Discover the Splendor of Lake Constance

Lake Constance, or "Bodensee," is Germany's largest lake and a European gem, nestled at the foot of the Alps and bordered by Austria and Switzerland. With 270 kilometers of shoreline, mostly in Germany, it offers stunning views and a variety of quaint lakeside towns.

The Obersee, the lake's largest and deepest part, is lined with historic towns and villages that provide delightful diversions and views of the Swiss Alps. The region is a haven for water sports enthusiasts and also boasts a rich cultural and historical landscape, with castles, medieval villages, and gardens. Visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, swimming, and boat rides. Winter brings charming Christmas markets, particularly in Lindau and Konstanz.

1. Visit Konstanz Minster and the Old Town

Konstanz, the largest town on Lake Constance, is a cultural hub with a vibrant arts scene. The Konstanz Minster, dating back to the 11th century, is a must-see with its impressive architecture and panoramic tower views. The Old Town is home to historical buildings like the 15th-century Hohenzollernhaus and the Haus zum Rosgarten museum. SEA LIFE Konstanz and the Lake Constance Nature Museum are great for family visits.

Address: Münsterplatz 1, 78462 Konstanz

2. Explore Spectacular Flower Island (Mainau)

Mainau Island is a 110-acre paradise with lush gardens and a baroque palace, Schloss Mainau. It's a hit with visitors for its parks, tropical vegetation, and family-friendly attractions like Mainau Kinderland and a butterfly house.

Official site: www.mainau.de/en/welcome.html

3. Get Back to Nature at Wollmatinger Ried-Untersee-Gnadensee

This vast nature reserve is a sanctuary for plants and birds. The NABU-Centre offers exhibitions and guided tours to explore the rich biodiversity of the area.

Address: NABU-Bodenseezentrum Am Wollmatinger Ried 20, 78479 Reichenau

4. Lindau

Lindau, on an island connected to the mainland, is known for its harbor with iconic landmarks like the Bavarian lion and the new lighthouse. The pedestrian-friendly Old Town is lined with historic buildings and charming streets.

5. Allgäu: The Uplands of Lake Constance

The Allgäu region offers a picturesque landscape of mountains, lakes, and villages, perfect for a scenic drive or hike. It's also known for its spas and the Kneipp water cure.

6. Konstanz Harbor

Konstanz Harbor is home to the historic Kaufhaus and the Imperia statue, a landmark commemorating the election of Pope Martin V.

Address: Hafenstraße, 78462 Konstanz

7. Visit the Zeppelin Museum

In Friedrichshafen, the Zeppelin Museum showcases the history of airship travel with exhibits and reconstructions of the Hindenburg's interiors.

Address: Seestraße 22, 88045 Friedrichshafen

Official site: www.zeppelin-museum.de/en

8. Take a Zeppelin Flight

Experience a modern Zeppelin flight over Lake Constance, offering breathtaking views and a unique perspective on the region.

Official site: https://zeppelin-nt.de/en/

9. Reichenau: Lake Constance's Largest Island

Reichenau Island is known for its historical churches and the monastery, showcasing Early Romanesque art and architecture.

10. Hike or Bike the Lake Constance Trail (Bodensee-Rundwanderweg)

The Lake Constance Trail offers a scenic route for walkers and cyclists, passing through nature reserves, historic towns, and islands.

11. The German Stilthouse Museum

The Pfahlbaumuseum Unteruhldingen is an open-air museum with reconstructions of stone- and bronze-age lake dwellings.

Official site: www.pfahlbauten.com

12. Exploring Lake Constance by Boat

Boat tours offer a unique way to see Lake Constance's sights, with services running between major towns and smaller communities.

13. Hohentwiel

The Hohentwiel Castle ruins offer a glimpse into history and panoramic views of the surrounding area.

14. Explore Meersburg's "Old" Castle

Meersburg's Old Castle is a medieval fortress with a museum and well-preserved interiors, including a dungeon and torture chamber.

Official site: www.burg-meersburg.de/index_engl.html

15. Tour Meersburg's "New" Castle

The New Castle in Meersburg houses art galleries and museums, with rooms preserved in their original state and a garden terrace overlooking the lake.

Official site: www.neues-schloss-meersburg.de/en/start

16. Heiligenberg Castle

Castle Heiligenberg is a Renaissance-era castle with a grand hall, chapel, and collections of historic artifacts and natural history.

Official site: https://haus-fuerstenberg.de/heiligenberg/?lang=en

17. Salem Abbey and Palace

Salem Abbey and Palace feature a museum, historic firefighting equipment, gardens, and an adventure playground.

Official site: www.schloesser-und-gaerten.de/en/home