C Hohenems in autumn, view from Schlossberg castle towards the uplands (c) walser-image.com
A city for all seasons
Hohenems brought to life
Looking for a fun-filled day in Hohenems? A small city that is big on charm, it’s ideal for taking a stroll and exploring at your own pace. Historic Hohenems is packed with terrific tales
Hohenems – small city, big character
Is it any wonder that this small city bursting with history has always maintained a thriving cultural scene? After all, Hohenems has at various times been home to the first bank, the first coffee shop and even the first printing shop in Vorarlberg.
Today, locals and visitors alike enjoy strolling through the Jewish Quarter – one of the few fully preserved ensembles with Jewish roots. We can also recommend a
shopping tour taking in the small independent shops that line Marktstraße, as well as a visit to Schlossplatz square to see the chocolatier Fenkart and the Renaissance palace that is still inhabited by the Count’s family.
Every Saturday, Hohenems hosts a charming weekly market selling fresh regional organic produce. Not only is this covered market an all-weather event, shoppers can also pop next door to Café Frida for an organic snack. Hohenems is great for a little indulgence!
Autumn is the ideal time for a city trip to Hohenems, where you can enjoy walks, shopping, hiking and a variety of nature excursions. You can even climb the towering Schlossberg mountain to reach the imposing Alt-Ems castle ruins. The sprawling biking, hiking and climbing areas with fantastic views of the Rheintal valley also invite you to explore the city’s surroundings. In particular, the extensive cycle paths and hiking trails in Emsreute and Schuttannen are perfect for a little exercise in and around Hohenems.
Join us as we explore the highlights and insider tips of the city!
Did you know?
Hohenems has a long tradition of coffee houses – it was even the site of “Kitzinger”, the first coffee house in Vorarlberg, which opened in 1797.
Discover Hohenems with us as we take in the city’s oldest and newest attractions!
Experience Hohenems
Tips from our editorial team
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01 The Jewish Quarter
To this day, the centre of Hohenems is characterised by the unique ensemble of the former Jewish Quarter. The square in front of the former synagogue was redesigned exactly one year ago and renamed “Salomon Sulzer Platz”. It also features the stunning Salomon Sulzer Saal hall, which now hosts cultural events and meetings following its renovation.
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02 Schlosskaffee Fenkart cafe
This dazzling cafe at the heart of Hohenems offers a variety of delights and an unrivalled array of cakes. A chocolaterie featuring an open production space was added a few years ago. Located in Schlossplatz square, Fenkart is open daily from 9am to 7pm (closed on Tuesdays).
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03 Jewish Museum
Hohenems Jewish Museum reflects on the Jewish community in Hohenems and addresses contemporary Jewish issues in Europe, including diaspora and migration. It also features a dedicated exhibition for children aged 6 and up. Visitors to the museum cafe can sample Jewish wedding cake, coffee, bagels and kosher wine – all of which can be enjoyed outdoors in the garden.
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04 Renaissance palace and Schlossplatz square
The historic centre of Hohenems, featuring the unique Renaissance palace, Schlossplatz square and St. Charles’ parish church, is located some 433 metres above sea level. Formerly the seat of the Counts of Ems, the palace boasts a beautiful courtyard and a knights’ hall. This was also where the manuscripts of the Nibelungenlied were found. Today, the palace is inhabited by the Count’s family and is increasingly being opened up to the public. It’s a fantastic location for concerts, celebrations and fairytale weddings!
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05 Frida – our top tip for dining out
Frida Bioladen.Café has its finger on the pulse: located in the heart of Marktstraße, this popular cafe is the perfect place to enjoy a quality cup of coffee, vegan cakes and biscuits while soaking up the wonderful atmosphere with family and friends. Take a well-earned coffee break in the sunny and secluded courtyard, then visit Frida’s shop for a variety of organic and sustainable products!
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06 Handicraft in the city
Visit Anna Waibel Schmuck, a new shop on Marktstraße in Hohenems, for beautiful items of jewellery hand-crafted by master goldsmith Anna Waibel. Shoppers can also explore a range of additional products and accessories. It’s a celebration of true craftsmanship!
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07 Schloss Glopper castle and Burg Alt-Ems ruins
Schloss Glopper (aka Burg Neu-Ems) is a medieval castle in Emsreute that once belonged to the former Counts of Hohenems. Now owned by the Waldburg-Zeil family, it is inhabited all year round. In contrast, the Burg Alt-Ems castle ruins at 740 metres up are what remains of one of the largest complexes in Central Europe. This castle once boasted seven gates, a drawbridge and no fewer than 47 rooms! Follow the trail that snakes up Schlossberg mountain for 40-60 minutes to be rewarded with a stunning view over the Rheintal valley.
