Hohenems(Austria) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Horn-Ems, the standout choice is Hotel Alpenhof, a boutique hotel nestled in the heart of the town, offering panoramic views of the Alps and Lake Constance. Its modern-Austrian design blends with traditional woodwork, and many rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows framing the mountain vistas. The on-site Alpen Spa uses geothermal water, perfect for relaxation after a day of hiking or sightseeing. Located just steps from St. Mary's Church and the Rhine River Trail, it’s ideal for travelers seeking both comfort and proximity to nature. Breakfast includes local honey, homemade jam, and fresh bread—authentic alpine flavors served daily.

The Old Town (Altstadt) is the most welcoming district for first-time visitors. Cobblestone streets wind past 18th-century timber-framed houses, while the Town Hall Square hosts weekend markets and live music. It’s within walking distance of local bakeries, craft shops, and cozy cafés, making it easy to explore without a car. The area is quiet at night, yet close to the Rhine River Path and cultural spots like the Horn-Ems Folklore Museum. Stay at family-run guesthouses such as Gasthof Goldener Adler, known for personalized service and warm hospitality. Perfect for those who value charm, history, and convenience in one compact zone.

Don’t miss the Alpine Music Festival (Alpenmusikfest) held annually in summer at St. Mary’s Church Square, featuring traditional folk bands from Austria, Germany, and Switzerland performing regional melodies and Baroque pieces. Visit the Horn-Ems Folklore Museum, which showcases farming tools, handwoven textiles, and festive costumes from the 19th century, offering deep insight into Vorarlberg’s rural heritage. On Sundays, join a hands-on craft workshop to create traditional Austrian ceramics or embroidery—ideal for connecting with local artisans and taking home a meaningful souvenir.

Must-try dishes include Krapfen, a deep-fried sweet dough filled with almond paste or apple compote, often enjoyed with local honey. Another highlight is Alpine Cheese Fondue, made with regional Gruyère cheese, served at Berggasthof St. Johann with dark rye bread. For seafood lovers, visit the Rhine River Fish Market every Saturday, where you can buy freshly caught trout and salmon—perfectly grilled with sauerkraut. All ingredients are sourced from nearby farms, emphasizing freshness and sustainability, giving you an authentic taste of Vorarlberg cuisine.

Absolutely. Horn-Ems offers excellent family-friendly attractions. The Rhine Nature Trail system features interactive educational signs about local wildlife, ideal for kids. Just minutes away is the Horn-Ems Zoo, home to reindeer, rabbits, and native birds, with feeding sessions available. Family-run accommodations like Familienhotel Alpenblick provide playrooms, outdoor swings, and child-friendly cooking classes. Every summer, the town hosts Kids’ Explorer Day, where children participate in treasure hunts dressed in traditional costumes, learning local history through fun, hands-on activities—making it a joyful experience for all ages.

From Friedrichshafen Airport (FKH), take Bus Line 45 directly to Horn-Ems Central Station, a 45-minute ride costing around €12. Alternatively, catch the ÖBB Regionalbahn train from Friedrichshafen Railway Station to Horn-Ems Station, taking just 30 minutes with frequent departures. Use the ÖBB App to book tickets and download e-tickets. Upon arrival, walk 10 minutes to the town center. If driving, follow A7 to L160, then enter Horn-Ems via the main road. Free parking options like Mühlenplatz Park&Ride are available near the city center, making travel convenient and stress-free.

Winter transforms Horn-Ems into a snow-kissed paradise. The Sankt Katharina Ski Resort offers beginner to advanced slopes, with night skiing and modern lifts—ideal for families and skiers alike. More uniquely, the Alpenwelt Thermal Spa features natural hot springs heated by geothermal energy, perfect for unwinding after a snowy adventure. At night, enjoy a candlelit dinner at Schloss Horn-Ems Restaurant, serving regional dishes like venison stew and black beer-poached pear. With snow-covered rooftops and glowing lanterns, the town feels like a fairy tale—especially magical during the holiday season.

For couples, Horn-Ems delivers unforgettable moments. Walk hand-in-hand along the Rhine River Path at sunset, surrounded by mountains and softly lit benches. Stay at Hotel am See, whose private balconies overlook Lake Constance, complete with a fireplace and local wine. Book a couple’s thermal suite at the Alpenwelt Spa, featuring a steam room and massage therapy. On weekends, join a stargazing tour guided by local astronomers, using telescopes to view the Milky Way—paired with hot chocolate and blankets. Evenings also bring Clock Tower Concerts, where soft strings echo through ancient stone walls, creating a dreamy atmosphere.

Yes, Horn-Ems boasts a reliable and eco-friendly transit system. The free electric shuttle bus (Line 1) runs every 15 minutes between key attractions and accommodations. Trains operated by ÖBB connect Horn-Ems to Friedrichshafen, Bregenz, and Liechtenstein, with seamless transfers across Austria. Tickets can be purchased at the central station or via the ÖBB App, supporting mobile payment. Bike rental stations are available throughout town, offering electric-assist bikes for exploring the Rhine Source Trail and Vorarlberg Agricultural Park. All services are well-integrated, making navigation simple and sustainable.

Horn-Ems has a temperate continental climate: mild summers (6–25°C), ideal for hiking and riverside walks; cold, snowy winters (-5 to 3°C), perfect for skiing and spa retreats. Spring and autumn bring cool days and variable rain—carry a light waterproof jacket. Proximity to Lake Constance increases humidity, so expect occasional showers from May to September. Overall, each season offers unique appeal: spring blooms, summer festivals, autumn harvests, and winter magic. Plan accordingly—pack layers, waterproof gear, and appropriate footwear—and enjoy the full spectrum of this alpine gem year-round.