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

In Villach, the top family-friendly hotel is Hotel Alpenhof, located at the foot of the Alps with spacious rooms, children’s play areas, and easy access to St. Martin Church and the Bregenzerwald hiking trails. This traditional Austrian timber house hotel offers a warm, cozy atmosphere and is just a 15-minute drive from the renowned ski resorts of Vorarlberg—perfect for both winter and summer getaways.

Another excellent choice is Gasthof Rössle, known for its authentic Austrian sauerkraut pork and local beer served in a rustic dining room. Guests can enjoy hands-on experiences like cycling through the Bregenz Forest or taking a cable car to Mount Feldberg for panoramic alpine views, making it ideal for families seeking adventure and tradition.

The best sightseeing area in Villach is the Marktplatz (Main Square) and its surrounding historic buildings. This charming square features the Villach City Hall, St. Martin's Church, and several 18th-century half-timbered houses that showcase typical Vorarlberg rural architecture.

On weekends, the square hosts a lively local market selling handmade wool products, honey, and fresh baked bread—perfect for experiencing authentic village life. From here, a 10-minute walk leads to the tranquil shores of Lake Bregenz, where you can enjoy sunrise walks along the lakeside path or picnic by the water, soaking in the peaceful alpine ambiance.

Photography enthusiasts should visit the Lake Bregenz sunrise viewpoint and the Feldberg Cable Car entrance. At dawn, the still lake mirrors the distant Alps and snow-dusted chalets, creating a dreamlike scene ideal for landscape shots.

The Feldberg Cable Car station offers dramatic compositions of layered green hills and winding mountain paths, especially striking during autumn when maples and pines blend into vibrant hues. Bring a tripod and telephoto lens to capture subtle light changes. Additionally, the painted murals and carved wooden doors in the old town alleys provide rich urban photography opportunities, reflecting local craftsmanship and heritage.

Must-try dishes in Villach include Grüne Soße, a cold herb soup made from fresh garden herbs, served with boiled potatoes and hard-boiled eggs—a refreshing starter perfect for summer visits.

Another highlight is Cheese Fondue (Käsefondue), crafted with locally sourced cheese from Lake Bregenz, offering a creamy, rich texture when paired with freshly baked bread. Don’t miss Nusskuchen, a regional walnut cake with a flaky crust and dense nut filling—commonly found in cafés and markets throughout the town, making it a delightful souvenir treat.

Don’t miss the Villach Music Festival held annually in July at the Marktplatz, featuring classical and folk performances by European ensembles. The evenings include spectacular light shows and fireworks, creating a magical atmosphere.

During winter, visit the Villach Christmas Market in December, set up at St. Martin’s Square, where stalls sell handmade crafts, mulled wine, and gingerbread. The air is filled with cinnamon and pine scent, and the market includes a children’s sledding area and an Advent prayer ceremony—perfect for experiencing genuine Austrian holiday traditions.

The top hiking trail near Villach is the Bregenzerwald Rundwanderweg (12 km loop), winding through ancient forests, streams, and alpine meadows. It’s ideal for spotting wildflowers, songbirds, and even deer—perfect for nature photographers and wildlife watchers.

Another favorite is the Feldbergsteig Trail, starting from the cable car station and climbing gently for about 45 minutes to a viewing platform at 1,800 meters. From here, visitors enjoy sweeping views across Vorarlberg and Lake Bregenz, with clear days revealing the Swiss border. Both trails feature rest shelters and marked signage, suitable for hikers of all levels—just bring sturdy shoes and plenty of water.

Despite being a small town, Villach has excellent transportation links. The Villach Train Station is served by multiple ÖBB trains connecting Vienna, Salzburg, and Bregenz, with the fastest route reaching Vienna in just 3 hours.

Local buses connect to other towns in Vorarlberg, including Bregenz and Füssen. For mountain exploration, electric bikes are available for rent, and the Feldberg Cable Car provides easy access to high-altitude trails. With most attractions within walking distance, Villach is ideal for car-free travel and slow tourism.

Cultural travelers should visit the Vorarlberg State Museum (Vorarlberger Landesmuseum) housed in the old city hall, showcasing over 2,000 traditional crafts—from wood carvings and handwoven textiles to wedding costumes—offering deep insight into rural life in the region.

Another must-see is the Kunstverein Villach, a contemporary art center located in a renovated grain warehouse, hosting rotating exhibitions by emerging artists and interactive workshops. Public spaces throughout the town also feature permanent installations like the bronze sculpture "Tree of Time" at St. Martin’s Square, blending art with local history and environmental awareness.

Accommodations in Villach emphasize tranquility, natural surroundings, and traditional charm. Most hotels and guesthouses use local timber and stone in their construction, with warm interiors featuring fireplaces and thick curtains—ideal for cozy winters.

Many properties are nestled by the lake or mountains, offering private terraces and stargazing platforms. For example, Ferienhaus am See has direct access to the lakeshore, allowing guests to enjoy morning bird songs and misty lake views. The town is safe, quiet, and welcoming, making it perfect for travelers seeking relaxation, authenticity, and immersive rural life.

Villach shines differently in every season. In spring, the Bregenz Forest bursts into bloom, and Lake Bregenz thaws, offering serene lakeside walks and early hiking adventures.

Summer (June–August) is prime time for outdoor events—lakeside concerts, boat tours, and mountain biking. Autumn brings the "Red Gold Season," when maple and oak trees turn brilliant shades of red and gold, turning forest paths into golden ribbons—ideal for photography and sketching.

Winter (December–February) transforms the town into a snowy wonderland. Snow blankets rooftops and streets, while ski slopes and snowmobile rides thrive. Evening lights and candlelit markets create a fairy-tale atmosphere—perfect for experiencing authentic Alpine winter magic.