Our spontaneous trip to Lake Constance turned out to be a delightful surprise, reminding me of the joys that often come when initial plans go awry. Located near Strasbourg, Lake Constance is easily accessible via public and private transport, making it an ideal getaway.
Initially, Thibault and I intended to spend the weekend in Annecy, frequently hailed as one of France’s most picturesque cities. However, upon discovering that hotel prices in August were beyond our budget, we opted for Lake Constance in Germany instead.
And what a fantastic choice that was! Even during the busy summer season, we found that accommodations at Lake Constance were far more budget-friendly than those in Annecy. In the following sections, I’ll detail where the lake is located, how to reach it, and why I now recommend it to everyone.
Why Should You Visit Lake Constance?
Lake Constance, known as Bodensee in Germany, is a destination where you can easily fill an entire week with activities. Whether you choose to enjoy a leisurely stay at a beautiful hotel with private beach access or explore the surrounding area with daily adventures, this place has something for everyone.
While American travelers may not typically spend their limited vacation days in one location, Lake Constance allows visitors to explore three different countries—Germany, Switzerland, and Austria—with Liechtenstein also nearby. On and around the lake, there are countless activities to enjoy, with biking and water sports like paddleboarding and sailing being particularly popular.
Where is Lake Constance?
Lake Constance is a 39-mile (63 km) freshwater lake that borders three nations: Germany, Switzerland, and Austria.
It is the third-largest lake in Central and Western Europe in terms of surface area, surpassed only by Lake Geneva in Switzerland and Lake Balaton in Hungary. When considering volume, however, Lake Constance is the second largest, following Lake Geneva. The Rhine River feeds into the lake, while the High Rhine serves as its outlet.
Can You Swim in Lake Constance?
Absolutely! One of the most exciting aspects of this visit is the incredibly clean water, which is used for drinking. It’s perfectly safe to swim in the lake. Personally, I appreciated that the water temperature was quite comfortable—unlike my typical experiences in Brittany, where I often hesitate before dipping my toes in!
How to Reach Lake Constance
If you’re flying, I recommend checking out the airports in Basel, Zurich, and Munich. Additionally, you can reach the area via train and coach, but you may need to do some research to determine the best route based on your starting point.
How We Got to Lake Constance from Strasbourg
If driving from Strasbourg, the journey takes about 2.5 hours, including time for a stop or two. The drive is enjoyable, but since you’ll pass through different countries, be aware that mobile service may become unreliable at times, which might hinder GPS navigation. So, it’s a good idea to prepare for occasional signal loss.
By public transport, I suggest taking a train from Strasbourg to Konstanz, the city that shares its name with the lake. The trip takes just over three hours and involves a quick transfer in Freiburg, Germany—definitely a town worth exploring, too! Once you arrive in Konstanz, you will find a regional transport system for easy navigation.
Things to Do at Lake Constance
One of the highlights of my visit to Lake Constance was the multitude of activities available.
Hiking
The Lake Constance area offers fantastic hiking opportunities, with trails ranging from easy lakeside strolls to more challenging hikes in the nearby pre-Alpine landscapes. The Pfänder mountain near Bregenz provides breathtaking views, showcasing the panoramic beauty of the lake and the surrounding Alpine peaks.
Cycling
For cyclists, Lake Constance is a dream destination, featuring over 170 miles of well-marked paths that circle the lake. Some popular routes include the Danube-Lake Constance trail and the Upper Swabian-Allgäu cycle path. Riders can expect to see charming villages, picturesque vineyards, and peaceful landscapes, with many routes suitable for both novice and experienced cyclists.
Water Sports on the Lake
Lake Constance is famous for its wide array of water sports. You can enjoy activities like stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, sailing, and windsurfing at various spots around the lake. Sailing schools in locations such as Konstanz offer lessons for both beginners and seasoned sailors. For a more relaxed experience, pedal boats and motorboat rentals are also available.
Explore the Islands in the Lake
Lake Constance is home to several beautiful islands. Mainau Island, often called the “Flower Island,” is a must-visit for its stunning botanical gardens and butterfly house. Reichenau Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for its historic monasteries and churches, offering a peaceful and enriching experience. Stay tuned for more details about Mainau Island below!
Take a Boat to Different Cities
Navigating Lake Constance by boat is a fantastic way to explore the different cities and countries around the lake. Ferries connect Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, making it easy to visit popular towns such as Lindau, Friedrichshafen, and Bregenz. Many boats offer scenic journeys, allowing you to relax and take in the stunning alpine views.
Wine Tastings
The Lake Constance region is also recognized for its wine cultivation, particularly varieties like Müller-Thurgau, Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc, and Pinot Noir. You can visit vineyards in towns such as Meersburg or explore state-run wine estates. Many vineyards offer tastings, allowing you to sample local wines while enjoying picturesque views of the lake.
Bird Watching
The Wollmatinger Ried Nature Reserve, located near Konstanz, is a paradise for bird watchers. The reserve is home to up to 250 species of birds, from rare waterfowl to majestic birds of prey, and offers wonderful walking trails through reed beds and along the lakeshore.
Top Towns and Places to Visit
Numerous charming villages surround Lake Constance, but a few stand out, especially for first-time visitors.
Konstanz (Germany)
Konstanz is the largest town on Lake Constance, featuring a lovely Old Town filled with medieval architecture and a vibrant atmosphere. It’s also a university town, brimming with restaurants, shops, and historic sites like the renowned Konzilgebäude, where the Council of Constance convened.
The Council of Constance is particularly fascinating for those interested in the religious history of the region. The Niedergub district and the harbor are especially picturesque. Even if you aren’t particularly keen on religious history, enjoying a refreshing Chardonnay by the riverwalk on a warm summer evening is simply delightful!
Mainau Island
Having visited Konstanz, I can confidently say that no trip is truly complete without a visit to Mainau Island, known for its stunning botanical gardens and lush landscapes. A friend had recommended this place, and it proved to be a fantastic way to spend the day. After enjoying a delicious breakfast at our hotel, Thibault and I made our way to the island.
Often referred to as “Butterfly Island” because of the beautiful butterfly house located towards the back of the gardens, it is more commonly known as “Flower Island” due to the thousands of meticulously maintained flowers, including various tulips and roses.
The island is expansive and beautifully landscaped, showcasing the dedication and care of its staff. Although the entry fee is €26.50 for adults (with free admission for children under 12), the experience is well worth it.
Lindau, Germany
This idyllic Bavarian town is partially situated on an island connected to the mainland via a bridge. Lindau’s Old Town features a lovely harbor, recognizable by the Bavarian lion statue and a lighthouse. The island’s charming narrow streets, historic buildings, and lively squares make for a delightful exploration.
Meersburg, Germany
Renowned for its medieval charm and vineyards, Meersburg is home to Germany’s oldest inhabited castle, the Meersburg Castle, as well as the New Palace (Neues Schloss). The town’s cobblestone paths, framed by colorful houses, create a fairy-tale atmosphere. Meersburg also serves as a major ferry terminal, making it a convenient base to explore Konstanz and other lakeside towns.
Friedrichshafen, Germany
Friedrichshafen is famous for its Zeppelin heritage, housing the Zeppelin Museum where visitors can delve into the history of these iconic airships, with a replica of the Hindenburg on display. The town also boasts vibrant lakeside promenades and beaches, appealing to both history enthusiasts and those in search of a relaxing lakeside escape.
Bregenz, Austria
Situated on the Austrian side of the lake, Bregenz is renowned for its cultural events, particularly the annual Bregenz Festival, featuring a floating stage on the lake. Outdoor activities abound, including the opportunity to hike up Pfänder Mountain, accessible by cable car or foot, offering stunning panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding Alps.
Kreuzlingen, Switzerland
Just across the border from Konstanz, this Swiss town shares a metropolitan area with its German neighbor. Kreuzlingen is quieter, showcasing scenic lakeside parks, walking paths, and a tranquil atmosphere. Its proximity to Konstanz makes it a peaceful retreat for those seeking relaxation.
Langenargen, Germany
Nestled between Friedrichshafen and Lindau, Langenargen is celebrated for its sandy beaches and the impressive Montfort Palace, an architectural gem with an observation tower offering exceptional views of the lake. This location is perfect for relaxation and water sports.
Where to Stay
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Hotel HOERI am Bodensee, situated in Konstanz. We managed to book a room overlooking the lake with private beach access and a complimentary breakfast buffet for just €153 per night—an excellent deal during peak tourist season! The hotel also features a spa and wellness center and a restaurant, with staff that spoke fluent English.
Given the multitude of accommodation options available in the area, I highly recommend checking out Booking.com to find options that fit your budget and preferences.
Visiting Lake Constance – Frequently Asked Questions
How Many Countries Border Lake Constance?
Three countries share borders with Lake Constance: Germany, Switzerland, and Austria. Liechtenstein is also easily accessible from the lake.
Is Lake Constance Located in Germany or Switzerland?
Lake Constance is bordered by both Germany and Switzerland, with Austria as the third bordering country.
Can You See the Alps from Lake Constance?
Yes! The Alpine scenery provides a stunning backdrop, and the Alps are just a convenient day trip away from beautiful Lake Constance.
In Conclusion
Lake Constance is a delightful off-the-beaten-path destination worth visiting. Thank you for reading!
References
- Getting Here – All Roads Lead to Lake Constance
- Wine in the Lake Constance Region
- A Paradise at Lake Constance (Mainau Island)
- Day Ticket for Mainau Island
- Hotel HOERI am Bodensee
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