Get to Konstanz’s Heart

Located on the shores of Lake Constance, the town of Konstanz boasts a rich history of over 1,000 years. Many buildings, particularly in its Old Town area of Niederburg, showcase elegant facades that date back to their construction. This city is among the best-preserved medieval towns in Germany, having survived WWII largely intact.

Visitors can explore quaint cobblestone streets radiating from the magnificent Münster (Cathedral) toward the Rhine River. The bustling Marktstätte (marketplace) features the Kaiserbrunnen (imperial fountain), adorned with statues of former emperors, and a charming bronze horse.

On the first Friday of every month from May to October, experience Gassen-Freitag, an outdoor celebration featuring live music, food stalls, drinks, and a traditional flea market.

In the vicinity, take in the sight of the Konzilgebäude (council hall), a former warehouse from 1388, which now serves as a concert hall, and admire the beautifully frescoed Hohenzollernhaus and the 16th-century Rathaus (city hall).

Travel Every Inch of Konstanz Harbor

Konstanz’s harbor is the town’s focal point, drawing visitors to the palm-lined promenade. This picturesque walk begins at the Rhine Bridge and winds through a vibrant atmosphere filled with cafes, historic buildings, and the Kaufhaus (trading house) from 1388.

Take the Bodensee-Rundwanderweg (Lake Constance Trail) to continue your journey around the lake. This scenic path passes various nature reserves, such as Wollmatinger Ried Untersee-Gnadensee, revealing over 600 types of flora and nearly 300 bird species.

A significant landmark is the statue of Imperia, a nine-meter-tall figure representing a courtesan holding the Pope and an emperor, which turns on its pedestal. For a different perspective, embark on boat tours available from mid-April to mid-October, traveling to nearby towns like Lindau.

Climb to the Top of Konstanz’s Cathedral

The Konstanz münster (cathedral) dates back to 615 C.E. and showcases stunning Romanesque and Gothic architecture. Its towering spire can be seen from various parts of the city. Before entering, admire the glass pyramid over the remains of the Roman fort, Constantia, which gave the city its name.

Inside the cathedral, key attractions include the painted wood ceiling from 1637, a thousand-year-old crypt, and a chance to climb the tower for breathtaking views over the city and lake.

Walk the Planks of Prehistoric Man

Konstanz is home to UNESCO-listed prehistoric pile-dwellings that date back to 5,000 to 500 B.C.E. These ancient stilt houses were constructed in marshy areas and now grace the picturesque location over the lake.

Learn more about these remarkable sites at the Pfahlbaumuseum Unteruhldingen, featuring reconstructions of the dwelling and insightful guided tours that explore the life of ancient communities.

Go Island Hopping

Just a short distance from Konstanz, you can explore three beautiful islands. Mainau, known for its stunning gardens and baroque palace, is home to nearly 10,000 rose bushes and thousands of butterflies, making it a must-visit destination. Visitors can reach this enchanting island by boat or a pedestrian bridge.

To the west lies Reichenau Island, home to a historic Benedictine monastery founded in 724 C.E. Visitors can appreciate stunning medieval architecture and remarkable wall paintings.

On the opposite shore, Lindau entices visitors with its charming harbor adorned by a Bavarian lion and lighthouse, complemented by medieval timber-framed buildings.

Drink Local Wine

For wine enthusiasts, Konstanz offers unique local wines, particularly during the fall harvest festivals. The annual weinfest (wine festival) celebrates the region’s wines, featuring varieties like Müller-Thurgau, Dornfelder, and Pinot noir.

Don’t miss the chance to taste local dishes alongside your wine, including dünnele, a traditional thin pizza topped with bacon and onions, and the exquisite whitefish from the lake.

Find the Three Remaining City Towers

Konstanz retains just three of its medieval fortification towers: Pulverturm, built in 1321, is noteworthy for its thick walls; Rheintorturm, the former bridge gate, now houses the Constance Carnival Museum; and Schnetztor, known for its distinctive shape along Hussenstraße.

Relax Like a Local at a Thermal Spa

Germans excel at relaxation, and in Konstanz, Bodensee-Therme offers a stunning thermal spa experience. With outdoor pools, thermal baths, saunas, and a relaxation area with refreshments, it’s the perfect place to unwind throughout the year.

See a Glimpse of Aviation History at the Zeppelin Museum

Cross the lake to Friedrichshafen, the birth city of Count Ferdinand von Zeppelin, where the Zeppelin Museum resides. This museum showcases the history of air travel, featuring a reconstruction of the Hindenburg airship and an extensive art collection. Visitors can even book a flight on a zeppelin, providing an unforgettable view of the stunning landscapes.