Hohenems Travel Guide

Get all the details to plan your trip to Hohenems, Austria with this comprehensive travel guide. Know the places to visit, food scene, where to stay, and much more.


Introduction to Hohenems

Located in Vorarlberg, in Austria, in Central Europe Hohenems is a small town that offers a perfect blend of history and nature. Founded in the 12th century, Hohenems is home to numerous culturally significant attractions, natural wonders, and outdoor adventures.

List of Places to Visit in Hohenems

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Jewish Museum Hohenems: Explores the city’s Jewish history and culture, with exhibits showcasing the life and times of the Jewish community in Hohenems from the 17th century to the present day.
  2. Palast Hohenems: A former summer residence of the Habsburgs, the palace features Renaissance and Baroque architecture and exhibitions on regional history and culture.
  3. Schloss Amberg: A stunning Baroque castle, which now serves as a cultural center featuring theater, music concerts, and art exhibitions.

Natural Attractions of Hohenems: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Muttersberg Mountain: A popular hiking destination, Muttersberg offers breathtaking views of the Rhine Valley and surrounding Alpine peaks.
  2. Hofsteig Lakes: A serene pair of alpine lakes set amidst lush greenery, perfect for a peaceful picnic or fishing trip.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hohenems

  1. Muttersberg Panorama Trail: A medium-difficulty circular hike taking you past stunning views of the Rhine Valley and surrounding peaks.
  2. Neolithic Trail: An easy hike exploring 5000-year-old ruins, including traces of Bronze Age life, fortifications, and burial sites.

Best Things to Do in Hohenems: Activities and Tours

  1. Take a guided walking tour of the city, exploring its rich history and culture.
  2. Go hiking or biking on the numerous trails in the surrounding Alpine peaks.
  3. Attend a music concert or theater performance at the Palast Hohenems or Schloss Amberg.

Week-Long Itinerary for Hohenems

| Day | Activities | | — | — | | Day 1 | Explore the historic Jewish Quarter and visit the Jewish Museum Hohenems. | | Day 2 | Hike the Muttersberg Panorama Trail and take in the stunning views of the Rhine Valley. | | Day 3 | Visit the Palast Hohenems and learn about the region’s history and culture. | | Day 4 | Take a day trip to Bregenz, a charming lakeside town with a vibrant cultural scene. | | Day 5 | Hike the Neolithic Trail and explore the Bronze Age ruins and burial grounds. | | Day 6 | Attend a music concert or theater performance at the Schloss Amberg cultural center. | | Day 7 | Relax by the Hofsteig Lakes and enjoy a peaceful picnic amidst lush greenery. |

Food and Drink Scene of Hohenems

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Käsknöpfle: A hearty dish of pasta, cheese, and onions, topped with fried onions and served with salad.
  2. Riebel: A crispy, pancake-like dish served with sweet fruit compote.

Local Beverages

  1. Schnapps: A popular Austrian digestif, made from a variety of fruits and herbs.
  2. Vorarlberger Alpenkäse: A strong, creamy cheese often served with traditional bread and cured meats.

Where to Stay in Hohenems: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. Hotel am Garnmarkt: A luxurious hotel with spacious rooms, traditional Austrian decor, and a lush garden.
  2. Hotel Cafe Lorenz: A charming boutique hotel with cozy rooms, a delicious breakfast, and an onsite bakery and cafe.

What to Buy in Hohenems: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Vorarlberg Alpenkäse: A delicious local cheese perfect for bringing home to enjoy.
  2. Handcrafted Jewelry: Hohenems is known for its handcrafted jewelry, and visitors can find unique pieces at local shops and galleries.

Local Culture and Customs of Hohenems

Hohenems has a rich cultural history, with a legacy of Jewish, Austrian, and German influences. Visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions, including conservative dress and proper etiquette when visiting museums and historical sites.

Best Time to Visit Hohenems

The best time to visit Hohenems is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. The spring and autumn months can also be a good time to visit, with fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hohenems

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine, including Käsknöpfle and Riebel.
  • Respect local customs and dress conservatively when visiting museums and historical sites.
  • Take a guided tour of the city to learn about its rich history and culture.

Don’t:

  • Ignore safety precautions when hiking or biking in the Alpine peaks.
  • Disrupt the peaceful atmosphere of the Hofsteig Lakes by littering or disturbing wildlife.
  • Visit during the winter months, when the weather can make outdoor activities difficult or impossible.

Safety and Health

Safety in Hohenems

Hohenems is a safe destination for travelers, with a low rate of crime and well-maintained hiking and biking trails. Visitors should take standard safety precautions, including keeping valuables secure and being aware of their surroundings when exploring the city or hiking in the Alpine peaks.

Health in Hohenems

Hohenems has modern healthcare facilities and services, including a hospital and medical clinics. Visitors should bring their necessary medications and health insurance information, and be aware of any regional health risks, such as allergies to local flora or fauna.

Getting to Hohenems: Transportation Options and Logistics

Hohenems is well-connected by road and rail, with a nearby airport and several bus stations serving nearby towns and cities.

Airports Near Hohenems

  1. Friedrichshafen Airport: Located in Germany, approximately 45 kilometers from Hohenems.

Bus Stations Near Hohenems

  1. Dornbirn Bus Station: Located in nearby Dornbirn, approximately 5 kilometers from Hohenems.
  2. Bludenz Bus Station: Located in nearby Bludenz, approximately 20 kilometers from Hohenems.

Other Options

Visitors can also travel to Hohenems by car or train, with the town well-connected to major highways and rail lines.

How to Get Around in Hohenems

Hohenems is a small town, and visitors can easily explore the city on foot or by bike. Public transportation is also available, including buses and taxis.

Where to Go Next from Hohenems: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Bregenz: A charming lakeside town with a vibrant cultural scene, including the Bregenz Festival and the Kunsthaus Bregenz contemporary art museum.
  2. Feldkirch: A historic town with a well-preserved medieval city center, including the Schattenburg Castle and the Katzenturm Tower.

Conclusion

Hohenems is a hidden gem, offering visitors a perfect blend of history, culture and nature. Whether you’re interested in exploring museums and historical sites, hiking in the Alpine peaks, or simply relaxing by the Hofsteig Lakes, Hohenems has something for everyone. Plan your trip today and discover the beauty of this charming town in Austria.