How to Get to Poolbar Festival: Arriving in Feldkirch and Getting Home
Poolbar Festival takes over the Austrian city of Feldkirch every summer, using the Altes Hallenbad and the adjacent Reichenfeld open-air area as its stages. Because the festival sits in the border triangle of Austria, Germany, Liechtenstein, and Switzerland, getting there is surprisingly straightforward from several countries. Unlike many festivals that are set in remote fields, Poolbar is woven into the city itself, so your transport choices feel more like a city break than an expedition.
The festival's official website describes the location as the Altes Hallenbad and Reichenfeldwiese, which are close to each other and to Feldkirch's center. This urban setting means you can often walk from your accommodation or the train station, but the best option depends on where you're coming from and whether you're attending a weekday club night or a weekend open-air concert.
Why Getting to Poolbar Festival Is Easy: A Unique Border Region Location
Poolbar Festival's location in Feldkirch, the westernmost city in Austria, places it within easy reach of international travelers. The city is near the borders of Germany, Liechtenstein, and Switzerland, making it a practical destination for a cross-border trip. Festival Finder notes that the event attracts guests from all over Europe, thanks to its accessible position in the Rhine Valley.
The festival's two primary venues—the Altes Hallenbad and the Reichenfeld open-air area—are both within Feldkirch, which keeps logistics simple. You won't need to navigate shuttle buses between distant festival sites like at larger rural events. Instead, you can plan your arrival and departure around the city's regular transport network.
Getting to Feldkirch by Train from Austria, Germany, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein
The train is the most reliable way to reach Poolbar Festival, especially if you're coming from outside the region. Feldkirch has a main railway station with connections to major Austrian cities like Vienna and Innsbruck, as well as to Bregenz and onward to Germany and Switzerland. The ÖBB (Austrian Federal Railways) operates frequent services along the Rhine Valley, and the station is well-connected to the festival area.
For international visitors, the station is integrated into the cross-border network: you can take direct trains from Zurich or Munich via Bregenz, and from Liechtenstein via Buchs or Schaan. A key advantage is that the station is within walking distance of the Altes Hallenbad and Reichenfeld, which means you can avoid taxis or buses after a long journey. If you're coming from an airport, the closest major hubs are Zurich and Munich, both with direct rail connections to Feldkirch.
Local Transit: Buses and Walking from Feldkirch Station to the Festival
Once you arrive at Feldkirch station, you have two main options to reach the festival: walking or taking a local bus. The station is located about a 15-20 minute walk from the Altes Hallenbad and the Reichenfeld area, making it feasible to stroll through the city center and soak up the atmosphere. If you prefer not to walk or have heavy luggage, local buses serve the routes between the station and the festival venues, though schedules vary.
The festival's urban location means that walking is often the most convenient option, especially for evening events when buses may be less frequent. Keep in mind that the Altes Hallenbad is a former indoor swimming pool, and its entrance might be less obvious; look for festival signage. For late-night returns, consider walking in groups or using a taxi if you're staying outside the city center.
Driving and Parking: Reichenfeldwiese and the Surrounding Area
Driving to Poolbar Festival is possible, but it requires planning, especially during peak weekend days when the open-air area at Reichenfeld attracts large crowds. Festival Finder notes that parking is available, but it does not specify whether it is free or paid, so check the official festival website closer to your visit for up-to-date information. The festival is in the city center, and street parking may be limited.
If you do drive, arrive early to secure a spot and be prepared to walk from a parking area. Some visitors opt to park at the Feldkirch station and take the train from there, which can be easier than navigating city traffic. Consider using a park-and-ride facility if available, and always check for temporary road closures during festival events.
Cycling and Active Travel: Bike Paths to the Event
Cycling to Poolbar Festival is an excellent option for regional visitors, especially given the flat terrain of the Rhine Valley and the festival's central location. Feldkirch is connected to a network of bike paths that run along the river, making it possible to cycle from neighboring towns in Austria, Germany, or Liechtenstein. The festival provides bike racks, but you may want to bring a sturdy lock.
The official festival website even organizes a bike excursion to the Rhine as part of its program, highlighting the cycling culture in the area. If you're staying in Feldkirch, you can easily cycle to the venues, but remember that the Altes Hallenbad and Reichenfeld are close to the center, so you might not need a bike at all unless you're coming from further afield.
Late-Night Returns and Safety Tips for Festival Evenings
Festival evenings at Poolbar can run late, especially during club nights at the Altes Hallenbad. After the last train or bus, getting back to your accommodation requires planning. If you're staying in Feldkirch, walking is usually the best option, but if you're in a nearby town, check the last train times and consider sharing a taxi for safety and cost.
The festival's urban location means there are usually people on the streets, but always stay aware. Carry a phone with a map app, and let someone know your route. For those using ride-sharing, confirm your pick-up point in advance. If you're staying outside the city, consider booking a hotel near the station to minimize late-night travel.
Practical Travel Checklist: Tickets, Apps, and What to Pack for the Journey
Before you set off, download the official Poolbar Festival app, which provides schedules and venue maps, and check the festival's website for any transport updates. If you haven't already, secure your entry—especially for weekend open-air events that may sell out. You can find details on the official tickets page, and for more on festival planning, see our coverage of poolbar festival tickets.
Pack for all weather, as the Altes Hallenbad is partly indoor, but the Reichenfeld open-air area is exposed. Comfortable shoes are a must since you'll likely walk between stages and the station. For a packing list tailored to the festival, check out what to wear to poolbar festival. And if you're traveling with children, our guide to poolbar festival with kids covers family-specific logistics.
Plan Your Visit
Getting to Poolbar Festival is easier than you might think, thanks to its central location in Feldkirch and excellent rail connections. The train is the most convenient option for most visitors, with the station within walking distance of the venues. Driving and cycling are viable alternatives, but require more planning.
For more details on the festival itself, including the full program and dates, visit our comprehensive guide. And don't forget to book your stay early—check where to stay for the best options. With a little preparation, you'll find that arriving and returning is part of the fun.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to travel to Poolbar Festival?
The best way is by train, as Feldkirch station is within walking distance of the festival venues. Direct connections from Austria, Germany, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein make it easy and reliable.
Where is the Poolbar Festival located?
The festival is located in Feldkirch, Austria, near the borders with Germany, Liechtenstein, and Switzerland. It uses the Altes Hallenbad and the Reichenfeld open-air area.
Is there parking at Poolbar Festival?
Yes, parking is available, but it is limited and may be paid. Check the official festival website for current parking information, and consider arriving early or using a park-and-ride.
Can I get to the festival by train?
Yes, the train is a highly recommended option. Feldkirch station has connections from major cities, and it's a short walk to the festival venues.
How far is the festival from the train station?
The Altes Hallenbad and Reichenfeld are about 15–20 minutes on foot from Feldkirch station, making walking a pleasant and feasible option.
Are there bikes or bike parking at the festival?
Cycling is encouraged, and bike racks are available, but you should bring your own lock. The festival's central location makes it easy to cycle from nearby areas.