Bregenz

Lying along the southeastern shore of the Bodensee (Lake Constance) with the majestic Pfänder as its backdrop, Bregenz is where Vorarlbergers themselves come to make merry, especially in summer. The waterfront promenade is lined with inviting tree-shaded cafes, hip beach bar hangouts, and pier-end champagne pavilions, while an enormous floating stage is the open-air site for performances of grand opera and orchestral works (Verdi, Puccini, and Mozart are just some of the composers who have been featured). Bregenz is the capital of Vorarlberg, and has been the seat of the provincial government since 1819. The upper town has maintained a charming old-world character, while the lower city is packed with pedestrianized streets, shops, restaurants, museums, and galleries.