Feldkirch

Nestled in the far west of Austria, near the borders of Switzerland and Liechtenstein, Feldkirch is a charming medieval town that offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and modernity. Known for its well-preserved old town, striking architecture, and scenic surroundings, Feldkirch provides a plethora of activities and sights for travelers. Here’s an expert guide to help you make the most of your visit to this captivating destination.

Best Time to Visit Feldkirch

Feldkirch is a year-round destination, with each season offering its own unique appeal. 

Summer (June to August) is perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the town’s attractions under sunny skies. 

Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) offer mild weather, fewer crowds, and beautiful natural scenery. 

Winter (December to February) transforms the town into a picturesque snowy wonderland, making it ideal for those who enjoy a cozy atmosphere and nearby winter sports.

Getting to and Around Feldkirch

Feldkirch is well-connected by train, as it lies on the main railway line through Vorarlberg with regular inter-city services to Zurich and Vienna. 

The town is pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. For those driving, most hotels offer parking facilities, and the town’s compact size means everything is within a short walk.

Top Attractions in Feldkirch

Schattenburg Castle

A visit to Feldkirch wouldn’t be complete without exploring Schattenburg Castle. Built by Count Hugo von Montfort, this well-preserved medieval castle offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s history. The castle houses a museum with 18 rooms focusing on different aspects of Feldkirch’s past. Don’t miss the panoramic views from the rooftop gallery.

Feldkirch Old Town

The heart of Feldkirch is its charming old town, characterized by narrow cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and small squares. Strolling through the historic center, you’ll discover interesting facades and remnants of the town’s fortifications. The main area, Marktgasse, hosts twice-weekly markets and the annual Christmas market.

Montforthaus Feldkirch

For a touch of modern architecture, visit Montforthaus Feldkirch. This cultural center stands out with its beautiful rounded facades and large glass front. Built in 2015, it hosts various cultural events and features a rooftop restaurant with stunning views of the town and Schattenburg Castle. Guided tours are available for those interested in learning more about this architectural masterpiece.

Tashi Rabten Buddhist Monastery

Experience Himalayan serenity at the Tashi Rabten Buddhist Monastery, located on a hill just above the town. The monastery offers guided tours and meals by appointment, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in Buddhist philosophy and meditation amidst beautiful mountain scenery.

Wildpark Feldkirch

Perfect for families, the Wildpark Feldkirch is a lovely wildlife park featuring several forest trails and over 140 animals in natural surroundings. The park has free entry and includes an adventure playground for children.

Paspels Badesee

Paspels Badesee is a stunning lake ideal for a relaxing visit, especially in the evening. With a large sunbathing area, a biergarten serving snacks and drinks, and public toilets, it’s a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty.

Dining in Feldkirch

• La Bottega del Gusto: Tucked away in the old town, this Italian gem offers a simple menu with delicious dishes. For €9.95, you can enjoy a two-course meal with a glass of wine.
• Bäckerei Mangold: A family-run chain of bakeries dating back to 1850, Bäckerei Mangold serves award-winning bread, pastries, cakes, and great coffee. It’s a must-visit for a delightful breakfast or coffee break.
• Restaurant Kantine: Known for its stone-baked Neapolitan-style pizza and tasty appetizers like grilled cauliflower, Restaurant Kantine is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Where to Stay in Feldkirch

• Gutwinski Hotel: Located in the heart of the old town, the upscale Gutwinski Hotel offers stunning rooms and top reviews on Google and Booking.com.
• Best Western Premier Central Hotel Leonhard: This modern hotel is near Schattenburg Castle and provides parking facilities, making it a convenient option for those driving.
• Hotel Bären Feldkirch: A traditional and budget-friendly option, Hotel Bären is close to the train station and the old town area, with consistently good ratings.
• Night Inn Feldkirch: Conveniently located next to the train station, Night Inn Hotel offers modern, comfortable rooms and a decent buffet breakfast. Some rooms have views of the train station.

3-Day Itinerary for Feldkirch

Day 1: Exploring the Old Town and Montforthaus

• Morning: Start your day with a stroll through the old town. Visit Marktgasse, explore the narrow alleys, and admire the medieval architecture.
• Afternoon: Head to Montforthaus Feldkirch for a guided tour. Enjoy lunch at the rooftop restaurant.
• Evening: Have dinner at La Bottega del Gusto and take a leisurely evening walk through the beautifully lit old town.

Day 2: Schattenburg Castle and Wildpark Feldkirch

• Morning: Visit Schattenburg Castle and explore the museum. Don’t forget to take in the panoramic views from the rooftop gallery.
• Afternoon: Spend the afternoon at Wildpark Feldkirch. Enjoy a picnic and let the kids play at the adventure playground.
• Evening: Dine at Restaurant Kantine and enjoy their delicious pizzas and appetizers.

Day 3: Tashi Rabten Monastery and Paspels Badesee

• Morning: Hike up to Tashi Rabten Buddhist Monastery for a guided tour and a serene experience.
• Afternoon: Relax at Paspels Badesee. Enjoy the sunbathing area and a refreshing swim in the lake.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at Backerei Mangold and indulge in their award-winning pastries and bread.

Tourist Tips

• Before your trip, be sure to check the weather forecast. Summers in Feldkirch are warm and ideal for outdoor activities, while winters can be cold and snowy.
• While the official language is German, many locals speak English, especially in hotels and tourist areas.
• Austria uses the Euro. It’s advisable to have some cash on hand, as not all establishments accept credit cards.
• Feldkirch is a pedestrian-friendly city, but if you plan to explore the surrounding areas, renting a car can be convenient.
• Immerse yourself in local life and savor fresh produce by visiting the markets on Tuesdays and Saturdays.
• Austrians highly value punctuality and politeness. When visiting religious sites like the Tashi Rabten Monastery, be respectful and adhere to local customs.