Things To Do
in Bludenz

Bludenz is a mountain-town tucked in Vorarlberg, where lush valleys meet towering Alpine peaks. It serves as a convenient gateway to the Brandnertal and Montafon regions, making outdoor adventures easy to access. The town center preserves a traditional Vorarlberg atmosphere with timber-framed houses and cozy cafés.

Visitors are drawn by a mix of fresh air, hearty Alpine cuisine, and a welcoming local culture.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Bludenz
morning
:

Arrive in Bludenz and settle into your charming alpine accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll around the town to admire the stunning architecture and local shops. Don't forget to grab a traditional Austrian breakfast at a local café.

afternoon
:

Explore the beautiful parks nearby, such as the Klostertal Valley, where you can soak in the serene natural surroundings. Consider visiting the local museum to learn about Bludenz's rich history. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at an outdoor terrace with mountain views.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy a traditional Tyrolean dinner at a cozy restaurant. Sample local specialties like venison or dumplings while delighting in the atmosphere. End your day with a stroll through the illuminated streets of Bludenz.

day 2
Hiking Adventure
morning
:

Start your day early with a hearty breakfast before setting off on a hiking trip in the nearby mountains. Choose a scenic trail suitable for your skill level, such as the Rote Wand or the ski resort trails. The crisp mountain air will invigorate you as you enjoy breathtaking views.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst nature, surrounded by the tranquility of the stunning landscape. Continue hiking, keeping an eye out for local wildlife and beautiful wildflowers along the trails. Capture memorable photographs to cherish your alpine adventure.

evening
:

Return to Bludenz and unwind at your accommodation. Consider savoring a glass of local wine or beer while reflecting on your day. Delicious dinner options await you, featuring fresh ingredients from nearby farms.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-15
🥗Lunch at a mid-range cafe$15-25
🍽️Dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant$40-70
🏨1-night mid-range hotel stay$80-150
🚌Public transport day pass$4-8

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Access to scenic Alpine trails and easy valley explorations
  • Strong regional cuisine and warm Vorarlberg hospitality
  • Compact town with walkable streets and charming architecture
  • Good blend of outdoor activities across seasons
  • Limited late-night nightlife within Bludenz itself
  • Some attractions require short trips to nearby valleys
  • Weather in the mountains can be changeable and demanding
  • Smaller town amenities compared to larger cities
  • "Grüß Gott" - Hello / Good day
  • "Danke" - Thank you
  • "Bitte" - Please / You're welcome
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
  • "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
  • "Ich verstehe nicht" - I don’t understand
  • "Können Sie mir helfen?" - Can you help me?
  • "Zahlung, bitte" - Payment, please
  • "Prost!" - Cheers!

Places to Visit in Bludenz

Visit one of these nice places.

Bludenz Old Town Center

Colorful timber-framed façades, arcaded lanes, and the market square provide timeless photo opportunities, especially in the golden hours.

St. Nikolaus Church Tower

A vantage point offering sweeping views of the town and surrounding valleys; great for cityscape and sunset shots.

Alpine Overlook above Bludenz

Panoramic vistas of the Alps with Bludenz tucked in the valley; ideal for wide landscape photography at sunrise or sunset.

Lünersee Area Viewpoint

Emerald lake framed by rugged peaks; a dramatic alpine scene accessible via Brandnertal routes.

Culinary Guide

Food in Bludenz

Vorarlberg’s cuisine blends Alpine dairy, barley, and seasonal produce into hearty, cheese-forward dishes. Expect generous portions, rustic ambiance, and ingredients sourced from mountain farms and valleys nearby.

Bludenz Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Käsknöpfle

A cheese dumpling dish similar to spaetzle, typically served with onions and a rich cheese sauce.

Must-Try!

Käsespätzle

Cheesy egg noodles with crispy fried onions; a regional comfort classic.

Riebel

A millet porridge seasoned with butter and often served as a simple, traditional staple.

Montafoner Käsebrot

Savory cheese bread typical of the Montafon region, great as a snack or light meal.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Weekly Market (Marktplatz Bludenz)

Seasonal stalls offering regional cheeses, breads, sausages, honey, pastries, and fresh produce.

Climate Guide

Weather

Bludenz experiences a continental alpine climate with warm summers and cold winters. Winter brings snow to the surrounding peaks, ideal for skiing, while summers are pleasantly mild and suitable for outdoor activities. Rain can occur year-round, so layering and waterproof gear are wise year-round companions.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Common greetings include 'Grüß Gott' or 'Hallo'; a handshake is customary in formal settings.

Punctuality

Arrive on time for appointments and reservations; reliability is valued in daily interactions.

Respectful Communication

Use polite forms when addressing strangers; avoid loud conversations in quiet public spaces.

Indoor Etiquette

Head coverings are not required indoors; keep voices moderate in restaurants and public places.

Safety Guide

Safety

Bludenz is generally safe for travelers. Basic precautions apply: keep valuables secure in tourist areas, be prepared for mountain weather changes, and follow local guidelines for backcountry activities. In emergencies, dial 112 for police, fire, or medical assistance.

Tipping in Bludenz

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In Austria, rounding up the bill or leaving about 5-10% as a tip is customary if service is good; some places include a service charge.

Payment Methods

Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Smaller venues may prefer cash for edge-case transactions.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Milder days with blooming meadows; plan layered clothing for cool mornings and possible late-season snow in higher elevations.

Summer

Long days and comfortable temperatures; perfect for hiking, biking, and outdoor dining. Sudden alpine showers can occur, so bring a light waterproof layer.

Autumn

Golden forests and harvest festivities; cooler evenings and crisp air. Trails may be slick from fallen leaves after rain.

Winter

Snow-covered landscapes with excellent skiing nearby; cold days require warm layers, waterproof footwear, and sun protection for bright days.

Nightlife Guide

Bludenz at Night

Bludenz offers a cozy, low-key nightlife with neighborhood pubs, wine bars, and occasional live music events. The scene centers on craft beers, regional wines, and social dining rather than a late-night club atmosphere. Seasonal events and regional festivals can provide lively evening entertainment, especially in summer and during holidays.

Hiking in Bludenz

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Brandnertal Panorama Trail

A scenic loop through alpine meadows with expansive valley views and moderate gradients.

Lünersee Lake Trail

Trail to the famous Lünersee, an alpine lake framed by rugged peaks; suitable for a day hike.

Valley Viewpoint Trail near Bürs

Gentle climb to a high viewpoint offering sweeping views of Bludenz and surrounding summits.

Airports

How to reach Bludenz by plane.

St. Gallen-Altenrhein Airport (ACH)

Nearest regional airport offering connections to major hubs; popular for access to Vorarlberg and the surrounding region.

Innsbruck Airport (INN)

Larger international airport with mountain-access links; about a few hours’ drive to Bludenz.

Zurich Airport (ZRH)

Major international hub with extensive connections; from there, train or car transfer to Bludenz is straightforward.

Friedrichshafen Airport (FDH)

Smaller regional airport near Lake Constance, convenient for some routes into the area.

Getting Around

Walkability

Bludenz town center is very walkable, with most sights reachable on foot. For valley excursions and mountain access, local buses and trains provide convenient options, though some hikes and lifts require a short drive or ride-share. The urban core is compact, making strolling between cafés, shops, and viewpoints pleasant.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local residents

Traditionally rooted in farming and small-town craftsmanship, with a strong community vibe.

Seasonal workers

People migrating for tourism-related work in ski season and harvest periods.

Families and outdoor enthusiasts

Visitors drawn to the region’s family-friendly trails and outdoor activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Skiing

Winter sport widely enjoyed in nearby Montafon and Brandnertal resorts.

Hiking

Seasonal trails in the valleys and uplands attract daytime trekkers and families.

Mountain Biking

Valley paths and alpine routes provide varied terrain for riders.

Transportation

Traffic

Public transport in Bludenz is reliable, with bus and rail services connecting the town to surrounding valleys and larger cities. In peak tourist seasons, roads to the valleys can be busier, but parking is generally available in town centers. Mountain routes may be subject to weather closures in winter.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Bludenz.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vorarlberg offers ample vegetarian options, including cheese-based dishes and hearty grain porridges. When ordering, ask for meat-free broths and clarify ingredients if you’re avoiding dairy or eggs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Bludenz is accessible via local clinics and the regional hospital network. Pharmacies and general practitioners serve routine needs, with emergency services available via the public system. International visitors should consider travel health coverage and carry any required medications with documentation when traveling in the region.

Discover Austria

Read more in our Austria 2025 Travel Guide.

Austria Travel Guide