Things to do in Lake Constance
Discover the best attractions and experiences Lake Constance has to offer
Historic Monuments
From medieval castles to lakeside cathedrals, the Bodensee shoreline is dotted with storied monuments.
Konstanz Minster (Münster Unserer Lieben Frau)
A grand Gothic cathedral that dominates Konstanz’s skyline with stunning interiors and city views.
Meersburg Castle (Burg Meersburg)
One of Germany’s oldest inhabited castles perched above Meersburg with medieval chambers and terraces.
Schloss Salem
A dramatic hilltop castle linked to Württemberg’s royal history, surrounded by vineyards.
Museums
Maritime history, aviation and local stories await in the Bodensee region’s museums.
Zeppelin Museum Friedrichshafen
Explores airship history and Zeppelin engineering through immersive exhibits.
Dornier Museum Friedrichshafen
Aviation museum showcasing Dornier’s aircraft and flight heritage.
Rosgartenmuseum Konstanz
A local history museum tracing Konstanz’s past from medieval to modern times.
Stadtmuseum Lindau
Lindau’s city museum highlighting island life, culture and maritime heritage.
Religious Monuments
Sacred sites and pilgrimage churches line the lake’s shores.
Konstanz Cathedral (Münster Unserer Lieben Frau)
A striking Gothic cathedral with a commanding presence and impressive interior.
Birnau Basilica (Wallfahrtskirche Birnau)
Hilltop pilgrimage church offering sweeping lake panoramas and tranquil spaces.
Meersburg Abbey (Stift Meersburg)
Historic religious complex offering peaceful grounds and centuries of monastic history.
National & Theme Parks
Open-air museums and botanical havens provide family-friendly exploration.
Pfahlbaumuseum Unteruhldingen
Open-air museum recreating Bronze Age lake-dwelling life with authentic reconstructions.
Mainau Island Gardens
Famous island garden paradise with lavish blooms and scenic strolls.
Neighborhoods
Explore charming towns and their waterfront districts around the lake.
Konstanz Old Town (Altstadt)
Cobblestone lanes, cafés and lakeside views in a compact historic center.
Lindau Old Town & Harbor
Pastel façades and a bustling harbor on the island-city’s edge.
Meersburg Old Town
Medieval streets perched above the lake with a castle at its heart.
Free Things to Do
Many of Lake Constance's best experiences are free or easily enjoyed on foot.
Hafenpromenade Konstanz
Stroll the lakefront promenade with views of ships and the Alps.
Meersburg Old Town stroll
Wander the medieval lanes and admire the castle from ground level.
Strandbad Friedrichshafen (public beach)
Relax at a public lakeside beach with easy access and wide views.
Bodenseeradweg cycling route (parts of it)
Cycle along the lake on the scenic Bodensee circular route.
Gastronomy
The lake’s flavors center on fish, wine and hearty Swabian fare.
Bodenseefisch tasting
Sample local fish specialties such as Zander and Wels at lakeside eateries.
Wine tasting in the Lake Constance wine region (Meersburg-Lindau area)
Sip Riesling and Pinot varieties from nearby vineyards.
Swabian cuisine: Maultaschen & Spätzle
Enjoy classic Swabian dishes in a traditional setting.
Nightlife
Evenings on the Bodensee mix harbor vibes with music and cinema.
Hafenpromenade Konstanz (night strolls)
Evening walks along the harbor with lights and lake views.
Lindau harbor after dark
Harbor lights, bars and a relaxed lakeside vibe after dark.
Entertainment
Cultural venues and performing arts across the lake region.
Stadttheater Konstanz
A central venue for plays, concerts and touring productions.
Kino Capitol Konstanz
Film screenings ranging from arthouse to mainstream at a historic cinema.
Sports
Adventure and outdoor sport abound on and around the lake.
Bodenseeradweg cycling (lake-wide)
Enjoy cycling along the scenic lake route with diverse landscapes.
Stand-up Paddleboarding on the Bodensee
Try stand-up paddleboarding on calm lake sections.
Hiking around the Höri peninsula
Explore peninsula trails with rural villages, art and nature.
Off the Track
Hidden gems and lesser-known routes off the usual tourist track.
Höri Poets Path
A literary-inspired trail along the Höri peninsula with serene views.
Reichenau Island – Reichenau Abbey
Explore a UNESCO-listed abbey island with historic grounds.
Boat ride to Insel Mainau (early morning)
A tranquil, low-key way to reach the island and enjoy its gardens.