Flums(Switzerland) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Flums, the top family-friendly hotel is Hotel Alpenhof, a cozy, family-run boutique property located just steps from the Flums Train Station. It offers spacious family rooms, a children’s playroom, and free parking—ideal for travelers with kids. The hotel serves traditional Swiss breakfasts featuring fresh baked bread, local cheese, and organic jams. Nearby, you can stroll to the Old Town Square and visit the Canton of St. Gallen Museum. Another excellent choice is Hotel Rössli, a historic timber-framed inn with a scenic terrace overlooking the Rhine Valley. Its warm atmosphere and proximity to nature trails make it perfect for family getaways. Both hotels provide easy access to hiking, biking, and cultural attractions.

For families seeking authenticity, the surrounding region offers open-air experiences like visiting alpine farms and seasonal festivals—making Flums a great base for multi-generational travel.

The city center of Flums is the most ideal area for accommodation. Located right next to the Flums Train Station, it offers unbeatable convenience for exploring the region. You’re within walking distance of key landmarks like the Old Town Square, Town Hall, and charming local cafés and restaurants. The historic district features well-preserved 19th-century stone houses and wooden facades, reflecting traditional eastern Swiss architecture. Strolling along the Rhine River Promenade provides peaceful views of flowing water and mountain backdrops. With its safe environment, vibrant community life, and abundant amenities—including bike rentals and guided tours—the city center is perfect for both short stays and extended visits. It’s also an excellent launchpad for day trips to nearby valleys and mountains.

In Flums, don’t miss visiting the Flums Castle (Schloss Flums), a medieval fortress now housing a regional history museum showcasing artifacts from agriculture, ironworking, and folk traditions. During summer, attend the Rhine Valley Music Festival held in the town square, featuring performances by European ensembles under the open sky—a unique blend of nature and art. You can also join hands-on workshops at local craft studios, learning to make Alpine wool blankets or wood carvings with master artisans. For a deeper connection to rural life, take a day trip to the Bregenzerwald Valley, where you’ll encounter pristine forests, alpine pastures, and authentic farmhouses. These experiences reflect Flums’ rich heritage and deep-rooted relationship with culture and nature.

Near Flums, the must-visit natural attraction is the Rhine Valley Trail, a scenic walking path stretching through lush greenery alongside the clear Rhine River. Start at the Flums Bridge and walk toward the Bregenzerwald entrance—a gentle 3-kilometer route perfect for all ages. For panoramic views, take the cable car up to Kreuzberg Mountain, reaching a viewing platform that overlooks the entire Canton of St. Gallen and distant Alpine peaks. Autumn brings vibrant foliage, making it a favorite among photographers. Another highlight is Plattensee Lake, a serene alpine lake ideal for rowing, fishing, or a relaxing picnic. The surrounding forest paths are quiet and well-maintained. All these spots are within a 15-minute drive from the city center, offering effortless access to Switzerland’s unspoiled countryside.

In Flums, try St. Gallen-style Rösti with Beef, a hearty dish made with finely grated potatoes fried into a crispy pancake, topped with slow-cooked beef and caramelized onions. Another local favorite is Alpstein Bergkäse, a firm goat cheese from high-altitude pastures, known for its nutty, slightly salty flavor—perfect with dark rye bread. Don’t miss the locally brewed beer served at Gasthaus Zähringer, crafted using pure Rhine water and regional barley, offering a crisp, refreshing taste. At weekend markets, sample homemade jams, honey, and dried sausages directly from local farmers. These dishes highlight the region’s agricultural roots and the deep connection between food and land—true expressions of Eastern Swiss culinary tradition.

While Flums itself doesn’t have downhill slopes, it’s an excellent base for skiing thanks to its proximity to major resorts. Just 25 kilometers away, the Bregenzerwald Ski Area offers 12 marked runs and modern chairlifts, accessible via bus or car in under an hour. Hotels like Hotel Alpenhof provide ski rental services, equipment storage, and even guided lesson bookings. Some offer shuttle buses during winter months. Additionally, the Winter Market in Flums opens in December, featuring heated tents, hot chocolate stands, and live music—ideal for unwinding after a day on the slopes. Though there’s no local ski terrain, Flums’ transportation links and hospitality services make it a smart, convenient hub for winter sports enthusiasts.

Public transport in Flums is efficient and eco-friendly. The S-Bahn train line connects Flums directly to St. Gallen and Zurich, with departures every hour—just 40 minutes to Zurich. The Flums Train Station serves as a key transit hub, linking to destinations like Basel, Bern, and Miltinberg. Within the city, most areas are pedestrian-friendly, with dedicated bike lanes and electric bike rentals available. A Swiss Travel Pass covers all trains, buses, and boats across the country, including regional services in Flums. Many hotels offer complimentary shuttle services from the station. Overall, Flums prioritizes walkability and sustainability, making it ideal for travelers without a car.

In Flums, must-see historical sites include the Flums Church, built in the 18th century, with red-brick façades, intricate woodwork, and stunning Baroque altarpieces. The Old Town Wall Ruins (Altstadtmauer) remain partially visible, revealing ancient stone foundations and gate remnants from the medieval defensive system. The Town Hall (Rathaus Flums), constructed in 1900, blends Neoclassical design with local timber elements and now hosts cultural exhibitions and community events. The Flums Castle (Schloss Flums), once a noble residence, has been restored and now functions as a regional museum, displaying artifacts from daily life, warfare, and craftsmanship in the 18th and 19th centuries. Together, these structures tell the story of Flums’ evolution—from fortified village to modern Swiss town.

The peak tourist seasons in Flums are summer (June to August) and winter (December to February). Summer draws hikers, cyclists, and festival-goers to the Rhine Valley Trail and the Bregenzerwald Valley, while the Summer Music Festival adds a vibrant cultural touch. In winter, visitors flock for skiing at the Bregenzerwald Ski Area, and the Christmas Market transforms the town square with lights, festive food, and handmade gifts. Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) are quieter but equally beautiful—ideal for photography, cultural visits, and peaceful exploration. For a more authentic experience with fewer crowds, consider traveling during these shoulder months, when locals enjoy outdoor life and seasonal events unfold naturally.

Shopping in Flums centers around local craftsmanship and sustainable products. The weekly market at the Old Town Square features stalls run by local farmers and artisans selling handmade honey, Alpine goat cheese, wool blankets, and wood carvings. The Alpstein Wool Blankets, woven from highland sheep’s wool, are especially popular for their warmth and durability. Gasthaus Zähringer also operates a small shop offering limited-edition Swiss chocolates and lavender soaps made from regional ingredients. For art lovers, the Flums Art & Craft Gallery showcases contemporary works by Swiss designers—ranging from ceramics to textiles—emphasizing handcraft and environmental responsibility. Every purchase supports local livelihoods and reflects Flums’ commitment to sustainability, turning shopping into a meaningful cultural experience.