How to Get to Alpinale Short Film Festival (Nenzing, Austria)

Getting to Alpinale by Plane

The nearest major international airports are Zürich Airport (ZRH) in Switzerland and Munich Airport (MUC) in Germany, both within a few hours' drive or train ride. ZRH is roughly 150 km from Nenzing, while MUC is farther, around 280 km. Alternatively, smaller regional airports like St. Gallen-Altenrhein and Friedrichshafen on Lake Constance offer limited connections but bring you closer to Vorarlberg.

From Zürich, you can catch direct trains toward Bregenz or Bludenz, with a change at Buchs or Feldkirch. From Munich, you'll typically change in Lindau or Bregenz. Consider flying into Zürich if you're coming from outside Europe, as it has excellent intercontinental connections. Always verify current schedules on the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) or Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB) websites before you travel.

Train Travel to Nenzing

The most straightforward way to reach Nenzing by train is to ride the Vorarlberg S-Bahn or regional trains that stop at Nenzing station. The town is on the line connecting Bludenz and Feldkirch, with regular services from both hubs. Bludenz is a major rail junction, often served by direct trains from Vienna, Innsbruck, and Zürich.

From Vienna, the Railjet service takes you to Bludenz in about 6 to 7 hours with scenic mountain views along the way. From Innsbruck, the journey takes roughly 2 hours. Once you arrive at Bludenz station, you can transfer to a regional train or bus to reach Nenzing in about 15 minutes.

Train travel is a great choice for solo travelers or those who prefer to avoid driving stress. Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB) often offers discounted fares when booked in advance. Because schedules and frequencies can change, check the ÖBB website or the local Verkehrsverbund Vorarlberg (VVV) for up-to-date timetables.

Local Transit in Vorarlberg: Buses and Shuttles

Within Vorarlberg, the Verkehrsverbund Vorarlberg (VVV) operates a coordinated bus and train network. Buses run frequently between Bludenz, Nenzing, and other nearby towns, making it easy to hop from the train station to the festival venue. You can buy single tickets or use the VVV app for mobile ticketing.

Some festival-goers may find it convenient to stay in Bludenz or Feldkirch and use VVV buses to reach screenings. That said, shuttle buses are not always guaranteed for late-night events, so be sure to check the last departure times in advance. The VVV website and app provide real-time updates to help you plan your movements.

Driving to Alpinale: Highway and Parking

Driving to Nenzing offers flexibility, especially if you plan to explore the region's sights, including Liechtenstein and Lake Constance. The A14 Rheintal/Walgau motorway connects the area to major German-speaking cities, with Nenzing easily accessible via exits near Bludenz. From Zürich, expect a drive of around 1.5 to 2 hours; from Munich, it's roughly 2.5 to 3 hours.

Parking near smaller festival venues often requires advanced planning. While Nenzing has some public parking, we recommend carpooling or arriving early to secure a spot. For the Alpinale, it's wise to check with the festival organizer about special parking arrangements, as these are not uniformly available. Always verify current road conditions and bridge tolls before setting off, as these may change.

Biking to the Festival

Vorarlberg is known for its bicycle-friendly infrastructure, and Nenzing lies on the banks of the river Ill, with several cycling paths connecting nearby towns. The region's flat valley floor makes cycling a pleasant option if you plan to stay at a distance. You can even rent a bike at some train stations or local shops to combine rail and bike travel.

During late summer, the weather is usually mild, but evening temperatures can drop. If you cycle to evening screenings, remember to bring proper lights and reflectors, as some routes may lack street lighting. Plan your route using the Vorarlberg cycling maps, which highlight safe and scenic paths.

Late-Night Return Options

Getting back to your lodging after screenings is a key concern at any film festival. In Nenzing, the options typically include staying within walking distance, taking a taxi, or arranging a ride with fellow attendees. While there may be some late-night buses on weekends, regular service can be sparse after midnight.

To avoid anxiety, consider booking accommodation within walking distance of the main screening venue or in Bludenz, which has a larger range of hotels and more frequent transport links. If you plan to drive, designate a sober driver or be aware of local taxi services. Some festival-goers carpool with strangers, but always prioritize your own safety when considering such arrangements.

Accessibility Considerations

Travelers with reduced mobility should plan their trip with extra care, as some of Nenzing's venues may be in historic buildings with limited accessibility. Contact the festival organizers directly at the official email (office@alpinale.at) to inquire about accessible entrances, viewing areas, and transportation to the festival sites.

When arriving by train, you can request boarding assistance from ÖBB if you need a ramp or help on and off the train. The town of Nenzing is mostly flat, making it navigable with wheelchairs, but some venues may be less so. Always have backup plans for reaching specific locations, and verify the exact festival venue locations with the organizers before you arrive.

Timing and Seasonal Considerations

The Alpinale is historically held in early August, with event dates shifting slightly each year. Since 2026 the window is 5–9 August, but always check the official festival website or the pillar page for the most current dates before you book travel.

Summer is a busy travel season in the Austrian Alps, so train tickets and accommodation can cost more when booked late. Reserve your tickets as soon as the festival announces dates to secure better fares. Also, consider adding a day to explore the region—Nenzing is a perfect starting point for trips to Liechtenstein, Switzerland, or Lake Constance.

Decision Framework: Train or Car

Choosing between train and car depends largely on where you're coming from and your group size. Trains are ideal for solo travelers or pairs, as you can relax and enjoy the scenery without worrying about parking. If you're coming from a city with good rail links, like Vienna or Zürich, the train is eco-friendly and surprisingly convenient.

Driving makes more sense for families or small groups who plan to visit multiple sites around the region. It also offers more flexibility for evening returns. However, be aware that parking near festival venues can be challenging. Weigh factors like cost, convenience, and your comfort with driving in mountainous terrain before making a decision.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Trip

Make sure your passport or ID is valid if you're crossing any international borders—even though Nenzing is in Austria, nearby borders with Switzerland and Liechtenstein can be crossed without border controls, but keep documents handy for any checks.

Pack for variable weather: bring a rain jacket and a warm layer for the evenings, as the mountains can generate quick showers or cool gusts. Download the VVV app for real-time transport updates, and save the festival's contact information in case you need assistance.

Avoiding Common Travel Mistakes

Don't assume that the festival is held in the urban center of Bludenz just because the festival's roots are there. Always double-check the exact venue address before traveling. If you rely on GPS, ensure your maps are up-to-date, as some rural routes may be poorly marked.

Avoid booking non-refundable accommodation far from the venue if you haven't confirmed return transportation. Late-night buses may not align with your plans, and taxi costs can add up. Most importantly, check the official festival and transport provider websites for the latest information—don't rely on outdated blog posts or social media.

Plan Your Visit

Reaching the Alpinale Short Film Festival is part of the adventure, offering scenic rail journeys or convenient drives through the heart of the Alps. By weighing your options between train, car, and even bus—and planning for late-night returns—you can focus on enjoying the films and the beautiful surroundings.

Now that you know the travel basics, it's time to plan the rest of your trip. Check out our guide on where to stay for alpinale short film festival, and if you're a first-time visitor, consult our First-Timer's Guide to the Alpinale Short Film Festival for insider tips. Enjoy the festival!