main highlight is the silver altar, though personally, I didn’t find it that impressive.

What I did love, though, was the church’s exterior, especially the little stone bridge that leads up to it, it adds a historic touch and makes the church feel a bit tucked away. A great place for a quiet moment, even if you’re not usually into churches.

8. Admire the Colorful Windows of Herz Jesu Church

A cobblestone street lined with pastel buildings leading up to a grand red-brick church with twin spires and a large circular stained glass window.

Interior view of a church corner showing red brick arches, colorful stained glass windows, and an ornate wooden confessional booth with pointed arches.

You’ll spot Herz Jesu Church from almost anywhere in Bregenz, its tall towers make it one of the most prominent buildings in town.

But what really stood out to me were the colorful stained glass windows inside. They add a unique warmth to the otherwise traditional interior.

Even if you’re not big on churches, it’s worth popping in for a few minutes, and like most churches in Austria, entry is free.

9. Check Out Bregenz’s Contemporary Art Spaces

If you’re into modern art, Bregenz has two key spots to check out: the Kunsthaus Bregenz and the Künstlerhaus Palais Thurn und Taxis. Unfortunately, both were closed during my visit as they were setting up new exhibitions.

Both galleries focus on contemporary art and have a reputation for thought-provoking, often experimental installations. I’m definitely planning to return when they’re open to experience what I missed.

10. Relax at Strandbad or Seebad Bregenz (Depending on the Season)

If you’re visiting in summer, Strandbad Bregenz is the perfect place to cool off. It’s the town’s outdoor swimming area right by the lake, and locals love it when the weather’s warm.

When I visited in late September, it was already closed, but I later found out there’s also an indoor version right next door: Seebad Bregenz.

Seebad has indoor pools and a sauna area with lake views, which honestly sounds like the perfect way to relax after a day of sightseeing. I didn’t have time to go this time, but it’s high on my list for my next visit, since I love a good sauna session.

11. Take a Boat Ride on Lake Constance

One of the most popular things to do in Bregenz, especially during the warmer months, is to take a boat ride on Lake Constance. I didn’t have time for one on this trip, but it’s high on my list for next time.

The boats offer a scenic loop around the lake and give you a totally different view of the town and surrounding landscape. You can even take a boat all the way to Lindau Island in Germany, which I’ve heard is absolutely beautiful.

12. Look for Bregenz’s Quirky and Iconic Statues

1. Decorative fountain in a town square featuring a bronze frog spouting water beside an ornate metal pipe with running water, surrounded by flowers and pastel-colored buildings.

Bronze statue of a small man in a hat, forming part of a humorous fountain as water trickles from his midsection onto the stone base, set against a yellow building.

Bregenz has a fun mix of statues scattered around town, so keep your eyes open as you explore. My favorite was a tiny frog statue on a fountain in the square Leutbühel. It’s easy to miss if you’re not looking for it.

The most iconic statue, though, is the Bregenzer Seebrünzler, which literally translates to the person who pees in the lake. Yes, really. The statue is exactly what it sounds like, and it’s a local landmark that definitely makes an impression.

13. Visit the Vorarlberg Museum

If you’re curious about the region’s culture, the Vorarlberg Museum is the best place to go. As the westernmost county, Vorarlberg has such a unique identity within Austria, with its own dialects and traditions.

The museum covers everything from ancient history to contemporary life in the region. A great option for a rainy day in Bregenz or if you’re looking to understand more than just the pretty lakeside views.

Vegan Food in Bregenz

I’ll be honest, Bregenz isn’t the best place for vegan food in Austria, but you can still find a few decent options if you know where to look.

A colorful vegan bowl filled with falafel, sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, shredded carrots, edamame, fresh herbs, and plant-based meat, drizzled with dark sauce on a wooden table.

A cozy café setting with a wooden table holding a smoothie bowl topped with banana, grapes, apple, and blueberries, alongside a glass of matcha latte and water.

I had a mixed bowl at Çiğköftem Café Bregenz, a vegetarian chain. The bowl was good, though the Çiğköfte was a bit too spicy for me (I don’t handle spice well!). Unfortunately, their vegan options aren’t clearly labeled, so be sure to ask.

For breakfast, I went to BAHI café & space, a vegetarian brunch spot with a cozy atmosphere. I had a vegan yogurt-granola-fruit bowl, which was fine (though I’m not a fan of coconut yogurt). The matcha latte tasted mostly like oat milk, not great.

Where to Stay in Bregenz on a Budget

A bright, minimalist hotel room with large windows, white walls, and light wooden floors featuring a double bed and a single bed neatly made with white linens, dark curtains, and simple modern decor. — The room I stayed in

I stayed at the JUFA Hotel Bregenz, just a few minutes from the train station and the Festspielhaus. It’s one of the more affordable options in Bregenz.

The building looks cool from the outside, but the hallways felt dated and had a slight smell. My room was clean, a bit cold in late September, but totally fine, nothing fancy, just functional. I stayed in a 3-bed room on my own, as it was the cheapest available.

If you’re on a budget and want a central base, JUFA is a solid pick. Just don’t expect boutique vibes.

🏠 Book your budget stay in Bregenz now!

A modern outdoor plaza with a reflective pool and large abstract golden sculpture in front of a contemporary glass building, with lake and mountain views in the background. — In summer the Festspielhaus in Bregenz is a must see

Final Thoughts: Is Bregenz Worth Visiting?

Absolutely, but manage your expectations. Bregenz isn’t flashy, and outside of the famous Seefestspiele, it often flies under the radar. But that’s part of its charm.

The lake views are stunning, the sunsets unforgettable, and the old town is full of character. It’s walkable, peaceful, and packed with little surprises, from quirky statues to panoramic mountain views.

It may not offer the biggest sights or the best vegan food, but if you enjoy slower travel and uncovering underrated spots, Bregenz is well worth a visit.

Curious about the view from the top? Check out my detailed post on visiting Pfänder Mountain, including what to expect, what’s overrated, and what’s worth the climb.