Explore Meersburg: A Gem on Lake Constance

Meersburg, the “Burg on the lake,” is located directly across from the town of Constance on the shores of Lake Constance. It is a popular summer destination for both Germans and international tourists. Meersburg features a well-preserved medieval center surrounded by picturesque vineyards, making it an excellent hub for exploring nearby attractions.

How to Arrive in Meersburg

Meersburg is easily accessible by car ferry from the larger city of Constance. You can drive to Meersburg via the E54 from Überlingen or Friedrichshafen, other towns located on Lake Constance. Additionally, Meersburg is approximately a three-hour drive from Munich.

For air travel, Friedrichshafen airport is situated 20km (12 miles) to the east of Meersburg, while Zurich Airport serves as the nearest international airport.

The closest rail station can be found in Überlingen, which is 14km (9 miles) northwest of Meersburg along the Basel to Lindau line.

What to See and Where to Stay in Meersburg

Meersburg consists of two main areas: the lower town (“Unterstadt”) and the upper town (“Oberstadt”). Visitors can easily walk between these areas via stairs or steep streets. The tourist office is conveniently located on Kirchstrasse 4 in the upper town.

Meersburg Tourism provides various ways to explore the city, ranging from thematic tours to general city tours for an enriching experience.

Meersburg Attractions

The New Palace (Neues Schloss) is an elegant palace that once served as the residence for the prince-bishops of Constance. Construction commenced in 1712, concluding in 1740. Visitors can take guided tours of the living quarters, view the painting gallery, and discover the Dornier Museum, which focuses on the history of aviation. This region was crucial in the development of airships and Zeppelins.

The Old Palace (Altes Schloss) is a privately owned medieval castle that visitors can explore. While it lacks the elegance of the New Palace, it provides insights into the history of knights and warfare.

The Bible Gallery features exhibits of bibles and showcases the Gutenberg press, which played a significant role in the spread of printed literature.

Additional museums include the Zeppelin Museum, Meersburg Tapestry Art Museum, Droste Museum, Town Museum, and a Viticulture Museum. Wine culture is an essential part of life in Meersburg; visitors should definitely try the local “Weissherbst” wine produced on the northern slopes of Lake Constance.

Moreover, visitors will find numerous well-kept half-timbered houses and interesting town gates, providing fantastic photo opportunities.

Where to Stay

Meersburg, along with other interesting towns around Lake Constance, offers a variety of accommodations suitable for extended stays. Options include charming cottages or larger villas for families and groups.

One of the best-rated hotels in Meersburg is the Romantik Hotel Residenz am See, which offers a luxurious experience.

If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, consider Hotel-Gasthof Storchen, located near the lake north of Meersburg in Uhldingen-Mühlhofen, which has a spa and restaurant.

Meersburg Impressions

If you prefer shopping for souvenirs or exploring museums, Meersburg may not be the ideal destination for you. However, for those who appreciate medieval architecture and cultural experiences, Meersburg scores high for its charm and offerings. In fact, visitors often rate it as 3.5 out of 5 stars for its breathtaking medieval views and museum selections.

This bustling destination has plenty of restaurants and hotels, catering to the diverse needs of tourists.

Near Meersburg

The entire Lake Constance area is an excellent location for a longer vacation. Meersburg alone deserves a day or two of exploration, and it can easily be included in a day trip from Constance.

To the northwest, travelers can visit the pile-dwelling museum in Unteruhldingen, a great stop for those interested in archaeology and ancient cultures.